The Wilkas Group » Foster City California

Here’s Where to Get More Data When Buying a Home: Foster City CA

lenorewilkas — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:23:52 +0000

Realtors are prohibited by federal law from steering buyers to locations or homes, and included in what we can not say is what the demographic of a community is all about. Sure we can give nuances and use buzz words that are benign but give an idea to some, but we really can never tell you that one place is better for you than another for blah blah blah reasons.

Finally, a website has come along that aggregates demographic data including census data, and research data to provide a picture of a community. Take Foster City for instance. I ran a report on this city and some of the information being provided includes General Lifestyles, Neighborhoods, Schools, and Crime. The website is PicketReport.com and as someone who has always loved data, this site is cool. The picture on the left is a heat map of the demographics in our immediate area.

According to the PicketReport, Foster City is made up of Flourishing Families (affluent middle-aged families and couples earning prosperous incomes and living very comfortable active lifestyles). Foster City has a high walk-score, high school scores, and almost no crime. Now, this is a lot of the data I can legally give about Foster City and do, but it also drills down further about the demographics, which is the stuff I can’t legally give.

If you’re a data wonk, and want to know more about the communities around Foster City such as San Mateo, Hillsborough and Burlingame, this will give you the info all in one place. You will love this site if you are in marketing. It’s not 100 percent accurate but it does give you an idea of what our communities are all about in one place. The ask you to sign in but if you register I don’t see any value to you as the end user. You can get your snap shot of the zip code you’re interested in without registering.

It’s a free service and you can get the information by zip code just keep in mind it isn’t totally perfect. Then again, almost nothing is perfect, is it?

Here’s what’s for sale in Foster City today.

Showing properties 1 - 9 of 9. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$1,179,000 : 269 Avocet Ct, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,690 sq ft

Lot size: 6,630 sq ft

Year built: 1969
$869,000 : 632 Matsonia Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,760 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft

Year built: 1964
$999,990 : 850 Gull Av, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,160 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft

Year built: 1966
$1,529,000 : 1001 Monterey Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,170 sq ft

Lot size: 8,540 sq ft

Year built: 1978
$819,000 : 362 Chesapeake Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft

Year built: 1971
$975,000 : 54 Port Royal Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,890 sq ft

Lot size: 6,798 sq ft

Year built: 1985
$1,189,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,110 sq ft

Lot size: 4,857 sq ft

Year built: 1977
$849,000 : 921 Swan St, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,700 sq ft

Year built: 1966
$825,000 : 758 Niantic Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,240 sq ft

Lot size: 6,175 sq ft

Year built: 1972

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Why Has the US Post Office Disenfranchised Foster City?

lenorewilkas — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 07:06:24 +0000

According the the 2010 Census there are 30,567 residents living in Foster City. Foster City doesn’t even have it’s own zip code, making it the largest city in San Mateo County without its own zip code. Why then does the US Post Office no longer wish to deliver mail through the post office in Foster City when there are that many residents there? Why did someone arbitrarily decide that a city of this size doesn’t matter and in order to save money this city would be reduced to a town the size of, say Hillsborough, with only 9200 people and no post office?

If you live in Foster City you know your City doesn’t show up as Foster City in many web sites when you go to order products online. You input 94404 and up pops San Mateo. We don’t live in San Mateo, we live in Foster City. Sure we’re 1/3 the size of our sister city but we are own municipality and when other cities within this county, with smaller populations, have their own Zip Code and Post Office, we’re being treated like third-class citizens.

Do you realize that you now must must go to San Mateo to do any postal business with the exception of mailing out packages? All mail is now going out of the Delaware Street post office in San Mateo for Foster City mail, making more work for the workers there so they don’t have time in the day to deliver our mail as regularly as it used to be delivered. The local Foster City delivery people have been “repurposed”. Expect to stand in long lines at the San Mateo post office if you hold your mail when you travel. Plan on hours and hours of delay.

If you’re finding that your mail deliveries have been coming at different hours of the day, or on some days, not coming at all, this is the reason. Sure the US Postal Service is having financial difficulties and they need to streamline processes but is this the way to do it? How many other cities in San Mateo County no longer have post offices providing full services? How many other cities of the same size as Foster City do not have their own Zip Code?

If you live in Foster City and want things to change you need to contact Jackie Speier’s office and tell her how you feel about this. Contact her by email or phone: (650) 342-0300. It’s also time for the City Counsel of Foster City to demand some changes. Are you as mad as I am? If you are, let’s do something about this!

