Mullins Bar and Grill is located at 2 Miramontes Point Road in Half Moon Bay.  Where they will serve from 11 AM to 9 PM.

For more information visit their website or call  650-726-1818.

Happy Father’s day!

/kh

SF Peninsula — Our Burlingame offices report a steady to improving market. The Hillsborough market over $2 million is “robust” as long as the price is reasonable and the home is well staged. Hillsborough is often perceived as a bargain compared to other high-end markets on the Peninsula.

Across the hill in Half Moon Bay, our local manager says there has been a noticeable drop in activity on the coast these past couple of weeks. Buyers continue looking but are not writing offers. Our Menlo Park offices say they are seeing strong sales in the over $2.5 mil market – a $3.85 million listing in Menlo Park is getting three offers today!  Buyers are exhibiting even more discretion as the ratio of houses sitting while others go multiple is rising.  Houses sit until the price is reduced and then the buyers jump. The “off-the-market” high-end properties continue to attract buyers. With all the technology we have, word of mouth networking continues to be a factor. One recent off-market sale went for $7.9 million in Atherton. The Redwood City office says inventory is still low.  Open houses, particularly first time opens, are extremely well attended.  The attitude of the buyers seems to be positive. Palo Alto remains a very strong market with more than half of the transactions getting multiple offers. Finally, the San Mateo and the Woodside markets are holding steady. The over $3 million market is doing well with three sales over this price in the last couple of weeks. Woodside is slowly waking up. Portola Valley has been much stronger the last couple of weeks – brisk sales of $1.3 million to $4 million.

In summing up last week’s Bay Area real estate market, Rick Turley, President, SF Bay Area, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage added;

“We continue to see a mixed market throughout the Bay.  The common thread seems to be low inventory at the entry level and generally more multiple offers in the entry level. The mid-price market is probably the most perplexing with a lack of move-up buyers.  The increased activity at the Luxury end is certainly a strong sign, but common thread here is that this sector remains very price sensitive; luxury buyers are pulling the trigger when they perceive value.”
If you would like to read the entire report , go online to www.cbsfbaymarketwatch.wordpress.com

Ready to start looking at what is available in the area?  Start your Home Search today by visiting Coastal Real Estate

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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For those of you who currently live in Half Moon Bay, you may have already taken advantage of these ongoing events which happen on a weekly or monthly basis.  If you’re planning on visiting the Half Moon Bay area this weekend; you’ll find these enjoyable as well!  The lively and community related town of Half Moon Bay is a favorite place to call “home” or to escape to for the weekend!  Whatever reason you’re enjoying Half Moon Bay; we wanted to provide you with some options for things to do!

Live Music at Coastside ArtGallery
330 Main St, Half Moon Bay
www.coastsideart.com
Weekly on Thursdays from 6:00pm–9:00pm
- Live bands and music groups perform in the brilliantly designed Coastside Art Gallery and Wine Bar. Sharon, a local favorite, returns to play host to Thursday Music and Wine. Each thursday, this free event features a different musical group will take the stage which allows you to get a taste of the local Half Moon Bay talent!  different style to suit most musical tastes.

Live Jazz at Cetrella
845 Main St, Half Moon Bay
www.cetrella.com/music
February 19 from 7:30pm–10:30pm
- Come hear top selling artists such as Kenny Washington, Kim Nalley and Tony Lindsay every Friday and Saturday night in the bar. This musical experience is open to everyone and is a fun place to get together with friends, family and others in the community!

Half Moon Bay Coastal Flower Market
604 Main St, Half Moon Bay (La Piazza)
www.halfmoonbay.patch.com/half-moon-bay-coastal-flower-market
February 19 from 9:00am–3:00pm
- Enjoy local and exotic blooms at Half Moon Bay Coastal Flower Market.  The Flower Market is held the third Saturday of every month (except October).You’ll love taking in the visual beauty and fragrant offerings of each unique flower!

We hope you can take part in one of all of these events this weekend to experience more of the art, music and culture of Half Moon Bay.  If you have questions about living in Half Moon Bay or about the Half Moon Bay Real Estate market; please let us know!  We have lived and worked in the San Mateo Coast for years and can give you great insight into the homes available as well as helping you find a community that best fits your needs and lifestyle!  Feel free to contact us anytime!

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 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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“Sometimes things could be right under your nose, the only problem is your eyes are above it”
-Unknown

We often feel like we need to travel a long way to see something really amazing. But sometimes when you look up and really look around your own home in San Mateo County, you will see that amazing things, amazing surroundings, and amazing people are usually just under our noses.

For example, have you made a trip yet to Pacifica Performances yet? The Pacifica California organization has been staging concerts all over the community for years. It began in 1976 as the Pacifica Arts and Heritage Council, assisting art shows, sponsoring art, dance, and poetry, and providing a meeting place for artists within Pacifica.

