If you're thinking about living in Silicon Valley, specifically Redwood City and even more specifically Emerald Hills, this one's a treat. This yellow colonial-style home sits on a nearly 10,000-square-foot lot in the hills, and it's full of warmth and character.
A Cozy, Character-Filled Main Floor
The first thing you'll notice is the dark, likely original hardwood floors. While many sellers are sanding floors lighter, these keep the home feeling cozy and warm. Crown molding, decorative glasswork around the front door and built-in surround-sound speakers add to the charm.
The front living room gets plenty of natural light from two front windows. Next to it, a formal dining room would make a perfect spot for a Christmas tree in the window.
A Main-Floor Bedroom for Guests or Parents
A full bathroom with a tub and a spacious vanity sits on the main floor, next to a downstairs bedroom. It's an ideal setup for parents or guests who'd rather not climb stairs. The bedroom has ample closet space, easy access to the front door and its own door to the backyard.
A Classic Kitchen Made for Hosting
The kitchen features rich shaker cabinets, uniquely patterned granite countertops, a deep farmhouse sink overlooking the backyard and cabinets on cabinets of storage. Hosting highlights include:
- A Thermador gas range, a rare and welcome feature
- A Thermador oven and a Frigidaire microwave
- Lit display cabinets for fine china
- A wet bar with a second sink and a wine fridge
- A walk-in pantry and a casual dining area next to the kitchen
A Huge, Private Backyard
This is where Emerald Hills shines. Lots this size are rare in the Bay Area, which is why I say Redwood City gives you more bang for your buck. The professionally landscaped backyard includes:
- Low-maintenance turf
- A stone courtyard, a perfect spot for a hot tub
- A paver patio with a gas fire pit
- A storage shed painted to match the house
- Plenty of space for barbecues or even a backyard event under string lights
It's quiet and private, and you'll spot plenty of wildlife, including deer. Drive slowly at night.
Upstairs: A Bonus Loft, Two Balconies and a Primary Retreat
The staircase opens to a large loft with vaulted ceilings, a gas fireplace and three windows plus a transom. It's big enough for a sectional and a home-office desk. The loft opens to the first of two balconies overlooking the backyard. A half bathroom and an upstairs laundry room are nearby.
Two carpeted bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bathroom with dual sinks, a pocket door and classic checkerboard tile.
The hardwood-floored primary suite has its own private balcony, a walk-in closet with double hanging rods and a bathroom with dual vanities, a jetted soaking tub and a separate shower.
Living in Emerald Hills, Redwood City
Emerald Hills is an unincorporated area of San Mateo County, though most people simply call it Redwood City. Being unincorporated means you deal with the county rather than the city, which often means fewer restrictions. One of my clients nearby keeps a flock of backyard chickens and a thriving vegetable garden.
- Peace and quiet: Winding hillside roads, mature trees, views and very little noise.
- Private lakes: Upper and Lower Emerald Lake are members-only lakes where residents swim in summer.
- Golf: Emerald Lake Country Club and Emerald Hills Golf Club are close by.
- Central location: Easy access to the rest of the Peninsula.
Schools: Different parts of Redwood City feed different schools. This home is not in the Roy Cloud attendance area. It falls under Clifford Elementary and then Woodside High School. Always call the district to confirm, because boundaries can change.
Know Before You Buy: Fire Zones and Insurance
Hillside living means trees and greenery, which also means some homes fall in a fire hazard zone. Not every Emerald Hills home does, but check the Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) report. If a property is in a fire zone, factor fire insurance (or the California FAIR Plan) into your monthly costs.
I consider it a fair trade-off. You won't find this combination of privacy, quiet, lot size and home size anywhere else in Silicon Valley at this price.
Home Specs and Price
- Bedrooms: 4 (one on the main floor)
- Bathrooms: 3.5
- Living area: 2,670 sq ft
- Lot size: 9,942 sq ft
- Year built: 1947
- Extras: Bonus loft, two balconies, wet bar, upstairs laundry
- List price at time of filming:$3.5 million
In the Bay Area, a lot close to 10,000 square feet is gold. Few exist. Curious about the rest of the area? Explore Silicon Valley neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Emerald Hills part of Redwood City?
Emerald Hills has a Redwood City address but is unincorporated San Mateo County.
What schools serve Emerald Hills?
It depends on the address. This home is assigned to Clifford Elementary and Woodside High School. Confirm with the district.
Are Emerald Hills homes in a fire zone?
Some are. Review the Natural Hazard Disclosure report and get insurance quotes early.
What is Emerald Lake?
Upper and Lower Emerald Lake are private, members-only lakes inside the neighborhood, popular for summer swimming.
Ready to Explore Redwood City?
Watch the full tour on YouTube: Tour This Stunning 2-Story Home on a Spacious Lot in the Hills of Redwood City!.
Redwood City and Emerald Hills are my favorite parts of the Bay Area, and I'd love to show you around. Call or text 650-436-4768, email hello@liveinsiliconvalleyca.com, browse homes for sale in Silicon Valley, or download my free Silicon Valley relocation guide.
Keep reading: Affordable neighborhoods in Silicon Valley · Menlo Park neighborhoods guide · Pros and cons of living in Silicon Valley
