San Mateo County residents

Acceptable E-Scrap: camcorders, cell and desk phones, computers, computer monitors, connectors/cables, DVD players, fax machines, keyboards, lab equipment, laptops, main frames, mice, optical drives, PC boards, PDAs, printed circuit boards, printers, radios, scanners, servers, stereos, storage discs, tape and ZIP drives, televisions, UPS power supply units, video game consoles, and VCRs. Maximum of 3 standard size banker boxes (10″x12″x15″) per household for document shredding; proof of San Mateo residency required. 

This event is sponsored by “Rethink Waste” and this would be a great opportunity for parents and teachers to teach the younger generation about the importance of E-Scap. Local events in San Mateo like these will help keep our community green and beautiful! For more information call:  650-802-3500.

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Buy Applicances that use less water and electricity.

Many companies sell appliances like washing machines and dishwashers which use 10-15% less energy and water than standard models.  Not only are the appliances using less, but they save money when it comes to the electricity and water bills.

Use Environmentally Friendly Flooring

A wood floor produced without VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) keeps the air clean in the house.  Cork flooring helps maintain a constant air temperature in the room thanks to it’s natural thermal insulation properties and is a renewable resource.  This is because only the cork bark is trimmed from the tree and the cork oak trees continue living.  In addition, cork has a waxy substance called suberin, which repels bugs, mold, mites and even termites, keeping allergens at bay.

Change Lights with Energy Efficient Models

According to the U.S. Department of Energy ENERGY STAR program, if every American home replaced it’s five most frequently used lights, such as kitchen, outdoor post lamps, living room table lamps etc. with fixtures that have earned the ENERGY STAR, almost $8 billion would be saved each year in  energy costs and greenhouse gasses reduced at the rate of almost 10 million.

Remember, money and time isn’t the only things you are saving!  You can feel good about these changes not just because it will give you the edge of selling your home,  but because you are doing your part to save the Earth!   If you interested in learning more about creating a “green’ home and it’s impact on potential buyers, contact us today and see how we can help you!

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But what about your San Mateo Coastal home?  Whether you live in Moss Beach, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Montara or Pacifica; having a healthy home is just as important as having a healthy body.  As San Mateo Coast Real Estate agents; we have a passion for the homes along the coast and a desire to see them in the healthiest state possible!

We’ve gathered ten potential problem areas that you may not even be aware of as harmful, and a healthy solution for each one.  Take a look!

1. Granite Countertops- The United States is seeing a small increase in radioactive or hot granite countertops. Exotic varieties from South America and Africa have been found to contain harmful levels of radon and other radioactive elements. If you suspect that you may have a hot countertop, call a radon technician.

2. Combustion Byproducts- From hot water heaters to fireplaces, there are many different systems that operate using a combustion process. Combustion byproducts include carbon monoxide and other harmful, odorless gasses. Installing a ventilation system or replacing combustion systems with non-combustion or direct vented models in your San Mateo home will help reduce the risks associated with these byproducts.

3. Carpeting vs. Hard Surface Flooring- There are varying opinions about whether carpet is better or worse for air quality than hard surface flooring. Carpeting traps dust, debris, allergens, and mold. Hard surface flooring is much easier to clean and disinfect. And that new-carpet smell? That odor comes from the volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) emitted by standard carpeting. Purchasing carpeting and carpet cleaning products that have been certified by the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) will help reduce the potential health risks associated with carpet.

4. Paints, Stains, Glues and Sealers- Lead paint is still a hazard in pre-1975 paint coatings, but even newer dry paint coatings and stains off-gas VOCs. When the time comes to refinish a surface, strip off the old coating completely and finish with a low or zero VOC product, which are commonly available from most major paint manufacturers. Caulking, sealers, and glues also off-gas VOCs and are now available with low or no VOC versions.

5. Dirty Ductwork- This would seem like common sense, but most builders install HVAC ductwork and do not cover it, allowing the duct systems to trap dust and debris for the duration of the construction process. In these cases, every time the HVAC system is used, the homeowner inhales construction debris. There are many duct cleaning services available that can rid the system of construction dust.

6. Air Filters- Every air-based heating and cooling system has an air filter, which is given a MERV rating. A MERV filter of 9 or higher is ideal. Replace old air filters and make sure you clean the filter regularly.

