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ublisher of 95 U.S. and 32 International Relocation Guides, NewMarket PServices, Inc., is proud to introduce our online version. Now you may easily access the same information you find in each one of our 127 Relocation Guides at

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San Francisco Information Guide [ 5 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

The NewMarket Services Information Guide is designed as a valuable resource tool for you, the newcomer to San Francisco. It is our intent in producing this publication to standardize important and helpful information on your new community in a format that is most useful to you. Stores and services are listed by category in the business directory. San Francisco Important telephone numbers, packing and Welcomes You! moving suggestions, and much, much more useful information is found throughout the Guide pages. Selected area businesses, many offering significant savings are found in the Business Directory Section, sorted by category.

The Guide can save you both time and money while providing you a continuous resource tool as you become more familiar with the metroplex. We do hope you find our

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(866) 595-3792 Toll Free From everyone at NewMarket Services Welcome to San Francisco!

6 ] San Francisco Information Guide www.newmarketservices.com San Francisco Information Guide [ Volume 10 [ Number 6

LOCAL INFORMATION The State of California 8 Area Codes, Important Phone Numbers 13 Travel Information 14-15 Automobile Registration, Driver’s License & Parking 16 About San Francisco 9-10 Weather 10 San Francisco Communities/Areas 11,17-18 Publisher: NewMarket Services, Inc. Historical Background 18-19 President: Patrick Morgan Where to Stay 20 Dining and Nightlife 21-22 Managing Editor: Rebecca Wallace Entertainment 23 Executive Editor: Jason Gerali Recommended Tours 26-28 Contributing Writer: Amy Tennant Media 29

Executive VP Sales & Marketing: Robert Fischer MOVING Regional Sales Manager: Beth Hurley Smooth Transitions 31-32 Art Department: Sprague Design Choosing a Moving Company 31 Packing Tips 31-32 Graphic Designer: Dean Sprague Staying Organized 32 NewMarket On-Line: Total Web Design, Inc. Settling Into Your New Home 32 IT and Web Development: Larry Bongiovi Pre-Move Checklist 34-35 What’s All the Talk About 36 Research Assistant: Stephanie Cooper, Lora Price Circulation: Little Drummer Boy Dist., Inc. MOVING WITH CHILDREN & PETS

Phoenix Office: Reinforce the Positives 38-39 Choosing a School 38-39 PO Box 30534 Selecting Child Care 39-40 Phoenix, AZ 85046-0534 Education 41-42 Phone: (602) 923-3415 Relocating Your Pet 43 Fax: (602) 923-0774 Toll Free: (866) 595-3791 FITNESS & HEALTH Chicago Office: In the Kitchen 45 902 North Ashland Physical and Mental Well Being 46-48 Chicago, IL 60622 Volunteering 49 Phone: (312) 226-6288 Fax: (312) 226-6290 HOUSING Toll Free: (866) 595-3792 Making the Right Choice 51-52 Choosing the Right Home 53 NewMarket currently publishes Information Guides for 95 North American and 32 Housing Options For Growing Active Adults Demographics 54-55 International Markets. To order your Home Inspection Checklist 56 NewMarket Information Guides for $3.50 Homecare Basics for New Homeowners 57 each, please contact NewMarket Services Security 58 toll free at (866) 595-3792. Take Control of Your Energy Costs 59 In preparing this publication, every effort Home Buyer’s Glossary 60-61 has been made to assure the accuracy of Who’s Who in Building 62 the information contained herein, but Selecting a Builder 63 authenticity cannot be guaranteed. Listings are subject to omission, error or change Selecting a Contractor 64 without notice. Banking & Mortgage Information 65-68

All material in this publication is copyright BUSINESS DIRECTORY protected and can only be reprinted with permission of the publisher. Business Directory Listings 69-76

San Francisco Information Guide [ 7 THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

European explorers first began contacting the region in the 16th century; the area was inhabited by a variety of Native American tribes. The coastal areas of the state were colonized by Spain beginning in 1769, but became a part of the Mexico in 1821 because of the Mexican War of Independence. It was part of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, and then was ceded to the United States in the Mexican-American War, which ended in 1848. The California Gold Rush of 1848-1849 brought about 90,000 Reno Sacramento additional U.S. migrants to the state, and California became the Oakland 31st state of the Union in 1850. Stockton San Francisco NV The state’s major predominant industries include agriculture, Modesto entertainment, light manufacturing, and tourism. California is also Silicon Valley the home of several significant economic regions such as Salinas Monterey Fresno Hollywood (entertainment), the California Central Valley (agriculture), Silicon Valley (computers and high tech), and the Wine Country (wine). California’s economy is the largest in the United States, and CA at $1.55 trillion, is larger than all but 7 countries. Per capita personal income was $33,403 as of 2003, ranking it 12th in the nation. San Luis Obispo Las Vegas Most of the state has a Mediterranean climate, with rainy winters Bakersfield and dry summers. The climate along the coast is mild; cooler along

Santa Barbara the central and northern coast. Southeastern California is arid Ventura County desert. Along the cost, the rainy season runs from October to April Los Angeles AZ San Bernardino in the north and from November to March or April in the south. Pacific Ocean Record temperaturs of a high 134 °F (56.6 °C at Death Valley on Orange County Riverside July 10, 1913 and a record low of -45° at Boca on January 20, 1937. Average yearly precipitation ranges from under 5 inches in south-east to 120+ in parts of the north-west. San Diego California levies a 9.3% maximum variable rate income tax, with

Mexico 6 tax brackets and a 7.25% sales tax.

he State of California covers the southern portion of the United States’ west coast. With a population of 37 million Tand an area of 158,402 square miles, California is the largest U.S. state in population and the third largest in area. Fast Facts ESTIMATED POPULATION: 37,172,015 California borders the Pacific Ocean to the west, Oregon to the : 158,302 sq mi north, Nevada and Arizona to the east, and the Mexican state of LAND AREA Baja California to the south. The state has incredible geographic COASTLINE: 840 miles diversity. It has both the highest and lowest elevations in the CAPITAL: Sacramento Continental US (within 100 miles of each other), an expansive Eureka central valley, tall mountains, arid deserts, and hundreds of miles of STATE MOTTO: coastline. Most major cities are at or near the Pacific coastline, STATE NICKNAME: The Golden State notably Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose, Oakland, Santa LARGEST CITIES: Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Jose Ana/Orange County, Riverside/Moreno Valley, San Bernardino and STATE SALES TAX: 7.25% San Diego. However, the capital, Sacramento, is in the Central Valley, and there are other significant cities on the interior.

8 ] San Francisco Information Guide ABOUT SAN FRANCISCO

OVERVIEW

he San Francisco Bay Area, sometimes referred to as The Bay Area or The Bay, is a metropolitan area that lies along the San Francisco Bay. It is a collection of a series Tof cities, towns, villages, military bases, airports, regional, state, and national parks sprawled over 9 counties and are connected by a massive network of roads, highways, rail, and commuter rail. The city of San Francisco serves as the traditional focal point and the cultural, economic, transportation nerve center of the region. Unlike other major metropolitan areas, the urban areas here are completely independent entities with their own completely independent governments and public services and city borders instead of one huge city. Because San Francisco was the largest city in the region (until recently surpassed by San Jose) and remains the traditional and cultural center, the region was referred to and is generally confused as the city of San Francisco proper. The region north of the Golden Gate Bridge is known as the North Bay. This area consists of Marin County and extends northward into Napa and Sonoma counties and eastward to Solano County. With some exceptions, this region is extremely affluent, and is generally the least urbanized part of the Bay Area, with many areas of undeveloped park and farm land. It is the only section of the Bay Area that is not served by a commuter rail transit service, though Sonoma-Marin service has entered the planning phase. The eastern side of the bay, dominated by the city of Oakland but also includes Berkeley, Richmond and several small cities, is known as the East Bay. The East Bay is split into two regions, the inner East Bay that sits on the bay coastline proper as the outer East Bay is in the inner inland valleys and are landlocked by mountains and valleys. The inner East Bay consists of the major cities of Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, the University of California, Berkeley and smaller suburbs in between the three major cities and SAN FRANCISCO south of Oakland such as Emeryville, San Leandro, and Fremont. The inner East Bay is DEMOGRAPHICS more urban, more densly populated, has a much older building stock (built before World War II), more ethnically diverse, and much poorer and have higher crime rates (especially in Population: 7,039,362 Oakland and Richmond). Oakland is the region's chief seaport. The regional basketball, Median Age: 35.6 Football and Baseball teams play from Oakland. The outer East Bay consists of the major cities of Walnut Creek, Concord, Antioch, to the Male: 49.82% Female: 50.18% north (also referred as Central Contra Costa County) and the cities of Dublin, Livermore and San Ramon to the south (sometimes referred to as the Livermore-Amador Valley or the Tri- Ethnic Make up: Valley). They are connected to the inner East Bay by BART and by highways and the African American: 07.30% Asian: 18.40% Caldecott Tunnel. The outer East Bay is mostly suburban to rural, was mostly built after Native American: 00.70% World War II, and is more affluent. Hispanic 19.70% White/Caucasian 58.70% continued on page 10

San Francisco Information Guide [ 9 ABOUT SAN FRANCISCO

The communities along the southern edge of the Bay are known Because of Stanford University, lack of space, and high cost of as the South Bay and Silicon Valley, although some Peninsula and living, the Silicon Valley has been slowly creeping up the peninsula. East Bay towns are sometimes included in the latter. It includes the The City and County of San Francisco is generally placed in a cities of San Jose, Fremont, and the high-tech hub of Santa Clara, category by itself geographically, mentally, and culturally. It is as well as many smaller communities. separated by water from the north and east, and by county line from A booming Silicon Valley has shifted the regional population and its neighbor cities to the South. Locals refer to San Francisco as The economic center away from San Francisco and Oakland and City or SF in writing. It is generally not referred to as San Fran or towards the South Bay; San Jose is now the largest city in the Frisco by locals. By extension, South San Francisco is often referred region. The technology boom has also brought a large amounts of to as South City even though there are other towns between SSF immigrants and driven housing, rents, gasoline prices up to the and SF. San Francisco serves as the cultural and financial center of highest in the nation. the region, and once was the population and economic center. The area between the South Bay and the City and County of San San Francisco is quite small, yet its hilly terrain and patchwork Francisco is known as the San Francisco Peninsula, locally just as demographic profile give it more distinctly defined neighborhoods The Peninsula. This area consists of a series of small cities and than a city five times its size. As a result, the sights, sounds and suburban communities along the Bay such as Palo Alto and flavors of a community—and even its climate—can change within a Stanford University, San Mateo, Foster City as well as various towns single block. along the Pacific coast such as Pacifica and Half Moon Bay.

WEATHER

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Temp. Average Max 55.6 59.4 60.8 63.9 66.5 70.3 71.6 72.3 73.6 70.1 62.4 56.1

Temp. Average Min 41.8 45.0 45.8 47.2 49.7 52.6 53.9 55.0 55.2 51.8 47.1 42.7

Average Precipitation 4.4 3.2 3.1 1.4 0.2 0.1 0.0 0.1 0.2 1.2 2.9 3.1

Temperature in °F and Precipitation in inches

10 ] San Francisco Information Guide SF COMMUNITIES/AREAS

Castro Street and Noe Valley Financial District and The Embarcadero The center of gay San Francisco, and a landmark for gay culture “The Wall Street of the West:” Bank of America, Charles Schwab, everywhere, the Castro’s bars, dance clubs, restaurants, and one- and the Transamerica Corporation (in its landmark, 48-floor of-a-kind shops abound in the commercial area around 18th and Pyramid) are among the many banks and corporations Castro Street. There’s arguably more street life in the Castro than headquartered here. The Embarcadero Center features dining, anywhere else in the city, especially on weekends. The Sisters of shopping, a fine art cinema, and a health club. Justin Herman Plaza Perpetual Indulgence sometimes make an appearance at special is the starting point for the infamous Critical Mass bike ride and the events (they’re really men in nun drag), and take it from us—this is site of New Years Eve bashes. The Embarcadero itself fronts the the place to be on Halloween. Trek up Castro to Liberty Street to Bay for miles on either side of the imposing Ferry Building, modeled see exceptional Victorian homes. Over the hill lies Noe Valley and its on the cathedral tower in Seville, Spain. main shopping strip, 24th Street. Cute and relatively quiet, Noe Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, and Aquatic Park Valley has enough great restaurants and gourmet food shops to Once the thriving center of San Francisco’s fishing industry. Many make it sophisticated, but not so many chromed-up bars and Italian fishing boats still dock at the Wharf, but Fisherman’s Wharf today is clothing boutiques to make it stuffy. more of an extended tourist trap. Pier 39 is fun thanks to the Chinatown delightful colony of sea lions which annexed its boat marina. The greatest single concentration of Chinese people outside of Aquatic Park features a beach, of sorts, and a long pier spiraling Asia—a population of 80,000—live in the approximately 24 square well out into the Bay. Old sea-dogs will enjoy adjacent Hyde Street blocks of Chinatown, making it the most densely populated area of Pier, where the tall ship Balclutha and other historic ships are San Francisco. As you walk around, you’ll be richly rewarded by the docked, and the Maritime Museum. Ghirardelli Square, a chocolate- sights, sounds, smells and tastes of this vibrant community. Grant factory-turned-shopping-and-restaurant-complex, features some of Avenue is the decorative showpiece of Chinatown. Try dim sum for the city’s better dining and views. Nice for an evening stroll. lunch and select your dinner while it’s still swimming! Golden Gate Park Civic Center and Hayes Valley With 1000 acres of gardens, meadows, lakes, golf, archery, and Stately Beaux Arts buildings like the Opera House and the internationally recognized art and science museums, Golden Gate domed, renovated City Hall tolerate the Louise M. Davies Park offers endless recreational possibilities for visitors and locals. Symphony Hall and the Public Library’s graceful Main Branch, both The M.H deYoung Memorial Museum, the remarkable Asian Art architectural newcomers. Nearby Hayes Valley offers fine dining and Museum, and the California Academy of Sciences are the main apres-symphony toddies for concert-goers, as well as tastefully cultural attractions in the Park. Along with the San Francisco Zoo creative stores for clothing and gifts. and the Japanese Tea Garden, they draw millions of visitors each Cow Hollow and Union Street year. At the western edge of the park, Ocean Beach, although The most gracious, imposing homes of Cow Hollow (so named unappealing for swimming, attracts hard-core surfers with its rough, for its original bovine residents) are nestled against the Presidio frigid and unpredictable waves. where Pacific Heights dives to the Marina. Spectacular views are Lower Haight the norm. Straight, single yuppies pack the Balboa Cafe, Sushi The area around Haight and Fillmore feels at once more Chardonnay, and other bars and restaurants on Fillmore and Union bohemian and less unsavory than the Haight Ashbury to the west. Streets. Clothes hounds can easily fritter away a day in Union Ethnic restaurants, unpretentious cafes, and independent Street’s tasteful boutiques. bookstores are mushrooming in this neighborhood that as recent as Downtown and Union Square the early 1990s was dangerous. The youngish street life is lively on Union Square is the heart of San Francisco’s bustling and stylish nights and weekends. The Haight Ashbury Street Fair is also downtown shopping district. Posh department stores such as popular. Neiman Marcus ring the one-block square park. Hundreds of other Nob Hill & Russian Hill exclusive stores and boutiques lie within a three-block radius of the On impossibly steep Nob Hill, California’s early industrialists built square. If you’ve shopped till you’ve dropped, pick yourself up at an fabulous mansions that looked down upon the rest of San outdoor cafe in tiny Maiden Lane, and restore the soul at one of the Francisco. While only the imposing Flood Mansion remains—now many art galleries on Sutter and Geary Streets. This is also the the Pacific Union Club—the area’s five-star hotels bear the names home of San Francisco’s modest Theater District. of other Nob Hill denizens: The Mark Hopkins, the Renaissance Stanford Court Hotel, and the Huntington. Facing Huntington Park is Grace Cathedral, a 3/4 replica of Paris’ Notre Dame. Adjoining Nob Hill is Russian Hill, where San Francisco’s old money has a great view of the Bay. The “Crookedest Street in the World” resides here and snakes down Russian Hill for the 1000 block of Lombard. The traffic is generally impossible—walk it!

continued on page 17

San Francisco Information Guide [ 11 NATIONAL HEALTH ORGANIZATION PHONE NUMBERS

National Health Organization Mental Health Simply dial plus the number below 1-800-*… National Alliance for the Mentally Illness (NAMI) 950-6264 Allergy National Down Syndrome Society 244-4444 Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AFFA) 727-8462 National Mental Health Association Resource Ctr 969-6642 Cancer Neurology American Cancer Society 227-2345 National Alzheimer’s Association 272-3900 American Institute for Cancer Research. 843-8114 Christopher Reeve’s Paralysis Foundation 225-0292 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America 955-4572 American Parkinson Disease Association 223-2732 National Cancer Institute (CIS) 422-6237 Epilepsy Foundation of America. 332-1000 Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) 754-6490 United Cerebral Palsy Associations (UCPA) 872-5827 Children’s Health Huntington’s Disease Society of America 345-4372 American SIDS Foundation 232-7437 Brain Injury Association of America Family Hotline 444-6443 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) 344-4823 National Headache Foundation 843-2256 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 223-1138 National Multiple Sclerosis Society 344-4867 Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Alliance 221-7437 National Stroke Association 787-6537 National Reye’s Syndrome Foundation, Inc. 233-7393 Patient Care Spina Bifida Association of American 621-3141 Medic Alert Foundation U.S. 863-3425 or 432-5378 Infectious Diseases National Hospice Organization 658-8898 AIDS Hotline, CDC National, National STD Hotline 342-AIDS Shriner’s Hospital Referral Line 237-5055 (Spanish) 344-7432 Visiting Nurse Association of America 426-2547 (Hearing Impaired) 243-7889 Physical Disabilities Internal Medicine American Council of the Blind. 424-8666 American Diabetes Association 232-3472 American Speech/Language/Hearing Association 638-8255 American Heart Association 242-8721 or 968-1793 National Easter Seals Society 221-6827 American Kidney Association 638-8299 Woman’s Health American Lung Association 586-4872 Endometriosis Association. 992-3636 Arthritis Foundation 283-7800 Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization. 221-2141 Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Inc. 932-2423 *This is a Toll-Free Number! Lupus Foundation of America 558-0121 This is only a partial list of national health organizations. National Kidney Foundation 622-9010 Contact the National Health Information Center (NHIC) Spondylitis Association of American (SAA) 777-8189 at (800) 336-4797 for a more complete list.

NOTE: This general information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional as it relates to your specific situation.

12 ] San Francisco Information Guide IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

City Area Codes Government Numbers The area code for San Francisco is 415. The 510 area code Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-1040 encompasses all of Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the East Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213 Bay, including the communities of Oakland and Berkeley. The 650 Support Networks area code covers most of the Peninsula and San Mateo County, Crisis Pregnancy Center (800) 395-4357 including San Francisco International Airport. For dialing outside the Teen Link (Various Topics) (800) 235-9678 415 area code, callers must dial 1 plus the appropriate area code and seven-digit number. Services Directory Assistance 411 Emergency Shipping & Postal Services All Emergencies 911 Airborne Express (800) 247-2676 Crisis Pregnancy Center 800-395-4357 DHL Airways (800) 225-5345 Poison Control 800-764-7661 Emery Worldwide (800) 443-6379 Runaway Hotline 800-392-3352 Federal Express (800) 463-3339 Financial Services UPS (800) 742-5877 Automatic Teller Information ATM Locator (800) 248-4286 MasterCrd ATM (800) 424-7787 VISA Plus System (800) 843-7587 Lost or Stolen Credit Cards American Express (800) 233-5432 AT&T Universal Card (800) 423-4343 Diners Club (800) 234-6377 Discover Card (800) 347-2683 JCB (800) 736-8111 MasterCard (800) 826-2181 VISA (800) 336-8472 Lost or Stolen Travelers Checks American Express (800) 221-7282 Thomas Cook MasterCard (800) 223-7373 Travelers Check Customer Service (800) 645-6556 VISA (800) 227-6811

San Francisco Information Guide [ 13 TRAVEL INFORMATION

Airports American Airlines, aa.com (800) 433-7300 British Airways, british-airways.com (800) 247-9297 San Francisco International Airport Cathay Pacific, cathaypacific.com (800) 233-2742 In South San Francisco, San Francisco International Airport China Airlines, china-airlines.com (800) 227-5118 serves the City, Silicon Valley and the greater Bay Area. San China Eastern, flychinaeastern.us (800) 200-5118 Francisco International Airport is the 8th largest airport in the nation Eva Airways, evaair.com (800) 695-1188 and handles flights to and from Asia, the Pacific Rim, Europe, Latin America and just about anywhere in the world. Japan Airlines,jal.co.jp/en (800) 525-3663 KLM Airlines/Norhtwest, klm.com (800) 374-7747 San Francisco Airport Terminals Korean Air, koreanair.com (800) 438-5000 San Francisco International Airport is well-served by domestic LACSA, centralamerica.com/cr/lacsa/lacsa.htm (800) 225-2272 and international carriers who typically board at standard terminals. SFO has three terminals. Following are SFO gate and boarding area Lufthansa, lufthansa.com (800) 645-3880 information and telephone numbers to the domestic and Mexicana, mexicana.com (800) 531-7821 international airlines serving San Francisco International Airport. Philippine Airlines, philippineairlines.com (800) 435-9725 Terminal 1 Quantas, qantas.com (800) 227-4500 Airlines: Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Northwest, , US Singapore Airlines, singaporeair.com (800) 742-3333 Airways, Air Canada and Alitalia Skyservice USA, skyserviceairlines.com (877) 485-6060 Swissair, swiss.com (800) 221-4750 Gates: 1 through 48 TACA, taca.com (800) 535-8780 Boarding Areas: A, B, C Terminal 2 Cruises/Resorts Terminal 2 is currently closed for renovation. Disney World Reservations 800-227-1500 International Terminal Holland America Cruises 800-426-0327 Airlines: Aeroflot, Air China, Air France, Alaska Airlines, Atalia, Princess Cruises 800-774-6237 ANA, Asiana, BA, Cathay, China Airways, Eya Airways, Japan Royal Caribbean International 800-327-6700 Airlines, KLM Airlines, Korean Air, LACSA, Lufthansa, Mexicana, Ferries Northwest, Philippine Airlines, Singapore, Sun Trips/Sky Service Alameda/Oakland Ferry (510) 522-3300 USA, TACA, United Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Air China (for groups of 25 or more) (415) 705-5555 Ferry service between Oakland, Alameda and San Francisco. Airlines - Domestic Angel Island - Tiburon Ferry (415) 435-2131 AirTran Airlines, airtran.com (800) 247-8726 21 Main St., Tiburon CA 94920 Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air, alaskaair.com (800) 252-7522 Family-owned and sightseeing ferry service between Angel Island Allegiant Air, allegiantair.com (800) 432-3810 and Tiburon. American Airlines, aa.com (800) 433-7300 Blue & Gold Fleet (415) 705-5555 Continental Airlines, continental.com (800) 525-0280 Pier 41 Marine Terminal, San Francisco CA 94113 Delta Airlines, delta.com (800) 221-1212 Extensive San Francisco Bay Area ferry service for San Frontier Airlines, frontierairlines.com (800) 432-1359 Francisco, Alcatraz, Angel Island, Saulsalito, Tiburon, Oakland, Hawaiian Airlines, hawaiianair.com (800) 367-5320 Alameda, Sonoma and Napa Wine Country, Vallejo, Muir Woods JetBlue Airlines, JetBlue.com (800) 538-2583 and Yosemite National Forest. Midwest Airlines, midwestairlines.com (800) 452-2022 Golden Gate Ferry (415) 455-2000 Northwest Airlines, nwa.com (800) 225-2525 Ferry service between San Francisco, Larkspur and Sausalito. SkywestAirlines, skywest.com (800) 453-9417 Harbor Bay Ferry (510) 769-5500 Southwest Airlines, southwest.com (800) 435-9792 1141 Harbor Bay Parkway, Alameda CA 94501 United Airlines, ual.com (800) 864-8331 Commuter and charter ferry service between San Francisco and US Airways, usairways.com (800) 428-4322 Alameda. Virgin Atlantic, virgin-atlantic.com (800) 862-8621 Red & White Fleet (415) 673-2900 Fisherman’s Wharf Terminal, Pier 43-1/2, San Francisco CA Airlines - International San Francisco's sightseeing ferry with service to Alcatraz and Aeroflot, aeroflot.aero/eng/ (650) 615-9278 offering the Golden Gate Bay Cruise. Air China, china-airlines.com (800) 986-1985 Vallejo Baylink Ferry (707) 64-FERRY Air France, airfrance.com (800) 237-2747 496 Mare Island Way, Vallejo CA Alitalia, alitaliausa.com (800) 223-5730 Ferry service between Vallejo, the San Francisco Ferry Building Asiana, us.flyasiana.com (800) 227-9262 and Fisherman’s Wharf.

