San Carlos Spotlight: Earthquake Readiness and Real Estate from Smart Buys to Renovated Dreams

This week on Deals and Dreams, the spotlight turns to San Carlos where practical planning meets promising property. From must-know tips on earthquake readiness to a newly listed dream home with resort-style features, the conversation this week blends safety, strategy, and smart investment.

Safety First: Earthquake Preparedness Essentials
Ken Kaplan kicked off the discussion by reminding viewers of the importance of being prepared for seismic events, especially in a state like California. Assembling an earthquake kit doesn’t take much effort but can offer tremendous peace of mind. He recommended keeping a “go kit” in an accessible place with essentials like bottled water, batteries, a wind-up charger, energy bars, a flashlight, first aid supplies, a radio, and tools like a gas shut-off wrench. These items can easily be stored in a bucket or duffel bag. He also urged homeowners to secure items inside their homes pointing to examples from a recent Little Italy quake where unsecured cabinets fell and created hazards. Preventing these types of injuries by anchoring furniture and securing wall-mounted items is a simple but effective measure in earthquake-prone areas.

What You Need to Know About Earthquake Insurance
Kaplan clarified that standard homeowner insurance policies in California do not cover earthquakes. For protection, homeowners need to purchase a separate policy through the California Earthquake Authority. He emphasized the importance of reading policy details carefully, as earthquake insurance often has coverage limits for structures, contents, and additional living expenses. He also encouraged homeowners to inspect their property for cracks, separations, or paint gaps after any tremor, and to have any suspicious damage evaluated by a professional. These steps can make a significant difference in recovery if an event does occur.

Rate Watch: Interest Rate Trends and Strategic Timing
Interest rates ticked up slightly in the past two weeks, by about an eighth to a quarter of a percentage point, according to Kaplan. These small changes can impact affordability for buyers using fixed-rate mortgage products. He discussed 15-year fixed, 30-year FHA, and 30-year VA loans, and recommended that buyers keep an eye on macroeconomic indicators like stock market volatility and consumer confidence, as these can influence rate trends. Strategic timing could save buyers thousands over the life of a loan, making rate monitoring an essential part of the buying process.

The Deal: A San Carlos Two-Bedroom with Incredible Value

Square Feet: 1,048
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2 Bed / 2 Bath
Year Built: 1971 (remodeled)
HOA: $600/month

This top-floor end unit in San Carlos represents one of the most attractive deals to hit the market in recent years. Though the building dates to 1971, the unit has been tastefully remodeled and features a brand-new air conditioning system. Amenities include one dedicated parking space, access to a pool and jacuzzi, and a well-maintained common area. With similar one-bedroom units in the complex priced at the same level, this spacious two-bedroom delivers excellent value for buyers looking for entry into a desirable neighborhood.

List Price: $439,000

The Dream: A Renovated Four-Bedroom Oasis with Designer Touches

Square Feet: 2,200
Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 4 Bed / 2 Bath
Year Built: 1980 (fully renovated)

Set on a quiet San Carlos street, this fully renovated home offers over 2,200 square feet of refined living. Every inch has been upgraded from the framing in, making it functionally new construction. The layout is drenched in natural light with cantina doors that open to a low-maintenance yard lined with fruit trees. The centerpiece is a resort-style pool with a waterfall edge, framed by ample patio space for entertaining. Inside, the primary suite features custom closets and a spa-like bathroom. With top-rated schools nearby and high-end finishes throughout, this property offers turn-key living in a centrally located neighborhood. Kaplan noted that offers had already started coming in, and it’s likely to sell near or at asking price.

List Price: $1,600,000

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Look at Life in San Carlos
This week’s spotlight showcased more than just homes it provided a roadmap for smart homeownership in a region where lifestyle and safety intersect. With earthquake risks, interest rate fluctuations, and a wide spectrum of home prices, buyers in San Carlos have plenty to consider. Whether you’re shopping for your first condo or your forever home, it’s clear the San Diego market continues to offer both deals and dreams.