February 21, 2007

San Carlos: Second Chance

“We’re given second chances every day of our life. We don’t usually take them, but they’re there for the taking.” –Andrew M. Greeley

While my guess is that this Catholic priest did not have real estate on his mind when he made this statement, it seemed appropriate for this unique house at 427 Ridge Road in San Carlos, which I stumbled upon while touring an open house around the corner at 2613 Howard. This 3BR/3BA Mediterranean recently became available again, priced at $1,350,000. While listed at 101 days on the market, I’ve been told that much of that time was in contract. And if you love charm and fine wood craftsmanship, this is the house for you.

Not having an MLS or Redfin listing in my hand when I walked in, I didn’t know what I was in for as I walked up the steps, but I have to say that my jaw dropped and I stopped in my tracks upon entering. It is everything I love. The first thing that hit me was all the wood: original wood floors, wood-framed windows, wood-framed double interior doors, old-fashioned heavy wood wainscoting throughout the front rooms and hall. All wood was lovingly refinished, albeit much of it with a shiny shellac which detracted a bit from its original beauty. The living room has a large picture window and fireplace with some unique tilework. The dining room has not one, but two built-in china cabinets, as well as a double glass doors which open to a built-in bar. The totally remodeled gourmet kitchen is HUGE, and was begging for an island (or a cook on roller skates), and had plenty of cabinet space as well as wine refrigerator.

The two main-floor bedrooms have been redone. The first bedroom has picture molding, 6-inch baseboards and a huge picture window with sidelights. The adjacent hall bath has been totally remodeled as well. The master bedroom with original wood floors has a door to a small private deck on the side yard. Downstairs, which was redone with permits to bring it up to code, has a small family room with new carpet, an open office area with closet, and a large bedroom and bath with private entrance, great for an adult child or in-law.

Drawbacks here are the one-car garage and small patio and lawn area, which are dwarfed in comparison to the home. But who needs to go outside when you have a great entertainment space, with both central air and heat?

Best get on over to see this one soon, as I don’t think it will last long on the market this time around.