14 ] San Francisco Information Guide TRAVEL INFORMATION

Hotels/Motels Mass Transit Best Western (800) 528-1234 Bay Area Transit Information Hotline 511 Budgetel Inns (800) 428-3438 from outside San Francisco Bay Area (510) 817.1717 Clarion Hotels (800) 424-6423 Instant phone and online access to transit information for all nine Comfort Inns (800) 424-6423 counties in the San Francisco Bay Area. Courtyard by Marriott (800) 321-2211 San Francisco Municipal Railway (415) 923-6864 Days Inn (800) 329-7466 949 Presidio Ave., San Francisco CA 94115 Doubletree Hotels (800) 222-8733 A system of buses and light trains serving all of San Francisco. Econo Lodges (800) 446-4777 San Francisco Cable Cars Embassy Suites (800) 362-2779 San Francisco’s Cable Cars climb near treacherous slopes and Fairmont Hotels (800) 527-4727 afford excellent views of San Francisco and the Bay. Four Seasons (800) 332-3442 Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) (415) 989-2278 Hilton Hotels (800) 445-8667 P.O. Box 12688, Oakland CA 94606 Holiday Inns (800) 465-4329 More commonly known as BART, this people-moving system of Howard Johnson Motor Lodges (800) 654-2000 electric trains is a quick option for traversing San Francisco, Hyatt Hotels (800) 233-1234 connects San Francisco with the East Bay via an underwater tube La Quinta Motor Inn (800) 531-5900 and recently extended service to San Francisco International Loews Hotels (800) 223-6397 Airport. Marriott Hotels (800) 228-9290 Caltrain (800) 660-4287 Meridien Hotels (800) 543-4390 1250 San Carlos Ave., P.O. Box 3006, San Carlos CA 94070 Omni International (800) 843-6664 Double-decker train service between San Francisco (near Pac Quality Inns (800) 228-5151 Bell Park at 4th and King) and the Peninsula all the way to San Jose Radisson Hotels International (800) 333-3333 (and Tamien), with connections to as far south as Gilroy and Morgan Ramada Inns (800) 228-2828 Hill. Red Roof Inns (800) 843-7663 Amtrak California (800) USA-RAIL Ritz Carlton Hotels (800) 241-3333 Rail service within California and across the United States. Sheraton Hotels (800) 325-3535 Amtrak has five San Francisco connecting points, including the Stouffer Hotels (800) 468-3571 Moscone Center (SFM), Union Square (SFS), Fisherman's Wharf Super 8 Motels (800) 800-8000 (SFW), the Ferry Building (SFC), Financial District (SFF) and the San TraveLodge Motels (800) 578-7878 Francisco Peninsula Line (SFP), for bus service to the Emeryville Westin Hotels (800) 228-3000 train station. Inter-City Transportation Rental Cars Amtrak (800) 872-7245 Advantage, advantage.com (800) 777-5500 Greyhound Bus (800) 231-2222 Alamo, alamo.com (877) 222-9075 Service from City to numerous locations throughout the United Avis, avis.com (800) 331-1212 States. Budget, budget.com (800) 527-0700 Limousines Dollar, dollar.com (800) 800-4000 Enterprise, enterprise.com (800) 736-8222 Super Connection (800) 8403133 E-Z, e-zrentacar.com (972) 574-3360 Limousine and car service to and from San Francisco, Oakland Fox/Payless, foxrentacar.com (800) 225-4369 and San Jose airports, plus Napa Valley, Reno, Lake Tahoe, Carmel Hertz, hertz.com (800) 654-3131 and Monterey. National, nationalcar.com (800) 227-7368 San Francisco Limousine (877) 273-5466 Thrifty, thrifty.com (800) 367-2277 Luxury limousine service for the entire San Francisco Bay Area. Taxis City Cab (415) 468-7200 De Soto Cab (415) 673-1414 Luxor Cab (415) 282-4141 Veteran’s Cab (415) 552-1300 Yellow Cab (415) 626-2345

San Francisco Information Guide [ 15 AUTOMOBILE PARKING, DRIVER’S LICENSE & REGISTRATION

Parking in San Francisco can be challenge, if not frustrating. To Take Your Driving Test, You Will Need To: According to the California Department of Transportation, San • Call a DMV office to set up an appointment. (Driving tests are not Francisco has more than 308,000 total available parking spaces for given without an appointment. Call 1-800-777-0133 between the its 776, 733 residents, which can make parking a difficult tasks. hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday - Friday, to make a driving With 2 million-plus parking violations issued annually, indoor test appointment.) parking is often the only solution. • Provide proof of financial responsibility Parking garages rates vary - some are based on 20-minute • California Insurance Requirements must be met. intervals, some every 30 minutes and other are on hourly usage. Be You have three chances to pass the driving test. If you fail, you sure to check prices before parking. may practice for a while, then make another appointment. There is Preferential neighborhood parking allows residents of designated no waiting period, but you must make an appointment. If you fail to neighborhoods to obtain stickers for their cars in order to park on successfully complete the driving test on the first attempt, you must the street legally, but less than half of San Francisco’s streets offer pay a $5 fee for each additional driving test that is administered this program. Cars without stickers are restricted to two-hour under an application for an original or renewal driver license. parking or face a $35 ticket. First-time applicants must show proof After you pass your driving test you will be issued an interim of residence with a printed car registration and one other proof of license valid for 60 days until you receive your new photo license in residence (utility bill, car-insurance policy, copy of lease/rental the mail. Double-check your address before you leave DMV and tell agreement). For more information, call the Residential Permit the DMV representative if you have moved or if your address is Parking Program Office at (415) 554-5000. incorrect. If you have not received your license after 60 days, call Department of Motor Vehicles (415) 557-1179 1-800-777-0133 and they can check on the status for you. Have 1377 Fell Street your interim license with you to provide information when San Francisco, CA 94117 requested. www.dmv.ca.gov If your name is different on your birth date and/or legal presence How to Apply For a Driver’s License: document than the one you are currently using, you will also need If you take a job here or become a resident, you must get a to provide an additional acceptable document to establish your true California driver’s license within 10 days. Residency is established full name, such as; a marriage certificate, dissolution of marriage, by voting in a California election, paying resident tuition, filing for a adoption or name change document that shows your current name. homeowner's property tax exemption, or any other privilege or Registering Your Vehicle benefit not ordinarily extended to nonresidents. The following is required to register a nonresident vehicle: To apply for an original driver license if you are over 18, you will need to do the following: • An Application for Title or Registration (REG 343) signed by all registered owners, showing the name and address of the • Visit a DMV office lienholder (legal owner), if any. • Complete application form DL 44 (An original DL 44 form must be • Last issued out-of-state title, unless held by the lienholder/legal submitted. Copies will not be accepted.) owner. • Give a thumb print • Last issued registration certificate, if the applicant is the same as • Have your picture taken the registered owner shown on the out-of-state title and the • Provide your social security number. It will be verified with the vehicle entered California with valid out-of-state registration, or if Social Security Administration while you are in the office. the title has been lost. • Verify your birth date and legal presence • A Bill of Sale, Vehicle/ Vessel Transfer and Reassignment Form • Provide your true full name (REG 262), if you purchased the vehicle from someone other than • Pay the application fee the registered owner shown on the title. • Pass a vision exam • Odometer disclosure statement on the REG 262, signed by the • Pass a traffic laws and sign test. There are 36 questions on the seller and buyer, if the vehicle is less than ten model years old. test. You have three chances to pass. • A vehicle verification. The vehicle must be inspected by an You will then be issued a permit if you have never been licensed authorized DMV employee, law enforcement officer, or a licensed before. When you practice, you must have an accompanying adult vehicle verifier employed by a registration service or dealership. who is 18 years of age or older, with a valid California license. This These inspections require no additional fee and are most easily person must be close enough to you to take control of the vehicle obtained by bringing the vehicle to the nearest DMV. if necessary. It is illegal for you to drive alone. • Smog Certification, if applicable. • Surrender the valid out-of-state license plates if they do not have to be returned to the home state. • Pay appropriate fees and any use tax due.

16 ] San Francisco Information Guide SF COMMUNITIES/AREAS

North Beach and Telegraph Hill the foot of the Bay Bridge and Pacific Bell Park, the San Francisco Originally settled by Italians, North Beach became a magnet for Giants’ brand new waterfront baseball stadium. Warehouses and Beat Generation writers and poets in the 1950s. City Lights factories have either been converted into stylish lofts or are being Bookstore and the cafes and shops on upper Grant Avenue still razed in a swath of development extending down Third Street to the exude Beatnik funkiness. A new wave of entrepreneurial Italians has forthcoming Mission Bay development. brought a sense of Roman style to exciting new restaurants along Haight-Ashbury and the Panhandle Columbus Avenue. On Broadway, barkers still pull tourists and This small, but densely concentrated cradle of the hippie sailors into charmingly seedy strip joints. Clapboard sea captains’ movement, has tried to retain much of its flower-power, peace-and- cottages and mossy flower gardens seem to dangle in space from love appeal. While real Summer-of-Love generation hippies may be the cliffs of Telegraph Hill. Coit Tower, at 210 feet, commands a hard to find, young people, dreadlocked, skinheaded, or stunning panorama from the hilltop. The boardwalk Filbert Steps skateboard-crazy have continued to come to the Haight to break leads from the Tower down through the Grace Marchand Gardens boundaries. The colorful bars and restaurants of upper Haight to Levi’s Plaza Park at the base of the Hill. Street, however, are always packed with job-holding, going-places Fillmore Street and Japantown twenty-somethings. The annual Haight-Ashbury Street Fair is quite Fillmore Street, Pacific Heights’ commercial spur, features a scene. Architecture buffs will want to take a look at the regal noteworthy restaurants, epicurean food, and antique shops, all Victorians on the Panhandle—the grassy, tree-lined strip extends attended by a lively trade from young professionals. Fillmore and east from Golden Gate Park along Fell and Oak Streets. Geary has become a popular nightlife destination, thanks to John The Marina District Lee Hooker’s Boom Boom Room, the Fillmore Auditorium, and the Tanned, fit and energetic twenty-somethings run and rollerblade AMC Kabuki 8 Theater multiplex, a favorite for film festivals. Be along the Marina Green, a vast expanse of grass fronting the Bay advised that the neighborhood gets a bit sketchy to the south and between two yacht harbors and a perfect spot for flying kites. west of Geary and Fillmore. The Kabuki 8 Theater and neighboring Mountain bikers crowd cafes, restaurants, and brunch hangouts Kabuki Hot Springs are part of the Japan Center, the commercial along busy Chestnut Street after Sunday morning rides to Mount heart of Japantown. A sort of miniature Ginza, the Japan Center Tamalpais. The graceful Palace of Fine Arts houses The features a 100-foot pagoda, bonsai gardens, sushi bars and other Exploratorium, the one-of-a-kind, hands-on science museum—a businesses. Each spring it holds the Northern California Cherry must-see for those with kids. At the southern end of the Marina Blossom Festival. Green is Fort Mason Center, a waterside arts and cultural center. Pacific Heights & Presidio Heights The Mission District Stately homes and high-rent apartment buildings line the ridge The nexus of Hispanic culture, and more recently a mecca for high above Cow Hollow in old-money Pacific Heights. Genteel, edgy bohemians, this Mission now houses increasing numbers of renovated Victorians ring the peaceful Alta Plaza Park. Washington young professionals and their sport utility vehicles. Mexican and Street between Presidio and Arguello features exceptionally palatial Central American businesses line teeming Mission Street. Visit residences. Those fortunate enough to live here shop for antiques popular La Taqueria, and be assured that the wait is worth it. Along and dine in quiet refinement on a few understated blocks of nearby the Valencia Corridor, one block to west, bars, cafes, and Sacramento Street. San Francisco’s largest synagogue, Temple restaurants of every description lead to the buzzing 16th and Emanu-el, is to be found on Arguello Street. Valencia hub. The neighborhood draws its name from nearby SOMA Mission Dolores, founded in 1776. The dolled-up, postcard-perfect Once an unglamorous stretch of warehouses with a seedy Victorians on Dolores Street are worth a look—in the daytime—from undercurrent, an exciting new San Francisco has emerged in the adjacent Dolores Park. area South of Market Street—SOMA. Conventions, art, and The Presidio entertainment possibilities abound in the brand-new Fourteen thousand acres of forests and beaches, seventy-five Moscone/YerbaBuena Center area. The dot-com businesses of miles of bicycle-friendly roads, a golf course, and scenic grandeur nearby “Multimedia Gulch” spawn new twenty-something cyber- without end make this the jewel of the Golden Gate National millionaires every week, although that tide is changing. Many of Recreation Area. The Presidio was a military base from 1776 to them can be seen at leisure at the South Park Cafe, Brain Wash (a 1994; antebellum Fort Point, under the Golden Gate Bridge, is a cafe/performance space/laundromat), or other fashion-forward favorite for cannon enthusiasts, as well as for surfers, sailboarders, restaurants and watering holes. and Hitchcock aficionados (it’s the site of Kim Novak’s attempted South Beach/China Basin suicide in Vertigo). One of the city’s most popular new residential areas for young continued on page 18 professionals, South Beach arose from a virtual wasteland at the southern end of the Embarcadero and the western edge of SoMa. Apartment complexes and boat marinas squeeze together between

San Francisco Information Guide [ 17 SF COMMUNITIES/AREAS

The Richmond District The Sunset Fog-bound and quiet residential streets stretch to the Cliff House A quiet and intensely foggy residential district, the principal and Sutro Baths at the ocean, with the occasional Irish pub along attractions to the Outer Sunset are the San Francisco Zoo and the the way. Some of the city’s best Chinese restaurants are to be found natural amphitheater at Stern Grove, where free concerts are held in “Little Chinatown” on Clement Street, and Cyrillic lettering fills on summer Sundays. The Inner Sunset features a lively stretch of store windows around the imposing, gold-domed Holy Virgin Irving Street, near Ninth Avenue. Students from nearby UCSF Russian Orthodox Cathedral on outer Geary Boulevard. Exclusive Medical School crowd ethnic restaurants of every stripe, from Seacliff, home to Robin Williams and other celebrities, gives onto Ethiopian to Thai. the Golden Gate next to Lincoln Park, site of the California Palace of the Legion of Honor and a spectacular golf course.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

The Finding and Founding of San Francisco world within the next year. Brannan’s announcement practically Miwok Indians to the north and the Ohlones to the south lived a emptied San Francisco of its citizenry in 1848, and most forty-niners peaceful existence before the coming of Europeans. The Kule Loklo stayed only long enough to get picks and shovels before they were Miwok village, re-created near the Bear Valley Visitors Center at off to the hills. Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin County, provides an insight Boom Years and the Barbary Coast into their daily life. By 1854, the gold fields had been exhausted, and San Francisco With an overland expedition by Don Gaspar de Portola, sank into an economic depression from which it would not emerge Europeans first laid eyes on the Bay in 1770. In March 1776, until the early 1860s with the discovery of the Comstock silver lode Captain Juan Bautista de Anza founded the Presidio and Mission of in western Nevada. It was this boom, richer and longer-lived than as-yet unnamed San Francisco. The Spanish presence at the the California Gold Rush, which began to make a real city out of San Mission San Francisco de Asis (now Mission Dolores—completed in Francisco, and millionaires out of some of its citizens. Comstock 1791; the oldest building in the city) and at the Presidio, three miles “bonanza kings” like James Flood, whose home is now the elegant away, did not amount to much over the succeeding years. The Pacific Union Club, built mansions on Nob Hill. Fabric merchant Levi Mexican revolution of 1821 led to the Secularization Act of 1833, Strauss created a clothing empire by sewing pants for miners out of ending the Mission Period. Mission Dolores fell into disrepair. his leftover tent canvas. Conversion and disease had done much to destroy the culture of The wild and wooly Barbary Coast roared through the ups and the Miwoks and Ohlones; by the early 19th century, native tribes downs of San Francisco. The city gained a justly deserved had effectively ceased to exist. reputation for vice of every sort. Brothels, gambling halls, and In 1792, British explorer George Vancouver, visiting San Chinese opium dens were everywhere on the city’s eastern Francisco Bay, discovered a protected anchorage east of the waterfront, and unwitting patrons were frequently “shanghaied” into Presidio, called Yerba Buena by the Spanish after the sweet service as sailors. The remnants of the Barbary Coast’s scandalous smelling grasses growing around the base of what is now Telegraph “dance” revues can be seen in the slowly declining strip joints along Hill. Vancouver pitched and left a tent there, creating the nucleus of Broadway in North Beach. what became Yerba Buena, a small English-speaking community The Chinese, who came to California first to work the gold fields outside Spanish and Mexican authority. In 1846, with the Mexican- and later to help build the railroad, accounted for 20 percent of San American war, the Presidio and Yerba Buena came under American Francisco’s working population in 1875. The Chinese faced control. discrimination and oppressive laws, and, in the late 1870s and The Gold Rush 1880s, mob assaults like William T. Coleman’s “Pickhandle In 1847, Yerba Buena, with a population of about 1,000, changed Brigade.” Anti-Chinese demagogue Denis Kearney wielded great its name to San Francisco. The next January, gold was discovered power during this period. The 1882 federal Chinese Exclusion Act at Sutter’s Mill, which created only a minor stir. It was left to was not repealed until 1943. newspaper publisher and merchant Sam Brannan, trying to drum The Earthquake and Fire of 1906 up trade for his Sacramento Street hardware store, to really trigger Early in the morning of April 18, 1906, an earthquake with an the Gold Rush. He brandished a bottle of gold pellets in Portsmouth estimated magnitude of 8.1 on the Richter Scale ripped through Square and shouted: “Gold! Gold! Gold from the American River!” San Francisco, destroying hundreds of buildings. As gas mains Within a year or two, Brannan was a millionaire. One hundred ruptured, a fire spread through the city, causing far greater damage thousand “forty-niners” came to San Francisco from all over the than the quake itself. Only 500 or so were killed, but an estimated

18 ] San Francisco Information Guide HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

100,000, left homeless, either fled in ferries and watched their city The Modern Era burn from the Oakland hills, or joined a tent city of 20,000 in what San Francisco’s gay community began to assert itself with is now Golden Gate Park. greater confidence and urgency in the 1970s, electing Supervisor The city quickly rebuilt itself after the earthquake and fire, like the Harvey Milk as the nation’s only openly gay politician. Milk was killed phoenix that rises from the ashes on the San Francisco flag. in 1978, along with Mayor George Moscone, by former Supervisor Celebrating civic triumph over adversity, San Francisco hosted the Dan White. White’s subsequent conviction on a mere manslaughter Panama Pacific International Exposition in 1915, a glittering charge prompted riots and the burning of police cars by angry gays architectural fantasy built on 635 acres of what is now the Marina and their supporters in front of City Hall on “White Night.” District. A great success, the Exposition’s steel-reinforced plaster During the 1980s, the gay community reeled under the onslaught buildings were bulldozed shortly after it closed, leaving only the of the AIDS epidemic. Though incidences of the disease have domed pavilion of the Palace of Fine Arts (site of the Exploratorium). leveled off and more effective drugs prolong the life of those afflicted Throughout the 1920s, plans were put forward for bridges to with it, the Castro has drawn even more tightly together to promote connect San Francisco with the East Bay and Marin. Finally in the awareness of the disease and to support those whose lives have early 1930s, work began on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay been affected by it. Bridge, which opened in 1936, and the Golden Gate Bridge in In 1989, just as the Bay Area was sitting down to watch the San 1937. Francisco Giants and Oakland Athletics play each other in the third Beats and Hippies game of the World Series, it was rocked by the 7.1 Loma Prieta Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, Gary Snyder, Lawrence Earthquake. The legacy of the quake can be seen in the sometimes Ferlinghetti, and other young writers and thinkers of what was to be nightmarish San Francisco traffic, caused by irreparable damage to known as the Beat Generation established themselves in the cafes important sections of freeway. and bars of North Beach, continuing the city’s literary, bohemian Today, imperious mayor, Willie Brown, presides over a city of tradition, albeit with a dreamy, druggy, jazz-inflected twist. Rising extremes. The magic of a thriving downtown business sector, North Beach rents forced beatniks (a term coined by San Francisco explosive new dot-com businesses South of Market, and a real Chronicle columnist Herb Caen) out to the Victorians of Haight estate boom in The City’s southern corridor does not seem to be Ashbury, where their boundary-breaking prose had already inspired enough to dispel concern over an ever-rising homeless population a new movement of long-haired young cultural mavericks. and intractable problems with The City’s public transportation Derisively dubbed “hippies” by the beats, who saw them as junior system, MUNI. beat wanna-bes, the hippies took their cultural and psychic Public confidence in San Francisco’s economy is greater than explorations to different extremes, aided by LSD, a recently ever, however, and for the 725,000 residents and the millions of synthesized hallucinogen. Bands like the Grateful Dead and the visitors, it would be hard to dim the luster of the abundant charms Jefferson Airplane came up with the soundtrack to “tune in, turn on, of, as Herb Caen also coined, Baghdad by the Bay. and drop out,” and the 1967 Summer of Love drew over 100,000 young seekers to the Haight. Flower Power began to manifest itself more and more stridently as political unrest, with demonstrations and even riots becoming a feature of life at San Francisco State University and, even more so, at the University of California, Berkeley. “Peace and love” began to turn into a bad trip.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 19 WHERE TO STAY

San Francisco’s hotels run the gamut from head-of-state luxury SoMa to modest motels and worse, but we won’t go there, and you The Marriott is flashy, new, and huge. It’s located right around the shouldn’t, either. The City’s premier hotels are almost all in the corner from the Moscone Center, making it a perfect location for downtown area including Nob Hill, Union Square, and the Financial conventioneers. Otherwise, for the most part, inexpensive student District/Embarcadero. Motels along the main corridors in and out of and international are the name of the game here. town, and pleasant bed-and-breakfasts in attractive, residential Chinatown neighborhoods also exist. As a tourist destination with limited The Holiday Inn here is quite comfortable, putting you in the heart space, San Francisco hotels can charge premium prices, and do, of Chinatown and a very short walk from North Beach. especially downtown and on Nob Hill. North Beach & Fisherman’s Wharf Union Square Bed and breakfasts are the way to go in crowded, urban North The Westin St. Francis, with its trademark Beefeaters out front, is Beach. The cozy Washington Square Inn is one of the city’s most not quite the premier hotel it used to be, but it’s still the best known famous bed and breakfasts. Have a comfortably beatnik experience and the most central. The nearby Pan Pacific ratchets up the cachet by staying at the fun and stylish Hotel Boheme. The light fixtures a notch or two. Campton Place offers understated elegance. At the here are papered with Ginsberg poetry. Down Columbus Avenue in Dragon Gate of Chinatown, the postmodern Triton (decorated floor- North Beach, you’ll find the standard array of chain hotels including by-floor by the city’s top designers) is stylish and not unreasonably the Ramada Limited, the Sheraton at Fisherman’s Wharf, and priced. Further down towards the Tenderloin, the Hilton hosts Howard Johnson’s, catering to the heavy tourist trade. innumerable conventions, and the Nikko is a popular choice with Cow Hollow & The Marina businessmen. Guests at these hotels should travel outside the Lombard Street is the closest thing you’ll find to a strip in the neighborhood but not in it. On Market Street, the Garden Court of northern half of the city. Heck, it IS a strip, and consequently it’s a the capacious Sheraton Palace is an old San Francisco tradition. good place to look for motels like the Bel Aire Travelodge. Hard to Financial District & The Embarcadero go wrong here. San Francisco rents assure that you probably won’t The typewriter-shaped Hyatt Regency, with its huge atrium lobby, end up in a fleabag. More motels and motel-like hotels can be found is conveniently located for tourists and businessmen both, where up Van Ness Avenue. You might want to consider something with the Embarcadero meets Market Street. The Hotel Griffon is stylish, several floors, though these streets have a lot of automobile traffic featuring two quite good restaurants, and a very cool location on throughout the day. The Marina and Cow Hollow also feature some the Bay at the Embarcadero. In the heart of the Financial District, of The City’s better bed and breakfasts. Sherman House, Union the luxurious Mandarin Oriental offers impeccable service and Street Inn, and the slightly off-beat Art Center Bed & Breakfast (near facilities with an unostentatious Asian theme. The antiques in the the Fort Mason Center) are all good bets. lobby and meeting rooms are worth a mint. Nob Hill The pinnacle (literally and figuratively) of luxury. It’s all impeccable service and cushy comfort atop Nob Hill’s Olympian Heights. You will feel like a king in the Fairmont, the Mark Hopkins, the Huntington,The Renaissance Stanford Court Hotel, or the newer- but-looks-like-it’s-been-there-forever Ritz Carlton. Room rates? If you have to ask, darling…

20 ] San Francisco Information Guide DINING AND NIGHTLIFE

As a restaurant town, San Francisco is rivaled only by New York. Cow Hollow/Union Street As varied as the San Francisco’s ethnic patchwork, so is the Perry’s and Plumpjack Cafe (worth going to for the food as well), plethora of dining choices. One can eat Chinese in Chinatown, of are two of the more notable singles bars in an area chock-a-block course, and Italian in North Beach, but a rainbow spectrum of with them. The clientele here is young, brash, beautiful and ethnic cuisine awaits you in central and outlying neighborhoods successful. Great restaurants line Union Street and nip and side including some you may never have known existed! Have you streets. For wonderful neighborhood Italian, duck into Pane E Vino enjoyed the specialties of Eritrean, Afghan, and Tibetan fare? In San on Steiner, just off Union or for a Japanese meal on a hibachi try Francisco, you can. Shining out over this sea of ethnic delights, of Yoshida-ya, or gorge on all-you-can-eat sushi at Sushi Cardonnay course, are the downtown beacons of fine dining that have really (more brash singles). kept San Francisco on the culinary map such as the stylish Downtown and Nob Hill downtown restaurants of Postrio, Masa’s and Fringale. Chic and Masa’s, Boulevard and Wolfgang Puck’s Postrio offer variations in elegant or funky and loud, you’ll eat better than you ever have in the spectrum of French/California cuisine, all of them expensive, San Francisco. and all of them worth it. For lovers of seafood and creative design, Castro Street and Noe Valley Farallon, also pricey, is styled on an undersea grotto theme. Don’t In the Castro, casual, inexpensive and fun dining prevails and, of think of going to these places without a reservation. A large number course, lots of gay bars. Relaxed Nirvana is a favorite meeting place of great sushi restaurants are to be found in the area south of Post with huge windows overlooking the action on Castro Street, while Street. For drinks, try some of the great bars and lounges in Nob Hill Orphan Andy’s serves what may be the best hamburgers in the city. hotels, especially if you can’t afford to be a guest there. The Top of The loud and lively Detour, one of the most popular bars in the the Mark (at the Mark Hopkins), Harry Denton’s Starlight Room Castro, is a favorite cruising spot, while Harvey’s offers more relaxed (atop the Sir Francis Drake), and the classic Tonga Room (at the conversations and welcomes straight couples. Noe Valley offers Fairmont) will all let you say you’ve “been there, done that!” more than its share of The City’s better, smaller, less pricey but well- Embarcadero and Financial District reputed eateries. The Firefly and Eric’s, both favorites with locals, Restaurants here, whether stylish or traditional, are informed by have lines out the door. discretion and lack of pretense as befits a business environment. Chinatown On California Street, in the heart of the Financial District, is the Avoid the upstairs restaurants on Grant Avenue, which cater to Tadich Grill, the City’s oldest restaurant. Heavy on tradition, this the tourist trade. Instead, head up the side streets and take your seafood house hasn’t changed much in the last 150 years. chances at one of scores of great and inexpensive Cantonese Celebrity-owned Rubicon highlights California cuisine, and delightful rooms that feed locals. Try the sedate and elegant Imperial Tea Aqua does incredible things with seafood. The shiny Fog City Diner, Court for a rare and exquisite selection of the finest Asian tea, or the bestride the Embarcadero, tips its hat to the American railroad frenetic House of Nanking, on Kearny. Brandy Ho’s carries the diner, but serves excellent food. Nearby Il Fornaio, at Levi’s Plaza banner of “spicy Hunan cooking.” For dim sum, head to Dol Ho, a Park, offers an exhaustive Italian menu, as well as a takeout deli and fixture with the Chinese shoppers and businessmen during lunch. bakery. The Royal Exchange is a popular after-work destinations for The best restaurant in Chinatown, Tommy Toy’s Chinoise on the young movers and shakers of Montgomery Street Montgomery Street, is not technically in Chinatown, but it’s just a Fisherman’s Wharf, Ghirardelli Square and Aquatic Park short walk down Washington Street past Portsmouth Square. One word: seafood. Places like Alioto’s and Scoma’s Tommy Toy’s is elegant, where gentlemen are expected to wear have been here forever, serving serviceable seafood to tourists, and jackets and ties and where the food (bearing a French accent), is of course have tremendous views. Ghirardelli Square absolutely superb. One of the few bars in Chinatown, dimly lit Li offers everything from haute Indian, Gaylords (with one of Po’s, is a legendary literary hangout. Check out its over-the-top the best restaurant views in the city), to a mind-boggling facade. array of seafood at McCormick and Kuleto, and superb and elegant Civic Center and Hayes Valley Chinese at the Mandarin. For kids, the huge, Barbary Coast- If one is dining before the opera, Hayes Valley west of the Civic themed sundaes at the Ghirardelli’s Chocolate Shop are big fun. Center has its share of the city’s finest dining. The new star of the Lower Haight area, Jardiniere, features a dining room so remarkably styled that it’s For young bohos around the corner of Haight and Fillmore, worth a peek even if you can’t get a reservation. On Hayes Street Nickie’s Barbeque is a favorite watering hole and dance hall but it’s the Caffe Delle Stelle’s more homey, trattoria-style ambience hard to find barbecue there these days. If you’re hungry, go to the compliments clever and unerring renditions of Italian specialties. Indian Oven around the corner, and be patient. Or, head to Axum The Hayes Street Grill is a reliable favorite. For something quicker for great, inexpensive Ethiopian food. This area also has more than and cheaper, try hip and funky Momi Toby’s Revolution Cafe or its share of comfortably scruffy cafes, as well as bars such as the Powell’s Place, a soul-satisfying soul food place serving what may Noc Noc, Toronado, Mad Dog in the Fog, and Ad Bodhran (where be the best chicken in The City. the Harp’s is on tap). continued on page 22