Market Report – Foster City CA – 10.07.2011 Condos and Townhouses

lenorewilkas — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 22:05:30 +0000

Foster City is known for its top schools and scores but not everyone can afford to buy a house in Foster City. Since this is a planned community, there are many options to own in Foster City for less cost than a house runs. There are condos built to be condos, not converted from apartments like in so many places in California. There are townhouses that really are single family homes but attached like row houses, and then there are condos that look like townhouses but are condos and you don’t own the land the unit sits on.

Foster City is the perfect commuter’s paradise. Right in the middle of the Peninsula and equal distant to the San Francisco or San Jose business communities. Add it the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge that lands in Foster City and one can commute anywhere in the Bay Area with ease.

Here’s the market report for condos and townhouses. If you want more information let us know. We’re here to answer your questions provided you don’t already have an agent who should be doing that for you.

90-day stats for Condo properties in FOSTER CITY, CA as of February 3, 2012
Median List Price:	$453,506	Average List Price:	$498,618
Total Inventory:	24	Price per Square Foot:	$340
Average Home Size:	1,329	Median Lot Size:	n/a
Average # Beds:	2.06	Average # Baths:	1.99
Homes Absorbed:	2	Newly Listed:	2
Days on Market:	117	Average Age:	33

Here’s what’s on the market today. If you see something online that peaks your interest contact us through the Contact Us form above.

Showing properties 1 - 15 of 15. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$369,000 : 625 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft
$675,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3304, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,980 sq ft
$415,000 : 820 Sea Spray Ln #108, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,233 sq ft
$640,000 : 1082 Gull Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,460 sq ft

Lot size: 1,757 sq ft
$329,900 : 8209 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$244,500 : 3106 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

1 bed, 1 full bath

Home size: 748 sq ft
$290,000 : 5218 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$459,900 : 1214 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$652,000 : 1117 Outrigger Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,540 sq ft

Lot size: 974 sq ft
$639,000 : 719 Galleon Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,290 sq ft

Lot size: 1,777 sq ft
$275,000 : 7202 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$360,000 : 661 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft

Lot size: 1 sq ft
$439,900 : 2213 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$1,080,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3303, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,224 sq ft

Lot size: 9,999 sq ft
$499,000 : 764 Comet Dr, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 980 sq ft

Lot size: 1,955 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Market Report – Foster City CA – 10.07.2011 Single Family Homes

lenorewilkas — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 15:15:31 +0000

Sitting smack dab in the middle of the Peninsula, Foster City is a commuters paradise whether one goes towards San Francisco or San Jose or across the bridge towards Pleasanton. All are equal distance from Foster City and that makes it a great place to live. It is a planned community so it offers choices of living from apartments to large homes. Sitting right at the bay, there are waterways meandering all over the city and homes, townhouses, condos and apartments sharing waterfront views. Top schools make this one of the most sought after communities in San Mateo County.

Here’s the market snapshot on the single family homes in Foster City. If you want more information please ask. We’re here to help you figure out where you want to live and what’s the best value for your budget.

90-day stats for Single Family properties in FOSTER CITY, CA as of February 3, 2012
Median List Price:	$883,604	Average List Price:	$899,930
Total Inventory:	13	Price per Square Foot:	$437
Average Home Size:	2,075	Median Lot Size:	5,874
Average # Beds:	4.09	Average # Baths:	2.40
Homes Absorbed:	2	Newly Listed:	1
Days on Market:	127	Average Age:	42

Here’s what is for sale in Foster City right now. If you see something of interest and want more information about it just call us or fill out the contact us form. Remember, buying a home is the biggest financial decision anyone makes in their lifetime and it’s important to have your own agent representing you. Let the Wilkas Group be that agent.

Showing properties 1 - 9 of 9. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$1,179,000 : 269 Avocet Ct, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,690 sq ft

Lot size: 6,630 sq ft
$869,000 : 632 Matsonia Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,760 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$999,990 : 850 Gull Av, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,160 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$1,529,000 : 1001 Monterey Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,170 sq ft

Lot size: 8,540 sq ft
$819,000 : 362 Chesapeake Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$975,000 : 54 Port Royal Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,890 sq ft

Lot size: 6,798 sq ft
$1,189,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,110 sq ft

Lot size: 4,857 sq ft
$849,000 : 921 Swan St, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,700 sq ft
$825,000 : 758 Niantic Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,240 sq ft

Lot size: 6,175 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

What Do I Need To Do To List My House? Foster City CA

lenorewilkas — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 08:15:17 +0000

Yesterday I talked about what inspections you can expect to pay for when you list your house in Foster City, San Mateo, Burlingame or Hillsborough. Actually, any where in San Mateo County, for that matter. Once those inspections are done, and any work completed that might be needed, you’ve only begun the process.

