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City Adding San Carlos Housing to Northeast Area? Lots of Interesting Stuff Happening in 2024!

City Adding San Carlos Housing to Northeast Area? Lots of Interesting Stuff Happening in 2024!

by Mark Martinho | Mar 11, 2023 | Headliner, Real Estate Blogs

More San Carlos Housing in Industrial Area? The Northeast Area Specific Plan!   San Carlos CA is on a planning spree. It’s looking to create a Specific Plan for its downtown by March 2024 plus a Specific plan for its Northeast Area by October 2024. The...
What to Consider when Buying a San Carlos CA home – Big Decision!

What to Consider when Buying a San Carlos CA home – Big Decision!

by Mark Martinho | Mar 10, 2023 | Headliner, Real Estate Blogs

Buying a San Carlos CA Home So, you’re thinking about buying a San Carlos CA home? Congrats, they don’t call it “The City of Good Living” for nothing, you will not regret moving into it, but you might regret the home you buy if you’re not...
Electrifying Homes – Do you Like Hot Showers? Caution 2030 is Coming!

Electrifying Homes – Do you Like Hot Showers? Caution 2030 is Coming!

by Mark Martinho | Mar 8, 2023 | Real Estate Blogs, Headliner

Electrifying Homes In 2018 California passed Senate Bill 100.  The law requires that energy sources be both renewable and zero-carbon for generating 100 percent of electricity to California customers by 2045. So, power plants can’t use fossil or nuclear fuels by...
San Carlos CA Downtown Specific Plan March 2023 Meeting – The Good, the Bad, and the Confusion!

San Carlos CA Downtown Specific Plan March 2023 Meeting – The Good, the Bad, and the Confusion!

by Mark Martinho | Mar 6, 2023 | Headliner, City Council Blogs

San Carlos CA Specific Plan Presentation Very interesting San Carlos CA Downtown Specific Planning meeting on 3/4/2023. Representatives of the City’s Advanced Planning Division put on a presentation and answered questions afterwards on March 4, 2023. The City is...
San Carlos CA Real Estate Stats – Lean Inventory & Rising Prices for Feb. 2023

San Carlos CA Real Estate Stats – Lean Inventory & Rising Prices for Feb. 2023

by Mark Martinho | Mar 3, 2023 | Headliner, Real Estate Blogs

San Carlos CA Real Estate Stats – Single Family Home Prices  So, February 2023 is behind us and the real estate stats for San Carlos CA are now available. Here is a summary of where home prices are today: San Carlos CA homes are selling for $1,306/SqFt of living...
Safer Structures by 2025 but Higher HOA Fees or Extra Assessments

Safer Structures by 2025 but Higher HOA Fees or Extra Assessments

by Mark Martinho | Mar 1, 2023 | Headliner, Real Estate Blogs

Safer Structures – California’s Balcony & Exterior Elevated Elements Laws Sadly a few years back a balcony collapsed in Berkely during a party and several young people died. This awful event resulted in California passing two laws. SB326 and SB721. Both of...
Which San Carlos Starbucks has the Best Coffee?

Which San Carlos Starbucks has the Best Coffee?

by Mark Martinho | Feb 27, 2023 | Headliner, Restaurant Blogs

Which San Carlos Starbucks has the Best Coffee? So, the age-old question persists, which San Carlos Starbucks has the best coffee? The one on San Carlos Avenue or the one on Laurel Street? I think you have to do an apples-to-apples comparison, so let’s just...
Selling a San Carlos CA Home – Big Move!

Selling a San Carlos CA Home – Big Move!

by Mark Martinho | Feb 24, 2023 | Headliner, Real Estate Blogs

Selling a San Carlos CA Home So, you’re looking at selling a San Carlos CA Home? Hopefully, it’s for a great new opportunity in your life!  So maybe it’s been a while since you’ve sold a home, or this is the first time selling one? Let’s...
San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – This is Super Exciting! Can’t wait for 2024!

San Carlos Downtown Specific Plan – This is Super Exciting! Can’t wait for 2024!

by Mark Martinho | Feb 22, 2023 | Headliner, News Blog

What is the San Carlos Downtown Plan? Well, the City of San Carlos CA is showing its age a bit and not to spread rumors, but the City is a little vain and it decided it’s time for a little nip and tuck. The question is what to nip and what to tuck? Those little...
Keeping Low Property Taxes & Save Big Bucks!