San Francisco Information Guide [ 21 DINING AND NIGHTLIFE

North Beach South Beach/China Basin You’re in the culinary heart of the city! What to eat? Italian, of Town’s End is one of the better restaurants at the end of the course! Mangia! The only problem here is deciding just what kind of Embarcadero serving wholesome but refined California cuisine. Italian. Unpretentious, hearty North Beach institutions like Little Momo’s, ideally located across from Pacific Bell Park, suddenly has Joe’s or family-style Capp’s Corner? Calzone’s, or another one of the best address in San Francisco, and the powerful and glamorous the sleek new Roman places on Columbus Avenue? Off-kilter clientele to match. Sicilian, with gargantuan proportions and chairs on the ceiling? The Haight-Ashbury and Cole Valley Well, that could only be Caffe Sport. You can also treat yourself to Colorful, funky and intensely popular restaurants like Cha Cha a more elegant and innovative approach to Italian food at hard-to- Cha draw a young and festive crowd in the Haight Ashbury. Nearby get-into Rose Pistola. Cole Valley is less unkempt but features quite a few good But there’s more to North Beach than Italian food, of course. restaurants for its tiny size, most notably the wine bar EOS. Moose’s, facing Washington Square, does a wonderful job with The Marina District California cuisine, and for a change of pace, try Afghan favorite On Chestnut Street, the college sweatshirt crowd dines and Helmand, on Broadway. Cocktail hour? If you want to get close to socializes at quick, comfortable, stylish-but-not-edgy places like the beatnik soul of North Beach however, Vesuvio’s, Saloon, the Cafe Marimba and Pasta Fuzio. Nightlife centers around lively Tosca Cafe and Savoy Tivoli are where you must go. singles bars like O’Shaugnessy’s. On Sunday, brunch is hugely Fillmore Street and Japantown popular with bicyclists and rollerbladers at places like the Grove. Fillmore Street has dozens of great restaurants so it’s hard to The Mission District know where to begin. Meet and greet at the Elite Cafe, the best The city’s hippest, most popular, inexpensive restaurants are to place in town to have Cajun blackened redfish. Enjoy cozy Thai at be found in the area around Valencia and 16th Street, referred to as the Thai Stick. Harry’s On Fillmore serves drinks and food and the Valencia Corridor. The Slanted Door, Flying Saucer, Firecracker, features jazz on weekends. At Fillmore and Geary, pay a cover Ti Couz and Picaro are among the dozens of imaginative, vibrant charge drink your blues away (or blues your drink away) at the places to dine without spending a fortune. Be forewarned of lines Boom Boom Room. Great noodle houses and sushi bars like Isuzu, and waits, however. For drinks, The Elbo Room offering drinks, Mifune and Sanppo pack Japan Center. music, and photo booths. In a parallel universe to this boho scene Potrero Hill are the dozens of great burrito places on Mission and Valencia. Edgy cafes like the Universal Cafe and edgy restaurants like the Each have their adherents but El Toro Taqueria, Can-Cun and the Slow Club and the Lilo Lounge attract the edgy bohemians and legendary La Taqueria are the most popular. black-clad yuppies in this transitional loft/industrial area. The Avenues: The Richmond and Sunset Districts SoMa In Clement Street’s “Little Chinatown,” you’ll find Chinese food The dynamism of this emerging area can be felt in its restaurant rivaling (some say surpassing) the best Chinatown has to offer. Ton scene, with more “important” restaurants than almost anywhere Kiang, a Martha Stewart favorite, and dim sum specialists Yet Wah else in the city, as well as places where the atmosphere’s the only are but two of the many remarkable places to eat here with every thing that counts. Fringale is considered among the very best one of them unpretentious and a good value. On the other side of French restaurants in the entire city, if not the entire state. the Park, on Irving Street around Ninth Avenue, are dozens of lively Restaurant LuLu attracts a haute-yuppie clientele and offers and inexpensive restaurants catering to medical students at nearby imaginative food, an extensive list of single-malt scotches, and a UCSF. very loud dining room. Blowfish Sushi To Die For has some of the best postmodern sushi served anywhere. Brain Wash is one of the best, and perhaps only, places to have a beer, listen to a local band and wash your clothes all at the same time. The Up and Down Club has surprisingly good live jazz, and the wonderfully unrefined Paradise Lounge features open-mic poetry readings.

22 ] San Francisco Information Guide ENTERTAINMENT

Since the days of the Barbary Coast, San Franciscans have base. More experimental modern dance has found a friendly venue packed blues and comedy clubs, plays, movies, and the opera, and at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater. also has a long tradition, by American standards, of a vital visual art Theater scene. The American Conservatory Theater (ACT) presents innovative Art productions of excellent plays, old and new, at the Geary Theater. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SF MOMA) and its The Curran puts on both commendable touring plays and musicals. excellent temporary exhibitions have drawn tens of thousands of Aside from the big touring productions at the Orpheum and the San Franciscans who might otherwise not have bothered to come cavernous Golden Gate, and a handful of small houses like the to an art show. Across Third Street, the Yerba Buena Center for the Theater on the Square, there is only a fringe theater scene in San Arts has interesting exhibitions, often of larger multimedia Francisco. The Magic Theatre, a leading interpreter of Sam installations and kinetic sculpture, in its two-floor gallery. The M.H. Shephard Plays, at Fort Mason Center and a few independent, de Young Memorial Museum in Golden Gate Park and the newly theater-less companies do mount entertaining productions here renovated California Palace of the Legion of Honor (a handsome and there. Performance spaces, such as Theatre Artaud in the classical pavilion with Rodin’s “The Thinker” at its entrance) are San Potrero Hill area or The Marsh in the Mission, host occasional Francisco’s fine art museums. The world-famous Asian Art experimental plays. Museum, next to the de Young, is a must-see. The Music Scene Most of San Francisco’s private art galleries are clustered The award-winning San Francisco Symphony Orchestra plays at downtown, to the east of Union Square on Geary and Sutter ultra-modern Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall. Its music director Streets. The more experimental galleries operate in SoMa lofts and and principal conductor is the charismatic Michael Tilson Thomas, Potrero Hill. who recently won a slew of Grammys. Touring soloists and San Francisco’s other museums include, to mention but a few, symphonies play at Davies, Masonic Auditorium, Bill Graham Civic the Museo Italoamericano, the African-American Historical & Auditorium, and other venues throughout town. In the summertime, Cultural Society Museum all at Fort Mason Center, the Jewish the natural amphitheater at Stern Grove (on Sloat Boulevard in the Museum, California Academy of Sciences (for natural history) and, Sunset District) features outdoor concerts by the Symphony, the designed for kids but great for grown-ups, too, Zeum and the Opera, and other performers. Exploratorium. While in recent years the failure of Keystone Korner and Kimball’s Cinema West have left the city without a regular venue for jazz (the best jazz San Franciscans seem to enjoy movies more than most, and club in the Bay Area, Yoshi’s, is across the Bay in Oakland), jazz popular features can be sold out for weeks. New screens open all fans delight in the annual San Francisco Jazz Festival. It features the time to meet the demand, with the AMC 1000 on Van Ness legends like Elvin Jones and Sonny Rollins, as well as lesser-known, offering 14 screens, and the Sony Theaters Metreon housing 16, more experimental performers. including one IMAX. San Franciscans love independent cinema, San Francisco is inextricably linked with the history of rock n’ roll. too. In spite of the multiplex phenomenon, San Franciscans support The return of the Fillmore Auditorium (of Hendrix fame) has been a quirky rep houses like the Castro, with its mighty Wurlitzer organ, boon for rock fans. The Bill Graham Civic Auditorium is another and the Roxie, with its funky and eclectic programming. venue for big shows, and the new Pacific Bell Park will likely be The San Francisco International Film Festival, the oldest film used for outdoor concerts as well as major league baseball. The festival in the Americas, draws filmmakers, critics and movie buffs Maritime Hall has become popular for mid-sized shows. Slim’s and from all over the world. There are also more specialized film festivals the Great American Music Hall are good settings for performances operating throughout the year, including the San Francisco on a smaller--but no less intense--scale. International Asian American Film Festival, the Jewish Film Festival, There are nightclubs all over the city, but locals favor North and the San Francisco International Lesbian & Gay Film Festival, the Beach, and especially SoMa. Most clubs have disc-jockeyed oldest of its kind anywhere. The Yerba Buena Center for the Arts music, but live bands are common. Bimbo’s 365 Club (a sexy, also presents a frequently changing program of experimental and must-see retro fantasy spot that puts on more blues and jazz than documentary films. it does rock n’ roll), the Justice League, and the Transmission Comedy Theater have all hosted well-known acts that have packed the hall. San Francisco’s Standup Comedy Competition winners have Next door to Louise M. Davies Symphony Hall, at the beaux-arts been virtually guaranteed television contracts. Cobb’s and the Opera House, the San Francisco Opera has an even more devoted Punch Line are two of the oldest and most popular comedy clubs. following than the Symphony. They mix classic operas with modern Dance ones, including the recent premiere of “A Streetcar Named Desire” San Francisco Ballet has long been one of the world’s premier scored by Andre Previn. companies with a variety of other companies, such as the globe trotting and award-winning ODC, making San Francisco their home

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Tour One: Union Square, Chinatown, North Beach making a tourist attraction out of the area. From 1906 on through The square takes its name from violent pro-Union the 1920s, the “chinoiserie” facades you see today were either demonstrations held there in 1861 as the Civil War brewed. In the tacked on to existing buildings or drawn on to the plans of new center of the park you can still see rising serenely above the ones. The idea was a hit. Quickly, the pleasantly exotic New construction the Dewey Monument, a 97-foot Corinthian column Chinatown supplanted its former opium- and vice-ridden image. topped by a winged victory statue, commemorates Admiral James Hundreds of thousands of tourists began to visit and spend money Dewey’s victories in the Spanish-American War. Look in any in Chinatown, as millions have continued to do today. direction and you will see upscale department stores: Neiman For a look into the inner Chinatown, walk the three blocks past Marcus, Macy’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue all line the square. Cable the Dragon’s Gate to Sacramento, turn left, and then walk up the hill cars roll by on Powell Street. To the east, in front of the Westin St. half a block to Waverly Place, the scene of a bloody battle between Francis Hotel, foreign flags tell you which heads of state and other Chinese tongs in 1879. The buildings on this two block-long alley dignitaries are presently staying in its VIP suites. feature some of the most elaborate and fanciful facades in Once you’ve gotten power shopping out of the way—with Chinatown. Walking there in the evening, you may hear the strains allowances for a side trip with insistent kids to toy palace F.A.O. of Chinese music drifting out from the Tin How Temple above you. Schwarz (down Stockton Street from Nieman’s) head east on Geary It’s open to visitors seven days a week until 4 p.m. to Grant Avenue, turn right and visit the Emporio Armani Boutique. At Washington Street, where Waverly Place ends, turn left and Entering this imposing granite edifice, formerly—and appropriately- walk up the few yards to Ross Alley, once known as the “Street of -a bank, you can satisfy your appetite for the latest Italian fashions, the Gamblers,” with 22 gambling dens to its credit. Walking back to and for lunch the Armani Cafe is good enough to warrant a trip even Washington, stop at Sam Woh, if you’re hungry again. Sam Woh’s if you’re strictly a Brooks Brothers type. was the infamous domain of the late head waiter Edsel Ford Fong, Heading up Grant away from Market Street halfway along the who would greet cowering diners by telling them to “sit down and next block, you’ll cross Maiden Lane, a charming two-block shut up!” Equally disagreeable service continues in this tradition. pedestrian passage lined with precious boutiques and galleries. The food’s not great, but locals love to go to Sam Woh for the Maiden Lane’s appeal belies the disreputable origins of its name. In abuse. Barbary Coast days, this is where prostitutes plied their trade. The Walk back downhill to Grant Avenue. From the corner you can building at 140 Maiden Lane (between Grant and Stockton) was look down Washington to see Portsmouth Square, the cultural designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Its curving ramp is supposedly a center of Chinatown. precursor for Wright’s Guggenheim Museum design. You can’t miss Continue along Grant to Pacific, taking in the babble of hundreds Maiden Lane’s cafes--the tables spill out into the middle of the of conversations in Cantonese, and the smell of dozens of Chinese street. If you didn’t grab a snack at the Armani store, this is a good bakeries. At seafood stores, you’ll see fish, frogs, and other live place to do it. creatures in crowded tanks, awaiting selection by discriminating Continue up Grant to Post. At the corner you’ll find Shreve & Co., shoppers. If you didn’t just eat at Sam Woh (and still have an San Francisco’s stately, stuffy answer to Tiffany’s (the San Francisco appetite after looking at the frogs), head up Pacific to New Asia for Tiffany & Co. store faces Union Square at Post). We’ll take a little dim sum. There you’ll find a cavernous dining room where two detour here--turn left on Post and head up the block to the flagship dozen ladies push carts of dim sum, assorted dumpling-like treats store of cookware cataloguer Williams-Sonoma, and make a point paid for by the plate. of visiting Gump’s across the street. A San Francisco institution, At Broadway, turn right, and right again onto Columbus Avenue. Gump’s offers a beautiful, expensively eclectic collection of gifts. Art A few steps will take you into poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s City glass, Asian art, and antiques are specialties of Gump’s. Don’t miss Lights Bookstore, a shrine of “Beat” culture. The store features a their museum-quality jade. During the Christmas season, the collection of literature, poetry, and avant-garde theory and criticism, elaborate displays in Gump’s windows attract an audience by the some of it published under the City Lights label, which you just don’t tens of thousands. find anywhere else. Vesuvio’s bar, on the other side of Kenneth If you haven’t bankrupted yourself yet, go back to Grant, turn left, Rexroth Alley; the Tosca Cafe, across Columbus; and the Cafe and walk past the outsized Banana Republic housed in the Trieste, across Broadway on Grant Avenue, are all former Beat extravagant vintage building that once housed the now defunct hangouts. Each can boast of having ejected Jack Kerouac, Allen White House department store and then through the Dragon’s Ginsburg, or other Beat luminaries from the premises on at least Gate. one occasion. You’ll quickly notice the pagoda-style roofs and other romantic Proceed on Columbus Avenue across Broadway past the many architectural embellishments that tell you that you’re in Chinatown. cafes, trattorias, and delis that make up heart of Italian North As San Francisco began to rebuild after the earthquake and fire of Beach. Stop and have an espresso. As you cross Green Street, 1906, the Chinatown merchants association, in a move to ease you’ll notice that the street signs say Beach Blanket Babylon restrictions and discrimination on the Chinese population, proposed

26 ] San Francisco Information Guide RECOMMENDED TOURS

Boulevard, in honor of the funny and colorful revue that has been painter Diego Rivera, these are masterpieces of the social realist playing down the block at the Club Fugazi seemingly forever. school. (See if you can pick out The Daily Worker and other leftist At the corner of Columbus and Union streets, walk across publications at a newsstand in one of the frames.) The USD3 Washington Square Park to the Church of Sts Peter and Paul, the elevator ride to the top of the Tower will give you an even more site of Joe diMaggio’s first wedding to starlet Dorothy Arnold, as panoramic panorama of San Francisco and its surroundings, well as his funeral. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, however, the including a great view of the Financial District and Union Square. graceful church is worth a visit. Once back on ground level, walk back down Coit Tower If it feels like it’s snack time, and if you’re an Italian frame of mind Boulevard to Filbert Street and the top of the Filbert Steps. Steps (as you should be by now), head into the Liguria Bakery up the were made necessary on the eastern face of Telegraph Hill when street at Filbert and Stockton. Here’s what they sell—focaccia (pizza large chunks of the hillside were blasted away for landfill to create bread). Choose from tomato, onion, and plain, and the proprietor what is now much of the Embarcadero, Financial District, and will wrap it up in plain paper for you and tie it with string. Take your Fisherman’s Wharf. Pretty chrysanthemum bushes crowd the upper focaccia and saunter up Filbert to do a little shopping among the Filbert Steps in the spring and summer. Cross Montgomery Street wonderfully funky and eclectic stores of Upper Grant Avenue. Stop and pause a moment in front of the apartment building at 1360 into Quantity Postcards and check out its outrageously bizarre Montgomery. Its handsome, art-deco bas-relief treatment collection of postcards and curiosities. commemorates the 1939-40 Golden Gate International Exposition. Tour Two: Telegraph Hill and Coit Tower This building has been featured in at least two films: the Bogart- We’ll begin this tour at the corner of Union and Stockton streets. Bacall classic Dark Passage, and, more recently, the forgettable Those wary of the steep climb to Coit Tower should stay put and Nine Months. wait for the #39 Coit bus. If you feel you’re in good shape, however, Continue down the steps onto the boardwalk of the Grace set out on foot on Stockton (stopping, if you want, to carbo-load at Marchand Gardens, some of the most entrancing hillside the Liguria Bakery) and turn right on Filbert. At Grant Avenue, turn landscaping in the world. An incongruous flock of parrots, South left, and trudge up the steep hill to Greenwich. Turn right on American conures that descend from a group of domesticated Greenwich, head up the hill and take the steps around the palm escapees, screech from the trees overhead. garden at the top of the street to Coit Tower Boulevard. Pause for To your left are clapboard cottages built by 19th-century sea breath. captains. Stroll down tiny Darrell Place or jewel-like Napier Lane. Carefully cross the street (there’s no crosswalk here) and continue The Filbert steps become reassuring steel and concrete as they up the rocky steps on the other side. Follow the path past Pioneer traverse the rugged bottom of the hill, until finally you find yourself Park to Coit Tower. Once you’ve met your friends who’ve taken the at sea level at Sansome Street, a stone’s throw from the Green #39, walk around the parking plaza, taking in the spectacular Street studio where Philo Farnsworth invented television. Turn right panorama from Nob Hill past the Golden Gate, Alcatraz, and the and walk two blocks to Green to see the plaque, on your right, East Bay towards San Jose and the south. The large statue of commemorating his achievement, and then head east on Green Christopher Columbus in the middle of the plaza stands on the site into Levi’s Plaza Park, corporate headquarters of the Levi-Strauss of mechanized semaphore flags that once sent messages to ships Corporation. Treat yourself to lunch or dinner at Il Fornaio, one of in the Bay, giving Telegraph Hill its name. The City’s better Italian restaurants. Coit Tower was dedicated in 1932, part of the bequest of Lillie Tour Three: SoMa, SF MOMA, Yerba Buena Center, Metreon Hitchcock Coit, and a memorial to her beloved San Francisco Begin your tour of the exciting and dynamic new area south of firemen. Since being pulled out of a burning building as a child by Market Street at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (151 the men of Knickerbocker Company No. 5, the wild and Third Street, closed Wednesdays). Built in 1995 on a design by irrepressible Coit bore an abiding affection for firemen. She often Swiss architect Mario Botta, the museum’s striped cylinder has rode with them on their busy rounds to the fires that were so become a local landmark. Even more interesting inside than out, frequent in Barbary Coast San Francisco, her hair streaming in the dizzying catwalks take museum goers through the heart of its wind as she hung on to the engine. daring study in light and space, and are at least as noteworthy as The tower’s 210-foot height is boosted by the 220-foot hill on the museum’s permanent collection. The San Francisco MOMA’s which it sits, and can easily be seen from almost any point on the strong suit has long been its photography holdings; important Bay. Designed in an art deco-style by the same architect who works by Ansel Adams, Carier-Bresson, and Stieglitz make it one of created City Hall and the Opera House, debate rages to this day the strongest photography collections in the country. The temporary about whether or not Coit Tower is supposed to look like a fire hose. exhibitions draw huge crowds. If you are in San Francisco for a convention or other event at the Moscone Center, it’s just around Inside the lobby are restored murals created under the aegis of the corner. Roosevelt’s Works Progress Administration, depicting the industrial, agricultural, and intellectual history of California. Supervised by continued on page 28

San Francisco Information Guide [ 27 RECOMMENDED TOURS

Above the Moscone Center, whose business end is throughout the day. Skate rental is available, and a cozy, family- underground, is the successful Yerba Buena Center complex. friendly bowling alley is fun too. Next door is the Zeum, an Planted atop Moscone Center North are the 5-1/2-acre Yerba imaginative children’s technology museum, where kids can try their Buena Gardens. A large, beautifully arranged collection of plants hand at video production and learn about the frontiers of computer from around the world which give onto a reflection pool, which in science. In front of Zeum, an antique carousel rescued from Golden turn overflows in a waterfall over the Martin Luther King monument Gate Park spins merrily in a glass enclosure over Howard Street. below. The adjoining Yerba Buena Center for the Arts features a Across Howard Street you can see the back end of the imposing two-story gallery with temporary exhibitions, often of multimedia Metreon, Sony’s four-story, sixteen-screen entertainment megalith. works or large kinetic sculptures, as well as a screening room with Colored like one of Sony’s Vaio computers, but considerably larger a frequently-changing schedule of experimental and documentary and more angular, it houses 16 movie screens including one IMAX films. Jazz and other musical and theatrical works are presented in screen, children’s attractions based on Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Theater. the Wild Things Are” and Peter MacCaulay’s “The Way Things Yerba Buena Center continues across Howard Street, over Work,” a deluxe food court catered by some of the city’s better Moscone Center South, with plenty to offer if you have kids in tow. restaurants, a H.E.A.R. CD shop (filled with listening stations) and, The brand-new Yerba Buena Ice Skating and Bowling Center of course, Sonystyle, a Sony store. features a year-round, indoor skating rink, a handsome and airy Photography buffs will want to make a point of crossing the street facility with a glass wall onto the skyscrapers downtown. Open from the Metreon/Yerba Buena Center and going to the Ansel skating, figure skating lessons, and hockey leagues rotate Adams Photography Center at 250 Fourth Street.

28 ] San Francisco Information Guide MEDIA

Newspapers Television Stations AsianWeek (415) 397-0220 2 FOX 809 Sacramento St. 4 MyTV San Francisco CA 94108 5 CBS Noe Valley Voice (415) 821-3324 7 ABC 1021 Sanchez Street San Francisco, CA 94114 9 PBS Independent community newspaper for and about Noe Valley 11 NBC published 10 times a year. 12 DT NBC 14 UNI The San Francisco Bay Guardian (415) 225-3100 135 Mississippi St. 19 DT ind. San Francisco, CA 94107 20 ind. An independent, locally-owned and edited San Francisco 24 DT newspaper. One of the most read independent weeklies, known for 26 ind. (Asian) its risqué covers and politicized news coverage. 27 DT ind. (Asian) San Francisco Business Times (415) 989-2522 29 DT CBS 275 Battery St., Suite 940 30 DT PBS San Francisco CA 94111 32 CAS (ethnic) San Francisco business newspaper. 33 DT CAS (ethnic) The San Francisco Chronicle (415) 777-1111 34 DT Telefutura 901 Mission Street, 38 SAH San Francisco CA 94103 39 DT SAH The San Francisco Examiner (415) 359-2600 44 CW 988 Market Street 45 DT CW Local San Francisco news coverage with an arts and sports 51 DT UNI focus. 56 DT FOX SF Weekly (415) 536-8100 57 DT 185 Berry, Lobby 4, Suite 3800 65 ION San Francisco CA 94107 66 Telefutura Culture, lifestyle and features about San Francisco Bay Area. 68 TLN Radio Stations KSFO AM 560 Talk KCBS AM 740 San Francisco’s news KQED FM 88.5 National public radio KPOO FM 89.5 Community-based eclectic KUSF FM 90.3 University of San Francisco college KALX FM 90.7 UC Berkeley KALW FM 91.7 Public news KPFA FM 94.1 Public radio station Alice FM 97.3 Alternative music WILD FM 94.9 Hip hop and R&B KSOL FM 98.9 Spanish-language KFRC FM 99.7 Oldies KDFC FM 102.1 Classical KKSF FM 103.7 Smooth Jazz KFOG FM 104.5 Rock LIVE FM 105 New rock and alternative KMEL FM 106 Hip Hop, R&B KSAN FM 107.7 The Bone - Classic rock

San Francisco Information Guide [ 29 30 ] San Francisco Information Guide MOVING

SMOOTH TRANSITIONS

Choosing a Moving Company Have at least three movers come to your home and give estimates. Be sure to ask whether the estimates are binding, non-binding or guaranteed not to exceed a certain amount. Obtain each company’s assigned Motor Carrier number and call the USDOT at (202) 358-7000 to determine if they are registered and have the proper insurance on file. Ask your prospective moving company for a copy of the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. Relocation to Your New Town If you’re one of the 40 million Americans planning to move this year, you need a strategy. Starting early and staying organized is the key to a painless move. In general, follow the pre- move checklists provided. These lists will help you track the myriad of details needed to facilitate your move. If you are selling your present home and/or buying a new one, refer to the home inspection checklist, choosing a morgage, and the mortgage glossary. If you are planning to rent in your new city, read the article on rental tips. And, if you are undecided, we hope the article entitled “Buying vs. Renting” will help you assess the pros and cons of each. Whatever decisions you face based on your particular circumstances, stay positive, calm and organized. And, don’t forget to make some time just for yourself. It will probably save you a lot of time in the long run! Packing Tips • Sort your belongings. If you don’t use an item, dispose of it. • Label boxes indicating what they contain and in which room they should be placed. • Drain gas and oil from power tools so they will not leak; dispose of all volatile or corrosive chemicals. • After cleaning out the refrigerator and/or freezer, place pieces of charcoal in them to prevent mildew. • Pack important records in easily accessible place. Include medical, dental, school, insurance, credit card and tax records. • Use strong, clean containers with lids secured with twine or tape. • Put no more than 50 pounds in each container. • Place heavy items towards the bottom of the containers; lighter items on top. • Protect all finished surfaces from scratching by wrapping them in paper. • Use plenty of cushioning such as shredded or crumpled paper to protect belongings in boxes. Remember that newspaper ink can rub off and stain items packed with it. • Pack items tightly to avoid shifting during move. • Fragile items, like china, should be packed in reinforced boxes or in special boxes with compartments. • Individually wrap and cushion electrical appliances. • Make sure liquids and foodstuffs are placed in carefully sealed containers. Wrap and pack kitchenware tightly to prevent damage. continued on page 32

San Francisco Information Guide [ 31 SMOOTH TRANSITIONS

• Chests and dressers should not be overloaded since glued where these boxes go. This way, movers will be directed to the furniture joints could collapse. correct rooms if you’re not available to tell them where to put • Unusually shaped or valuable items should be crated or moved each box. by you and not the movers. Easily crushed items should be • Make a detailed floor plan for where you want things to go in your individually boxed and cushioned. new home. Photocopy it so you can tack up copies in every room • You should not remove home fixtures such as window treatment for the movers. hardware, towel racks and electrical fixtures. Unless your sales • Take snapshots of wall units and shelves, so you know how agreement specifically states otherwise, such items are usually things were arranged on them. considered legally part of your residence.Let the moving Settling Into Your New Home company pack furniture, mirrors and artwork to prevent damage. • Start by making the beds. Bedding tends to be bulky and Stay Organized eliminating lots of boxes quickly and easily will be encouraging. Here are some basic tips to help make moving less traumatic: • Unpack and organize children’s belonging’s next. Young children • Pack an “Immediate Box” or an overnight suitcase with the will quickly become restless without familiar things. Remember to necessities you’ll be needing right away. Don’t forget to include position storage hooks and shelves that children will be using medicines and a first aid kit, toilet paper, tissue, and paper within their reach. towels. • Next, tackle the kitchen. This job will go much faster if each box • Pack an “Immediate Kitchen” box including trash bags, the has been specifically labeled as to its contents. Simply labeling coffee pot or tea kettle, toaster, plastic silverware, paper plates, “Kitchen” doesn’t help you prioritize which box to unpack first. styrofoam cups and some non-perishable snacks, such as • Stay positive. Getting settled into your new home can seem crackers, peanut butter, dried fruit. This way, there will be some overwhelming unless you look at it as a series of small projects. instant sustenance while you get organized. • Congratulate yourself! You accomplished a lot today! • Affix colored labels to the moving boxes according to destination. Put the same-color labels or signs on the door of the rooms

32 ] San Francisco Information Guide San Francisco Information Guide [ 33 PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST

One Month Before Two Weeks Before

 Take Inventory. Decide what to keep and what to get rid of.  Notify Phone Company: Your new local phone company should be notified of your move no sooner than 30 business  Reserve a rental truck or select a moving company. Look for days prior to move, and no later than 5 business days before rental trucks and moving companies in local brochures, yellow moving. The service representative will run a quick credit check pages, or through your rental agent/ real estate broker. and assign you a new telephone number.  Make a moving file for important documents, such as family  Notify Utilities: The electric and gas service companies should medical and dental records, school records, legal documents be contacted at least two weeks before your move. The old and titles, banking and financial statements, stock and bond service will need your move out date and you should request certificates, tax returns, birth certificates and insurance the return of any deposits at this time. The new service will documents. Include all receipts – many expenses are tax need your move in date to determine when service will be deductible. turned on or transferred to your name. You can inquire if they  Make any car rental, airline or hotel arrangements. have a billing plan to balance out of season differences by paying a set amount each month. If moving into an apartment,  Gather moving supplies such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap and check with the property manager to see if service was left on paper for wrapping. before you call the utility companies. Write down the emergency numbers to call in event of a problem or outage.  Post Office: A week before you move, you should stop by your local post office to fill out a change of address cards.  Banks: (checking accounts, investments, etc.): Before you Correspondence cards are also available to send to various move to your new city, make sure all existing accounts in your companies such as credit card companies, magazine old bank are closed. Find a new bank to fill your personal publishers and any other organizations that should be needs and open accounts, order checks and obtain direct informed of your move. The mail will be forwarded to your new deposit forms if applicable. home for a full year. After a year, the mail will be returned to the sender with your new address stamped on it. You can get an  Find a new doctor and dentist and have your family’s medical official change form at the local post office or on the Internet at records transferred to them. www.usps.gov/movernet.  Refill any prescription medications which must be taken  Credit Card Companies: Immediately notify all your credit card regularly and arrange to have those prescriptions transferred to companies of your move. Keeping an individual file on each your new city. one makes this process much easier. We suggest using the  Arrange to register your children in their new school(s). Contact correspondence cards offered at the post office in addition to their current school(s) to have their records forwarded. requesting in writing that they send you a letter of confirmation. It is also recommended to make a follow up call.

