Remodeled Shelter Creek Condo Featured in This Weekend's Open Houses

The recently remodeled studio condominium, located at 3122 Shelter Creek Lane, has been elegantly updated with hardwood flooring, new appliances and a marble countertop in the kitchen.

This unit boasts a sunny bed alcove with a private patio featuring charming courtyard views. Also included are one-car parking and an extra storage room.

is a very nice complex, often described as a resort-like community. Residents are treated to such amenities as two swimming pools, a clubhouse with billiards room, tennis courts and a gym.

Close to shopping, freeway access and public transportation. The mid-Peninsula San Bruno location, close to San Francisco and the Silicon Valley, is very desirable.

This attractive unit is affordably priced for the first-time homebuyer at $146,000.

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Question of the Week

Q: Dear Joe, We are buying our first home. What is a home warranty and should we get one? —Alma, San Mateo

A: Alma,

A home warranty is a service contract, normally for one year, which helps protect homeowners against the cost of unexpected covered repairs or replacement on their major systems and appliances that break down due to normal wear and tear. Coverage is usually for systems and appliances in good working order at the start of the contract.

Home warranty companies offer varying levels of coverage plans and prices. For example, more intensive policies may cover roof repairs; basic plans usually do not.

Some of the systems that a home warranty may cover are:

• Plumbing
• Electrical systems
• Furnace
• Water heater
• Heating ducts
• Water pump
• Dishwasher
• Garbage disposal
• Stove/cook top/ovens
• Microwave
• Refrigerator
• Washer/dryer

When it comes to purchasing a homeowners policy, the choice is up to you. Having the piece of mind that comes with knowing your new home's systems are protected is a good value at around $500. That being said, it's always good to know your policy and whether or not it covers the full replacement cost of an item. Basic policies may not cover everything, and finding that out after the fact can be very disappointing.

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Giving Back to San Bruno Schools

For those who know me, you may know that I am very involved in education, especially in the San Bruno Park School District. As an active and involved member of our community, I strongly believe that well funded schools are an important part of our future.

Because of this, if you decide to work with me when buying or selling your new home, at the close of escrow I will donate $500 in your name to the San Bruno Education Foundation or the PTA of your choice!

Conditions do apply, so for more information, email me at JCapote@APR.com.

Joseph Capote is a Realtor with Alain Pinel Realtors. He also serves on the board of directors for the San Bruno Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at 650-375-1111 or on the Web at www.SanBrunoViews.com.