Keeping Low Property Taxes & Save Big Bucks!

by Mark Martinho | Feb 20, 2023 | Headliner, Real Estate Blogs

Keeping Low Property Taxes when Selling your Home Under Prop 19 So you bought your San Carlos CA home a long time ago and have super low property taxes. You’d like to move within California, but you want to keep your low property taxes? Well, if you (or your spouse if...
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Related Blogs

Highest and Lowest Priced Homes Sold in San Carlos CA, in January 2026

Highest and Lowest Priced Homes Sold in San Carlos CA, in January 2026

Feb 6, 2026

For January 2026, there were only a total of 7 homes sold in San Carlos, with sale prices ranging from $3,550,000 to $1,800,000. Here are the highest and lowest priced homes sold last month –

Highest and Lowest Priced Homes Sold in San Carlos CA, in December 2025

Highest and Lowest Priced Homes Sold in San Carlos CA, in December 2025

Jan 13, 2026

For December 2025, there were a total of 17 homes sold in San Carlos, with sale prices ranging from $4,465,000 to $1,530,000. Here are the highest and lowest priced homes sold last month.

New Year, New Home Goals: A Fresh Start for San Carlos Homeowners in 2026

New Year, New Home Goals: A Fresh Start for San Carlos Homeowners in 2026

Jan 9, 2026

A new year often brings an honest look at whether our homes still support the way we want to live. We’ve been hearing a familiar sentiment from clients: “We love our home, but it’s beginning to feel like more than we want to manage.” Some wonder whether thoughtful renovations could make staying easier. Others are exploring a move into a home better suited for aging in place.

San Carlos Life Stands with Fund A Need: Supporting Southern California Wildfire Relief

San Carlos Life Stands with Fund A Need: Supporting Southern California Wildfire Relief

Feb 3, 2025

The devastating wildfires that have swept through Southern California in 2025 have left countless families displaced, communities in crisis, and first responders in urgent need of resources. In response to this tragedy, San Carlos Life is proud to stand in solidarity with Fund A Need –

The Risk of Wildfire in San Carlos

The Risk of Wildfire in San Carlos

Jan 27, 2025

CalFire’s Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer in 2024 designates Los Angeles and San Mateo County, including areas of Beverly Terrace and Alder Manor in San Carlos (in total 27% of all homes in San Carlos), as very high-risk areas.

Fire Station 16 San Carlos: A Gift to Our Awesome Firefighters

Fire Station 16 San Carlos: A Gift to Our Awesome Firefighters

Dec 6, 2024

After more than 60 years of service, the original Fire Station 16 in San Carlos has been replaced with a state-of-the-art facility at 1280 Alameda de las Pulgas, marking a major milestone in the city’s commitment to safety and sustainability. Sandy Frojelin summed it up best: “It is heartwarming to see our firefighters get a station to work out of that is inviting, welcoming, and modernized.”

Inside the Amazing San Carlos Curbside Lunch Program

Inside the Amazing San Carlos Curbside Lunch Program

Nov 3, 2025

San Carlos Life had the privilege of sitting down with the dedicated team at the Adult Community Center to learn how the Curbside Lunch Program began, how it operates today, and why it continues to be such an important part of San Carlos. Every month, the program offers a different dish daily that rotates around salads, soups, sandwiches, pies, roasts, pasta, and more. There’s always something new to enjoy. Staff often hear how much the program means to participants. “We often hear from customers who say they no longer cook for themselves,” one team member noted. “Having access to a hot, nutritious lunch each day makes a real difference in their lives.” Many also express gratitude not only for the meals but for the consistency and care that goes into providing them.

Izzy’s in San Carlos to Close In October After Nearly Two Decades

Izzy’s in San Carlos to Close In October After Nearly Two Decades

Sep 19, 2025

San Carlos is preparing to say goodbye to one of its dining landmarks. Izzy’s, the lone steakhouse located along Skyway Road, will close its doors on Oct. 4 after nearly 20 years in business. The news quickly sparked a wave of responses from San Carlos residents. “It was very sad to hear about it,” one longtime patron said. “I have such good memories of the place.” Others noted changes in recent years that may have contributed to the closure.

New Restaurant Alert, Sen Thai Noodle Bar

New Restaurant Alert, Sen Thai Noodle Bar

Jun 17, 2025

On Monday, June 16, Sen Thai Noodle Bar opened its doors at 677B Laurel Street, marking its soft opening with an evening of small plates, warm greetings, and traditional Thai dishes prepared with care.