Next comes the inside of your home.

If you’ve lived in your home for a few years then it will need to be painted. If you’ve used dark decorator colors, I advise you to paint them out with a more neutral color pallet. Trim should be done in white and either paint all rooms a soft tones or warm tones. Better Homes & Gardens has these examples to share with you.

Warm color pallet

Cool color pallet

How’s your kitchen? Are your cabinets in need of a pick up? Is the wood in good shape? If the wood is good, but the handles aren’t, replace them. If the wood needs work, paint the cabinets and put new handles in place. New handles can do an amazing job of refreshing a kitchen and bathroom, too. How about your appliances? Do they match? You can go to appliance stores and buy a package of new appliances for around $2000. This includes a stove, dishwasher, microwave/vent, and refrigerator. Buyers expect appliances will be left so give them new ones. You’ll get your money back, believe me.

Now comes staging. This can be done with a professional Stager, with your Agent’s help, or on your own if you’re a clever decorator. Honestly, I suggest you hire the stager. They can bring their expertise and rearrange your own furnishing for a modest amount of money, sometimes as low as $400. If you need help because your furniture won’t work, furnishing a house or several rooms is the best way to go. Costs can be everywhere on this but figure about $2500 for the first month and then additional costs after that. But, Stager prices do vary according to what they do and where you are so talk to several before settling on the one you want.

Curb Appeal.

Finally, if you have a house, how the exterior of your house looks is critical. Do you need to repaint? If you don’t need to paint the entire exterior do paint your trim and front door. Just doing those two things will give your home a huge pick-me-up. The front door is the most important door in your house so make it bright and inviting. Hang a wreath at the door, have potted plants in front and it says “Welcome!”.

Your yard and how it looks is as important as how the inside looks. A Stager can often make suggestions on perk up the yard. If you have grass, water it, feed it and mow it. Plant fresh flowers around the yard, put mulch in open areas where you don’t have plants to give a finished look. If you have fruit trees, keep the ripe fruit picked up off the ground. Don’t forget to look at the condition of any fencing you may have, too . Is is in need of repair? Now’s the time to fix it.

How much should I expect to spend before my house is listed?

It’s really difficult to give an accurate amount on costs since the size of the home, and the amount of work needed dictates cost. If you’re in a condo or townhouse, generally it’s interior work that gets done and that’s means paint, refinishing of floors, cleaning carpets, etc needs to be done. Costs can run from $3000 to the sky’s the limit. Whether you use professional painters or you’re a DIY person, costs vary. Are you refinishing floors? Get a professional to do them. Paint? DIY if you’re able.

Own a house? Exterior painting and/or interior painting can run up to $15,000. Landscaping, if it’s only cleaning up and planting new plants will cost a relatively a small amount.

Just remember, curb appeal is important and your home only gets one first impression. I’ve pulled up to a house and had clients tell me they will not go in because they don’t like how it looks. You don’t want that to happen in today’s market. If your home presents well, you will get your price,or very close to it.

The Final word.

Expect to spend between$1000 and $25,000, on average. This includes inspections and needed primping to make your home beautiful.

Here’s what’s for sale in San Mateo.

Showing properties 1 - 35 of 79. See more city of San Mateo real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$399,000 : 1668 Taylor St, San Mateo

3 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 1,190 sq ft

Lot size: 5,356 sq ft
$1,695,000 : 424 Sonora Dr, San Mateo

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,390 sq ft

Lot size: 5,200 sq ft
$595,000 : 124 31st Av, San Mateo

2 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 1,000 sq ft

Lot size: 5,720 sq ft
$549,000 : 1317 Claudia Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,670 sq ft

Lot size: 6,000 sq ft
$550,000 : 1709 Royal Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,080 sq ft

Lot size: 6,426 sq ft
$1,399,000 : 431 Iowa Dr, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,660 sq ft

Lot size: 6,600 sq ft
$559,900 : 508 Rand St, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,420 sq ft