 Purchase Insurance: If you are moving from out of state and are insured by a fairly large company, they will most likely have an office in the city you are moving to. If you need to find a new company, it is important to get homeowners insurance at least one month before the move. Those moving to an apartment need to contact the insurance company two weeks before the move. If you have large amounts of jewelry and/or furs coats it’s important to contact the agency as soon as possible since you will be needing additional coverage.

 Remember to request the return of any security deposits.

34 ] San Francisco Information Guide PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST

One Week Before Moving Day

 Confirm any travel plans or reservations.  Early on moving day, reserve a large place for the moving truck to park. Mark off an area with cones or chairs. If you need to  Finish packing and make sure all boxes are clearly labeled. obtain parking permission from your apartment complex  Subscribe to the local newspaper and visit the Chamber of manager or the city, do so in advance. Commerce in your new city for additional community  Before work starts, walk through the house with the movers information. and describe the loading order. Show them items you intend to  Change of Address Notification: You will need to notify the transport yourself. You should have these items grouped in an Postal Service that you are moving. It is now possible to do so area prior to the movers arriving. Remain on site to answer the without visiting the post office. Go to website listed above. For movers’ questions and to provide special instructions. the fee of $1.00 you may fill out the address change  Walk through your home and make sure that everything was information online and receive an email confirmation. Or you loaded. Make sure you have the keys to your new home. may choose to print the form and mail it to your local post office. US Postal Service, www.usps.com  Remember that professional movers expect to be paid in full before your goods are unloaded. Check for damage, as items  Notify IRS: You will also need to notify the IRS that you have are unloaded and report any problems right away. moved. This will ensure you receive your IRS refund and/or any other correspondence. To change your address with the IRS,  Unless the company’s policy prohibits the acceptance of complete a Form 8822 (PDF), Address Change Request. This gratuities, it is customary to tip each mover. $20 is a good is available on the IRS website. IRS, www.irs.gov amount; you may want to tip more or less based on the service you received. One Day Before  If you are moving yourself and getting help from friends, make  sure you create a task list. Be sure to have everything packed Pick up your rental truck or confirm your move with the moving before your help arrives. It is natural for people to work in pairs, company. but you should consider each person’s physical ability and  Make sure you and your movers have the directions to your health status. Plan to provide beverages and food for your new home. Plan your travel so that you will be there to greet volunteers. Load the truck according to the directions your them and unlock your home. Have a backup plan in case one truck rental agency gave you, and make sure that you of you gets delayed. understand how to operate and drive the rental truck before you leave the agency.  Obtain the driver’s cell phone number and give him/her yours so you can stay in touch in case one of you is delayed.

 Ask what form of payment the movers will accept (check, money order, certified check, travelers checks) and make necessary arrangements.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 35 WHAT’S ALL THE TALK ABOUT. YOU PACK, THEY DRIVE MOVING?

Moving Decisions Save Time and Money Are you faced with an upcoming job relocation? With so many The “you pack, they drive” moving alternative saves you the options for moving your household items, it can be a difficult trouble of driving an unfamiliar vehicle as well as the stress and decision to determine which service best fits your moving needs. difficulty during a long-distance drive. Since the estimates provided Also, with a limited relocation budget from your employer to cover for this service are based on volume (space) and not weight, you will your moving costs, finding a service that complements your avoid unexpected higher moving costs and hidden fees associated pocketbook is important as well. While hiring a professional moving with other full-service moving companies. Unlike a rental truck, the company may be time-saving, the cost for full-service moving could normal moving expenses such as fuel, taxes, tolls, and unexpected be several thousand dollars. A recent trend in the moving industry costs such as flat tires and engine blowouts are covered by the is the do-it-yourself moving option. Most people associate do-it- service provider. yourself with the truck rental option; however, the “you pack, they Loading Service Options drive” moving alternative is becoming increasingly popular. The cost savings of using the “you pack, they drive” service New Moving Alternative largely result from packing and loading your trailer. Some customers With this type of service, you are expected to pack and load your may not have the physical ability or manpower to pack and load items in an adequately-sized commercial trailer. You are given up to their own trailer. This problem is relatively easy to solve—simply two business days to pack and load your goods. The cost of the check with one of the packing and loading companies suggested move is controlled by the customer because this service allows you by the “you pack, they drive” service provider. You can locate to pay for only the spaced used in the trailer. Once you have packing and loading assistance in both your origin and destination completed the packing and loading process, the trailer is picked up cities. By combining the “you pack, they drive” service with local by the local dispatch office. The trailer is then transported by a loading and unloading assistance, you can save money versus professional driver to your destination. You will receive an estimated using a full-service moving company. arrival time for delivery of your goods and will also have the ability to The Choice is Yours track your goods during the transit of your move. Upon arrival at During your search for the best moving option for your upcoming your new home, the trailer is delivered at the appointed time and job relocation, consider the “you pack, they drive” moving option you will unpack and unload your goods. The local dispatch office and know that you are in control of every aspect of your move. You will then come and remove the empty trailer. will not only save time and money, you will experience less stress and headache during an already stressful part of your life.

36 ] San Francisco Information Guide San Francisco Information Guide [ 37 MOVING WITH CHILDREN & PETS

REINFORCE THE POSITIVES

et family members focused on and involved in the process of moving. Hold a family meeting to discuss why, where, when and how the family will move. Encourage Geveryone to ask questions and express feelings. If possible, drive the family to see the new home and take a tour of the new neighborhood schools, shops and parks. Take photos or videotape the new house and neighborhood. Make lists for each older child of things to do to prepare for the move and assign them a special task or two. For example, they can read and inform other family members about the area history, landmarks, special events and amusements. Help children prepare for the move by having them assist with packing. Let them pack a box of special clothes, toys or books they would like readily accessible at their new home. Let each family member help plan how to set up his or her bedroom. Have them help select paint or wallpaper. Let them share ideas how to arrange the furniture. When the move takes place, set up the children’s rooms first. Choosing A School One of the most satisfying experiences a family can have is finding a school that fits its needs. That school will “feel right” because its administrators, teachers, and parents are part of a strong community that shares the family’s educational values. Children are eager to go there because the school program stimulates their curiosity and provides them with outlets for their interests. Parents will be pleased because their involvement in their children’s education will be welcomed and encouraged. In order to find the best school for your child, you should begin by observing your child’s learning habits. Even as preschoolers, children begin to develop different approaches to learning. These inclinations provide strong clues about what kind of school would serve them best. In her book Your Child’s First School, educational consultant Diana Townsend- Butterworth offers these suggestions of things to watch for in determining your child’s orientation to learning:

• What does your child enjoy doing? • What excites your child and arouses his or her curiosity? • What seems to be frustrating? • Does your child thrive in a structured environment or seem to prefer one that offers more freedom? • Is your child quiet or rambunctious? • Does he or she prefer to work on projects alone or with other children? • Does he or she have any special interests or abilities?

Make a list of answers to these questions as well as taking note of any other characteristics you notice about your child. As you read more about individual schools, and when you visit the ones that interest you, you will be better able to choose a school that suits your child.

38 ] San Francisco Information Guide REINFORCE THE POSITIVES

For high school, parents often choose a new school for their set of expectations for the youngsters. Admissions directors at children. This is frequently because their current school goes only schools will gladly connect you with parents of current students so through eight grade. As you look for a high school, consider your you can make an informed choice for your child. child’s learning style as well as his or her interests when deciding Most schools believe parents should have a strong role in their upon a school. Also keep in mind your own family goals, which may children’s education. Being involved in a child1s education involve preparing for college, in making this important choice. strengthens the whole family and sends a message to children that What about family expectations? In order to provide a good education is an important part of their lives. Schools know that the match, a child’s school must also meet a family’s needs. Here again, way in which parents choose to become active in their children’s you may want to prepare a list of expectations and use it as a guide schools varies greatly. They provide many different opportunities for in the search for the best school for your child: parental involvement. Most schools have strong parent associations that organize social events, help coordinate volunteer activitied, and • What goal do you have for your child’s long-term education? Is provide an organizes means of communication between parents college preparation a priority? and school. • How important to you is parental involvement in school activities? Each of these encounters strengthens the life of the schools and • Do you expect the school to have a role in developing a child’s creates a community of committed adults supporting the goals of character by encouraging respect for adults and peers as well as the schools and the students. This feeling of community, with adults others in society, including the disadvantaged? and students working together for a common purpose, is one of the • How important is it to you that you have a strong relationship and distinguishing strengths of a good schools. share a philosophy with other parents at the school? Supporting this success is the school system’s Blueprint for • How interested are you in providing a home setting that gives Progress. This foundational document unites staff and stakeholders your child time for homework? with common beliefs, priorities, and goals. Lifting the schools higher • How important to you is a before-school and after-school and higher from that foundation are the intensity of focus and quality program? of effort demonstrated by teachers, students, administrators, staff members, parents, volunteers, Board members, and supporters. Before beginning a search for a school, parents should reflect on Their dedication, intelligence, skill, consistency, and creativity are these questions, and their expectations for schools. Parents who reflected in every rising test score and every recognition this school choose schools wisely are pleased after their children enroll system receives. because the family and the school work in harmony with a common

SELECTING CHILD CARE

When you’re new to a community, locating a person or program In home to provide child care for you is not the easiest of tasks. Due to Some parents may prefer the one-on-one contact an in-home expanding demand, just finding an opening may be difficult. care provider can offer, especially for an infant. The International Pinpointing a place that is not too far or too expensive and, most Nanny Association (INA) recommends that you interview any importantly, a provider whom you trust, may take days or weeks of prospective hire at least twice and that you conduct a criminal persistent phoning and visits. background check, which is usually done by most placement As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child is agencies. safe and happy in a child care environment that is fun, educational, One key to good child care is whether the caregiver can adapt to and nurturing. You will need to consider many questions. But you the needs of each child and family. Not all children of the same age are not alone — an increasing number of parents rely on quality are at the same level of development; each child has unique child care so that they may work. About 70% of parents place their character traits. A good caregiver understands these personal and young children in some type of daily care. Knowing in advance that developmental differences and creates a program to meet each this is not an overnight process makes it a bit less overwhelming. child’s needs. Center-Based Care Types of Child Care The most popular type because there are so many options for You might like the home-like feel of a family child care home, or children of all ages. You take your child to a place that is organized maybe you want your child to have opportunity to socialize with and staffed specifically to care for a group or groups of children. peers in a larger child care center. You might be looking for after Some types include day care centers, preschool programs, school care for your child, a summer camp experience or a program before/after school programs. that can accommodate his or her special needs. It will help you in your search to learn more about each type of child care setting. continued on page 40

San Francisco Information Guide [ 39 SELECTING CHILD CARE

Day Care Center Preparing Your Child for Child Care If you’re considering a day care center or another group setting, Most young infants, up to seven months, adapt to caring adults you should spend some time observing the center and talking to and seldom have problems adjusting to good child care. Older parents with children in the center. You should also expect that your infants may be upset when left with strangers. They may feel child will be assigned to the same caregiver to promote a sense of separation anxiety, which is a normal part of development for some security and consistency. Inquire about the rate of staff resignations; children. They will need extra time and your support to “get to low staff turnover minimizes the need for young children to know” the caregiver. Some children show changes in behavior repeatedly adjust to new caregivers. when they start child care. Toddlers may cry, pout, refuse to go to Preschool Programs or act angry in other ways. Preschoolers may regress and behave Preschool programs are offered through Head Start, child care like a younger child. They may be more wakeful at night. This centers or local public and private schools. They can be offered as behavior usually goes away after a few days or weeks in high-quality a half-day program for three or four days a week or they can be part child care, just be sure to monitor. of a full day program at a child care center. You may help your child adjust to a new child care arrangement. Before/After School Programs Arrange a visit with in-home caregivers while you are at home or These programs give children additional time and opportunity to when you need child care for a short time. Visit the center or family engage in hands-on enrichment activities in reading, science, math, child care home that you have chosen with your child before art, drama, and specific “safety” topics that include conflict beginning care. Show your child that you like and trust the caregiver. resolution and drug abuse. Most programs offer homework Some children like to carry a reminder of home when they go to assistance and some offer tutoring. Most also provide supervised child care. A family photograph or small toy can be helpful. Talking physical activity and healthy snacks, or even dinner. School age to your child about child care and the caregiver is helpful. Being programs are often provided through local schools, child care prepared makes any new experience easier for children. There also centers, churches, or youth-oriented community organizations. are storybooks about child care that you and your child can read Quality features include opportunities for children to make individual together. (Check with your local library, another great outing for a and group choices about activities, opportunity to improve parent and child) academic skills, spaces for children to relax and rest, well After a child has been in child care, a sudden change in supervised spaces where they can be active, nutritious snacks, and caregivers may be upsetting. This can happen even if the new parental involvement. caregiver is kind and competent. If you are concerned about your Choosing Child Care child's feelings, you may want to arrange a meeting with the In addition to the forms of child care, you want to take into caregiver or ask your pediatrician for advice. Parents need to help account the following factors: the caregivers and the child deal with any changes in the child's routine at home or child care. High-quality child care helps children • Age and personality of your child. grow in every way and promotes their physical, social and mental • Child care needs of all the children in your family. development. It offers support to working parents. Your pediatrician • Location of your workplace, home and child care facility. wants your child to grow and develop with enjoyment in a setting • Hours you need child care. that supports you as a parent. • What you can afford. In the final analysis, locating a child care provider with whom you When you begin your search, start with the telephone. Plan to are confident is well worth the searching. Why? Your child benefits spend a few minutes with each call. Describe your needs and ask greatly from such an arrangement, meeting and interacting with about the program, staff, location, other children in care, and what other children and adults. The child learns and grows from is included in the cost. Make an appointment and visit the center, experience, often times a major step in establishing independence school or home, and plan on spending at least an hour at each and becoming his or her “own person.” And you feel more at ease place. Visit once to observe the children in care and at another time leaving them. outside of regular structured hours to spend time with provider or For more information you may want to visit the following website: director. American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org In any group center, health, safety, and hygiene must be given priority in all settings. All children and staff members should have current immunizations; staff should have clear criminal background checks. The facility must be child-proof and all staff members should wear disposable gloves when changing diapers. Toys should be disinfected on a regular basis and frequent hand washing should be promoted among the staff and children to minimize the spread of infection.

40 ] San Francisco Information Guide TYPES OF HIGHER EDUCATION

Community Colleges Nearly 3 million students are believed to be taking online classes Community colleges exist for two major purposes. The first is to at institutions of higher education in the United States this year. That serve as a bridge from high school to college by providing courses number has been growing about 25% a year recently. Now, virtually for transfer toward a bachelor’s degree. Four out of 10 college- all public higher education institutions, as well as a vast majority of bound high-school graduates start their college education this way. private, for-profit institutions, now offer online classes. By contrast, The second function of community colleges is to prepare only about half of private, nonprofit schools offer them. students for the job market by offering entry-level career training as Online schools offer everything from Associate’s degrees to well as courses for adult students who want to upgrade their skills Doctoral programs with available emphases in everything from for the workplace. They often offer programs that are not available Business Administration to Criminal Justice to Nursing. Some at four-year schools, like fashion design. programs require students to attend some campus classes or Liberal Arts Colleges orientations, but many are delivered completely online. Liberal arts colleges offer a broad base of courses in the Online courses generally require a computer with a broadband humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Most are private and connection, but are now a serious option for the busy professional. focus mainly on undergraduate students. Classes tend to be small Public vs. Private and personal attention is available. Public colleges are usually less expensive, particularly for in-state Online Learning residents. They get most of their money from the state or local Recent years have witnessed the rise of online degree programs, government. Private colleges rely on tuition, fees, endowments, and to allow the busy professional a chance to work at their own pace other private sources. Private colleges are usually smaller and can from the comfort of their home on the path to getting a degree. The offer more personalized attention and often more prestige. costs to students are typically the same as for traditional classes— Universities and financial aid is equally available—while the cost to the institution Generally, a university is bigger than a college and offers more can be much less. majors and research facilities. Class size often reflects institutional There are online universities ranging from legitimate distance size and some classes may taught by graduate students. learning systems to fly-by-night degree-mills. It’s important to Upper Division research a particular institution before deciding to enroll in their Upper-division schools offer the last two years of undergraduate system. Generally, brick-and-mortar schools that also offer online study, usually in specialized programs leading to a bachelor’s classes are the safest, though there are plenty of fully accredited degree. Students then generally transfer to an upper-division online universities out there. college after completing an associate degree or after finishing a second year of study at a four-year college.

DEGREES AND CERTIFICATES

Certificate or Diploma Combined Bachelor’s/Graduate Degree (or Joint Degree) These non-degree offerings generally lead to employment in an Complete a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or first-professional occupational field. For example, to enter fields such as computer degree in less than the usual amount of time. In most programs, science or teaching, you may first have to get a certificate or students apply to the graduate program during their first three years diploma. of undergraduate study, and begin the graduate program in their Associate Degree fourth year of college. Successful completion results in awarding of You receive an associate of arts (AA) or associate of science (AS) both bachelor’s and graduate degrees. These are sometimes degree after completing two years of study similar to the first two referred to as “4 +1” programs. years of a four-year college. After earning an AA or an AS, you may Masters Degree transfer to a four-year college to complete the requirements for a These signify more specialized training in a particular field. They bachelor’s degree. The associate of applied science (AAS) degree is are competed after the bachelor’s degree, usually over the course awarded on completion of technological or vocation programs of of 2 years for the full time student. study. Doctorates Bachelor’s or Baccalaureate Degree These generally signify some significant research in the field, and Complete a four- or five-year, full-time program of study (or its are an upper level degree. part-time equivalent) at a college. The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) are the most common.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 41 PAYING FOR SCHOOL

FAFSA www.fafsa.gov It’s not recommended that you participate in any website that FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form asks you to pay a fee to search for a scholarship; there are many that must be filled out annually by university to determine their wonderful free sites available. eligibility for federal financial aid (including grants, loans, and work- Types of Financial Aid study programs). In addition, most states and schools use information from the FAFSA to award non-federal aid. Financial aid may be classified into two types based on the criteria through which the financial aid is awarded: merit-based or The FAFSA consists of numerous questions regarding the need-based. student’s finances, as well as those of his or her family; these are Merit-Based entered into a formula that determines the Expected Family Merit-scholarships are typically awarded for outstanding Contribution. The amount of the EFC can vary widely, depending on academic achievements, although some merit scholarships can a number of factors; for example, one such factor is whether a also be awarded for special talents, leadership potential and other student has siblings in college at the time. personal characteristics. Merit scholarships are sometimes The best place to look for help before you start filling out your awarded without regard for the financial need of the applicant. FAFSA is at your school's financial aid office. Athletic scholarships are a form of merit aid that takes athletic talent Other Sources into account. FAFSA only scratches the surface of the money available to Need-Based students for school. There are many state and private scholarships Need-based financial aid is awarded on the basis of the financial out there. The easiest way to find listings of what scholarships that need of the student. The amount of need based aid is generally you may qualify for is by going to a scholarship database online and based off the criteria on the FAFSA. doing a search. Some handy sites for this are: Loans Lunch-money.com While included in the term “financial aid” Higher Education Loans Finaid.org differ from scholarships and grants in that they must be paid back. Fastweb.com They come in several varieties in the United States Collegeboard.com • Federal Student Loans made to students directly: No payments until after graduation, but amounts are quite limited • Federal Student Loans made to parents: Much higher limit, but payments start immediately • Private Student Loans made to students or parents: Higher limits and no payments until after graduation. Getting Your MBA Part-time Getting your MBA may be imperative to you and your career. More than 40% of all graduate students are working adults, so it is possible to balance the rest of your life with your desire to continue your education. You’ll generally spend three to four hours a week with the instructor in a 3-credit class. It’s generally recommended that you spend about 8 additional hours a week studying and preparing for the next classroom session, so 12-15 hrs a week total. So where are you going to find an extra 15 hrs a week? It helps to journal how you do spend your time during the week, and then list priorities. Lower priority items, like watching TV, may take up more time than you realize, and can be shelved so you can continue your education. Re-prioritizing your time is the most crucial step in ensuring you’ll have success on your path to your degree. Make sure you discuss your goals with your boss, friends, and family, so they know what to expect as you add this major commitment to your life.

42 ] San Francisco Information Guide RELOCATING YOUR PET

Your coffee is finally brewing after what seemed like an endless it comes to relocating. Most people just expect their pets to wake search through the boxes left by the moving company. The disk up completely adapted to their new surroundings as if nothing jockey on the radio reads the weather forecast and you learn that it changed. Although this is true for many pets, just as many find is 70 degrees outside with an expected high of 75. Your company relocating to be traumatic. Furthermore, most people wait until their doesn’t even have to give you a raised to move here. pet is ill before finding a new veterinarian. Just as you start thinking that everything is proceeding smoothly What should you do then for your pet when relocating? Actually and that your new city really does have a lot to offer, you realize the place to begin is in your hometown before you move. Speak to Prince, your four-year old Great Dane, isn’t acting right. Now what? your own veterinarian and tell him/her where you are moving and Is he really sick? Homesick? What’s worse is that you don’t know ask his/her advice. In most cases, this alone will be sufficient to find where the closest veterinarian is located and, of course, he or she out what is necessary to prepare your pet for transition. Further, can’t be as good as Dr. Morris…and Prince just loved Dr. Morris. people will be surprised how often their veterinarian can Farfetched? Not really. Pets are probably most overlooked when recommend someone in the area where they are moving. Whether or not this person will actually become your new veterinarian is not as important as the peace of mind that the recommendation is from someone you trust. Finally, don’t wait until your pet is ill before looking for a veterinarian. This is an extremely emotional time and nothing can be more traumatic than having to find a veterinarian in the midst of a crisis. It is obvious, then, that you should find a new veterinarian before that first crisis occurs so that when the need arises, you will be prepared. How do you go about finding a new veterinarian in a new city? The best place to begin is simply the NewMarket Services Information Guide. Location is an important factor, as many pets don’t travel well and, in the case of emergency, distance may be a factor in receiving timely treatment. After making a list of local veterinary clinics, take the time to go visit them. Talk to the staff. Ask about office hours, fees, whether appointments are required, and what services are available. Also, ask if it is possible to talk to the doctor so that you can introduce yourself and at least have a first impression to help you make your choice. Finally, ask your neighbors which veterinarians they take their pets to and why. Then, of course, it’s your decision, but at least you have gathered some information on which to base your decision. All dogs should be vaccinated for the possibly fatal disease Parvovirus. Remember to NEVER leave your pet in a car in hot weather, as heat conditions in cars can quickly become fatal to animals.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 43 Choose the MBA with mobility.

When your career takes you to new places, it’s good to know that a Keller MBA has the mobility to move with you. With flexible options you need to succeed, you can go from a stressed-out mover to mover and shaker. Our Network of 85+ University Locations An MBA from DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management offers the “ility” you need—wherever you are today and wherever you go tomorrow.

Credibility. At Keller, we’ve delivered a professional edge for 35 years. So, you know you’re earning your MBA from an accredited, national recognized leader in graduate management education.

Flexibility. Choose from eight-week sessions that begin six times each year. Attend classes part-time, weekends, or evenings.

Ability. You can mix and match online and onsite learning at any of our more than 85 nationwide locations. Take your coursework with you. Onsite Online And get the support you need, any time, anywhere.

Four locations in the San Francisco area So, unpack later... Go online now and learn more about Keller’s MBA degree program at kelleradvantage.com/mobility. Daly City San Francisco Or call us at 888.KELLER.0 (888.535.5370) today. Fremont San Jose

DeVry University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org. Keller Graduate School of Management is included in this accreditation. © 2009 DeVry University. All rights reserved. Program availability varies by location. In New York, DeVry University operates as DeVry College of New York. DeVry is certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia, 101 North 14th Street, Richmond 23219, (804) 255-2621. AC0060 FITNESS AND HEALTH

IN THE KITCHEN

tarting with Thanksgiving, turkey is an important part of many holiday meals. We all look forward to the smell of the turkey roasting for hours in our homes. It is very Swelcoming for guests, and puts everyone in a festive mood. Most of the fat in turkey is within the skin and most of the fat within the meat is in the dark meat. The white meat with the skin removed is a good food source for people on low- fat or low sodium diets. The meat fiber is easier to digest than other types of meat, which makes it a good choice for individuals that may have digestive problems.Turkey is an excellent source of several important vitamins and nutrients such as iron, niacin, zinc, potassium, and B vitamins. And what about blaming the turkey for your after dinner lethargy? Turkey does contain L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid that has a sleep inducing effect. However, L-tryptophan needs to be taken on an empty stomach and without any other amino acids or protein in order to make you drowsy. There’s lots of protein in a serving of turkey and it's probably not the only food you are consuming at the meal. The truth is that you could omit the bird altogether and still feel the effects of the meal! The day after the feast is equally anticipated for those wonderful leftovers. But you can only eat so many turkey sandwiches and may need another use for the scraps. Try the chili recipe below. And after the first of year when all of the treats are gone and the waistband needs shrinking, try the recipe with ground turkey for a low-fat, satisfying meal. Simple Turkey Chili Ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 (16 ounce) cans canned kidney beans - 2 onion, chopped drained, rinsed, and mashed 2 tablespoons garlic, minced 1/3 cup chili powder, or to taste 4 cups water 1 teaspoon paprika 4 cups cooked turkey, chopped 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 2 pounds ground turkey 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 2 (28 ounce) cans canned crushed 1 teaspoon ground cumin tomatoes 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Direction Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Stir in onion and garlic, and cook until tender. Pour water into the pot. Mix in all remaining ingredients except kidney beans, and garlic.Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes. Add kidney beans. Serves 16.