Crab Invasion: A Fun Night at the ACC Crab Feed Fundraiser 2024

Crab Invasion: A Fun Night at the ACC Crab Feed Fundraiser 2024

Feb 28, 2024

Last Saturday, San Carlos Life and friends were feeling a little “crabby” with a need to satisfy their appetite for crab. And so they decided to go to the nearest Crab Feed in town: the Friends of the ACC Crab Feed Fundraiser. And what better way to eat crab, than to eat crab wearing crab hats!

5 Things You Didn’t Know About The Reading Bug

5 Things You Didn’t Know About The Reading Bug

Feb 22, 2024

Many of us know the magic of The Reading Bug to the kids and families of San Carlos, but few know of the challenges it had to overcome for it to last this long. If fact, The Reading Bug will be celebrating their 20th year in business in 2028.

Best San Carlos Ice Cream places in 2023- It’s a Necessity People!

Best San Carlos Ice Cream places in 2023- It’s a Necessity People!

Apr 20, 2023

San Carlos Ice Cream places: so where does one go for ice cream in San Carlos CA? Well, if you’re “The City of Good Living,” you better have ice cream choices!

Watch an Exciting Video of the Drone Show at the Hometown Days 2025

Watch an Exciting Video of the Drone Show at the Hometown Days 2025

May 20, 2025

If you missed the Drone Show last Saturday—or just want to relive the fun—San Carlos resident William Zachry captured the most exciting parts in close proximity. All videos here are courtesy of our friendly neighborhood photographer – thanks William!!

Blossoms Mural Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Guests from Ōmura, Japan

Blossoms Mural Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Guests from Ōmura, Japan

May 20, 2025

SAN CARLOS, Calif. — City leaders and residents gathered on Sister City Lane on May 15, 2025, for the ribbon cutting of the Blossoms Mural, a Japanese-American-inspired urban artwork and a collaborative effort by the community of San Carlos commemorating San Carlos’s sister-city relationship with Ōmura, Japan.

The Great San Carlos Historical Markers Hunt

The Great San Carlos Historical Markers Hunt

May 2, 2025

To celebrate our 100th birthday, San Carlos has scattered Historical Marker stickers around certain places in town with great historical significance. The mission? Be the first person to snap a photo of any of the official San Carlos Historical Markers and send it in. That’s right, this is not a drill—it’s a full-on marker hunt.

A Special Thanksgiving Message from Viv & Mark

A Special Thanksgiving Message from Viv & Mark

Nov 21, 2025

When people look for a service they can rely on, they turn to those they trust. The same is true in real estate, and that trust is at the heart of everything we do. Each time you refer a friend, family member, or neighbor to us, it’s a gesture of belief in how we care for our clients. This Thanksgiving, we’re reflecting on that trust with deep gratitude.

Referrals from you are expressions of faith, friendship, and confidence in how we serve our community. Your referrals allow us to do what we love most: help people find the place they’re proud to call home. This is our thanksgiving message to you –

Planning Your Perfect Holiday Party at Rouge Lounge

Planning Your Perfect Holiday Party at Rouge Lounge

Nov 19, 2025

As San Carlos enters the festive season, Rouge Lounge is preparing to make its mark as one of the Peninsula’s most talked-about venues for private events and celebrations. “We offer something truly unique: a high-end, fully customizable experience without the high-end hassle,” husband and wife owners Steve and Sema Tosun said. “Our process is designed to be stress-free and transparent: no complicated paperwork or awkward surprise charges.” Their goal? “We guarantee your guests will have a memorable holiday party they’ll truly rave about.”

Filoli’s Nightfall 2025 Brings Moonlit Magic Back to Woodside

Filoli’s Nightfall 2025 Brings Moonlit Magic Back to Woodside

Oct 8, 2025

Filoli brings back its popular after-dark event this autumn. Nightfall 2025 will run from October 3 through November 10, offering visitors an experience that blends art, light, and seasonal storytelling across the estate’s gardens and historic mansion. Here’s a peek at what’s in store –

Small Business Saturday Deals in San Carlos 2025: Shop Small, Win Big, Feel Good

Small Business Saturday Deals in San Carlos 2025: Shop Small, Win Big, Feel Good

Nov 25, 2025

Small Business Saturday in San Carlos has the charm of a neighborhood block party wrapped in a shopping spree: with deals, treats, and the kind of friendly banter you just can’t get at a big-box checkout line. This guide rounds up the promos and pit stops that make the day a perfect excuse to stroll, snack, and snag something special while supporting our local shops. Check out deals from Delizie (10% off when you mention “San Carlos Life”), Laurel Street Arts (Free Hot Chocolate outside), Reach and Teach (Free Cookies and 10% off on all books), and more!