7. Ventilation Systems- Ventilation systems replace stale, indoor air with fresh outdoor air. Which is what you want to breathe in on the San Mateo Coast!  Many older homes do not have these systems. While purchasing a ventilation system or having one installed can be expensive, it is one of the best ways to improve the air quality of your home. A properly ventilated home can also reduce heating and cooling costs.

8. Cleaning and Freshening- Traditional cleaning products and air fresheners can do more harm than good. If using traditional cleaning products, make sure the space is well ventilated and the product has time to dry before children are allowed to enter. There are a variety of green, natural, and alternative cleaning and freshening methods available today. Also, leave your shoes at the door.

9. Plastics- Plastics are one of the most toxic household materials. From food storage to children’s toys, plastics are being linked to a number of health problems. When purchasing plastic products, look on the bottom for numbers 1, 2, 4, or 5. These are the safe plastics. Avoid numbers 3, 6, and 7, unless marked as BPA-free. Immediately discard all of the plastics in your household that are marked with these numbers.

10. Formaldehyde- Many building products, including certain particleboards and composite materials, contain and will off-gas formaldehyde, a highly toxic chemical than can cause reactions ranging from headache to nausea. Although the use of formaldehyde has decreased in recent years, when replacing old flooring and cabinetry, look for formaldehyde-free new products.

We hope these tips are helpful as you consider the health of your San Mateo Coastal home!  Whether you are considering selling your San Mateo home, or plan on living there for years to come; these updates are crucial to your homes’ health and play a part in your health as well!

If you have any questions about your home, selling your home or about the San Mateo Coastal Real Estate market; please let us know!  We’re here to help you in any way we can and look forward to hearing from you!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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Whether you currently live in one of these great communities or are looking for ways to help the environment along the San Mateo Coast; there’s a fun way to get involved in this weekend in Half Moon Bay!  Half Moon Bay is home to beautiful beaches and coastal views; it would be devastating to see this taken away from us.  That’s why volunteers commit to keeping our shores clean and healthy, and why you’re invited to get involved!

Join many at the Half Moon Bay State Beach this Saturday, February 5 from 10am-1pm for a Habitat Restoration event!  The Half Moon Bay State Beach is four miles of stunning sandy beaches which are great for fishing, sunbathing and picnics!  There is also an area for camping for those who enjoy spending the night underneath the stars.  The Visitors Center for the beach is open on Saturdays and Sundays and is free to take part in.  You’ll learn about the environment that makes up the Half Moon Bay State Beach as well as its history on the San Mateo Coast!

The Half Moon Bay State Beach Habitat Restoration is designed to keep people enjoying the beach for years to come!  Volunteers will help by working in the field to plant native trees, remove non-native trees, gather native seed, as well as helping to maintain trail fencing and the habitats of threatened species.   Be sure to dress in clothes that can get dirty and be prepared for any type of weather!  The event will go on rain or shine!

This is an ideal opportunity for students, corporate volunteers, families, youth groups and anyone interested in volunteering!  You’ll not only be helping the San Mateo Coast, but will also get to know which plants are native to our coastline and will learn how to cultivate these plants!  Gather your friends and get involved!  View more information on the Habitat Restoration.

If living in the San Mateo Coast sounds like the lifestyle for which you’ve been searching; let us know!  We’d enjoy the opportunity to show you around the San Mateo Coast and answer any questions you may have about the San Mateo Coastal Real Estate market!  We look forward to hearing from you and hope you get to take advantage of helping to clean up our coast this weekend!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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If eating healthy is on the top of your list for this year; you’ll appreciate this week’s upcoming event in the nearby Coastal town of San Mateo!  Join Chef Amy Fothergill at the Whole Foods in San Mateo this Thursday, January 27, from 6:30-8:30pm for a Healthy Date Night Cooking Class.  She’ll be walking guests through the steps in preparing elegant, healthy dishes such as a pear and bleu cheese bistro salad and maple-soy salmon- to name a few!  You’ll be sure to appreciate this learning experience as you take in the tastes and methods to cooking heart-healthy meals!  View more information on this date night dinner event!