Lot size: 6,250 sq ft
$1,075,000 : 316 26th Av, San Mateo

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,180 sq ft

Lot size: 6,250 sq ft
$568,888 : 1855 Maxine Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,500 sq ft

Lot size: 5,500 sq ft
$349,000 : 1409 Young St, San Mateo

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,130 sq ft

Lot size: 6,100 sq ft
$997,000 : 775 Edgewood Rd, San Mateo

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,369 sq ft

Lot size: 8,125 sq ft
$825,000 : 3985 Oneill Dr, San Mateo

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,320 sq ft

Lot size: 5,000 sq ft
$1,648,000 : 1696 Lexington Av, San Mateo

5 beds, 4 full baths

Home size: 3,790 sq ft

Lot size: 7,700 sq ft
$599,900 : 3980 Oneill Dr, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,750 sq ft

Lot size: 5,000 sq ft
$374,900 : 149 N Delaware St, San Mateo

2 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 1,040 sq ft

Lot size: 5,750 sq ft
$524,900 : 177 Mclellan Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 1,360 sq ft

Lot size: 6,250 sq ft
$379,000 : 28 Prague St, San Mateo

2 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 930 sq ft

Lot size: 5,000 sq ft
$639,900 : 4009 Fernwood St, San Mateo

3 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 1,060 sq ft

Lot size: 4,880 sq ft
$1,229,000 : 97 Lakewood Ci, San Mateo

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 3,320 sq ft

Lot size: 10,406 sq ft
$999,800 : 3045 Greenoak Ct, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,826 sq ft

Lot size: 7,000 sq ft
$409,000 : 1216 S Norfolk St, San Mateo

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,470 sq ft

Lot size: 5,000 sq ft
$1,250,000 : 520 Aragon Bl, San Mateo

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,440 sq ft

Lot size: 7,040 sq ft
$750,000 : 404 W 38th Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,800 sq ft

Lot size: 5,336 sq ft
$390,900 : 1297 Pershing Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,360 sq ft

Lot size: 5,890 sq ft
$675,000 : 20 Grand Bl, San Mateo

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,070 sq ft

Lot size: 3,404 sq ft
$820,000 : 3421 Kettering Ct, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,450 sq ft

Lot size: 14,500 sq ft
$722,200 : 1740 Roberta Dr, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 9,300 sq ft
$399,000 : 1502 Mefferd Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 1 full bath

Home size: 1,310 sq ft

Lot size: 5,200 sq ft
$589,000 : 1659 Wellesley Av, San Mateo

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,750 sq ft
$899,000 : 1616 Toyon Ct, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,310 sq ft

Lot size: 3,638 sq ft
$779,999 : 1665 Wellesley Av, San Mateo

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,270 sq ft

Lot size: 5,750 sq ft
$1,275,000 : 41 Lakewood Ci, San Mateo

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,730 sq ft

Lot size: 10,125 sq ft
$1,138,888 : 3904 Fernwood St, San Mateo

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,430 sq ft

Lot size: 5,800 sq ft
$519,000 : 1601 Noe Av, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,080 sq ft

Lot size: 5,500 sq ft
$1,539,000 : 149 Warren Rd, San Mateo

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,270 sq ft

Lot size: 7,200 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

There’s more to listing a house then signing the paperwork: Foster City CA

lenorewilkas — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 16:45:17 +0000

Congratulations! You’ve listed your house. Now what else should you know, that you don’t?

In our area it is customary for the seller to take care of certain things prior to the property hitting the market. These things include the property inspection and the pest inspection. If either of these inspections bring up any major issues the seller will generally take care of them . Sometimes the inspections suggest additional inspections by other professionals are needed. Having those inspections done is a good idea even if you don’t choose to make the repairs. These additional inspections might include a roof inspection, chimney inspection, or foundation inspection which is common in parts of Foster City.

You need to budget for those costs and what they cost depends on the size of your home. Generally figure between $300 and $2000 for the property inspection and $150 to $600 for the pest inspection. If you can pay at the time of service, you’ll receive a discount but you can pay through your escrow at the closing of the sale of your home.

If you live in a condo you won’t need a pest inspection as your Home Owner’s Association is responsible for pests. If you live in a townhouse, it will depend on whether you live in a townhouse-style condominium or a PUD (Planned Unit Development) when you own the land under your unit.

Today’s buyers expect a house to be in almost perfect condition.