San Carlos Home Insurance Tips: What Every Homeowner Should Know in 2025

San Carlos Home Insurance Tips: What Every Homeowner Should Know in 2025

Aug 21, 2025

When David Flaig isn’t helping Bay Area customers navigate the complexities of home insurance, he’s often above it all. Literally. A licensed FAA pilot since 1980 with both commercial and instrument ratings, David currently flies a Commander 112 based out of Hayward Airport. “I’ve been very fortunate to fly to many airports all over California,” he shares. That joy of exploration carries through into his grounded work in the insurance industry, where he’s built a reputation for clarity, advocacy, and service.

Happy Birthday San Carlos Library!

Happy Birthday San Carlos Library!

Aug 8, 2025

It was August 8, 1999, when the current San Carlos Library first opened its doors to the public, replacing the 1963 building that had once been the busiest library per square foot in the San Mateo county. In its place rose a 41,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility, six times larger than its predecessor. To celebrate, library historian Francis Herbert will curate a special birthday display in the main lobby. Here are some fascinating facts about the library’s history, its star-scattered dome that fills the rotunda with fascinating patterns of light, and the colorful murals that frame its entrance…

Other Restaurants

Bistro Mitte, San Carlos: The Best German Schnitzel in The Bay Area!

Bistro Mitte, San Carlos: The Best German Schnitzel in The Bay Area!

Experience the flavors of Germany in the heart of San Carlos at Bistro Mitte. From classic schnitzels to hearty sausages, this charming eatery offers a genuine taste of German cuisine, complemented by a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Kabul Afghan Cuisine: Authentic Afghan Dining in San Carlos

Kabul Afghan Cuisine: Authentic Afghan Dining in San Carlos

If you’re searching for an authentic Afghan dining experience in the Bay Area, look no further than Kabul Afghan Cuisine in San Carlos. This family-owned restaurant has become a local favorite for its warm hospitality, flavorful dishes, and inviting ambiance.

Paris Baguette, San Carlos: Delightful Cakes & Pastries, Made Fresh Daily

Paris Baguette, San Carlos: Delightful Cakes & Pastries, Made Fresh Daily

Paris Baguette in San Carlos location has quickly become a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. Located on Laurel Street, it has managed to capture the hearts of pastry enthusiasts with its delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere. This bright and spacious café offers a wide range of pastries, cakes, and sandwiches that cater to diverse tastes, making it the perfect spot to grab breakfast, a light lunch, or a sweet treat.

ABOUT VIV AND MARK

Vabrato Real Estate

Vabrato is a locally based, top-rated real estate team led by Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin. Together, they bring over 30 years of combined experience helping home buyers and sellers throughout San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. With expert negotiation skills, in-depth market knowledge, precise pricing strategies and marketing tactics, they consistently deliver exceptional results. Through their Design-to-Sell Service, they provide strategic property upgrades, cover upfront improvement costs, and manage the entire process from start to finish.

Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. Viv is also a Broker, expert Negotiator, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader.

Thinking about buying or selling in San Carlos?

As long time residents in San Carlos, Viv and Mark know every street, school, and local market shift, so you get strategic pricing, standout marketing, and negotiations that deliver. Get a complimentary market snapshot or home valuation and a no-pressure plan tailored to your goals. Contact us today: your next move starts here.

Talk to Viv & Mark
Mark and Viv Bianchini Mural Profile

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Welcome to San Carlos Life, a site about all things San Carlos, California. This is meant to be a guide about this beautiful town, its many amenities and activities plus all life has to offer its residents and visitors. Come and have a look around and let us know if anything is missing from this site.

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ABOUT MARK & VIV

Viv and Mark are the owners of Vabrato Real Estate, a local brokerage serving home buyers and sellers for over 15 years. They are intimately familiar with all of San Carlos, from its flats to its rolling hills and canyons. If you’re looking to buy or sell a home in San Carlos, they are your local experts.

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