We love the San Mateo Coast because of its’ fresh ingredients that can be found year round!  Finding local farmers and buying their products is not only a great way to ensure you’re getting the freshest ingredients for your meals, but it also is a fantastic way to support our communities!  There are multiple farms along the San Mateo Coast and they all offer unique produce and a hands on approach to buying food!  While the well known Coastside Farmer’s Market will not be reopening until May; there are still a few options for shopping local fare and produce.

View the Coastal communities other local Farmer’s Markets that operate all year round:

Marsh and Sons
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/marsh-and-sons
12950 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-5792
Products: Fruits and vegetables, local honey, pumpkins, goats/goat meat

Tunitas Creek Family Farm
www.tunitasfarm.com/
333 Tunitas Creek Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-9710
- Products: Pumpkins (of all types), gourds, squash, Indian corn, fava beans, cranberry beans, shelling peas

Tom & Pete’s Produce
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/tom-petes-produce
99 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-2561
- Products: Fruits and vegetables
- Food & dining options: Organic, Vegetarian, Natural, Vegan

G. Berta Fruit and Vegetable Stand
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/g-berta-fruit-and-vegetable-stand
12599 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-712-0661
- Products: The stand sells:pumpkin seeds, apple juice, carrots, beets, honey, cherries, beans, peaches, eggplants, tomatoes, onions, grapes, strawberries, and much more.
- Food & dining options: Natural

Andreotti’s Family Farm
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/listings/andreottis-family-farm
329 Kelly Ave, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
650-726-9151
- Products: Vegetables, honey, eggs

We hope you take advantage of all that our Coastal neighbors have to offer!  You’ll enjoy the option for healthy cooking all year long with the freshest ingredients that our local farmers provide.  If you have been interested in moving to the San Mateo Coast, but would like more information on the communities of Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach, Montara, El Granada or Pacifica; please let us know!  We feel privileged to live and work as Coastal Real Estate agents in this area and can answer any questions you may have about the cities or the San Mateo Coastal Real Estate market.

We hope to hear from you soon!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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If you want to join Half Moon Bay residents in keeping the area healthy, there’s an opportunity to volunteer this Saturday, January 22nd!  The non-profit organization from Santa Cruz, Save Our Shores, will be hosting a beach and river clean up on Miramontes Point Beach and along Arroyo Canada Creek.  This FREE event will take place from 10am-12pm and SOS will be providing all cleanup supplies.  View more information for this volunteer opportunity, or view the Save Our Shores website for more information on future events!

While this coming Saturday will be a great time to volunteer, you may be wondering what you can do on a daily basis in your Half Moon Bay home!  We’re glad you asked!  There are many ways to be eco-friendly in your home and we’ve listed a few key ideas below.  Even though seemingly small; these daily choices can add up to a big difference in saving energy and helping our environement!

1. Bundle Up- Feeling chilled?  Instead of turning up the thermostat, throw on a pair of socks or an extra layer.  These small choices to not turn up the heat can really add up in energy savings!

2. Set the Timer- Set your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away from your Half Moon Bay home or while you’re sleeping.  This will automatically help reduce energy used as well as costs just by programming your thermostat.

3. Unplug- Not using an appliance?  Unplug it!  The Department of Energy notes that, even if appliances are not being used, they are still using energy.  40% of electricity used for your home electronics is used when they’re turned off, but still plugged in.  Getting in the habit of unplugging will be prove to be a smart habit in the long run!

4. Let the Sunshine In- During the day, be sure to leave blinds and curtains open to let in the sunlight and natural heat.  At night, shut them to help “trap” the warmth.

5. Switch our Your Lights- All of your lights can be changed out for energy efficient LED lights!  With the sun setting earlier, you’ll be using your indoor lights more often and your energy usage will increase.  Switching out your light bulbs can make an incredible difference.

6. Light a Fire- It’s amazing how a fire in your fireplace can heat up a room instantly!  Consider lowering your thermostat on cooler evenings and lighting a fire instead.

7. Stop Leaks- Check all doors and windows for drafts.  You can easily seal windows and doors to prevent the warm air from your Half Moon Bay home from escaping while making sure the cool air doesn’t leak in!

We hope you have the opportunity to get involved with the cleanup this weekend in Half Moon Bay, or that you can begin making these small changes in your home.  Either one will make a difference in our environment; remember every little bit helps!