Today, Pacifica Performances is housed in the Mildred Owen Concert Hall, a former school building transformed into a beautiful 175-seat concert hall. With a focus on live performances, the roster that they have today boasts a variety of acts – from Latin rhythms to stand up comedy. Below are a few upcoming events. As you read them, and possibly explore further into these musicians, you may find something truly amazing right outside your Pacifica home.

Los Boleros
When: Saturday, January 15th @7:30 pm
Dance moves, spins, passion! Los Boleros brings you back to the golden era of traditional Cuban son, cumber, merengue, danzon, and, of course, bolero! The lead singers combine a Havana-born son of a famous vocalist, the amazingly clear voice of an experienced performer, and  the addition of Flutes, Sultry Saxophone, dreamy violin and smoking Tres Cubano.

Richard Smith
When: Saturday, January 22 @7:30 pm
What do you get when you combine Scott Joplin Rags, Sousa marches, Mozart, fiddle tunes, Chet Atkins, Django gypsy jazz, Bach, and the Beatles? Answer: Richard Smith’s Virtuoso Guitar Series. This British-born musician showed incredible talent as a toddler. He can quickly master whatever guitar style that piques his interest, often taking only a single hearing to get it down. He really is a musical prodigy and definitely worth seeing at least once.

Bobbe Norris, Kenny Washington with Larry Dunlap Trio
When: Saturday, January 29@7:30 pm
If you’ve ever missed the voices of Nat ‘King’ Cole and Ella Fitzgerald, here is a wonderful reminder. Bobbe and Kenny come from soulful New Orleans roots, inspired by the greats. This is your chance to see the two of them together on stage.

Will Durst
When: Saturday, February 5
5 Time Emmy Nominee. 7 Time American Comedy Awards Stand Up of the Year Nominee. First comic invited to perform at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. This man has done it all and has got the resume to prove it. This political comic is a C-SPAN darling, and now he is coming to Pacifica.

Click Here for more information about Pacifica Performances and Ticket Prices.

What did we tell you about looking right under your nose? We would say that these acts are pretty impressive and they are just the tip of the iceberg. Pacifica, California is a place full of art, culture and performance. There is so much to love about this neighborhood, but it’s best explained by showing. When you are ready to come take a look at what Pacifica Real Estate has to offer, please give us a call.

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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The coastal cities of El Granada, Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach, Pacifica and Montara offer many great ways to relax and take in the unique things each town has to offer.  If you are currently residing in one of these quaint beach towns along the coast, you are probably aware of some of the great features of your area, which may be what drew you to it in the first place!  Today we’d like to highlight the vibrant community of Half Moon Bay.  For those of you who are considering a visit to the San Mateo Coast or if you’re looking for something to do close to home; take a peak at what’s going on and things to enjoy this weekend in Half Moon Bay!

Whale Watching
Pillar Point Harbor, Half Moon Bay
Saturday, January 8 from 10am-1pm
- Venture aboard the Salty Lady, favored ship of the Oceanic Society Expeditions to take in the sights and sounds of the impressive gray whale!  The gray whale is one of the largest mammals on earth and amazing to see in person; you won’t want to miss out!  View more information.

Oceano Coastal Spa
Harbor Village, Half Moon Bay
www.oceanocoastalspa.com
- Enjoy a day of pampering with spa services such as a hot stone massage, soaking in a therapeutic bath or a purifying facial.  Choose from a variety of spa packages and leave feeling refreshed!

McNee Ranch State Park
Half Moon Bay
www.bahiker.com/southbayhikes/mcneeranch
- If hiking and biking is your ideal way to relax, McNee Ranch State Park may be just the place for you!  Take in nature’s beauty along any of the trails that wind their way through the park.  Various paths and degrees of difficulty will ensure everyone can take part and enjoy all that this park has to offer!

La Nebbia Winery
12341 San Mateo Road, Half Moon Bay
www.obesterwinery.com
- Located in the beautiful hills of Half Moon Bay, La Nebbia Winery has been a local favorite for over 30 years.  Taste the fruit of the vine and support local business with the year round events and tastings La Nebbia provides for you to enjoy!

We hope these highlights of Half Moon Bay have sparked a few ideas of ways to enjoy the area this weekend!  We always love supporting local businesses and getting to know the San Mateo Coast better.  As San Mateo Coastal Real Estate agents, we feel passionately that the towns of Moss Beach, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Pacifica and Montara are all great places to live!

If you have questions about any of these towns or are considering buying a home on the San Mateo Coast; please let us know!  Our goal is to help you settle into these unique communities and make you feel at home!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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Fisherman had to wait for the go ahead until the quality tests were conducted, and were then given the “ok” to set their pots for catching.  According to fisherman in Half Moon Bay, the initial few weeks are very telling of how fruitful the entire crabbing season will be. It seems as though this year’s season found that not many crabs settled in the area, meaning a harder year for the fisherman.  There’s always a gamble, and an ever-present hope that crabs are in abundance.  Although the crab numbers are not desirable, the San Mateo Coast fisherman will make the most of the season as they always seem to hope for the best.