Please visit our website, www.NewMarketServices for more recipes. Be one of the first 25 people to enter a recipe this month and receive $10 and automatic entry into our $2500 semi-annual best recipe contest. See website for details.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 45 PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Choosing a Health Club • Does the club offer instruction in a sport or activity that you might Your move is filled with many new challenges. If your life style want to learn (tennis, squash, swimming, etc.)? includes working out a priority will be to find a club that meets your • Does the club offer a variety of leagues? If you want to compete needs. Or a new move may bring the perfect time to implement - is the club affiliated to the right leagues, and does it have teams those healthy lifestyle changes that were on your New Year’s of the right standard for your competencies? Resolution list for the past several years. • Does the club offer a variety of high-quality weight equipment? It Begin your search before you move. Ask your current club for should include free weights, such as barbells and dumbbells, and recommendations or perhaps they even have reciprocity with a club machine weights, you really need both to get a proper workout. in your new location. If you belong to a national chain, chances are • Does the club offer a sufficient number and variety of programs good that you will be able to transfer your membership. for you to achieve other goals (stress management, weight However if you do find yourself looking for a new club, use this management, smoking cessation, social activities, etc.)? check list to help you find the place that will work best for you. • Are there long lines at the equipment, or crowded aerobics When visiting a club use your own observations and question the classes, at the time that you would be using the club? staff and current members. Be sure your new club will be able to • What are the real costs? Make sure you understand all rates, meet your fitness, social, and safety needs. charges and fees because these can vary widely, and many clubs • Is the club clean and well maintained, especially the locker rooms require contracts ranging from a few weeks to a year or more. Be and the shower areas? sure you’re entitled to use all facilities, such as pools and spas at • Are staff members friendly and helpful? Make sure there is always no extra charge. someone available to answer your questions, to show you a new • Is child care available if you need it? exercise, or how to use a piece of equipment. • Is there adequate parking available if you need it? • Does the location for work for you? It’s best to select a club that’s One way to find out whether a club is right for you is to try it out near where you live or work. for a few days. Some clubs offer a special guest pass for • Do fitness staff members have appropriate educational prospective members. But even if you have to pay for a week to try backgrounds and/or certification from nationally recognized it out, it’s better to spend the money than to make a long-term certifying agencies? commitment to a club that doesn’t work out. Try the club during the • Are new members provided with a club orientation and hours you will normally be using it. It will give you a realistic idea of instruction on how to use equipment? what the club environment while you are there. • What age group do you see while visiting? If you are in your 50’s, It’s important to read health club contracts carefully. Don’t do you really want to work out with a group in their 20’s (and vice assume the club offers classes such as aerobics as part of the versa)? Be sure to visit club at the time you will be normally using membership. While some do, others charge extra. If the health club the facilities. requires a long-term commitment, find out whether you’ll be able to • Does the club have the cardiovascular resistance equipment you get a refund if you need to cancel your membership due to a job want and need to achieve your fitness goals? transfer, an injury or if you simply find that the club isn’t working for • Does the club offer sufficient number and variety of programs for you. you to achieve your fitness goals (aerobic, racquet sports, It’s a fact that of every three people who join a health club, only basketball, etc.)? If classes or group activities help to motivate one will work out there 100 days a year. Find a club that you are you and the health club doesn’t offer the classes you need, comfortable with and you will greatly increase your chances of sticking with your exercise program won’t be realistic. being the one of three people that are there more than 100 days a year. NewMarket Services wishes you good health.

46 ] San Francisco Information Guide PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Coping With Change where to go to make new friends can bring feelings of isolation and Did you know that your body and mind sense change as stress? loneliness. Whether you change the place you live or where you work, it all Creatures of Habit adds up to stress. The more changes that come at one time, the Psychologically, most of us are creatures of habit and quickly more stress you experience. develop repetitive patterns that make us feel comfortable and Self-Image secure. Ever notice that most people find the same seat or section Your attitudes towards change often depend on your self image of the commuter train or bus? Drivers usually take the same route and expectations of how difficult it may be. Your self image is the every day. We do this in order to reduce stress. inner vision of who you are. It is the basis of your every thought, The sameness of established behavior develops a sense of word and action. Moving, with the many changes it entails, offers an control over ourselves and surroundings. By seeking repetitive excellent opportunity to modify and/or improve your self image habits, we save our energy for new events that are either through the risks of taking positive action. unpredictable or uncontrollable. When change removes the Some people welcome change as a challenge or an exciting new sameness from our lives, we attempt to relieve the tension experience. Others may resent the inconvenience and extra effort produced by uncertainty and newness. We look for ways to develop they need to make to re-establish a comfortable routine. Still others other familiar patterns. feel overwhelmed by the unknown and are not sure where to go or to whom to turn. Often, stress causes old issues, defeats or concerns to resurface. Perhaps new worries and fears form unexpectedly, or you feel tired and fatigued most of the time. Decision making abilities are affected, and you seem to be having less fun and enjoyment. These are all telltale signs of stress brought on by change. When signs of stress affect you, it may be a time of emotional transition, indicating old behavior patterns are not as effective as they once were. This is often a good time for self-reflection-to look at what you like in yourself and what you do not like. Stress When you relocate to a new city, all categories of your life are changed. Along with the obvious changes listed above, moving to a new community requires finding new sources for familiar services. Finding a new hairdresser, barber, drugstore, food market, doctor, lawyer, cleaner and shoemaker are all necessary. You not only have to locate these services, but you need to determine if you are satisfied with the quality of the services provided. Forming a comfortable working relationship with the service provider adds more stress to the change itself. Management of Change Perhaps your whole lifestyle changes if you are moving from a To manage change effectively, several simple steps will help you smaller or larger community. With long-distance moves, you will adjust to the newness and extra effort needed to establish different have to make new friends and develop a different emotional support patterns in your life. system. When these changes are not made through your own • Organize your time so you can finish the tasks you have choices, but are the decisions of a boss or someone in your family, planned. then the stress is even greater. Children have to make changes • Have realistic expectations. Do not plan to complete everything because of their parents. They need special help and understanding within the first few weeks. getting settled in school and making new friends. Often, they will have difficulties as they adjust to the new surroundings. • List your priorities and finish each one before you go on to the next. Changes produce stress not only within yourself, but also with the people with whom you are close. It may cause you to react • Provide your body with recreational time and time to relax. differently from your usual behavior. If you are in a relationship or • Trust your first impressions; they are most often right. marriage, you may find more tension developing, with less patience Periods of change can offer you an opportunity for growth within or tolerance of the other person. If you live alone, not knowing yourself. Professional consultation may be useful during this period.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 47 PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Choosing a Primary Care Provider Guidelines to Narrow Your Choices One of the most important decisions that you will make in your • Insurance – With the risings costs of health care, be sure your relocation process is choosing a Primary Care Provider for you and insurance will be accepted. your family. Don’t put off the decision until you get sick. Your PCP • Professional credentials - any provider you consider should have will be responsible for approximately 90% of your health care. The graduated from an accredited medical school, and be sure relationship you develop with this health professional can be the key they're board certified. to keeping illness at bay, and it is your best connection into the rest • Professional affiliations - Your provider should be affiliated with a of the medical system. Your PCP can help you seek appropriate large, well-equipped hospital, either as a staff member or as an consultations with specialists if or when the medical problem is attending physician, a title that carries with it admitting privileges. beyond the realm of his expertise. • Practice arrangements - You may choose a solo practitioner or a A generation ago, people relied on General Practitioners (GPs) for group practice, in which two or more doctors in the same all their medical needs, from treating colds, and backaches to specialty or different specialties share the same office. setting broken arms and delivering babies. The competent GP • Location and office hours - If these aren’t convenient, you may knew the medical histories of every member of a patient's family have a difficult time making an appointment. because he treated them all. Today, Primary Care Providers are bringing this tradition back with the addition of providing preventive Make a Consultation Visit and Consider the Following health measures. More emphasis is now placed on preventive • Office is clean and the staff is courteous and helpful. medicine. You are now responsible for the health of you and your • You are seen by the doctor within a reasonable time of your family by making informed decisions, improving your diet and appointment or you are given a good explanation for any delay. exercising. A primary care provider (PCP) is a general practitioner • You are not rushed through the visit. The provider listens to you, who sees people of all ages for common medical problems. Your does not interrupt you and encourages you to voice your PCP is often involved in your care for a long time, so it is important concerns about your health. to select someone with whom you will work well. You will want to • The doctor is well-informed about preventive health measures, choose someone that emphasizes wellness and self-care by giving such as nutrition, exercise and the widely recommended use of you the information needed to make healthy lifestyle choices and screening tests. He should be quick to inform you of healthy health care decisions. lifestyle choices. Below are some guidelines to help you make your decision. • You’re comfortable talking to the doctor and the doctor explains Begin by Gathering Some Choices. things so that you can understand. • Before you move ask your current health care provider for a referral. You can also ask other doctors you respect and see Most importantly, don’t put off the decision until you get sick. If a regularly. health care problem arises, and you have not yet chosen a provider, it is usually best to seek non-emergency care from an “urgent care • If you belong to a managed care plan, find out what doctors are center” rather than a hospital emergency room. This will often save affiliated with it. you time and money. However recent years, many emergency • Ask friends, relatives or business associates. Referrals from rooms have expanded their services to include reasonably priced people you know are usually based on trust and confidence in the urgent care within the emergency room itself or an adjoining area— provider. to find out, call the hospital first. • Hospitals usually offer a referral service that can provide you with the names of staff doctors who meet certain criteria you may be seeking, however they will not vouch for the quality of care.

48 ] San Francisco Information Guide VOLUNTEERING IN YOUR COMMUNITY

One of the best ways to become involved in your new community Many people are reminded of their wish to volunteer during is through volunteering. The benefits of volunteering are many, for holiday seasons, but this is when organizations might have an everyone involved. Ask your employer for advice. Many companies excess of help. If you want to volunteer during the holiday, give employees paid time off to volunteer and will often publicize remember to contact the organization in advance. Otherwise, time their employees’ community service. According to the research your work for the lean season. group Independent Sector, the U.S. volunteer sector is equivalent to Volunteering is fun, leads to learning new skills, meeting 9 million full-time workers. Whether you have an hour or a weekend, interesting people, making new friends, sharing your talents, and if you want to help kids or the environment, there are great keeping in touch with the community in which you live. Whether it is organizations that will excite your particular interest, broaden your important to you to solve a community problem, advance a worthy horizons and fit into your time schedule. cause or to develop as a person, volunteering offers many benefits Don’t forget to include your family. If your children are school age in appreciation for the gift of your time and expertise. chances are there are many opportunities to volunteer at their Once you have chosen an area of interest, how should you go school, or even in their classroom. That is a great way to meet other about involving yourself? See what the Web can do for you. 1-800- parents with children the same age. Clean up a neighborhood park Volunteer.org, a service of the Points of Light Foundation & with your children. Spend a morning at a homeless shelter with your Volunteer Center National Network provides listings of local and children. You’ll find that volunteering is not only a fun family-bonding virtual volunteering as well as contact information for Volunteer experience but a great way to teach children the importance of Centers across the nation. Open the classified section of your local giving back to the community. paper. Check out the bulletin boards in your office. Or just start How you get involved with your community depends on your calling the local agencies you're interested in. interests, skills and time. Choose something that fits well in to your One of the best ways to make these contacts is to walk right into schedule and makes you excited about working together to help the organization—a library, a shelter, training facility, or a political make a difference. Every person has that capability. Each of us can office—and find out who organizes volunteers. You can tell a lot by right a wrong, fill a plate, visit a shut-in or clean up a park, and that meeting the volunteer coordinator and any volunteers who happen does make the world a better place. to be on duty. While you won’t earn a paycheck for volunteering, There are several things to consider when choosing in what to you will earn valuable experience, a sense of accomplishment, and involve yourself. First of all be selective, think about what matters to the satisfaction that only comes from personally making the world a you, and where you wish to spend your time. If you have certain better place to live. social issues that you feel passionate about, it’s a great place to put your energy. You may have particular skills that will steer you toward a certain organization. Are you willing to explore new opportunities? Volunteering can teach you valuable new skills that you may use in other parts of your life. "You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give." - Winston Churchill

San Francisco Information Guide [ 49 50 ] San Francisco Information Guide HOUSING

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE…

Rent or Buy? The decision to rent or buy in your new location is dependent upon many considerations unique to your personal situation. Some of the potential factors involve the tax implications, down payment, other investment vehicles, the length of time you are anticipating being in your new location and whether or not your current home has sold. If you decide to buy, should you purchase an existing home or build a new one? Again, many factors have to be considered. Will an existing home need a lot of repair or remodeling to bring it to your standards? What about the difference in the cost of operation and maintenance between new and an existing structure? How should you finance a renovation? Which home will appreciate faster? Will it be difficult to get a construction loan? Is it better to rent for a while to become familiar with neighborhoods in your new city? What about capital gains tax if you don’t close in time? We suggest you seek the advice of a certified financial planner and a realtor to thoroughly clarify your options. These choices can become quite complex. Some Advantages to Renting Whether you’re in your first apartment or a longtime resident, there are many advantages you are afforded by choosing apartment living. Mobility: You enjoy the freedom to move, to accept that better job, to take the vacation you’ve dreamed of. No maintenance: Just relax and delight in the grounds and facilities maintenance technicians keeps attractive for you. Flexibility: You have the ability to increase or decrease your living space without the burden of sales pitches, closing costs, interest rates or the high cost of maintaining a home and property. Location: The choice is yours! Recreation: Chances are, you’ve chosen an apartment community with a swimming pool, tennis court, weight room or sauna. Apartments have the equipment and people to maintain them, which is no small task for the homeowner. No waiting: If you’re like most apartment residents, moving into your apartment was easy and fast. You settled into your new home without lengthy paperwork, a loan approval period or a large financial investment. Your Current Residence As you prepare to move, a big decision may include whether to sell or rent your current property. Ask yourself the following questions as you make this decision. You may also want to ask advice from a real estate agent.

continued on page 52

San Francisco Information Guide [ 51 MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

Market Inspect kitchen appliances. Check the stove to see if all burners Is it a seller’s market? Signs include low interest rates and work. Does the range have a hood with a fan? Is the oven self- shortage of homes for sale. How long have similar homes been on cleaning? Is the stove gas or electric? If it is gas, you may have an the market and how long are you willing to let your home be on the extra monthly charge for cooking gas. This would also be true if you market? Or is it a good rental market and do rental units have tenant had a gas clothes dryer in your unit. Check out the waiting lists? Is your property in a trendy area? Desirable areas refrigerator/freezer for storage space. Is there enough counter and typically garner higher rents and seldom have vacancies. cabinet space? Don’t forget to keep an eye out for bugs, especially Financial in a high-rise building. Is this property good for rental income? Can you charge more for Inspect the central air conditioning and heating systems. Ask rent than you pay for mortgage, taxes and upkeep? How will selling other tenants if there is enough heat in the winter. It can be costly if affect your federal and state tax situation? Furthermore, if your you have to buy or rent window air conditioning units. property does not sell quickly, can you afford to keep the home Is there enough storage space? Do you have enough closets for vacant while it’s on the market? If not, do you feel you will be able clothes, linens and general items. Are there built-in shelves and to find a renter on a short-term basis? Are you likely to want to move bookcases for books and DVDs? Do you also get a storage space back into the home some day? that is not adjacent to the unit? Rental Tips Does the building have special amenities such as a swimming Apartment experts say that some detective work is needed to pool, game room, barbecue area, and exercise room or tennis conduct a search that finds the most livable rental residence for the courts? Keep in mind that recreational amenities generally will money. After you have weeded out a good apartment complex from increase your rent. You should consider what features you will really many rent signs and/or listings, scanned the neighborhood you like use. for the best rental possibilities, you will be ready to scrutinize each How is the noise level in the complex? Have neighbors been property and landlord for shortcomings. It is easy for a prospective playing music louder than you prefer? Are you located by a major tenant to gather quick clues about the general care, maintenance of airport, freeway or train tracks? the building, and cleanliness of the area overall. Try to talk to the Do you need an apartment that takes pets? If not, do you want tenant who is vacating the apartment you are planning to rent. He to live in an area that does? Do tenants appear to be cleaning up or she can tell you a great deal about the pluses and minuses of after their pets? What is the management policy for pet size and living there. Here are some tips for inspecting the inside of the maintenance? apartment: Rental experts suggest that tenants should tour several Is it clean? Carpet should be cleaned and walls/ceilings should apartment complexes before placing a deposit on a unit. The be freshly painted. Does the apartment have a bad odor? It could minimum deposit to hold a unit is usually $100. Prospective renters be a tip that the prior tenant had a pet or cooked spicy foods. still need to fill out an application and pay an application fee. This Check room sizes with a floor plan. Make sure the furniture that will hold your unit while your employment, credit and rental histories you will be moving will fit. Is the bedroom near the bathroom? Does are being checked out. This process usually takes 7 to 10 days to the dining room adjoin the kitchen? complete.

52 ] San Francisco Information Guide CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME

Making a final decision and determining which house to make an Property Taxes offer on shouldn’t be taken lightly. The decision should be made Property taxes may vary from one neighborhood to another. This rationally and not guided by emotion. You most likely won’t have the can sometimes affect whether you view a community as a desirable luxury of taking your time on deciding which house you’d like to place to live. Higher property taxes often mean newer and more pursue. However, since it is such a major decision you would like to modern schools, well-maintained roads, and bountiful community base it on factual information. Some broad categories to consider services. are: Schools Appreciation If you have school-aged children and plan to send them to public Ask your real estate agent to retrieve sales of homes in the school, you definitely want to consider the reputation of the neighborhood over the past few years. If one neighborhood shows neighborhood school. If you plan on sending your child to a private an annual average 8 percent increase and another is skyrocketing school, how long is the commute? You will likely spend a lot of time at 15 percent, you may have your decision made. driving your child not only during the school day but for extra- Crime curricular events outside the daily school schedule. Which ever Go to the local police or sheriff department and ask about crime school you decide, you can usually find general district information in your specific neighborhood. You might find theft or vandalism to and state standardized test results online. Always plan a visit to the be more prevalent in one area than another. Also please visit the school and receive the information first-hand from school website, www.familywatchdog.us. When you visit this site you can administrators. You should also talk to teachers and parents. enter your address and a map will pop up with your house as the Sellers’ Situations small icon of a house and red, blue, green, dots surrounding your If you don’t know already, ask your real estate agent how long the entire neighborhood. When you click on these dots a picture of a house has been on the market. Usually the longer a house has been person will appear with an address and the description of the crime listed, the better chance the seller will accept an offer lower than he or she had committed. asking price. Conversely, if the house has been on the market for Drawbacks just a couple days, the sellers will probably wait for a better offer if Rarely will you be lucky enough to find a perfect place. Think you offer less than the listed price. Your real estate agent might also about the cons associated with each house and determine to be able to dig up additional information about the sellers, like why correct them or how much of a negative impact each will have. they’re selling. If it’s a job-related move or a divorce, the sellers likely want to move as quickly as possible, meaning you have a better The House shot at them accepting a lower price. Make a list of the amenities and attributes you want your house to have. Be specific. Prioritize that list. Then, rate how each house Style and Substance measures up to each need on your list. The SUBSTANCE are things that cannot be changed such as the location, view, size of lot, noise in the area, school district, and floor Neighborhoods plan. The STYLE represents easily changed surface finishes like If you have kids or pets and being close to a park is important, carpet, wallpaper, color, and window coverings. Buy the house with you’ll want to consider that. How close are shopping, restaurants, good SUBSTANCE, because the STYLE can always be changed to churches, and other services? Are the streets maintained? How do match your tastes. your prospective neighbors keep up their property? How long will your commute to work be?

San Francisco Information Guide [ 53 HOUSING OPTIONS FOR GROWING ACTIVE ADULTS DEMOGRAPHIC

The California Department of Aging estimates the growth of vary greatly. “What seniors are really looking for when they’re people age 60 and older will grow by as much as 149 percent by considering a move is choice,” said Murch. “They’re looking for the the year 2020 in Sacramento, El Dorado and Placer Counties. right location, the amenities they want, services they may need, all Home builders are now listening to those numbers. Innovative tied to a provider with a good reputation.” designs and careful consideration of the needs of active adults are Lorna and Howard Hansen recently began looking at the Eskaton now being studied to construct communities that include many Village in Placerville. “Our house is so close that we’ve watched services needed by active adults. Retirement villages now come them building the development from our deck,” said Howard complete with clubhouses for socialization, meal deliveries and Hansen. His wife said they know it’s time to consider “slowing transportation options to just name a few. Seniors will now have to down” and likes the advantages offered at the new development. do their homework to find out which development is right for them. “We want to still be able to enjoy all the programs they offer, and The senior housing trend started with senior apartments where not wait until we’re too old,” said Lorna Hansen. “We’re doing what residents are monitored on a daily basis and have access to in- we wished our parents had done.” home emergency services. That was just the beginning of a now The Hansen said taking care of their parents who stayed in their extensive list of developments that cater to senior citizens. Many homes was very difficult and like the options available to them at the senior communities in the greater Sacramento area include access new development. to pools, gyms and clubhouses and are age restricted. Valerie Condie, director of sales for Lakemont said seniors are The newest developments enable seniors to own a private very savvy when it comes to buying a home. “They’ve done their residence, maintain their independent lifestyles while having many homework and know what they want,” said Condie. “They don’t services available to them when the needs arise. want a sales pitch. They want you to listen to their needs. When One of the newest innovations in senior living has come out of people buy a home at one of the Eskaton Villages, they’ll never have collaboration between Eskaton and Lakemont Homes. Two senior to worry about home maintenance, all that is taken care of for them, communities, one in Roseville and the other in Placerville now offer from cleaning the gutters, taking care of the roof and paint, to a full range of options for seniors. Seniors may choose a single maintaining the landscape.” Condie said this will allow seniors to family home or a duet to buy. Condominiums are also available and travel even for extended trips without any worries. a Lodge is designated for residents with memory loss or for those Emergency needs will be handled on site with pull cords in the who need specialized care. homes and pendants that can be worn around the neck while Eskaton has led the nation by identifying the needs of seniors outside. “When they pull that cord or touch that button, the person since 1968. CEO Todd Murch said the housing needs of seniors responding will know who they are, where they are, and what

54 ] San Francisco Information Guide HOUSING OPTIONS FOR GROWING ACTIVE ADULTS DEMOGRAPHIC

medical conditions they suffer from,” said Condie. “All their medical help them through that process. We can refer them to a real estate records will be updated as needed.” agent who understands their needs. Moving is an added burden. Truman and Joanne Gray, also residents of Placerville, visited the Lakemont Homes is currently working on a partnership with model homes and said they were impressed with the development. Eskaton Moving Connections.” Moving Connections meets with “I really like the fact that it’s all seniors living here,” said Joanne Gray. clients and plans what furniture and possessions are going to be “Our house is just too big and it would be great not to have any kids moved. They facilitate what is done with unwanted possessions, in hot rods running up and down the roads.” offer help with furniture placement and interior design. On moving Truman Gray said he liked the fact that it was close to a hospital. day, they pack up and unload all items, placing furniture and “We’re all getting a little older every day,” he said. “You don’t know artwork where the client desires. when you might need some of the services they offer.” Both the Four model homes are available for tours in Placerville. Prices Gray’s said they really appreciated the beautiful view of the start from the high $300,000s and sizes range from 1,175 to 1,611 mountains. sq. ft. All homes feature spacious master suites, elegant entries, Many of the senior developments also include social activities, covered patios and 2-car garages. Three condominium floor plans golf courses, card playing groups, and day excursions. are also available for purchase. Homes at Eskaton Village are constructed with details designed In Roseville, four model homes feature many options for to make daily tasks easier. Sinks and counters are built higher than homebuyers to choose from. Optional 2-story homes are available average, as well as custom height toilets. Showers have extra with roomy guest suites or dens. Prices start from the mid handrails, built-in seats and linen closets located right in the $300,000s and sizes range from 1,163 to 2,171 sq. ft. bathroom Lakemont Homes took many cues from Eskaton when New options for seniors are growing almost as fast as their they drafted their house plans. demographic, so seniors should consider their needs, wants and According to Condie, one of the biggest concerns seniors have possible future needs before signing on the dotted line. For more when considering a new-home purchase is selling their current information about senior housing you may log onto www.aarp.org residence and the problems associated with moving. “Seniors want or www.eskaton.org or phone AARP at (888) 687-2277 or Eskaton to know how to get from point A to point B,” she said. “We try to at (888) 334-3490.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 55 HOME INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Finding faults in a home doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t Interior buy it. But it will help you to know the type of repair costs that The kitchen and baths are the most expensive rooms to should be anticipated, and sellers often will make adjustments in renovate, so check their condition carefully. A newly-painted interior their asking price on the basis of problems discovered in an may look nice, but it could be hiding something. inspection. Plumbing Inspectors look for the following: Turn on the bathroom sink faucet and shower and then flush the Brick and Concrete toilet. When the toilet starts to refill, does the water pressure Check pavement, driveways and horizontal brick surfaces for diminish? Fill sinks and tub with three inches of water. Do they drain cracks. Is there damage from freezing? What is the condition of the properly? Do faucets leak? Lift up the carpeting. Are there any signs mortar between the bricks? Is any pavement buckling from of flooding or decay? spreading underground tree roots? Roof Electrical Are shingles curling and lifting? Find out how old the roof is, and Open the door on the fuse box or circuit-breaker panel. Is the you will have a pretty good idea of when you will have to replace it. electrical service adequate? The average house should have 100- Termites and Carpenter Ants amp service. Is it wired for 220 volts, which is necessary for electric Look for evidence of termites and carpenter ants on basement dryers and ranges? wood framing. Is there saw dust like wood or paper debris? Can Exterior you find evidence of termite tubes or tunnels? Termites live in earth, Is the house well maintained? Does the roof sag? Are the exterior so make sure that there are no places where earth is closer than six walls out of line? What is the condition of the paint, especially on the inches to wood. Like termites, carpenter ants like wood and wood south and west sides, where sun exposure is greatest? Is there products. adequate drainage away from the house? Water Damage Heating & Cooling Look in the basement for signs of leakage. This could be a result How old is the heating/cooling system? Has it been maintained? of poor drainage around the house. Water damage also is caused Ask to see the owner’s cooling bills for the previous year. This will by seepage through porous basement walls and condensation, give you an idea of its energy efficiency. which frequently is caused by inadequate ventilation. Basement Insulation walls painted a dark color may be an effort to disguise a past Check the attic and crawl space. Is the insulation adequate and problem. Beware of chalky white water stains on foundation walls complete? Has it been properly installed? Does the insulation or partitions; stains on wood and drywall; delamination of paneling obstruct the air vents, preventing the house from “breathing” and and lifting or buckling floor tiles; or a damp, mildew odor. possibly causing wood rot? Does the home have storm windows? Windows and Doors Has the glazing putty dried and shrunk, allowing water and air seepage? Is the wood decayed? Are the window and door frames caulked and weather-stripped?