If it is in picture perfect condition buyers are willing to pay top dollar for it. If it isn’t, be prepared to negotiate with a buyer who’s going to offer much lower than you hoped to see. If you don’t want to make any repairs to the home you can have an As-Is listing which is very common in trust sales. If you have done your inspections and the found all known issues it’s a little easier to get away with an As-Is listing today. Do then expect to price lower than the market. If you wonder why, reread the first sentence of this paragraph.

You must disclose everything about your home.

One of the biggest reasons we recommend to a seller to have all inspections done before we list the home on the MLS is to help you fill out all of the required paperwork you have. There are forms that have multiple pages of check boxes asking questions about your home, your neighborhood, and anything else you might know. You must answer everything completely. One can never over disclose about their property. The law is clear about that so don’t withhold information about your neighbor’s murder, or loud dog, or noisy buses. If someone died in your home within the past 3 years you must disclose this.

The Disclosure Package that your Agent gives you is for your benefit as well as your buyer’s. A buyer can come after a seller who has willfully not disclosed information about their home once it’s discovered. There is no statue of limitations here. Be honest. Take you time. Be complete.

If you’re beginning to worry about all of these costs remember one thing, there’s an ROI in taking care of everything before your home hits the MLS. You will get a higher price which should cover your expenses. Friday I’ll talk about what other expenses you need to be prepared for when you list your home.

Here’s what’s for sale in Foster City.

Showing properties 1 - 9 of 9. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$1,179,000 : 269 Avocet Ct, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,690 sq ft

Lot size: 6,630 sq ft
$869,000 : 632 Matsonia Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,760 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$999,990 : 850 Gull Av, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,160 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$1,529,000 : 1001 Monterey Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,170 sq ft

Lot size: 8,540 sq ft
$819,000 : 362 Chesapeake Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$975,000 : 54 Port Royal Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,890 sq ft

Lot size: 6,798 sq ft
$1,189,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,110 sq ft

Lot size: 4,857 sq ft
$849,000 : 921 Swan St, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,700 sq ft
$825,000 : 758 Niantic Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,240 sq ft

Lot size: 6,175 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

April 2011 Market Report: Foster City CA

lenorewilkas — Tue, 10 May 2011 20:55:18 +0000

Foster City was the first planned community in California and what makes it so like-able is the variety of housing choices offered. If you’re in the market to buy a home you can choose from a condo, a townhouse or a single family house with a wide choice of prices. Any one of them might sit along one of the waterways running throughout the city, near a park, or near the trails that run at the perimeter of the city. Throw in top schools and one can see why people want to live in Foster City, the mid-point of the San Francisco Peninsula.

We’ll start first with the single family homes for sale and see a median price of just under $1 million dollars making it a rather expensive place to settle in but with the opportunity to buy a townhouse, often larger in square footage than the smaller homes, Foster City becomes much more affordable. The chart below is showing the Foster City real estate market for last week and it’s showing a trend of pricing moving downward for the week. Since prices, houses and influences change weekly one week it might trend down and the next up or flat.

Let’s compare the Condo and Townhouse market of last week. Most of Foster City has PUDs (Planned Unit Developments) and these are houses, townhouses, and condos and they come with homeowners associations, and monthly fees. Almost all of these PUDs have pools, club houses, and some have tennis courts, too.

The median price for the Condo and Townhouses for sale last week was half a million bucks, about half of the price for a house and price per square foot isn’t a huge difference. Go figure?

Here’s what’s been going on during the first 4 months of 2011 from the MLS data. The market has heated up with more listings and more sales. Interest rates are historically low and one can buy in Foster City with a conforming loan and 20% down. That’s helping to make home ownership a possibility for so many people today.

Sitting in the middle of the Peninsula with outstanding schools and an easy commute south to Silicon Valley or north to San Francisco, people love living on the water, enjoying the outdoors and many sports activities available in Foster City. Here’s some of what’s for sale right now. If you’d like to see something in person, call or email us and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Showing properties 1 - 24 of 24. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$1,179,000 : 269 Avocet Ct, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,690 sq ft

Lot size: 6,630 sq ft
$369,000 : 625 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft
$675,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3304, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,980 sq ft
$869,000 : 632 Matsonia Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,760 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$415,000 : 820 Sea Spray Ln #108, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,233 sq ft
$999,990 : 850 Gull Av, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,160 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$1,529,000 : 1001 Monterey Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,170 sq ft