If you have questions about going green in your home, or have been considering buying a home in Half Moon Bay in order to be a part of its’ vibrant community;  please let us know!  We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have or show you around the area.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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This coming weekend a fun and eco-friendly event is coming to the coast!  The 26th Annual California Coastal Cleanup Day is this Saturday, September 25 from 9am-noon and is open to everyone.  Across the country, this is known as the premier volunteer event focused on the marine environment and has been a great success year after year.  More than 80,600 volunteers showed up last year to the event which covers the coast of California along with its lakes and waterways and they collected over 1,300,000 pounds of trash and recyclables!  The Guinness Book of World Records has deemed this event the “largest garbage collection” which attests to the fact that the Coastal Cleanup Day is proving to be a large contribution to cleaning up our planet.  The Coastal Cleanup Day kicks off Coastweeks which is three weeks of coastal and water related events, so there are many ways to be involved.  For the San Mateo Coastal area, there are a few specific places to show up and help out!

Mirada West
Surfers Beach & Mirada Surf Coastal Trail- Help clean up the bluff near these locations!
Starting Point: West side of Highway 1 and Coronado

Pillar Point Harbor
Harbor beachs, Launch ramps and Trails- Join others in picking up trash and debris from these locations
Starting Point: Pillar Point Harbor near Half Moon Bay Kayak Company

If you’re not able to be involved in this event, don’t worry!  There are year round opportunities to help clean up our environment.  The California Coastal Commission offers the Adopt-a-Beach program in which groups, friends or even families can “adopt” a beach to commit to clean up at least three times a year.  If you’re interested, you can find more information on the California Coastal Commission’s website.

After helping clean up the coast, why not head over to Pacifica for an event that celebrates the San Mateo Coastal lifestyle!  The 25th Annual Fog Fest takes place this weekend, September 24-25 in Pacifica and is centered around the sun, sand and surf- which are elements that define our beautiful coast!  This free event is open to everyone and has become a highlight of the year for many.  Historically, the last weekend of September has the best weather and so it was decided that the Fog Fest would take place with the climate as a backdrop!

The kick-off event will be the 25th Anniversary Fandango event on the evening of Friday September 24th at the Sanchez Adobe Historic Site!  The festivities continue on Saturday morning at 10am with the Discover Pacifica Parade, Sand Castle Contest and Marching Band Competition. There will also be food and beverage booths along with other fun actvities that will take place throughout the day such as arts and crafts, live music and contests.  This is another great way to get to know the Pacifica community and to spend time with family and friends!  You can view more information on the Fog Fest website.

We hope you are able to join in on these great events!  Our environment is very important to us and to keeping the California Coastal area beautiful!  We also love to celebrate the unique characteristics of our coastal towns!  If you are looking to buy a home in the San Mateo Coastal area; let us know!  We’d love to help you in your search and show you why we love to call the coast “home!”

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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Pacifica Gardens is an urban agricultural project spanning 30,000 square feet located on an abandoned soccer field at Linda Mar High School in Pacifica.  This project of Pacifica’s Environmental Family, is a non-profit organization with a goal to “increase environmental awareness in the community and in the schools” with a mission of: Educate, Cultivate and Inspire.  There always seems to be something new and exciting taking place at the gardens from workshops to new plants or volunteer opportunities.  Current projects that are taking place are culinary and medicinal herbs, biointensive food gardens, native plants, food donation programs, adult composting workshops and much more!

This outstanding community organization exists because of the help from volunteers and local supporters!  Each Saturday, volunteers are welcome to drop by the gardens to help out!  You can stay all day or just help out for an hour, with any volunteer work being greatly appreciated.  There are opportunities to serve the community on a regular basis by being a part of one of the watering teams or the building team, there are also crews who enjoy native plants, harvesting, planting or picking.  There are a number of ways to get involved!

The next Composting Workshop will be Sunday, September 12 from 2-4pm and is free to attend! Check out the Pacifica Gardens website for more information.  The Pacifica community is a town in which the environment and personal growth are of upmost importance and it spills out into everything the residents do!  If being a part of this great area is something you’re looking into; let us know!  We’d be happy to show you around Pacifica and answer any questions you may have regarding Pacifica Real Estate.  Let us help you find your dream home in Pacifica!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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Walking Tours are often conducted in the cities along the coast and allow people to walk through the city while hearing about the history and all that’s currently going on in the area!  Not only do you get to enjoy being outdoors, but you’ll get a better sense of each coastal city.  There are a few taking place this weekend that we encourage you to check out!