56 ] San Francisco Information Guide HOME CARE BASICS FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS

You’ve finally done it—you’ve just moved into your brand new Appliances home. The smell of fresh paint still permeates the air. You’re likely Remember to read the instruction manual for every appliance in consumed with unpacking, setting up furnishings, rearranging, your new home. The manuals provide recommended cleaning and decorating—energized by the blank pallet you have to work with. maintenance schedules and sometimes your warranty will become But once you’ve signed the thick pile of closing documents, the void if you don’t follow these recommendations. moving trucks have left and everything is neatly in its place, what do Driveways you do next? It’s time to get a handle on the routine maintenance If you have an asphalt driveway, remove oil, gasoline and similar you’ll need to perform in order to ensure that you and your family substances immediately with soapy water. live comfortably in your new home for years to come. Here’s some To avoid holes in your asphalt driveway, refrain from resting patio advice to get you started and help save money while you’re at it: furniture or bicycle stands on it. Maintaining a clean home will ensures it will last longer and works Do not burn anything on your driveway. better. Dust and dirt, if allowed to accumulate, can harm the finishes Gutters and Downspouts on blinds, cabinets, countertops, floors, sinks, tubs, toilets, walls, Clear away leaves, tree limbs and other debris from gutters and tiles and other items. If dirt does accumulate, make sure to clean it downspouts. with a substance that does not scratch or damage the finishes. Downspouts should be turned away from your home’s On the outside of your home, make sure that gutters and foundation. downspouts do not get clogged with leaves or other objects. The Every four to six years, paint gutters that are not are made of exterior of your house is built to withstand exposure to the aluminum or vinyl to help prevent rust. elements, but a periodic cleaning will improve the appearance and, in many instances, prolong the life of siding and other exterior Heating and Cooling Systems products. Late summer or early fall are the ideal time to do an annual When you bought your home, you probably received a warranty inspection and cleaning of these systems. from the builder on workmanship and materials. This warranty Make sure you change the filters every three months. applies to problems related to the construction of the home, but it Keeping your pilot light burning during the summer will help keep does not apply to problems that arise because of failure to perform the furnace dry and prevent corrosion. routine maintenance. For example, if your roof begins to leak after Registers help regulate the flow of air and maintain the desired six months because of faulty workmanship, your warranty would temperature in your home. Keeping registers closed in rooms you cover that. If you develop a problem because water backed up in don’t use will save on cooling/heating costs. clogged gutters that you should have cleaned, the builder is not Using heat generating appliances in the evening and reducing the responsible for repairs. Also, some items, such as appliances, may number of lights on will help keep the temperature down and save be covered by manufacturers’ warranties and are not the on costs during the summer. responsibility of the builder. Plumbing You should fully familiarize yourself with the terms of your Every member of your family should know where the intake warranty soon after you move into your home. With all the valves are located. Label each one. excitement surrounding a move into a new home, most people have If any of your appliances develops a leak, inspect your drain trap. little desire to curl up in front of the fireplace and read a legal A partially clogged drain can cause overflow. Use a plunger or a document. Nonetheless, you should not wait to read your warranty plumber’s snake to unclog the drain. If you need to, use boiling until a problem arises. Set aside an hour to learn what your rights water to help unclog a partially opened drain. Call a plumber if these and responsibilities are from the outset. techniques don’t work. Here are some additional tips for properly maintaining specific A worn washer, a loose part in a faucet or steam in a hot water systems in your new home. pipe generally causes a noisy pipe. Do not hesitate to repair the noise because vibrations can follow the noise and lead to leaks.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 57 SECURITY

Each year more than six million residential burglaries occur Computer Security throughout the United States. That’s one every ten seconds! In Computer security is the process of preventing unauthorized use addition to the worry of home burglaries, we now also need to of your computer. concern ourselves with computer hackers and personal identity • Use of anti-virus software on all Internet-connected computers. theft. Listed below are some things that you can do to reduce your Be sure to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date. chances of becoming a victim. • Use of some type of firewall product, such as a network Home Security Checklist appliance or a personal firewall software package. • Have home security system professionally installed that offers a • Turn off your computer or disconnect its Ethernet interface when 24 hour monitoring system. Make sure to post the home system you are not using it. An intruder cannot attack your computer if it stickers and window decals: this should alert and deter would be is powered off or otherwise completely disconnected from the intruders. network. • Never stop mail or newspaper deliveries, it signals that you are • Use software backup tools if available, and store the backup away. Have a neighbor pick up all deliveries if possible. disks somewhere away from the computer. • When recording your answering machine message, do not state Identity Theft that you are not home or out of town. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal • When leaving for an extended period, put lights and stereo or information without your permission to commit fraud or other television on a timer to give the appearance that someone is crimes. While you can’t entirely control whether you will become a home. victim, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Exterior/Interior Security • Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal • Replace all locks immediately upon moving into your new home information before you discard them. and install deadbolts on all outside doors. • Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your Social • Secure your sliding glass doors with pins to prevent all horizontal Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number and vertical movement. Also install security film over the glass on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use panes for additional protection. another identifier. • Remember to lock all doors and windows. • Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the • Provide remote panic buttons for children and/or elderly mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing residents. with. • Never keep garage door openers in cars that are parked outside • Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a of your home. web address you know. Keep Your Valuables Safe • Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your • Keep your important papers, heirloom jewelry and large amounts mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social of cash in a safe deposit box. Security number. • Engrave your valuables with your social security number or drivers license number. • Store jewelry, firearms, furs and like in a small closet with a non- hinged solid core door that has a deadbolt. • When purchasing new electronic equipment, breakdown cartons before discarding them. This way you avoid advertising your new purchase to the entire neighborhood and drive-by observers.

58 ] San Francisco Information Guide TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR ENERGY COSTS

The cost of cooling your house continues to rise. There are a • Close doors to rooms that are not being used. number of ways you can save a significant amount of money on • Run full loads in your washer and dryer, and use “solar drying” your energy bills. In fact, it’s possible to save up to 25 percent on (clotheslines). your power bill by using the following tips. While your results might • Use energy saver option on your dishwasher, allowing dishes to vary, you’re guaranteed to find at least a few ways to save money. air dry. The idea behind all our advice, and in fact our entire conservation • If you A/C unit is on the ground, keep the area around it clean and effort, is to give you the information you need to make the right free of obstructions to maintain air flow. decisions. • Unplug your televisions/VCR when you’re on vacation. Most new These simple steps don’t cost a thing, but can potentially save sets draw power even when they’re turned off. you 10-25% on your monthly energy bill. • Keep lights and lighting fixtures clean, especially if you’re • Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Don’t forget your reducing the number of lights you use. Dirt absorbs light. Let computer - it can use as much energy as a refrigerator. Most new lights cool before cleaning them and never touch halogen bulbs computers have “sleep” settings. with your bare hands. The oil from your skin can greatly damage • In the cold months, set the thermostat to 68 degrees when the bulbs. Use a small piece of paper to hold the bulb. home, and then back to 58 degrees when sleeping or when you • If your dishwasher has a filter clean it. are not home more than four hours. • Clean the reflectors underneath the burners on stovetops. • In warm months, set the thermostat to 78-80 degrees when home and 5 to 10 degrees warmer at night or when you're not There are plenty of low cost, easy to do projects or steps you can home. do to save another 10-25% on your energy bill. • Do not turn your air conditioning off in the hot months when • Use compact fluorescent bulbs instead of incandescent ones. you’re not home. Your house will store up the heat and you're This will typically save $1 per bulb changed out (for bulbs running likely to make the air conditioning run for hours to feel 4-6 hours per day) and reduce heat in your home. Regular bulbs comfortable. use most of the electricity to generate heat so use care when • In the winter, open window coverings on the sunny side of your changing bulbs. home to take advantage of “free heat from the sun” Close the • Caulk windows and caulk and weather-strip doors. Keep the coverings on cloudy days or right after the sun sets. outside air out and the inside air in. • In the cooling season, close blinds and drapes during the day to • Install a hot water heater blanket but be careful not to cover vents keep heat out. or temperature settings. • Also, use your dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer, and cook • Install hot water pipe insulation. Do keep the insulation at least six as late in the evening as possible. inches away from the flue (exhaust pipe) of gas water heaters. • Barbecue outside if practical, keeping in mind the heat and effect • Plant trees and shrubs on the south and west side of your of sun on your body. By reducing the heat coming into your home residence. The vegetation acts as insulation and provides from any source, will reduce the load on your air conditioning. shading, reducing thermal gain in a building. • Use pool trippers to reduce the time your swimming pool pump • Fix leaky faucets Install low flow showerheads. runs on—eight to twelve hours a day is plenty in the summer • Use room fans to keep the air moving and reduce the feeling of months, less in the winter months. heat in your home. • Set your water heater to 120 degrees. • Replace furnace and air conditioner filters. Spray the filters with a • Vacuum your refrigerator coils (underneath and in the back) and light coating of lemon furniture polish or vegetable oil cooking don’t obstruct the coils. They need air space to work. spray to help trap dirt in the filter. • Keep the seals (gaskets) on refrigerators and freezers clean. • Check the seals on your refrigerator and freezer. • Keep your freezer as full as possible. You can place containers or • Replace normal thermostats with programmable thermostats. plastic bottles filled with water in the empty spaces. • Make sure food is cool and covered before it goes into the refrigerator.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 59 HOMEBUYER’S GLOSSARY

As you start shopping for a new home, you may encounter some Contingency Condition that must be met before a contract is unfamiliar words and terms. The following glossary will help get you binding. through the maze of buying a home. Convertibility Ability to change a loan from an adjustable rate Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) Loan with an interest rate schedule to a fixed-rate schedule. adjusted according to movements in the financial market. Many Covenant Agreement between seller and buyer on a piece of offer lower-than-market initial interest rates that rise only gradually property, restricting the use of that property. (Also called deed for the first few years. restriction.) Annual Percentage Rate (APR) Annual cost of credit over the life of Deed Legal document representing property ownership. a loan including interest, service charges, points, loan fees, Default When a borrower fails to make the required payments of mortgage insurance and other items. a mortgage contract. Appraisal Unbiased, professional opinion of a property’s value Density The number of homes built on a particular acre of land. based on its style and appearance, construction quality, usefulness Allowable densities are determined by local jurisdictions. and the value of comparable properties. Debt-To-Income Ratio Long-Term debt expenses as a percentage Assessment Tax levied on a property or a value placed on the of monthly income; used by lenders to qualify borrowers for worth of a property by a taxing authority. mortgage loans. Assumption Transaction allowing a buyer to assume responsibility Due-on-Sale Clause in a mortgage contract requiring the borrower for an existing loan instead of getting a new loan. to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale or transfer of the Broker (Real Estate) Person who receives a commission or fee for property. bringing buyer and seller together and assisting in the negotiation of Earnest Money Sum paid to the seller to show that a potential contracts between them. A license is required in most states. purchaser is serious about buying. Building Code Local regulations controlling design, construction Easement Right-of-Way granted to a person or company and materials used in construction. Building Codes are based on authorizing access to the owner’s land. For example, a utility safety and health standards. company may be granted easement to install pipes or wires. An Buydown Subsidy, usually paid by a builder or developer, to reduce owner may voluntarily grant an easement or can be ordered to grant the monthly payments on a mortgage loan. one by a local jurisdiction. Buyer’s Agent A real estate agent who represents only the buyer Equity Difference between the value of a home and what is owed in a real estate transaction. on it. Callback Request by a homeowner for a builder to handle a service Escrow Handling of funds or documents by a third party on behalf request. of the buyer and/or seller. Cap Limit to the amount an interest rate or monthly payment can Escrow Amount Amount set up by a lender into which periodic, increase for an adjustable-rate loan either during an adjustment usually monthly, payments for taxes, hazard insurance, period or over the life of the loan. assessments and mortgage insurance premiums are made. Funds Certificate of Occupancy Document from an official agency stating are held in trust by the lender who pays the sums as they become the property meets the requirements of local codes, ordinances and due. regulations. Fair Market Value Price at which property is transferred between Chain of Title History of all documents transferring title to a parcel willing buyer and willing seller, each of whom has reasonable of real property, starting with the earliest existing document and knowledge of all pertinent facts and neither being under compulsion ending with the most recent. to buy or sell. Change Order Homebuyer’s written authorization to add, delete or Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Federal agency that insures change an item specified in a contract. mortgages with lower down payment requirements than Closing Meeting to sign documents that transfer from a seller to a conventional loans. buyer. (Also referred to as settlement.) Fixed-Rate Mortgage Mortgage with an interest rate that remains Closing Costs Charges paid at settlement for obtaining a mortgage constant over the life of the loan. loan and transferring a real estate title. Hazard Insurance Protection against damage caused by fire, wind Commission Agent’s fee for negotiating a real estate or loan storms or other common hazards. Many lenders require borrowers transaction, often expressed as the percentage of the sales price or to carry it in an amount at least to the mortgage. mortgage amount. HVAC Common building industry abbreviation for heating, Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions (CC and Rs) Standards that ventilation and air conditioning systems. define how a property may be used and the protections the Index Interest rate or adjustment standard that determines the developer makes for the benefit of all owners in a subdivision. changes in monthly payments for an adjustable-rate loan.

60 ] San Francisco Information Guide HOMEBUYER’S GLOSSARY

Infrastructure Public facilities and services needed to support Point One-Time charge assessed by the lender at closing to residential development, including highways, bridges, schools and increase the interest yield on a mortgage loan. sewer and water systems. Presettlement Walk-Through Final inspection of house prior to Inspection Examination of work completed on a structure to closing, conducted by builder and buyer. determine compliance with building code and other code Principal Amount borrowed, excluding interest and other charges. requirements. Property Survey Survey to determine the boundaries of a piece of Joint Tenancy Form of ownership in which the tenants own a property. Cost depends on the complexity of the survey. property equally. If one dies, the other automatically inherits the Recording Fee Charge for recording the transfer of a property, paid entire property. to a city, county or other appropriate branch of government. Loan Origination Fee Lender will charge a fee for the cost of Specifications Contractual document describing in detail the work processing the loan, usually calculated as a percentage of the loan to be performed; method of construction; standards of amount. workmanship; quality, type and manufacturer of materials and Loan-To-Value-Ratio Relationship between the amount of a home equipment for a particular project. loan and the total value of a property. Tenancy in Common Form of ownership in which the tenants own Lock-In Rate Commitment from a lender to make a loan at a pre- separate but equal parts. To inherit the property, a surviving tenant set interest rate at some future date, usually for not more than 90 would either have to be mentioned in the will or, in the absence of days. A fee may be charged to “lock-in” a rate. a will, be eligible through state inheritance laws. Mortgage Commitment Formal written communication by a lender Title Evidence, usually in the form of a certificate or deed, of a agreeing to make a mortgage loan on a specific property, specifying person’s legal right to ownership of a property. the loan amount, length of time and conditions. Title Insurance Insurance against any title defects that may exist Mortgage Origination Fee Charge for the work involved in preparing prior to the time the title is passed from one owner to the next, and and servicing a mortgage application. which may come to light in a future transaction. Permit Document issued by a local government agency allowing Veterans Administration (VA) Federal agency that insures mortgage construction work to be performed in conformance with local loans with very liberal down payment requirements for honorably codes. Work may not commence until permits have been obtained, discharged veterans and their surviving spouses. and each permit issuing agency must inspect the work at certain specified points during construction. PITI Principal, interest, taxes and insurance: the four major components of monthly housing payments.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 61 WHO’S WHO IN BUILDING

Architect Lender Building design professional who has completed all required The financial institution that provides construction loan financing university training in architecture and passed state licensing exams; during construction and permanent financing for the home buyer initials A.I.A. and F.A.I.A. indicate membership in a professional after the home is built and there is a property settlement, referred to organization, but not licensed status. in our area as closing. Most lenders make what is referred to as Builder or General Contractor “end loans” which is the loan made to the buyer of a new home, and The buck stops with him or her in construction projects. The others make both the “end loan” and “construction loan financing” general contractor secures bids for all work and materials; hires, which provides funds to pay for costs incurred during construction. coordinates and oversees subcontractors; files for permits and Owner Builder arranges for inspections; and generally makes the final decisions in An individual or family who finances and manages a home all construction-related matters. building project (usually with the assistance of a builder or general Building Inspector contractor who is hired to manage all or a particular phase of the One or more local officials who oversee and regulate every phase construction of the home) with the intention of retaining ownership of residential construction. Regulations vary widely. In most states and residing in the home after completion. area home construction meets standards contained in the Uniform Subcontractor Building Code. In addition, applicable provisions of the Uniform Fire A specialist who undertakes responsibility for one phase or trade & Plumbing/Mechanical & Electrical codes are enforced. Typically, within the project and reports to the general contractor. In a typical permits are issued and inspections are made at key stages of home building project, subcontractors generally include: an construction by County and City building code enforcement excavation contractor who digs foundations and grades the site; a departments. masonry contractor who handles all concrete, block, brickwork and Building Designer paving; a framing contractor who constructs the shell and interior Generally unlicensed professionals (license not required for partitions; a roofing contractor; a heating, ventilation and air- practice) who, by experience, are competent to design homes, conditioning (HVAC) contractor; a plumbing contractor; an electrical prepare drawings and write specifications; they often work in contractor; drywall installers; insulation contractors; finish association with licensed architects. carpenters who generally handle wood flooring, trim work, and Construction Manager/Foreman cabinet installation; and a painting contractor. The general contractor’s right-hand man. A construction Surveyor manager can be on site when the general contractor is not. A professional with the training and equipment to establish or Design/Build Firms verify property lines. The surveyor also plots and marks the An organization that provides both architectural planning and topography of the site, which is crucial in preparing the site plan. He general contracting services, and offers a different approach to the or she may also be employed to stake out the building site, setting conventional arrangement in which the designer and builder are reference marks for foundation excavation, establishing grades for separate entities. roads or driveways and marking the locations for a septic system and water well, if necessary. Interior Designer Specialist in decoration and furnishing; special training and Title Insurance Company licensing not required. Initials A.S.I.D. following individual’s name The entity that conducts a comprehensive search of the public indicate membership in a professional association, for which records to make sure that the title received by a buyer of a new training and passing tests are required. home is “free and clear of any liens and encumbrances”. This assures the issuance of a clear or “merchant able” title in favor of Kitchen /Bath Designer the buyer of a new home at the closing of the sale of the property. Specialist in designing these rooms; initials C.K.D. and C.B.D. indicate certification by a professional association, for which training and passing tests are required. License is not required for practice. Landscape Architect Specialist in landscape and garden planning; primary concerns include site selection, grading, access, drainage and protection of existing plant material. License required for practice.

62 ] San Francisco Information Guide SELECTING A BUILDER

Are you shopping for a new home? Start by shopping for a Service After the Sale and Home Warranty professional builder first. Whether you are buying a townhouse, a While you are shopping, ask about the builder’s service after the detached home in a subdivision, or a custom-built house, the sale. Most builders offer some form of warranty. Many builders back construction quality of your new home will be determined by the their own warranties on workmanship and materials, typically for quality of your builder. one year. Other builders offer warranties backed by an insurance Start your builder-search process by calling your local home program. One of the most important criteria for selecting a builder builders association. They can give you the names of reputable is the warranty protection provided on the home. Ask for a copy of builders in your area. Ask friends and relatives about builders they the builder’s warranty. Read the document thoroughly and be sure have dealt with directly, or ask them for the names of acquaintances you understand what protection is provided. If you have any who have recently built a new home. questions about the coverage, talk to the builder prior to finalizing The Interview Process your purchase. Once you have developed a list of builders who are building the Be Thorough type and price range of home you are interested in, research their When selecting a builder, be thorough and ask a lot of questions. reputations and the quality of their work. The best way is to visit Get as many specifics as possible. If you receive the answers homes that they have built and talk to the owners. Ask the builders verbally, take notes. Never hesitate to ask a question because you on your list for the addresses of their recently completed houses, are afraid of sounding “stupid” or uninformed. What seems like a subdivisions, or townhouse communities. At the very least, drive by “stupid” question may yield a very important answer. and see if the homes are visually appealing. Buying a new home is probably the biggest and most important Look at homes that are the same style as you plan to buy. A good purchase you will make in your lifetime. By doing your new “home” time to visit is on a weekend morning when people are outside work to select a builder, you will instill in yourself and your family a doing chores. Introduce yourself and explain that you are sense of confidence and knowledge that you have made the right considering buying a home from the same builder who built their choice. home. If you have additional questions about selecting a builder, contact Ask about their satisfaction with the home and whether the your area’s Builders Association. Ask for a builder list that identifies builder delivered what was promised in a timely manner. Ask if they the price categories and subdivisions in which they build. Be sure to would buy another home from this builder. People will generally tell tour the Parade of Homes in the Fall and Spring. It is an excellent you if they are happy with their purchase. way to get familiar with the housing market in this area as well as Quality and Value individual builder’s products. When examining a home, look at the quality of the construction features: the cabinetry, carpeting, trim work, and paint. In viewing a home, you must determine whether it lends itself to the type of lifestyle you want to lead. Look at the amount of interior living space and how efficiently the space is used. Find out if the builder is incorporating state-of-the-art energy efficiency features, both in appliances and insulation.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 63 SELECTING A CONTRACTOR

Every year hundreds of families are taken advantage of by 8. Make sure all required permits are secured and inspections are disreputable individuals or companies who represent themselves to made.The contractor should be expected to secure all necessary be reliable, reputable contractors. If you are planning to hire permits. Beware of contractors who want you to secure the someone to repair or make improvements to your property there are permit as the property owner. It is permissible to do so, but it is safeguards you can take to assure the best selection of a contractor very unusual that a reputable contractor will ask you to do this. for you. 9. Make sure you have a written contract with the contractor that Consider the Following details: 1. Hire only licensed contractors. Contractors are required to be a. A full description of all work to be done. licensed to do certain types of work. When selecting a contractor b. A firm date of completion you should make sure the contractor holds a current, valid c. Total cost of the job. license either issued by your city. d. Contractors license number. 2. All contractors do not possess the same expertise.Ask for e. All warranty information. references and check those references to assure yourself that f. Quality of materials to be used. the contractor is qualified to do the type of work you are wanting g. How and on what basis payments are to be made. done. h. How changes and payment for changes will be handled. 3. Check business references. Ask the contractor for a list of 10. Make sure complete architectural drawings are done and business references that you can call and verify that the agreed upon if you are having a room addition added, or relationships with suppliers and subcontractors are good ones extensive remodeling done. Be certain that detailed material and that the contractor pays his bills. specifications are also provided and made a part of the contract 4. Call the Better Business Bureau to find out if there are any you sign. complaints or charges pending against the contractor. 11. Monitor the work being done in accordance with the 5. Call local trade associations for information about selecting a contractual agreement with the contractor. If you have contractor. questions about what is being done or problems with the 6. Ask for proof from the contractor that he has general liability contractor, either ask questions or confront the problem head insurance and workers compensation insurance in order to on when it occurs in order to minimize any conflict and reach a protect you, as the property owner, against any claim in the event satisfactory resolve as quickly as possible. the contractor, his employees, or someone else is injured as a 12. Final payment should not be made until you are satisfied that result of work being done on your property. the job has been completed in accordance with the terms of the 7. Make sure the contractor you are contracting with will be contractual agreement between you and the contractor. personally involved in coordinating the work to be done on your property. “A house is made of walls and beams; A home is built with love and dreams.” - Author unknown

64 ] San Francisco Information Guide BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

Is Your Bank Meeting Your Current Financial Needs? What Will You Do? This page offers a guide to choosing the right bank for your The fist question to ask yourself is what you want to do with your needs, and offers some ideas for starting your checklist. bank account. Do you want to put money in there periodically and With banks offering an increasing number of financial services at watch it grow? Will you move money in and out quickly? You need widely varying fees, choosing one to handle your particular financial to know what your banking behavior will be like in order to find the needs can seem like a difficult and confusing task. Although there right bank. is much to consider, it is best to select a bank the same way you Next, get an idea of how you prefer to do your banking. If your would choose any product or service—first evaluate your needs schedule doesn’t work with most bank schedules, the best bank and then compare costs. You should also consider what is most might just be the one that’s open at convenient times. important to you in a banking relationship. Do you want to develop Free checking accounts get a lot of hype. They get people in the a personal, long-term customer relationship with a bank? Do you door. However, free may not always be the best thing for you. If you travel frequently and need access to branch offices while you are value certain services or conveniences, you may be willing to pay for out of town? If you prefer to do your banking by telephone or online, them. Once you get ahold of fee schedules from competing banks, you'll want to explore the types of electronic services each bank has consider if it’s really going to bother you to pay a few bucks each to offer. Once you have identified your needs, evaluating and month for that “gotta have it” feature or service. Maybe it is, maybe comparing the services and fees is a much simpler task. it isn’t. But you have to do your research, because not all banks offer At first glance, fees might make you favor debit cards in the debit free checking, and if they do, they won’t always tell you about that vs credit competition. The worst fee you'll find in a typical debit card option unless you ask. is a POS fee — charged when you use your debit card at a retailer So go online or make a few phone calls. Find out if the bank has using PIN number. While the tide is shifting away from banks a lot of ATM locations. It doesn’t do you any good to have free charging these fees, they're still around. More importantly, there are checking if you have to spend $2 a pop to use another bank’s ATM more factors than fees to the debit vs credit debate. because you bank only has one branch and it is all the way across Hidden fees are becoming increasingly popular in the banking town. industry. If you're not careful, you might end up wasting significant You may be eligible because of where you live or what type of job amounts of money each year on things that can be easily avoided. you have to join a credit union. Many people like credit unions One place that's full of hidden fees is the ATM. While it is an easy because they offer a lot of free services (like maybe free Money way of obtaining your money quickly and efficiently, ATMs are Orders). But keep in mind that credit unions are often few and far notorious for their service charges. You can end up being charged between, so you may end up with the ATM surcharge problem. every time you use the ATM, if you're not careful. Some banks will charge extra fees if you do not meet certain requirements or do your banking with them. Banks can even charge you to check your balance at the ATM. It depends on the bank. You need to understand the terms of your bank and find the best plan for you. You can check balances, transfer funds and pay bills, all from the comfort and convenience of your home or office computer. Internet banking may also have a price. Depending on the bank, you may have to pay a service charge for this service. It also may not be available at all banks.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 65 BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