Lot size: 8,540 sq ft
$640,000 : 1082 Gull Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,460 sq ft

Lot size: 1,757 sq ft
$329,900 : 8209 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$244,500 : 3106 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

1 bed, 1 full bath

Home size: 748 sq ft
$819,000 : 362 Chesapeake Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$290,000 : 5218 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$975,000 : 54 Port Royal Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,890 sq ft

Lot size: 6,798 sq ft
$459,900 : 1214 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$652,000 : 1117 Outrigger Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,540 sq ft

Lot size: 974 sq ft
$639,000 : 719 Galleon Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,290 sq ft

Lot size: 1,777 sq ft
$275,000 : 7202 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$1,189,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,110 sq ft

Lot size: 4,857 sq ft
$360,000 : 661 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft

Lot size: 1 sq ft
$439,900 : 2213 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$849,000 : 921 Swan St, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,700 sq ft
$825,000 : 758 Niantic Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,240 sq ft

Lot size: 6,175 sq ft
$1,080,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3303, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,224 sq ft

Lot size: 9,999 sq ft
$499,000 : 764 Comet Dr, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 980 sq ft

Lot size: 1,955 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

This Saturday’s the Day for Easter Egg Hunts in San Mateo County

lenorewilkas — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 19:56:16 +0000

With Easter coming up this weekend, the 2011 Easter Egg Hunts are too. Rain or Shine they will take place this coming Saturday, April 23rd, throughout San Mateo County. From my weather search it might rain and then again, it might be sunny, so be prepared with rain gear and baskets for the children.

San Mateo’s Eggstravaganza

This is the premier hunt in the County and the oldest one, too. This will be the 34th year it will take place. It’s held at Central Park at El Camino Real and 5th Avenue beginning at 9 AM and running until 1 PM. Start your day off with their annual San Mateo Sunrise Rotary’s Pancake Breakfast for a cost of $8 per adult and $4 per child and enjoy the fun with a full tummy! Breakfast is between 9-11 AM. There are egg hunts for children of all ages beginning at 9:30 AM. The morning is filled with art and games, a community parade at 10:30, and music by Andy Z beginning at 11 AM and a magic show by Magic Mike at Noon. Children as young as toddlers can participate in their own hunts but bring your own baskets!

Foster City’s Egg Hunt at Ryan Park

If your children haven’t had enough hunting time head over to Foster City at 1 PM and begin the fun there. It’s an annual event run by the Foster City Lion’s Club and is on the lawns at East Hillsdale and Shell Blvd. The egg hunt will be at 2 PM for chocolate eggs. Bring your baskets and watch the fun. Your children will leave with a full basket of goodies as well as a visit from the Easter Bunny!

Belmont’s Twin Pine’s Meadow Hunt

Belmont’s annual hunt starts at 9 AM on Saturday. The hunts will take place for age groups and it’s for children between 3 and 10. Bring your baskets and let the kids have fun. It’s free and will take place rain or shine.

Menlo Park’s Easter Egg Hunt at Burgess Park

This hunt begins at 10 AM and runs until Noon. It’s kicked off with a visit from the Easter Bunny at 10 AM There are hunts for toddler’s under 2 beginning at 10:30; 3-4 year olds at 10:45, 5-6 year olds at 11 and 7-8 year olds at 11:15 AM. It’s a morning filled with fun things to do from a ride on the Old Tom Fire truck to a photo with the Easter Bunny. Crafts, and toys will be there to occupy the children while their siblings hunt for their eggs. Bring your baskets. Burgess Park is at 701 Laurel Street.

Millbrae’s Spring Festival and Children’s Egg Roll

The Millbrae Rotary is hosting this for Millbrae children and begins at 11 AM until 2 PM with the Easter Bunny, games, face painting, a petting zoo and of course, an Egg Hunt! Grab BBQ burgers for your lunch as a fund raiser for the mills High Interact Club. Millbrae’s Rotary Park South Aston and Millbrae Avenue.

Awesome Egg Dive at the Burlingame Aquatic Center

If you’re looking for something different in the way of an egg hunt and have older children this might be fun. Saturday afternoon between 2:30 and 3:30 PM will be a pool egg hunt where the kids jump into the water for eggs and and then exchange those eggs for prizes. This will take place at the Burlingame Aquatic Center. The competition is for children between 5 and 7 and 8 and 14 and they can splash and swim and have fun. There is a cost of $6 whether you’re a resident of Burlingame or not. Parents are encouraged to watch from the bleachers on the pool deck. The Aquatic Center is at 1 Magnini Way, Burlingame.

