It's not always easy getting what you want. But here at Perisson, we think it ought to be, at least when it comes buying a new home. Let us talk you through finding a great new home in Foster City, CA.

What's it like to live in Foster City?

Foster City is a very culturally diverse city in San Mateo County. It is near Silicon Valley, so there's no shortage of amazing job opportunities, and it lies on the San Francisco Peninsula, known locally as "The Peninsula." Its location on the Peninsula puts it near the waterway, so there are plenty of beautiful waterfront homes with gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.  

What types of homes are in Foster City?

One of our favorite things about this city is that it has a wealth of homes that scream "affordable luxury." They are gorgeous, quality-built homes that deliver big on comfort, style, and amenities, but don't cost an arm and a leg. Updated and upscale are the order of the day in Foster City houses. You'll love the kitchens with granite counter tops, wine coolers and lots of cabinet space. Master suites include walk-in closets, recessed lighting and sitting areas. There's plenty of exotic-looking hardwood flooring throughout the houses, as well as beautiful tiles and laminates. Professionally landscaped backyards often include special touches like courtyards with private entries or water features like waterfalls and fountains. 

What's unique about Foster City?

When it comes to getting out and about, Foster City offers you a one-of-a-kind place you won't find anywhere else on the Peninsula -- the Peninsula Jewish Community Center (PJCC). This fitness and community center accepts members of all faiths, and you can think of it as Foster City's own exclusive version of the YMCA. Mingle at a Member Mixer, which includes delicious cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. Take part in festivals, plays, tours, trips and more through the center's adult programs. For kids and teens, there are seasonal camps, specialty programs and youth groups, and for all ages there are sports and fitness classes including swimming, yoga, Pilates, team sports and more.  

Where are the good schools in Foster City?

• Brewer Island Elementary School | Grades K-5 | 1151 Polynesia Drive
• Bowditch Middle School | Grades 6-8 | 1450 Tarpon Street
• Hillsdale High School | Grades 9-12 | 3115 Del Monte Street

What are the best things to do in Foster City?

As a Foster City resident, we guarantee you'll have no trouble finding plenty of local activities to keep you busy. Visit the annual Arts and Wine Festival for a collection of food, wines, art and activities you won't find anywhere else. Imbibe micro-brewed beers and biodynamic wines until your heart's content as you enjoy over 150 arts and crafts booths, live entertainment, specialty foods and carnival-style games. Speaking of the arts, drama lovers will enjoy the Hillbarn Theater, the sixth oldest theater company in the country. The theater puts on six shows a year and has an on-site conservatory geared towards young, aspiring artists - a great extracurricular option for your teens. Foster City is famous for its broad selection of ethnic restaurants. If you're tickled by Thai, schedule a power lunch at Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine and enjoy Thai favorites like Garlic Prawns, Vindaloo Curry, and Tom Kha. Sample the city's best baba ganoush, kebobs, pizza and pasta at Waterfront Pizza and Mediterranean Restaurant or a hefty helping of Dai Chin or General Tso Chicken at Rickshaw Corner Restaurant. For shopping, there's the Hillsdale Shopping Center, an upscale mall just off the 101 in San Mateo. Shop all your favorite brands like Ann Taylor, Coach and  Williams-Sonoma. For eats, Hillsdale goes above and beyond typical mall fare with popular restaurants like Paul Martin's American Grill and California Pizza Kitchen.  

Is Foster City right for me?

Foster City has outstanding homes, exemplary schools, trendy restaurants and some of the best shopping on the Peninsula. It's a city that invites you to build a life you love. Waterfront properties, access to some of Silicon Valley's hottest companies, strong community values and convenient access to other amazing Bay Area cities are just a few more reasons we love Foster City. Don't settle on a new home until you've visited a few of our Foster City listings.