You may have a difficult time deciding which type of home feature was designed to provide housing and assistance for mortgage is the best for your needs. The world of home finance veterans and their families, and the dream of home ownership offers so many variables and options that it’s often hard to keep became a reality for millions of veterans. VA will guarantee a them straight. The following may help you better understand the maximum of 25 percent of a home loan amount up to $104,250, differences and find a home loan that’s right for you. which limits the maximum loan amount to $417,000. Generally, the Fixed-Rate Mortgages are very popular because the interest rate reasonable value of the property or the purchase price, whichever and monthly payments are constant. Fixed loans are generally is less, plus the funding fee may be borrowed. All veterans must amortized over ten, fifteen, twenty or thirty years. Property taxes qualify, for they are not automatically eligible for the program. and homeowners insurance may increase, but generally your Interest-Only Mortgage is really an interest-only option that works monthly payments will be very stable. During the early amortization with various mortgage types. This option has regular payments, period, a large percentage of the monthly payment is used for typically monthly, for a fixed period of time; however, payments paying the interest. As the loan is paid down, more of the monthly consist of one hundred percent interest. No principal is paid during payment is applied to principal. A typical 30 year fixed rate the interest-only period. When that period ends, the borrower is mortgage takes 22.5 years of level payments to pay half of the obligated to make payments of principal and interest. Because the original loan amount. You may also opt for “biweekly” mortgages, time remaining in the loan term to repay the principal is shorter than which shorten the loan by making a payment every two weeks. it would have been, payments will adjust upward, sometimes (Since there are 52 weeks in a year, you make 26 payments, or 13 substantially. The appeal of interest-only payments is savings. When “months” worth, every year.) principal is not being paid, monthly payments are dramatically Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) is a loan which allows for the lower. On the risk side is potential for loss. If the need to sell arises adjustment of its interest rate according to the terms of the note and and the property value has stayed flat or declined, a borrower might as market interest rates change. With this type of mortgage loan be in a position where the mortgage loan balance is higher than the program the interest rate and payments may be adjusted as market value of the property. frequently as every month. The purpose of the program is to allow Balloon Mortgage Loan generally has a short term, commonly mortgage interest rates to fluctuate with market conditions. The anywhere from 3-7 years. During that term, borrowers make regular initial interest rate for an ARM is usually lower than that of a fixed equal payments of principal – the amount of money borrowed – plus rate mortgage, where the interest rate remains the same during the interest. At the end of the loan term, a “balloon” payment is due for life of the loan. A lower rate means lower payments, which might the entire loan balance. Options for handling the balloon payment help you qualify for a larger loan. Also if you do not plan to keep your include paying off the balance when due or refinancing before the home for more than a few years, the possibility of rate increases payment comes due. Balloon mortgages are usually offered at isn’t as much of a factor. But no one has a crystal ball to predict the lower interest rates than other fixed-rate loans. In addition, fluctuation of interest rates, so it is somewhat of a gamble. payments are calculated using a period longer than the term of the FHA Mortgage Loan is insured by the Federal Housing loan. As a result, balloon loans offer affordability for short-term Administration. FHA is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and circumstances. Borrowers do need to plan ahead so they are not Urban Development (HUD), one of its chief purposes is to help caught unprepared when the balloon payment is due. people obtain financing to buy their homes. The FHA doesn’t make Choosing a type of mortgage is not the only decision you must the loans, but insures loans made by banks, savings and loans, face. Several other criteria are listed below. mortgage companies, credit unions and other approved institutions. Hybrid Mortgage combines features of both fixed-rate and FHA does not originate loans. FHA insures the mortgage and pays adjustable-rate mortgages. A hybrid mortgage loan may start with the lender if the homebuyer defaults on the loan, or fails to repay the a rate that is fixed for a period of time. When that fixed-rate period loan. Almost anyone who has a satisfactory credit record, enough expires, the loan then converts to an ARM. The initial rate for a cash to close the loan, and sufficient steady income to make hybrid mortgage loan is typically lower than prevailing fixed rates. monthly mortgage payments can be approved for an FHA-insured The lower rate enables more buying power up front. On the risk side mortgage. There is no upper age limit and no certain income level is the uncertainty of how high interest rates will be when the fixed- required, although individual mortgage amounts are limited by law. rate period expires. VA Mortgage Loan is similar to the FHA mortgage. The U.S. Lending Institution are used When you’re looking for a home loan, Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees loans made by you might work with an officer at a bank or other lending institution, institutional lenders to eligible veterans. The guarantee helps protect or you might choose to work with a mortgage broker. The loan the lender in the event of the borrower’s default. The VA Loan was officers at a bank, credit union or other lending institution are initiated in 1944 through the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, more employees who work to sell and process mortgages originated by commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights. The GI Bill was signed into their employer. They often have a wide variety of loans types to law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and provided veterans with draw from, but all originate from that specific lender. a federally guaranteed home loan with no down payment. This

66 ] San Francisco Information Guide BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

Mortgage Brokers are professionals who are paid a fee to bring Appreciation is the increase in the property’s value, either by together lenders and borrowers. The mortgage broker working to improvement in the market or improvements made by the owner. secure your loan is earning a fee for that transaction—and the Balloon Mortgage is a loan that acts like a fixed rate but is due in better deal they achieve for a lender, the more they are paid. Don’t three, five or ten years. At that point you must pay the outstanding be too anxious to disclose the interest rate you would be willing to balance in one lump sum. accept, let them tell you what terms they can secure. Shop around Buydown is the process of buying a lower interest rate by paying to make sure the terms are reasonable. more points at closing. There should be little difference between obtaining a loan from a Conventional Mortgage is a loan that is under $ 240,000 and meets broker or a local lending institution. Maybe none, but you should be Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards, the largest purchasers of aware of the differences between the two positions. A mortgage home mortgages on the secondary market. broker may find you a lender in another part of the country. The loan Convertible Mortgage is an ARM with the option to convert to a office will likely be able to offer more personal service while your loan fixed rate mortgage as specified in the contract. is being processed and once you are an established customer. FHA Loans are issued by FHA approved lenders. The FHA insures Discount Points are fees paid to a lender at closing in order to its loans so that borrowers can get them with only 3 to 5% down lower your mortgage interest rate. While buying points is sometimes payment. The FHA has certain criteria to qualify for these loans. a good decision, many times the purchase costs you more than it Fixed-rate Mortgages are self amortizing loans with a constant rate saves. The cost of each point is equal to one percent of the loan of interest. These loans are commonly for 10, 15. 20 or 30 year amount. For instance, for a $100,000 loan one discount point periods. equals $1,000. Each discount point paid on a 30-year loan typically lowers the interest rate by 0.125 percent. That means a 5.5 percent Interest Rate is what the lender charges for the use of their money. rate would be lowered to 5.375 percent if you purchase one point. Expressed as an annual percentage of the amount borrowed before Paying for points lowers your interest rate, because the lender financing expenses. receives the income in a lump sum at closing rather than collecting Initial Interest Rate is what lenders charge on an ARM until the first the interest as you make payments on your loan. Whether or not adjustment is made. This rate is usually much lower than fixed rate paying points makes sense for you depends in part on how long mortgages. you plan to keep the loan. Jumbo Mortgages are loans greater than $ 227,150 with an interest rate that is a quarter percentage higher than conventional Helpful Mortgage Terms loans. Adjustable Rate Mortgage is a loan with a rate that adjusts to Lifetime Cap is the same as an annual cap except there is limit on market conditions. The rate of adjustment will be stated in the how high the interest rate can increase over the entire life of the contract. mortgage. Adjustment Index is a guide lenders use to change ARM interest Loan Commitment is a promise by the lender to provide the agreed rates during the life of a mortgage. The specific index to which your amount of money stated on the mortgage to close on a home. The ARM is tied to will be listed in the mortgage contract. commitment also states the interest rate, term of loan, and usually Annual Cap is a limit on how high the interest rate on an ARM can expires within 60 days. rise in a single year. Annual caps are specified in the better ARM Loan Servicing is the institution that handles the administrative programs. processing of your loan such as billing and collecting payments. Annual Percentage Rate Equals the true cost of a loan including Loan-to-Value Ratio is the proportional relationship of the financing charges and fees. mortgage loan to the value of a home, expressed as a percentage. Amortization is the process that reduces the amount owned in a loan. It can be made in a lump sum or periodic installments. Appraisal Value is estimating the property’s worth which is based on comparable properties. Appraisals that are completed by certified professionals, and are used by lenders to verify the home’s value and justify the mortgage commitment.

San Francisco Information Guide [ 67 BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

Mortgage Calculator You can obtain your property taxes from the local township office How much do you qualify for based on typical lender and you can contact your insurance agent for homeowner rates. requirements? Generally, the lender will require that your monthly Now, while shopping for your mortgage, you probably have payments not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Lets take discovered the current interest rate. Use the chart below; find the a look at how a lender would typically determine your ability to meet column, which applies to that rate. Follow the number down until monthly house payments. you find the number that is closest to your principal and interest First, determine your gross monthly income from all sources. payment. To the left of that you will find the loan amount for which Then multiply that amount by 28% to determine an approximate you probably qualify. If you intend to apply for a 90% loan, divide the allowable monthly payment. This payment includes principal, loan amount by .90 to calculate the price of the house that would interest, taxes and insurance. From this amount subtract taxes and require this monthly payment. insurance to arrive at your allowable principal and interest payment.

The example below illustrates this procedure: Gross Monthly Income $2,500 X 28% = $700 Less: Monthly Taxes & Insurance (100) = $600 12% Interest Rate for 30 years for $600= $60,000 $60,000/.90 (Loan to Value) =$66,667 = Estimated Maximum Home Price For Qualification

$ 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7% 7.5% 8% 8.5% 9%

100,000 500 550 600 650 700 750 800 850 900 150,000 750 825 900 975 1050 1125 1200 1275 1350 200,000 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400 1500 1600 1700 1800 250,000 1250 1375 1500 1625 1750 1875 2000 2125 2250 300,000 1500 1650 1800 1950 2100 2250 2400 2550 2700 350,000 1750 1925 2100 2275 2450 2625 2800 2975 3150 400,000 2000 2200 2400 2600 2800 3000 3200 3400 3600 450,000 2250 2475 2700 2925 3150 3375 3600 3825 4050 500,000 2500 2750 3000 3250 3500 3750 4000 4250 4500 550,000 2750 3025 3300 3575 3850 4125 4400 4675 4950 600,000 3000 3300 3600 3900 4200 4500 4800 5100 5400 650,000 3250 3575 3900 4225 4550 4875 5200 5525 5850

700,000 3500 3850 4200 4550 4900 5250 5600 5950 6300 750,000 3750 4125 4500 4875 5250 5625 6000 6375 6750 800,000 4000 4400 4800 5200 5600 6000 6400 6800 7200 850,000 4250 4675 5100 5525 5950 6375 6800 7225 7650 900,000 4500 4950 5400 5850 6300 6750 7200 7650 8100 950,000 4750 5225 5700 6175 6650 7125 7600 8075 8550 1,000,000 5000 5500 6000 6500 7000 7500 8000 8500 9000

68 ] San Francisco Information Guide AIRLINES APARTMENTS

Airlines Heritage Village downtown, and offers quiet,country living 38050 Fremont Blvd. in the heart of Walnut Creek. Beautifully American Airlines Fremont, CA 94536 landscaped grounds add to the privacy of Reservations call (800) 433-7300 (510) 790-0711 your home. Surrounding neighborhoods Flights at your fingertips. For passenger Imagine yourself in a charming village of offer fine restaurants, shopping, parks, and reservations and information call us or your friends and neighbors. Envision your easy access to highways 680 and 24, and travel agent. peaceful stroll through the park-like setting. BART. Continental Airlines Picture yourself swimming in the heated Woodland Villas Reservations call (800) 523-3273 pool, working out in the fitness center 4320 Valley Avenue Want to be treated with respect, fly the alleviating all your stress at the day’s end. Pleasanton, CA 94566 safe and courteous skies with Continental Welcome home to Heritage Village, where (925) 484-3710 Airlines. we believe that value and luxury can exist Office Hours: Daily 9:00-6:00 United Airlines together under the same roof. Welcome home to luxury and tranquility. Reservations call (800) 241-6522 Del Prado Woodland Villas offers spacious apartment Serving more of the nations top 100 5196 Golden Road homes including split master suites. We business centers than any other airline. Pleasanton, CA 94566 are commuter friendly to Contra Costa Small package dispatch, same-day airport (925) 846-9689 County, Silicon Valley and the East Bay. We to airport. Del Prado is located in a quiet residential are also close to restaurants, shopping area surrounded by wooded grounds. Our centers, Amador Valley Community Park Apartments - East Bay property offers peaceful park-like living in a and great schools. Our professional Greenwood city dwelling. Just five minutes to management and maintenance staff is here 7323 Starward Drive shopping, excellent dining, freeways, to serve you 7 days a week. Dublin, CA 94568 BART, Hacienda Business Park and 15 (925) 828-4616 minutes to Bishop Ranch Business Park. Apartments - North Bay Our community offers a beautiful park The Pointe Madera Valley setting and towering redwoods. 2550 Hilborn Road 1495 Casa Buena Drive Outstanding restaurants, shopping centers, Fairfield, CA 94533 Corte Madera, CA 94925 parks, schools and public transportation (707) 427-2491 (415) 924-1549 are just steps away. Plus easy access to www.ThePointeApartments.com Developed into the hillside of Corte Interstate 580 and 680. Our professional The Pointe is exquisitely located in the Madera, Madera Valley offers serene living management and maintenance staff is here rolling hills of West Fairfield. Spectacular with seven acres of beautiful landscape on to serve you 7 days a week. views of Solano Valley and the surrounding a gentle hillside with swimming and tennis Colonial Gardens hillside make it a beautiful place to live. in combination with easy freeway access. 41777 Grimmer Boulevard Surrounding neighborhoods offer fine Located just south of Town Center and the Fremont, CA 94538 restaurants, shopping, public transit, a famous “Marin Joes.” (510) 657-1115 cinema, parks and superb golf courses. Montoya Gardens A small sunny climate, a rich heritage Only 20 minutes from the factory outlet 5005 Montoya Avenue and modern land planning make Fremont a center in Vacaville, Marine World theme San Pablo, CA 94806 dream place to live. Located in the eastern park in Vallejo and the Napa Valley wine (510) 235-6341 tip of Silicon Valley, Colonial Gardens is country. Centrally located, Montoya Gardens near the South Fremont high technology Pathfinder Village puts you just minutes away from shopping corridor. BART begins in Fremont. Here 39800 Fremont Boulevard centers, golf courses, recreation areas and you are close to major workplaces and Fremont, CA 94538 much more. Easy highway access via cultural activities. At Colonial Gardens, the (888) 710-5029 or 510-657-8686 either San Pablo Dam Road or McBryde best things in life are easy to reach. www.aimco.com Avenue, makes Montoya Gardens Countrywood Live RENT FREE in 2006! Ask us for extremely convenient to Richmond and the 4555 Thornton Avenue details. You can walk from the BART Bay Area. At Montoya Gardens you’ll enjoy Fremont, CA 94536 station to your stylish, apartment home at the relaxing atmosphere of our beautifully (510) 797-9628 Pathfinder Village. These unique 2 and 3 landscaped grounds. Complete with www.CountrywoodApts.com bedroom floor plans include kitchens with swimming pool, private patio or balcony Surround yourself in our tranquil, forest- built-in microwaves. Invite friends over for and covered parking, Montoya Gardens like setting. Countrywood offers spacious an evening on your patio or balcony or offers affordable Bay Area living. apartment homes with four floor plans from head for the Fitness Center. I-880 and I- The Overlook at Fountaingrove which to choose. Relax on your private 680 are just 3-5 minutes away. Call today 200 Bicentennial Way patio or balcony after a long day…or to schedule a personal tour! Santa Rosa, CA 95403 unwind in our relaxing spa or saunas. Shadow Oaks (707) 545.1165 or (800) 491-0105 You’re just a stone’s throw away from 530-A Civic Drive www.TheOverlookatFountaingrove.com major commuter arteries, shopping, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 The Overlook at Fountaingrove is a restaurants and parks. (925) 937-2922 luxury apartment community with single- www.ShadowOaksApts.com story, townhouse and tri-level residences. Shadow Oaks is located directly north of Fully appointed culinary kitchens feature

San Francisco Information Guide [ 69 APARTMENTS APARTMENTS modern appliances and designer interior apartment living. Beautifully appointed one, galore and a patio or balcony for your finishes. An array of convenient built-ins two, and three bedroom floor plans offer outdoor relaxing pleasure. Near shopping, and storage areas combine the latest in elegant touches and extra amenities. We transportation, biking and jogging trails, technology with traditional living space. dedicate ourselves daily to maintaining the Beach Park and Foster City offer a great The Overlook’s Community Pavilion essentials of a successful partnership with way to unwind after a long day. provides residents with a fitness center, our residents. Visit us today to reserve your Brewster private business center and fireside club new home. 600 Brewster Avenue room. A furnished outdoor veranda and The Villages Redwood City, CA 94063 hilltop pool, spa and sun terrace accent 2980 Bay Village Circle (650) 368-9230 the natural surroundings showcasing Santa Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Quality, location and value…Brewster Rosa’s panoramic hillside and valley views. (707) 573-0200 Apartments feature spacious one and two THIS BRAND NEW COMMUNITY IS OPEN An exclusive apartment community bedroom apartments in Redwood City. NOW! designed to complement your individual Brewster Apartments are located in the Shadow Creek style of living. Surrounded by lush, beautiful heart of downtown Redwood City and are 4145 Shadow Lane landscaping, The Villages offers everything convenient to shopping and freeways. Santa Rosa, CA 95405 you are looking for in a quality apartment Clubview (707) 539-0714 community. After a long day at work, relax 849 W. Orange Avenue www.ShadowCreekApartments.com in the comfort of your home, unwind with a So. San Francisco, CA 94080 Elegance & comfort surround you. walk or take advantage of an invigorating (650) 583-7538 Shadow Creek is a luxury apartment workout in the fitness center or a game of Located across from the California community offering amenities and lifestyle tennis. Country Club, Clubview’s location is tucked benefits not commonly found in a rental Vintage Ridge away, yet very convenient to highways 101 home. Nestled amongst natural 2705 Range Avenue and 280. We offer fabulous views, walls of landscaping and meandering waterways, it Santa Rosa, CA 95403 windows and spacious apartments. depicts a quiet country setting that (707) 576-7422 Convenient to shopping and freeways. provides the serenity necessary in a busy Vintage Ridge…An ideal place to call life. Cypress Pointe home and the perfect compliment to your 2580 Francisco Boulevard The Boulders at Fountaingrove individual lifestyle. Unique architectural Pacifica, CA 94044 3680 Kelsey Knolls details are reflected in the spacious one (650) 359-3761 Santa Rosa, CA 95403 and two bedroom floor plans. Warmly Located in the coastal community of (707) 571-0265 or (800) 509-3813 appointed with your comfort and Pacifica, Cypress Pointe offers fabulous www.TheBouldersatFountaingrove.com enjoyment in mind. Adjacent is a large ocean and hillside views. We are footsteps BRAND NEW - ONE MONTH FREE! beautiful park with an onsite state-of-the- from the Pacific Ocean and just minutes Nestled amid an executive single-family art fitness center, sparkling pool and spa. away from BART and downtown San residential neighborhood under majestic Conveniently located to shopping, Francisco. Apartments offer beautifully Rincon Ridge, The Boulders at recreation, downtown and the freeway, appointed kitchens and expansive closet Fountaingrove offers sophisticated Vintage Ridge offers you a distinctive space. Come experience the beautiful suburban living in the heart of Sonoma combination of quality, comfort and style. sunsets, walks on the beach, and the crisp County’s wine country. Upgraded interior You won’t want to leave home! ocean air. finishes such as custom countertops, craftsman wood cabinetry and sleek wood Apartments - San Mateo County LaSalle laminate flooring grace all homes and fully Beach Cove 30 Whitfield Place #1 appointed culinary kitchens feature stylish 703 Catamaran San Francisco, CA 94124 black appliances. Offering multiple data Foster City, CA 94404 (415) 647-0607 wiring for telephone, video and internet (650) 349-1700 www.aimco.com services, homes combine the latest in www.BeachCoveApts.com Beautiful tree lined streets situated on a technology with traditional living space. Waterfront living! Where the shimmering hilltop, many units with views of the San The Boulder’s Community Pavilion provides surface of a starlit lagoon signals the end Francisco Bay and the city. A family residents with a private fireside club room, of a day filled with all the pleasures and oriented community with nearby schools catering kitchen and a fitness center. A pastimes of life lived to its fullest. Beach and parks, a State Recreational Park less furnished outdoor courtyard and an Cove offers spacious apartments with than a mile away. Easy access to public intimate pool, spa and sun terrace accent remodeled kitchens and walk-in closets. transportation. Stop by and visit! the natural surroundings showcasing Santa Ask about our two sister properties: Sand Sand Cove Rosa’s panoramic hillside and valley views. Cove and Shadow Cove! 777 Shell Boulevard The Oaks at Kawana Springs Beach Park Foster City, CA 94404 2111 Kawana Springs Road 1999 Beach Park Boulevard (650) 341-2880 Santa Rosa, CA 95404 Foster City, CA 94404 www.SandCoveApts.com (707) 525-1200 (650) 573-1991 Waterfront living. Where the shimmering The Oaks at Kawana Springs combines Beach Park features spacious one and surface of a starlit lagoon signals the end the charm of a Mediterranean villa with the two bedroom apartment homes in Foster of a day filled with all the pleasures and most contemporary features of luxury City. Each apartment features closets pastimes of a life lived to its fullest.

70 ] San Francisco Information Guide APARTMENTS APARTMENTS

Whether you want to feel the pull of the unsurpassed urban conveniences just finishes including custom cherry cabinetry, wind on your sail as you tack across the twenty minutes away in the heart of San polished granite countertops and wood lagoon, or you relish the idea of a Francisco. Not only does Skyline Terrace flooring. Located on the concierge levels of recreational lifestyle in luxurious have location, location, location…the the property, penthouses also offer surroundings, make the move to our beautifully manicured grounds with lush expansive panoramic ocean, hillside and beautiful waterfront community. mature landscaping makes our park area city views. Many penthouses open to Seacliff the perfect setting for barbecues and dramatic oversized outdoor living terraces, 300 Palmetto Avenue picnics. When you retreat inside your perfect for throwing the ultimate cocktail Pacifica, CA 94044 spacious apartment home, you’ll be just as party. Offering multiple data wiring for (650) 355-1049 taken by the spectacular architectural telephone, video and internet services, all www.Seacliff-Apts.com design and interior features. Come see us residences combine the latest in Located in the coastal community of today! technology with savvy 21st Century living Pacifica, Seacliff offers newly remodeled Water’s Edge space. Convenient subterranean parking apartments with modern touches in every 1200 East Hillsdale Blvd. and state-of-the-art fitness and strength room. We are footsteps from the Pacific Foster City, CA 94404 center. Your lifestyle has no limit when you Ocean and just minutes away from BART (650) 341-6700 come home to 1010 Pacific and downtown San Francisco. Apartments EXPERIENCE DRAMATIC Apartments…where the avenue meets offer beautifully appointed kitchens and WATERFRONT VIEWS. Nestled alongside your doorstep. expansive closet space. Come experience a stunning tranquil lagoon, Water’s Edge Ocean Terrace the beautiful sunsets, walks on the beach, offer’s the utmost in comfortable apartment 1630 Merrill Street and the crisp ocean air. living. Enjoy the view from your private Santa Cruz, CA 95062 SeaPointe patio retreat, splash in the 2 sparkling (831) 476-4006 77 Paloma Avenue pools, renew in the state of the art fitness Welcome to Ocean Terrace Apartments Pacifica, CA 94044 center or refresh with a stroll along the bay. – Distinctive Lifestyle Perfect Location. (650) 359-5983 Our convenient location is mere minutes to Ocean Terrace is located in the heart of www.SeaPointeApts.com any Bay Area destination. Water’s Edge is Santa Cruz and features unique one, two Located in the coastal community of not simply another place to call home, but and three bedroom designs. Enjoy the Pacifica, SeaPointe offers fabulous ocean a tranquil retreat from the world. Relax into sought after Santa Cruz coastal lifestyle – and hillside views. We are footsteps from a life of beauty, comfort and convenience sandy beaches, strolling the boardwalk or the Pacific Ocean and just minutes away right now at Water’s Edge. shop until you drop downtown. Ocean from BART and downtown San Francisco. Woodmont Terrace is moments from Twin Lakes Apartments offer beautifully appointed 1050 Ralston Avenue Beach, Lincoln Beach and Schwans kitchens and expansive closet space. Belmont, CA 94002 Lagoon Park. The community is six miles Come experience the beautiful sunsets, (650) 592-6340 close to the University of Santa Cruz and is walks on the beach, and the crisp ocean Woodmont Apartments offer studio, one a quick 10-minute morning drive from the campus. Enjoy the community air. and two bedroom town homes featuring vaulted ceilings, abundant closet space accoutrements from the brand new Shadow Cove and covered parking. Enjoy panoramic recreation center to the sparkling heated 1055 Foster City Boulevard views from the sparkling pool. Easy access pool. Public transportation to downtown Foster City, CA 94404 to highways 101, 92 and 280, and walking Santa Cruz and the University are adjacent Local Toll Free: (650) 341-1950 distance to trains and buses. to the community. Ocean Terrace is now www.ShadowCoveApts.com leasing our finest locations. Please call Waterfront living. Where you can count Apartments - Santa Cruz County today and schedule and appointment to the colorful sails on the boats as they tour your new home. guide serenely past your door in the warm 1010 Pacific Pacific Shores California sun. Where gentle waterfront 1010 Pacific Avenue 1240 Shaffer Road breezes brush away the hurried pace of Santa Cruz, CA 95060 Santa Cruz, CA 95060 the city. Ask about our Move-In Specials! (866) 247-3440 (866) 484-1234 Call Today to find out how! Email: [email protected] www.1010PacificApts.com Local Toll Free: (831) 427-1290 Skyline Terrace Sleek urban living in the heart of Santa www.PacificShoresApts.com 3133 Frontera Way Cruz, just moments from the boardwalk Basking in the sun on a legendary strip Burlingame, CA 94010 near Highways 1 and 17. Experience of pristine coastline, Pacific Shores (650) 692-2766 metropolitan chic never before offered in Apartments combines unparalleled seaside www.SkylineTerrace.com the city. Studio, one, two and three living with a nostalgic surfing nuance in Set at the peak of the spectacular bedroom arrangements. Homes showcase Santa Cruz, California. Come home to Burlingame Hills, Skyline Terrace offers a upgraded interior finishes like maple Pacific Shores and step back in time. The beautiful setting with breathtaking views of cabinets, designer flooring and glory days of surfing are at their zenith. the entire San Francisco Bay! This prime countertops, culinary kitchens with Maytag Salty spray kisses your skin as you shoot location provides not only the advantages appliances and a custom interior paint the curl at Steamer’s Lane. Laughter of suburban life-style being only five palette. 1010 Pacific also offers posh dances on the wind from the Boardwalk. minutes from downtown Burlingame and penthouse residences showcasing premier Sandcastles grace the coastline holding just twenty minutes from Stanford, but