The Burlingame Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast

The annual Burlingame Lions Club’s Easter Egg hunt and pancake breakfast will take place on Saturday beginning at 8 AM. This is a full breakfast and always well worth it. Then the hunts begin according to age. First up will be the toddlers at 9 AM and then up to the older children throughout the morning. With over 4000 chocolate eggs to be found this will be a fun morning. The San Mateo Elks Band will be playing during the morning and t local artist and face painter , TwikieDeeStar, will do free face painting for the children. This will be held at the Burlingame Lions Hall, 990 Burlingame Avenue.

Thanks for a reader for this one on Sunday.

On Sunday, Malibu Castle and Grand Prix has a hunt and entertainment in Redwood City. Registration begins at 11:30 and ends at 12:45 PM. The hunt begins at 1 PM. Face painting, a petting zoo, and of course the Easter Bunny will be there. There is a charge but this should be fun for all ages! http://www.malibugrandprix.com/site/Redwood/pricing.html?egg#egg

Loans Will Change on October 1 and Your Affordability Will Drop: Foster City CA

lenorewilkas — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 11:34:50 +0000

The home financing industry continues its turbulent trajectory

Conforming home loan limits are scheduled to decrease on October 1, 2011 from $729,750 to $625,500. What does that mean for you? Your home affordability will diminish. A lot. With a 20% down payment, the price range for a home buyer using a conforming loan will drop from approximately $910,000 to $780,000. The house you want and can afford today will be out of your reach by fourth quarter 2011. Unless you act now. The Housing Economic and Recovery Act of 2008 (HARA) temporarily increased the conforming loan limits to increase the housing market recovery. In high cost areas, like ours, HARA stipulates that government sponsored entities (GSE) can temporarily make loans up to $729,750. This temporary increase of loan limits allowed families to buy homes in our high cost area with conforming loans. This will not be the case too much longer because the United States Department of the Treasury and the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued a report to Congress in February, recommending and encouraging Congress to let the temporary conforming loan limits expire on October 1, 2011. This isn’t an issue for most parts of the Country, but to us in Fantasy Island, my pet name for our area, it’s a huge issue.

Jumbo Loan programs aren’t there any longer

We just don’t have the loan programs available for Jumbo loans that were available several years ago. Jumbo loan interest rates tend to be higher than rates for conforming loans. The $130,000 loss of buying power is huge to our market so for this reason alone, you should be active in the real estate market.

If you need financing with a loan amount between $625,500 and $729750 to either purchase a one to four unit residental property or refinance an existing loan secured by a one to four unit residential property, you may want to secure your financing prior to September 30, 2011. Jed Thibodeau, with Banker’s Preferred in Burlingame, is our lender of choice and he’s ready to help you.

There aren’t a lot of homes for sale

We are entering the most active time in real estate, the summer market. We don’t have a huge inventory of homes for sale any more and that means we are seeing multiple offers on the best of the best. San Mateo County has never seen a large surplus of housing. In fact, we have a shortage of housing for our communities which is why prices remain high. If you keep sitting on the fence, expecting prices to drop, you not only won’t see that but you won’t be able to buy as much as you can today. Short Sales and Foreclosures are around but not in large numbers. We are here to help you find your new home and the best loan available for you. We can provide you with the latest information on the housing available for you within your pre-approved budget. Let’s get started now! Give us a call.

Here’s what’s currently for sale in Foster City

Showing properties 1 - 24 of 24. See more city of Foster City real estate.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$1,179,000 : 269 Avocet Ct, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,690 sq ft

Lot size: 6,630 sq ft
$369,000 : 625 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft
$675,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3304, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,980 sq ft
$869,000 : 632 Matsonia Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,760 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$415,000 : 820 Sea Spray Ln #108, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,233 sq ft
$999,990 : 850 Gull Av, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,160 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$1,529,000 : 1001 Monterey Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,170 sq ft

Lot size: 8,540 sq ft
$640,000 : 1082 Gull Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,460 sq ft

Lot size: 1,757 sq ft
$329,900 : 8209 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$244,500 : 3106 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

1 bed, 1 full bath

Home size: 748 sq ft
$819,000 : 362 Chesapeake Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$290,000 : 5218 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$975,000 : 54 Port Royal Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,890 sq ft

