The low-lying hilly areas of Saratoga is a highly regarded area in which to live for the convenience, natural beauty, rural feel, large parcels and houses, schools and vistas. The foothills offer spectacular views – some of the valley, others the mountains. Many of these prized locations are just a few minutes from town and most enjoy top rated schools (Saratoga and Cupertino) boasting some of the highest API scores in the state.

Purchasing hillside real estate is a little different than buying a house or land on the floor of Silicon Valley. With a little elevation, it’s important to consider natural hazards, soil conditions, drainage, clearance around the house for fire safety, and more. In remote locations, the property may not be serviced by the regular utility companies for water, power and sewer (but instead have wells, propane and septic). Private roads may also be part of the package if the property is quite elevated and secluded (more likely in the Santa Cruz Mountains rather than in the “blue hills” or nearby areas).

If you have never visited these parts of Saratoga, it’s well worth a Sunday drive! You might head out to Garrod’s for horseback riding or to Cooper-Garrod (or, of Highway 9, to Savannah-Chanelle Vineyards & Tasting) for some wine tasting. Or do what so many others do, and drop by a few “open houses” in the hills.

Meanwhile, though, you can browse high end Saratoga view homes for sale here!

 

 

 

 

Author

  • Mary Pope-Handy

    Silicon Valley Realtor, selling homes in Los Gatos, Saratoga, San Jose, Silicon Valley, and nearby since 1993. Prolific blogger with a network of sites.