Of course, residents along the San Mateo Coast will make it a point to enjoy the crab this season, even if prices rise a little from the lack of supply.  Some of the best places for tasting the Dungeness crabs are Half Moon Bay and Pacifica!  You’ll find boats filling Half Moon Bay which allow you to buy fresh crab right off the boat!  Enjoy meeting the fisherman and getting their insight on the best ways to cook the crab along with their favorite recipes that enhance the flavor.

Want to catch your own crab?  Head to Pacifica where you can go crabbing right off the pier! Rusty Hook Bait & Tackle will provide you with all the gear you need such as a crab right, gauge, bait box, bait and bucket for around $35.  They’ll give you a quick lesson in catching the crab and the rest is up to you!  This is a great way to enjoy crab season to the fullest!

We enjoyed a taste of fresh crab a few weeks ago and can attest that the flavor of the crab is the best it’s been in years!  We picked up our crab, which was cleaned and cracked for us at Princeton Seafood in the Harbor in Half Moon Bay.  Yum!

Crab season is just one more reason to find a home on the San Mateo Coast!  If you have been considering a move to any of the coastal towns of Half Moon Bay, Pacifica, Montara, Moss Beach or El Granada- let us know!  We’d be happy to show you around and help you find a home that fits your needs and lifestyle!  For those currently residing on the San Mateo Coast- Happy Crabbing!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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Thanksgiving: Tips for Hosts and Guests
Hosting the big Thanksgiving dinner is a huge responsibility. You begin to feel overwhelmed with cooking, cleaning, decorating, and maintaining the guest list. (And let’s not even begin to think about the clean-up afterwards!) Here are some tips on how to make Thanksgiving in your San Mateo home a wonderful event for the whole family:

1.  Remember, people will take your food- So, plan for leftovers ahead of time. Have some extra Styrofoam containers, paper plates, aluminum foil, and plastic grocery bags available for guests so they can take a little morsel or two home at the end of the evening. This will prevent the loss of your favorite Tupperware, plates, or bowls from your own cabinets
2.  Prepare for clean-up- Be sure to keep some extra cleaning supplies nearby just in case an accident happens, and it is also a good idea to always keep some soapy dishwater in the sink for used cutlery and plates as guests finish eating.
3.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help- As the host or hostess, it’s easy to assume that it’ your responsibility to do everything. This isn’t true! Asking for help with cooking, decorating, or cleaning will be a fun, easy way to get things done efficiently.
4.  Don’t leave out the specialty foods- Make sure that there is a variety of things for all of your guests to eat. It’s usually good to have a few dishes that are vegetarian, vegan, low-fat, and/or low-carb.

As a guest, it is important to remember that you have many responsibilities as well when it comes to showing good manners.

1.  Be thankful for the invitation – after all, it is Thanksgiving! A thank-you note or small gift (such as candles or box of chocolates) is a great way to show appreciation to your host or hostess. Also, it is a good idea to offer to bring a dish, even if it is not a potluck dinner.
2.  Keep your host/hostess informed- If you have special food needs (such as vegetarian, low sodium, sugar free), you need to make sure your host or hostess is aware of the situation and can make necessary accommodations for you.
3.  Timing really is everything- Simple concept: if dinner starts at 7p.m., be there at 7p.m.! It is always a good idea to arrive on time or no later than half an hour after the scheduled time.
4.  Be available to help- Remember, your host/hostess has gone through a lot of work to accommodate you. It is of utmost importance that you do as much as you can to lend a helping hand when you have the opportunity.

Black Friday: Tips for Savings and Sanity
Black Friday, as we all know, is known for being the day for “Door Buster Deals,” “Early Bird Specials,” and “Midnight Madness.” With so many deals going online and in stores, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Here are some tips to save your money and your sanity when Black Friday rolls around:

1.  Grab that newspaper- Your newspaper on Thanksgiving morning will probably be busting with ads and coupons in preparation for Friday. Don’t be afraid to combine coupons, if possible. This is also a great way to rack up the savings online!
2.  Online shopping may be the way to go- To avoid the hassle of waiting in line or camping out in front of the outlet mall, try shopping from the comforts of your own San Mateo County home! There may also be exclusive deals for shoppers who order online through their mobile phone.
3.  Keep those receipts- An easy return or exchange process is always highly appreciated. When buying gifts, be sure to always ask for a gift receipt, and make sure the recipient receives it.
4.  Check those social networks- Many times joining retailers’ Facebook groups or following them on Twitter will give you access to exclusive savings and “members only” deals. It pays to have good friends!

The quickly approaching holiday is sure to bring your friends and family plenty of good times. After all of your busy plans for Thanksgiving and Black Friday, you’ll be thankful to relax in your gorgeous San Mateo home. If you have any questions about living on the California Coastside area, or if you’d like to see some California homes in Pacifica, Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Moss Beach, and Montara, go ahead and contact us today. We’d love to hear from you! Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Kathy & Michael Rain
Your San Mateo Coastal Real Estate Experts

San Mateo Coastal Real Estate
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