San Francisco Information Guide [ 71 APARTMENTS APARTMENTS vigil under a moonlit sky. Life is casual, featuring self-cleaning ovens, frost-free electric kitchen with ample counters and relaxed, and perfect. Pacific Shores refrigerators, instant hot faucet and cabinets along with a private patio or epitomizes quintessential California coastal dishwasher. Each fully furnished unit balcony. Lush landscaping throughout living by blending contemporary beach includes a 27 inch TV in the living room complements the oversized swimming pool bungalow architecture and panoramic and bedroom, stereo, VCR, answering and convenient tennis court. ocean views with world-class recreational machine and basic cable, king beds and Lincoln Glen amenities. Responding specifically to your blackout drapes in the bedroom. Enjoy the 150 E. Remington Drive needs, homes feature multiple data wiring outdoors on your large patio or balcony, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 for telephone, video and internet services. with views of the surrounding Santa Cruz (408) 739-7771 Yesterday, today, forever. Presenting Pacific Mountains, or relax in the heated pool or www.LincolnGlen.com Shores…Where sophistication meets the Jacuzzi spa. You’ll love the easy lifestyle at Enjoy the best of both worlds…the sea! El Gato Penthouse Apartments. Short term serenity of a country ambience, yet leases available. Apartments - South Bay minutes from fine shopping, entertainment, El Prado excellent schools, the Sunnyvale Birchwood 666 S. El Monte Avenue Community Center, and Interstate 280 and 1230 Henderson Avenue Los Altos, CA 94022 Highway 85. We offer home size studio, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 (650) 941-8719 one and two bedroom floor plans. (408) 241-5098 A quaint community nestled around a Whatever your lifestyle is, Lincoln Glen has www.BirchwoodApts.com sparkling swimming pool, El Prado features plenty of offer. Birchwood offers beautiful garden spacious one, two and three bedroom One Pearl Place apartments, located between highway 101 apartment homes. Each apartment and El Camino Real. The landscaped 5230 Terner Way features a large balcony or patio, covered San Jose, CA 95118 courtyards and private entries make your parking and a newly remodeled kitchen. apartment feel like a private residence. (866) 550-3010 Fair Oaks West Inside the apartments you’ll discover plush www.OnePearlPlace.com carpets, spacious bedrooms and 655 South Fair Oaks Avenue Close your eyes. Imagine grand Venetian expansive closets. Every room has Sunnyvale, CA 94086 palaces, dramatic Roman citadels, oversized windows giving a feeling of the Local Toll Free: (408) 735-9780 mountaintop chalets in San Moritz and the outdoors. Call today for our latest move-in www.FairOaksWest.com opulent seaside estates of Cannes. Open specials! Set among majestic redwoods, your eyes…you are home in a bastion of shimmering fountains and clear lakes, Fair elegance influenced by the master builders Cherryhill Oaks West offers premier resort living in a of a different age. One Pearl Place 902 West Remington Drive relaxing community atmosphere. showcases exquisite California living by Sunnyvale, CA 94087 Manicured lawns and tree lines pathways linking nature’s majesty with the regal Local Toll Free: (408) 736-8658 beckon quiet afternoon strolls. You can architectural refinement of Northern www.CherryhillApts.com step up the pace in the Oaks Club, which Europe. Unparalleled aesthetic touches It’s not an address, it’s a lifestyle. We features a fitness center, billiard room and massage your senses. Stunning offer all electric kitchens, distinctive wood movie theater. The Club’s resident service landscaping and water elements ensure burning fireplaces, and a patio or balcony programs are designed to provide you with serenity. for your outdoor relaxation pleasure. all the activities of a first-rate resort. Riviera Terrace Though situated in a quiet residential Foxdale Manor neighborhood, Cherryhill is a short walk to 135 Riviera Drive village shopping and only five minutes from 1250 Foxdale Loop Los Gatos, CA 95030 Vallco Fashion Mall and Sunnyvale Town San Jose, CA 95122 (408) 354-3177 Center. (408) 251-1142 Experience today’s perfection with the You will experience comfort, beauty of old-world history at Riviera El Gato Penthouse convenience and excellent service at Terrace. From the moment you pass 20 East Main Street Foxdale Manor! We offer spacious 1, 2, 3 through the abundant rose gardens, you Los Gatos, CA 95030 and 4 bedroom homes to choose from. feel the tranquil influence of old country (408) 354-3141 Our lushly landscaped community includes around you. With its soaring mosaic www.vasonamanagement.com a computer center and library, fitness artwork and tree-lined pathways, the music Welcome to the El Gato Penthouse center and is convenient to major of songbirds charm the air. All the details Apartments, nestled against the hills along highways. Visit us today for a personal tour have been orchestrated to create today’s Los Gatos’ famous hiking, walking and to see what you’ve been missing! perfect apartment home. biking trail, you’ll enjoy a serene mountain Greenpoint Stanford Villa setting in the heart of the quaint town of Los Gatos. Walk to shops, cafes, bistros 1599 Warburton Avenue 3375 Alma Street and fine restaurants, yet have easy access Santa Clara, CA 95050 Palo Alto, CA 94306 to the Silicon Valley. El Gato Penthouse (408) 248.7128 (650) 493-3303 Apartments offer the best of both worlds… www.GreenpointApts.com www.StanfordVilla.com A cosmopolitan lifestyle with a country A Greenpoint apartment is a home with Stanford Villa…a prestigious apartment atmosphere. Newly remodeled with plush the privacy and quiet you’d expect from a community designed to complement your carpeting and fully equipped kitchens place in the country. Inside each individual style of living. The collection of apartment, you will find a distinctive all- spacious apartment homes is situated

72 ] San Francisco Information Guide APARTMENTS EDUCATION around uniquely landscaped courtyards Valley Green Broadway meets Grand in Uptown and three sparkling pools. Other 20875 Valley Green Drive Oakland. These stylish one-, two- and conveniences include a state-of-the-art Cupertino, CA 95014 three-bedroom condominiums offer plenty fitness center and relaxing sauna. Enjoy Local Toll Free: (408) 253-0200 of living space amidst deco-inspired easy access to highways 280 and 101 as www.ValleyGreenApts.com architecture. With dining right in the well as fine dining and entertainment. A serene retreat in the hub of the Silicon building and central location, life takes on a The Park at Winchester Valley, Valley Green offers an unrivaled grand new meaning. Strolling distance to 897 South Winchester Blvd range of personal choices to enhance your Lake Merritt, the Paramount Theatre, and San Jose, CA 95128 style of living. Choose from an array of BART. And it’s all yours, whether you’re (408) 296-3232 distinctive floor plans which include relaxing with the Sunday paper in the Spend your free time swimming in our cottages, town houses and apartment private interior courtyard or meeting a refreshing pool or working out in our state- homes. friend for coffee. Every inch of this new of-the-art fitness center. Our location is Woodbridge sleek and stylish condominium convenient to 280, 880/17 and 87. You are 1180 Lochinvar Avenue neighborhood has been designed for moments from major employers, shopping, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 comfort and style. Models open Monday dining and entertainment. Find a sense of (408) 244-6863 1pm-6pm, Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm. community at The Park at Winchester. Get a touch of New England amongst Renaissance Taxco Apartments the lushly landscaped grounds of By Signature Properties 1324 Winchester Blvd. Woodbridge Apartment Homes. Enjoy a Concord, CA 94520 San Jose, CA 95128 stroll through the grounds, relax in the (925) 691-5364 (408) 866-7117 community clubhouse and work out in the RenaissanceinConcord.com www.vasonamanagement.com fitness center or swim in the pool. Located Renaissance is a collection of modern Welcome to Taxco Apartments, a resort conveniently off Lawrence Expressway, you flats and townhomes that’s perfectly in style, gated community in the heart of the are minutes from 280, 85, 880/17, El sync with easy living. And with amenities Silicon Valley. A garden setting with the Camino Real, shopping, dining and like a social lounge/meeting area, pool and ambiance of a Mediterranean Villa, just entertainment, as well as major employers. fitness room right in the community, the atmosphere is downright energizing. Walk minutes away from major professional and Car/Truck Rental industrial centers, schools and Valley fair to the movies, restaurants, an array of mall. Enjoy the grounds year round in our Avis Rent a Car shops and services. A few blocks, and heated swimming pool and spa. Many Reservations call (800) 331-1212 you’re at the Todos Santos Park, the apartments feature private balconies, Offers low-mileage quality maintained Farmer’s Market, or the BART station for patios, ceiling fans and vertical blinds. GM and other cars. Computerized for fast easy access to San Francisco and beyond. Newly remodeled kitchens offer built-in service & low rates for day, week or long Education 6-12 microwaves, self-cleaning ovens, frost-free term mini lease. Florida Air Academy refrigerator/freezer and cable hook-up. Budget Rent a Car 1950 South Academy Drive Residents have the use of convenient Worldwide Reservations (800) 527-0700 Melbourne, FL 32901 laundry facility and reserved covered Right now, Budget has great rates on (321) 723-3211 parking. Easy access by four major equally great cars. So don’t let them pass www.flair.com freeways and ten miles from San Jose you by. For your local or one-way rental At Florida Air Academy, Cadets at have International Airport. Walking distance to a choose from Budget’s World Class Fleet at the opportunity to get a first-rate education large shopping center, offering shops and the airport or in your neighborhood. restaurants. Taxco Apartments is an ideal geared to the learning styles of young men Budget Rent a Truck community. and make friends from around the world. Worldwide Reservations (800) 527-0700 The school accepts young men in grades Tamarack Right now, Budget has great rates on 6 through 12. The Academy boasts a 16- 1255 Lincoln Street equally great trucks. So don’t let them student average class size and college Santa Clara, CA 95050 pass you by. prep curriculum taught by accredited staff, (408) 246-6343, Fax: (408) 246-5212 Hertz Car Rental many with advanced degrees. Cadets at www.TamarackApts.com Florida Air Academy receive leadership Tamarack features a collection of one Reservations call (800) 654-3131 Still The biggest, still the best. Biggest training and an emphasis on community and two bedroom apartment homes service. Other programs include an situated around a sparkling pool. The Selection of low mileage cars. Customer service is the most important thing we do. excellent sports program, extensive quaint courtyard setting includes a computer curriculum and optional flight convenient barbecue area. Located in Condo/Townhouse Sales training and SCUBA certification. desirable Santa Clara, you will enjoy easy access to Highways 880, 101 and 280. Broadway Grand Florida Air Academy is located on Nearby Valley Fair Shopping Center By Signature Properties Florida’s Space Coast and is fully provides limitless shopping venues. CALL Oakland, CA 94612 accredited. Contact our Admissions TODAY FOR OUR MOVE-IN SPECIALS! (510) 986-0149 department for more information on Fall, www.BroadwayGrand.com Spring, and Summer enrollments. For Sophisticated elegance and a modern additional Information contact: Donna downtown lifestyle intersect where Stratford Director of Communication (321) 723-3211, Extension 30028

San Francisco Information Guide [ 73 EDUCATION NATIONWIDE TRAVEL

Education Graduate School commitment that most families ever make. Entertainment” awaits your arrival. All of us at Standard Pacific are dedicated Keller Graduate School of Management • La Femme-the sensual French sensation to offering the utmost in new home choice, San Francisco Center direct from the original Crazy Horse in quality, and value. New home Paris. 455 Market Street Suite 1650 developments that bear the name San Francisco, CA 94105 • Tabu - The ultra hip lounge designed to Standard Pacific carry a signature of our stimulate and arouse your senses. (415) 243-8787 long-standing commitment to excellence in • Live the nightclub lifestyle at studio 54sm. www.kelleradvantage.com/nms design and craftsmanship that has earned At DeVry University’s Keller Graduate the trust and respect of homeowners year • Sixteen masterpiece restaurants including School of Management, our Master of after year. The Company provides celebrated chef Tom Colicchio’s Business Administration (MBA) degree mortgage financing and title services to its Craftsteak and Michelle Mina’s NOBHILL. program will emphasize the skills and homebuyers through Standard Pacific • The king of the jungle overlooks the Lion concepts that today’s corporations Mortgage and SPH Title. Habitat. demand. We work with business leaders to • The Grand Garden Arena and Hollywood ensure that your degree is relevant to the Moving Supplies Theatre feature top name entertainment. skills employers seek, so any path you Dial-A-Box choose can expand your career potential. Mirage Hotel & Casino White Plains and The Bronx, N Our faculty members have industry 3400 Las Vegas Blvd South TOLL FREE: (866) 4-DIAL-A-BOX / experience, providing you with practical, Las Vegas, NV 89109 (866) 434-2522 advanced learning. Small class sizes mean (702) 791-7111 www.dial-a-box.com they can collaborate with you as they Immerse yourself in this tropical South teach, and they may even provide Nationwide Travel Sea oasis filled with luxury and excitement! networking opportunities. As a Keller • Experience the elegance and Bellagio The Resort student, you can acquire the advanced sophistication of our newly redesigned 3600 Las Vegas Blvd South knowledge you need to gain your guest rooms. Las Vegas, NV 89109 professional edge. (702) 693-7223 • Dive into interconnected lagoon and Keller offers you the opportunity to Experience a world unto itself at “the thundering waterfalls at the new Mirage customize your MBA with 15 distinct most romantic hotel in the world.” pool. concentrations including accounting, • AAA Five Diamond Award winning resort. • Ten international restaurants including electronic commerce management, general AAA Five-Diamond award winner Renoir. • Nine world-renowned restaurants management, health services, HR, IT, • Exotic White Tigers, Lions and a family of international business, marketing, and including Aqua, Prime, and AAA Five Diamond Award-winner Picasso. Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in Seigfried more, so your degree program fits your and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin • “O” by Cirque du Soleil, an extraordinary career goals. You can choose any electives Habitat. for which you meet the prerequisites, fusion of water, dance and aerobics. • A fire-erupting volcano sparkling lagoons including a robust range of course • Via Bellagio- a collection of the worlds and tumbling waterfalls. offerings. Our convenient, high-quality most sophisticated boutiques from education is offered onsite, online, or a Giorgio Armani, Chanel, Tiffany, and • Dive into interconnected lagoon and combination of both, to help you balance Hermes. thundering waterfalls at the new Mirage pool. work, life and school. A Keller graduate • The Conservatory and Botanical Gardens admissions advisor can assist you with any charms guests with its natural beauty. New York-New York admissions requirements and specific • Dancing Fountains cavort on an eight 3790 Las Vegas Blvd. South course selections to meet your educational acre lake. Las Vegas, NV 89109 and career goals. (702) 740-6969 Fairmont Hotels The best of New York City meets the Home Builders/Developers Toll Free (800)527-4727 best of Las Vegas in one exciting location. Standard Pacific Homes www.Fairmont.com Be a part of it. 2240 Douglas Blvd Suite 200 Boston, Las Vegas, Dallas, New • ESPN ZONE sports-themed dining and Roseville, CA 95661 Orleans, New York, San Francisco & San entertainment. Jose America’s Grand Hotels since 1907. (916) 746-7000 • Live performances nightly from the www.standardpacifichomes.com Hilton Hotels Award-winning comedy of Rita Rudner. Standard Pacific is one of the nation's Worldwide Reservations • The thrilling Manhattan Express Roller largest and most successful homebuilding Toll Free (800) 845-8667 Coaster. companies with shares traded on the New www.Hilton.com York Stock Exchange. We take pride in Hilton Hotels, Resorts, Suites, Hilton • COYOTE UGLY Bar and Dance saloon having created more than 105,000 homes Garden Inn, Conrad International Hotel. and the Dueling Pianos at the Bar at Times Square. in California, Florida, Arizona, the MGM Grand Carolinas, Texas, Colorado and Nevada • New York City’s original Gallaghers 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South Steakhouse. over the past four decades. This pride Las Vegas, NV 89109 comes from knowing that home ownership (702) 891-1111 • Be the toast of the town in the Big apple is a cherished American tradition. A new Searching for non-stop action and Bar with live entertainment nightly in “The home is also the largest single financial pulse-pounding excitement? “The City of Greatest City in Las Vegas.”

74 ] San Francisco Information Guide NATIONWIDE TRAVEL NEW HOME DEVELOPEMENTS

• ZUMANITY, Another side of Cirque du Bridgeport at Eden Shores homes ranging in size from approximately Soleil, the creative climax of sexuality, 28622 Bay Port Court 1,496 to 2,186 square feet and feature up humanity and art. Hayward, CA 94545 to four bedrooms. Don't miss your chance Pan Pacific Resort Hotels (510) 723-0636 to own a new value priced home in Worldwide Reservations www.StandardPacificHomes.com Vacaville! Toll Free (800) 327-8585 Appropriately called the Heart of the Crossings at Eden Shores Pan Pacific Hotels & Resorts. North Bay, Hayward offers everything you need 29092 Caravan Lane America, Japan, Southeast Asia. to live, work and play. Bridgeport lets you Hayward, CA 94545 choose the perfect home for your lifestyle. (510) 723-0662 Treasure Island Solid craftsmanship and lifestyle-friendly 3300 Las Vegas Blvd. South www.StandardPacificHomes.com features inspire activity in every room; while Standard Pacific Homes announces two Las Vegas, NV 89109 nearby amenities beckon you out to play. (702) 792-5627 new neighborhoods at Eden Shores, just You’ll find distinctive 3 to 4 bedroom single minutes from schools, shopping, Enjoy the adventure and romance of this family homes from 1,687 to 2,196 sq. ft. engaging resort filled with new-world commuter routes, and Bay Area recreation. amenities. Chantera at Windemere Bridgeport offers distinctive 3 to 4- 5317 Pembroke Way bedroom single-family homes from • AAA Four Diamond Award® winning San Ramon, CA 94582 approximately 1,687 to 2,196 square feet. resort. (925) 833-8945 And Crossings offers 2 to 3-bedroom • World-famous pyrotechnic sea battle www.centexhomes.com townhome-style condominiums ranging between the pirate ship, Hispaniola, and Chantera, located in the master-planned from approximately 1,526 to 1,985 square the British frigate, H.M.S. Britania in the community of Windemere, offers a unique feet. middle of the Buccaneer Bay. oasis from the hustle and bustle of modern Dolcetto at Vintage Ranch • Mystere by Cirque du Soleil, a life. The distinctive floorplans range from 3 Selvino Court mesmerizing mix of powerful acrobatics, 3,490 to 4,175 square feet, with up to 6 American Canyon, CA 94503 circus skills and dance. bedrooms. From classic facades (707) 554-2573 • Eight exciting dining options including reminiscent of a more leisurely era, to www.standardpacifichomes.com Kahunaville and Buccaneer Bay breathtaking interiors offering all the best of Dolcetto is the final neighborhood at Restaurant-fine dining overlooking the today's modern amenities, it's all here. Vintage Ranch, Standard Pacific Homes’ explosive battle in Buccaneer Bay. Homes with all the space a growing family popular new community in American • A beautifully appointed wedding chapel. needs in a neighborhood built for family Canyon. Offering buyers five unique floor • A tropical pool area and lavish spa and living. plans, this new neighborhood provides salon. Cortina at Live Oak Ranch homebuyers with a range of choices in 317 Shady Oak Drive room options and amenities. Known as New Home Developments Oakley, CA 94561 “The Gateway to the Napa Valley,” Bergamo at Vintage Ranch (925) 625-6415 American Canyon features picturesque 90 Renwood Lane www.StandardPacificHomes.com open space. Residents will have the American Canyon, CA 94503 Discover the perfect refuge from the opportunity to enjoy celebrated wineries (707) 552-5034 daily grind-Cortina at Live Oak Ranch. and restaurants along the world famous www.StandardPacificHomes.com Whether it’s spending time relaxing in one Napa Valley Wine Trail just a short drive Vintage Ranch in American Canyon of the community’s parks, playing catch away. The city's ideal location also gives offers a variety of homes for every lifestyle. with the kids or a game of bocce ball with residents easy commute access to With more than 600 homes in four your friends, enjoying time with your family Sonoma and Marin Counties, the East Bay neighborhoods and a selection of floor and friends is easy here at Cortina. With and San Francisco. plans and architectural styles, this new Delta recreation, desirable Oakley schools, Harborwalk community will provide homebuyers with a great shopping and commuting corridors By Signature Properties range of choices. all nearby, you’re sure to find the balance Oakland, CA 94601 Known as “The Gateway to the Napa and harmony you seek. The single-family (510) 532-8843 Valley,” American Canyon features detached homes at Cortina range from www.harborwalkhomes.com picturesque open space. Residents will approximately 2,183 to 3,760 square feet Chic two-, three- and four-bedroom have the opportunity to enjoy celebrated and feature 3 to 7 bedrooms and 2.5 to 5 residences strike a harmonious balance wineries and restaurants along the world baths. . between pure comfort and cutting edge. famous Napa Valley Wine Trail just a short The Courtyards at Portofino Each spacious home offers highly dramatic drive away. The city’s ideal location also 130 Refosco Court living areas, beautifully appointed kitchens, gives residents easy commute access to Vacaville, CA 95687 serene bedroom suites, private decks or Sonoma and Marin Counties, the East Bay (707) 446-1614 patios (per plan) and gated, assigned and San Francisco. www.StandardPacificHomes.com underground parking. Plus, all this luxury is The Courtyards at Portofino, Standard centered on a private landscaped oasis Pacific Homes’ newest community in that greets you upon entry into the Vacaville, is conveniently located close to community. Models open Monday 1pm- I-80 and downtown Vacaville. The 6pm, Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm. Courtyards feature detached single-family

San Francisco Information Guide [ 75 NEW HOME DEVELOPEMENTS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Levanto at Monterosso Oxford Square opportunity to own a new home in an old Danville CA 94506 2227 Cedrus Drive town that perfectly blends nostalgic charm (925) 736-1265 Tracy, CA 95376 Stirling Village at Stonebrae Country Club www.kbhome.com (209) 834-8723 112 Drummond Drive Levanto at Monterosso presents three www.StandardPacificHomes.com Hayward, CA 94542 luxurious floor plans with graceful living Oxford Square, Standard Pacific Homes’ (510) 538-5663 spaces and impressive standard features. newest community in Tracy, features www.StirlingVillageatStonebrae.com The homes at Levanto offer amenities that attached and detached two-and three- Stirling Village at Stonebrae Country homeowners most desire including a story homes highlighting quaint European Club lets you live and play in the heart of collection of kitchen features such as bull- architectural designs in a contemporary the bay. Luxury homes high atop the nosed granite slab counters with Kohler setting. With three floor plans ranging in Hayward Hills feature 4 to 5-bedroom floor stainless steel sinks, and KitchenAid size from approximately 1,703 to 2,238 plans from approximately 3,123 to 3,798 stainless steel appliances with built-in square feet, these homes offer affordability square feet with 3.5 to 5.5 baths and 2 to refrigerators. Plus, each master bath and a style of living ideal for first time 3-car garages. Residents will enjoy four features granite slab vanity tops with bull- homebuyers and growing families. miles of new trails, sporting fields, parks, nosed edges and granite tile tubs. Levanto Sevilla at Andalucia and the city’s first new public school in 40 is located in the highly desirable Danville 3425 Ashbourne Court years-all surrounded by 1,200 acres of area, in the heart of San Ramon Valley. Fairfield, CA 94534 regional open space. A championship 18- This family friendly city is known for its (707) 422-3199 hole golf course and clubhouse is also small-town charm, inviting downtown area, www.StandardPacificHomes.com available to residents who choose to take and excellent school system. Danville’s Homebuyers have a final opportunity to advantage of club membership. quaint downtown area is close by and purchase a new home in Fairfield’s premier offers a variety of specialty shops and first- Rancho Solano community. Sevilla at Property Management class dining. Andalucia will offer sites nestled against Lyon Management Group, Inc. Lucera at Vintage Ranch rolling foothills and open space. The 4901 Birch Street 59 Toscana Drive architectural designs at Sevilla will surely Corporate Headquarters American Canyon, CA 94503 impress buyers. Floorplans offer four to Newport Beach, CA 92660 (707) 552-5034 seven bedrooms, up to four and one-half (949) 252-9101 www.StandardPacificHomes.com baths, and approximately 2,780 to 3,940 www.LyonApartments.com Vintage Ranch in American Canyon square feet of living space. These homes In February, 1989, Lyon Management offers a variety of homes for every lifestyle. present spectacular upgraded amenities Group, Inc. was established to provide Lucera at Vintage Ranch offers five unique and the quality craftsmanship for which property management services to The floor plans ranging from approx. 1,842 to Standard Pacific has become known for, all William Lyon Company for its multi-family 3,044 sq. ft. and offers up to six bedrooms in a gated, golf course community. properties. Since then, Lyon has seen and four baths. These homes provide the Sorrento at Monte Bella unprecedented growth and expertise and flexibility a busy family is looking for in a 1308 Padova Dr. is now offering comprehensive services in new home. Known as “The Gateway to the Salinas, CA 93905 all aspects of multi-family investment. Napa Valley,” residents will have the (831) 770-0891 Lyon’s vision is to be the premier opportunity to enjoy celebrated wineries www.StandardPacificHomes.com apartment company, creating the highest and restaurants along the world famous Comfort, community, and convenience quality living environment while delivering Napa Valley Wine Trail just a short drive await you at Sorrento located in the superior results and instilling a pride of away. desirable Monte Bella community in ownership within our team. Years of Marsanne at Vintage Ranch Salinas. Here you’ll find 4 inviting model experience, long-term vision and a strong 6 Selvino Court homes, 4 to 6 bedrooms with floor plans commitment to customer service give us American Canyon, CA 94503 up to approximately 3,647 sq. ft., perfectly the ability to set new standards in asset (707) 554-2573 placed in a city full of life. This family- management. Our management www.StandardPacificHomes.com friendly neighborhood offers a proposed philosophy addresses the specific Marsanne at Vintage Ranch in American 21 acre community park and a brand new requirements of our clients while Canyon offers four floorplans to fit every elementary school nearby. maintaining an owner’s perspective in lifestyle. Homes at Marsanne range from Spreckels every decision we make. approximately 2,699 to 3,906 sq. ft. and 116 Spreckels Blvd. provide four to six bedrooms and up to 5 Spreckels, CA 93962 baths. Customizing room options include a (831) 455-8507 study, guest suite and junior master www.StandardPacificHomes.com bedroom. American Canyon features open Discover true hometown living just four space and residents are a short drive away miles South of Salinas at Spreckels, a new from celebrated wineries and restaurants collection of bungalow-style homes in the along the Napa Valley Wine Trail. Vintage town that shares the same name. Ranch is centrally located to Sonoma and Designed to complement the existing Marin counties, the East Bay and San architecture and unspoiled surroundings, Francisco. this new community offers a rare

76 ] San Francisco Information Guide NEW HOME DEVELOPMENTS PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

San Francisco Information Guide [ 77

whyNEW HOME DEVELOPMENTSrent? PROPERTY MANAGEMENT OWN FROM THE $300S

Bella Flora

Pacific Terrace

Stanford Place II Pacific Pointe

There’s never been a better time to buy. ® Why rent when you can afford a brand new home? With the smart financing opportunities available to KB homebuyers today, there’s never been a better time to buy. Visit any of these great KB Home communities and see how wonderful it is to own a home. ® pick an ideal floor plan • create great living spaces • select design features • pay only for what you love

PITTSBURG ANTIOCH FREMONT ´ KB HOME STUDIO 1 Stanford Place II 4 Renaissance at Bluerock 7 Montebello 4226 Rosewood Drive From the $300s From the $300s From the $400s Pleasanton, CA 94588 • 2-story homes • 2-story homes • 1-, 2- and 3-story homes, Mon.–Tues., Thurs. 9am–6pm; • 1,786–2,193 sq. ft. • 2,192–2,296 sq. ft. townhomes and condominiums Wed., 9am–noon; Fri., 9am–5pm; • 3–5 bedrooms • 3–5 bedrooms • 905–2,006 sq. ft. Sat.–Sun., 10am–5pm • 2.5–3 baths • 2.5 baths • 1–4 bedrooms • 1–3 baths (925) 750-6200 (925) 252-9019 (925) 755-7254 (510) 249-9594

RICHMOND UNION CITY ANTIOCH 2 Bella Flora 5 Pacific Terrace 2 242 PITTSBURG OAKLEY From the $400s From the $500s 580 4 1 BRENTWOOD • 2-story homes • 3 floor plans 24 4 • 1,832–2,436 sq. ft. • 1,203–1,675 sq. ft. 580 680 LATHROP • 3–5 bedrooms • 2–3 bedrooms 6

80 205 • 2.5–3 baths • 2.5 baths Rd. Vasco (510) 235-1269 (510) 477-9348 DANVILLE 580 5 HAYWARD DANVILLE San Francisco 3 5 PLEASANTON 580 3 Eden Pointe 6 Levanto at Monterosso 880 Bay UNION ´ From the $400s From the $900s CITY • 2- and 3-story homes • 2-story homes 92 7 • 1,349–2,138 sq. ft. • 2,503–3,212 sq. ft. 101 • 3–5 bedrooms • 3–6 bedrooms 84 • 2.5–4 baths • 3–5.5 baths MILPITAS (510) 781-0414 (925) 732-4015 280 880

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