Lot size: 6,798 sq ft
$459,900 : 1214 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$652,000 : 1117 Outrigger Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,540 sq ft

Lot size: 974 sq ft
$639,000 : 719 Galleon Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,290 sq ft

Lot size: 1,777 sq ft
$275,000 : 7202 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$1,189,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,110 sq ft

Lot size: 4,857 sq ft
$360,000 : 661 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft

Lot size: 1 sq ft
$439,900 : 2213 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$849,000 : 921 Swan St, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,700 sq ft
$825,000 : 758 Niantic Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,240 sq ft

Lot size: 6,175 sq ft
$1,080,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3303, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,224 sq ft

Lot size: 9,999 sq ft
$499,000 : 764 Comet Dr, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 980 sq ft

Lot size: 1,955 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

How’s the Market in Foster City CA 03.09.2011?

lenorewilkas — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:25:23 +0000

Foster City, like the other local communities we write about, doesn’t have a lot of housing for sale. Therefore, the rule of supply and demand takes over and prices stay high, and are going higher. Foster City is a planned community with both single family houses and condos and townhouses for sale. We will see the data for both since the beginning of the year. What makes Foster City so compelling for families is the excellent schools, plethora of parks and trails, and access to water for boating, sailing or sailboarding. It’s helps that Foster City is mid-way on the Peninsula at the crossroad of Highway 101 and 92 where the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge hits ground. It’s a nice commute for anyone living here.

Last month we saw some activity in real estate, but not a large number of homes for sale. I can’t quite figure it out since interest is so low today and many of the homes can be purchased with conforming loans or jumbo-conforming loans through FHA if one wants. The cap on these loans is going up very soon and we won’t see affordability like this again. It’s not something one wants to hear, but if you’re one of those people thinking the market will surely drop, again. It won’t unless something huge happens. You missed the bottom of the market and when interest rates increase as they will, you might be priced out of the market. So don’t wait! We’re here to help you.

Here’s what’s for sale in Foster City right now. First will be the single family homes, and then followed by the condo/townhouses. We would be happy to show you some of these in person if you’re ready to buy. Call us.

Showing properties 1 - 9 of 9. See more Foster City homes for sale.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$1,179,000 : 269 Avocet Ct, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,690 sq ft

Lot size: 6,630 sq ft
$869,000 : 632 Matsonia Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,760 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$999,990 : 850 Gull Av, Foster City

4 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,160 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$1,529,000 : 1001 Monterey Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,170 sq ft

Lot size: 8,540 sq ft
$819,000 : 362 Chesapeake Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,380 sq ft

Lot size: 5,320 sq ft
$975,000 : 54 Port Royal Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,890 sq ft

Lot size: 6,798 sq ft
$1,189,000 : 760 Coronado Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 2,110 sq ft

Lot size: 4,857 sq ft
$849,000 : 921 Swan St, Foster City

5 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,540 sq ft

Lot size: 5,700 sq ft
$825,000 : 758 Niantic Dr, Foster City

4 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 2,240 sq ft

Lot size: 6,175 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Showing properties 1 - 15 of 15. See more Foster City Condos.
(all data current as of 2/9/2012)

$369,000 : 625 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft
$675,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3304, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,980 sq ft
$415,000 : 820 Sea Spray Ln #108, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,233 sq ft
$640,000 : 1082 Gull Av, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,460 sq ft

Lot size: 1,757 sq ft
$329,900 : 8209 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$244,500 : 3106 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

1 bed, 1 full bath

Home size: 748 sq ft
$290,000 : 5218 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$459,900 : 1214 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$652,000 : 1117 Outrigger Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 3 full baths

Home size: 1,540 sq ft

Lot size: 974 sq ft
$639,000 : 719 Galleon Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,290 sq ft

Lot size: 1,777 sq ft
$275,000 : 7202 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 998 sq ft
$360,000 : 661 Portofino Ln, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full baths

Home size: 1,395 sq ft

Lot size: 1 sq ft
$439,900 : 2213 Admiralty Ln, Foster City

3 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 1,505 sq ft
$1,080,000 : 740 Promontory Point Ln #3303, Foster City

2 beds, 2 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 2,224 sq ft

Lot size: 9,999 sq ft
$499,000 : 764 Comet Dr, Foster City

2 beds, 1 full, 1 part baths

Home size: 980 sq ft

Lot size: 1,955 sq ft

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.