San Mateo Walking Tour
Saturday, August 14 at 2pm
Call 650-299-0104 for more information

Tour historic downtown San Mateo with expert Dr. Al Acena.  You’ll learn about the rich history and character behind this charming city while walking through the quaint streets of downtown.

El Granada Walking Tour
Sunday, August 15 at 2pm
Tour begins at the old Ocean Shore Railroad Station
10151 Cabrillo Highway
Call 650-726-4416

The tour will begin with a short introduction of the landscape architect Daniel Burnham.  His Burnham Plan Map will start the tour.  “Reaches the Beaches” was the advertising slogan of the old Ocean Shore Railroad and includes some of the arc shaped streets of El Granada.  This walk will pass a some of the older craftsman style homes, the former Granada Hotel, the tree-lined boulevards and beautiful views of the ocean- you won’t want to miss it!

If, however, you know all about these great cities and are looking for something else to do, we have a few other options up our sleeves!  We know it’s a little foggy and cooler along the coast, so taking a trip to a nearby farm or getting in on a few local classes that are offered may be just the thing you’re looking for!  Here are a few of our favorite options:

Harley Farms
205 North Street, Pescadero
harleyfarms.com

This local goat and dairy farm is great for kids and adults alike!  Tour the farm and meet the Harley goats that are responsible to the cheeses and products sold in the farms’ shop! Visitors take a two-hour, hands-on tour, following the milk from goat to dairy, from curd to cheese. Bring farm-ready footwear and an appetite for cheese!  Check out their website for more information- spots for the tours fill up quickly!

Half Moon Bay Recreational Department
Ted Adcock Community Center
535 Kelly Avenue, Half Moon Bay
hmbcity.com

The Half Moon Bay Recreation Department is just finishing up its summer session of classes at the end of this month, but there is still a chance to get in on some of the fun!  From sailing to photography and from painting to soccer, there are a wide variety of classes offered that are sure to fit your interests!  The fall class lineup should be coming out soon, but if you’re looking for something to do now, check out the online guide!  There are so many to choose from, we can’t list them all out here, but wanted to let you know that Half Moon Bay has so much to offer for residents and even visitors!

Open Ocean Surfing
openoceansurfing.com
For More Information about camps call David Alexander at Open Ocean: (650) 867-0315

Week long surfing camps are held throughout the summer on Half Moon Bay’s beaches and there are still a few weeks left in August to join in on riding the waves!  Each camp runs Monday-Friday from 10am to 2pm and is open to all ages! The camps will give you plenty of time to learn the basics, while emphasizing the importance of Ocean Safety and Surfing Etiquette in a safe,  fun and friendly environment!  Surf Boards and boogie boards are supplied, while wetsuits are available to rent at local surf shops. Each camp session concludes on Friday afternoons with a Barbecue Lunch for all campers!!

We hope you take advantage of these “green” ways to enjoy the sites and sounds, along with the history of the San Mateo Coastal cities on the walking tours!  Or that you’re able to enjoy the other opportunities to visit local farms or even take a few classes or surfing lessons in Half Moon Bay!  If you are hoping to find a home in any of these great areas; please let us know!  We love helping buyers find the home of their dreams that matches their style and needs.  If we can help you in any way- please let us know!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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About 100 yards from the top of the Saddle we found a path off to the left.  We decided to take it.  Another adventure that took us down a newly cut dirt path that went rapidly downhill.  Thank goodness we had our trekking poles and didn’t have to slide down the dozen step embankments on our butts.  Just when we wondered where we would come out and how far away this would be from the trailhead, we noticed familiar vegetation.  We found ourselves walking parallel to the trail and came out just before the one and only bench.  We had noticed a little path on our way up and this turned out to be it.  Hooray!  We were less than 10 minutes from our car.  A wonderful adventure and shortcut that we will take again.  However, with the very steep downhill switchbacks, we won’t be trying this in the opposite direction on our way up.

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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