Best of the Hills

Blog by DeeDee Riley
El Dorado Hills, California

Welcome to my weblog! The Hills I refer to here are the foothills east of the Sacramento Valley. My inspiration for this blog came as a result of my Real Estate profession where touring homes and knowing the inventory are some of the best parts of my job. Though my predominant intention here is to tell you about the homes for sale that have wow’d me, I also want to include what I consider to be among “other bests” of living in this wonderful area. You can search by categories, by clicking on the links below, or click on a tag word under one of my postings for more blogs about that subject. The prices shown on each blog is as of the date written. I'll try and update them when time allows. Please keep in mind that sometimes the pictures don't do a home justice, but they are what the listing agent has submitted to the MLS and what I have to work with. For more pictures or information on any of these postings or for help in locating similar homes available in our area, please contact me by clicking on the “Email Me” link below. Be sure and check out My Favorite Links for more helpful sites. Blog postings with * following the name indicate that the home has been sold and is no longer available.

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Best of the Hills

Charming Custom in Upscale Highland Hills Neighborhood

May. 28, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
     
Highland Hills Drive, El Dorado Hills, CAI use to live in the next neighborhood over (Sterlingshire) and drove by this house on a regular basis.  It has always caught my eye as it's curb appeal is so charming.  I wondered what it looked like inside.  On our Lyon office tour yesterday, I finally got a chance to see it, and to my delight, it is just as charming on the inside!  The charm continues out to the back yard where you find the pool and garden areas nestled around some of our majestic native oaks.  Highland Hills homes all have large lots and there are no HOA dues or Mello Roos.  The majority of the homes here were built in the 90's, this one was built in 1990 on .80 acres.  It has 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, and approximately 4420 square feet.  Additionally, the home has a separate 2 bedroom, 1 bath guest suite with it's own mini kitchen, family room, and private entrance from the front of the house.  The downstairs has extensive use of beautiful Brazilian cherry hardwood flooring.  The upstairs master bedroom has a fireplace and private balcony overlooking the back yard where you can also catch glimpses of the local hills beyond.  Listed at $1,085,000.  Please call or email me for more information.  To read all my best of the hills postings visit MyBestoftheHills.com or click here.   

Great Horse Property Home in Shingle Springs

May. 14, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
     
Carlson Drive, Shingle Springs, CAThis stunning estate property rests beautifully on 5 oak-studded acres yet is still conveniently located to Hwy. 50, our great schools, and shopping.  The main house is approximately 2649 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom; and the guest house is 1000 square feet with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath.  The main house is very warm and inviting with the use of brick in the great room around the fireplace and bar area.  The kitchen is large and open to the nook and great (family) room.  The backyard is magnificently done with a heated swimming pool, koi pond, and lighted horseshoe pit, and ample decking and patio areas.  Add in the amazing horse amenities that include a covered arena and a 5-stall barn with both a tack and a feed room, and you'll understand why I feel that this is both a great find and a great value.   It is listed at $1,199,000.  Please call or email me for more information.       

Beauty with Lake Views in Prestigious Summit Neighborhood

May. 3, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
     
Huntington Circle, El Dorado Hills, CA - As you make your way inside the gates of the prestigious Summit neighborhood and meander past one amazing custom home after another you can't help but be in awe.  Perched high on a hill towards the back of the development, this home permits sneak peaks of Folsom Lake from the first floor living areas off the back of the house and the pool area, but the 2nd floor is a whole other story.  The 2nd floor has two viewing balconies, including a private one for the Master suite, where you can catch the gorgeous sunset views over the lake. The owner/builder spared no expense building their residence and it is apparent in the appointments used such as the solid knotty alder doors, the radiant heated concrete floors, and the generous use of natural stone.  Even the back yard is a beautiful oasis with a sparkling pool/spa, a putting green, and an outdoor kitchen complete with BBQ, refrigerator, sink, and granite counters.  As you would expect in a house of this character, the kitchen has everything a cook could want - 6 burner range, double ovens, butlers pantry, wine refrigerator.....  As mentioned, the master suite is on the 2nd floor where it can full advantage of the views.  Downstairs is a mini master suite for your guests with a separate entrance, walk in closet and separate tub and shower.  This "best find"  was built in 2006, on approximately .465 acres with over 4400 square feet of living space, and has 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms.  It is listed at $1,574,888.  If you would like more information or pictures of this home or others like it in our area, please call or email me.  To view a map click here.       

Beautiful Serrano Custom with Valley & Mountain Views

Apr. 26, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
     
Sur Mer Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA - Imagine views of Folsom Lake and the Sacramento Valley lights from one side of your house and local and mountain views from the pool, cabana area, and back of your house.  This Serrano custom is truly superb inside and out.  Walking up to the front door, you come through a courtyard area surrounded by roses that smell divine.  Inside quality construction abounds from the gourmet kitchen with it's custom cabinets, massive center island, and granite slab counters, to the family room with it's boxed beam ceiling.  From the kitchen and family room you can see out to the backyard where your beautiful pool and cabana, complete with an outdoor kitchen and fireplace, await you.  Situated within the Country Club gates and built in 2002 on .59 acres, this best find home is approximately 4780 square feet and has 5 bedrooms and 4 baths.  It is listed at $1,595,000.  Please email me for more information on this amazing home. 

Spanish Mission Style Custom in Serrano

Apr. 15, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
     
Breese Circle, El Dorado Hills, CA - Designed by Tomano and Chaw, this Spanish Mission style custom is exquisite.  It is located within the gated Country Club neighborhood of Serrano on approximately .73 acres.  Built on a down slope the home appears to be a single story but is actually around 5570 square feet and includes 2 master suites, 3 additional spacious bedrooms, 5 baths, a downstairs game room, a wine cellar, and 3 pantries.  One of my favorite features in a house is a fireplace; here you'll find 4. The builder used many upscale products that speak to the homes quality from custom designed cabinetry and crown molding with rope lighting to Wolf kitchen appliances. The use of wide plank maple flooring as you can see in picture of the kitchen makes the home feel warm and inviting.  This gorgeous home is listed at $1,675,000.  Please email me for more information.      

Amazing Summit Home with Breathtaking Views

Mar. 24, 2008
Categorized in: Best Views
     
Columbia Circle, El Dorado Hills, CALocated inside the gated Summit neighborhood, this amazing home has amazing views as well of Folsom Lake and the Sacramento Valley lights.  Perfect for entertaining, it was built in 2001 on just under 1/3 acre and has approximately 4842 square feet, that includes 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a separate guest suite.  The kitchen features granite counters, Dacor appliances, and a pantry with a dumb waiter to the garage below.  Both the kitchen and nook are situated at the back of the house and look out at a relaxing and private backyard paradise, complete with pool, spa, outdoor kitchen and fire pit.   It is listed at $1,649,000.  Please email or call me for more pictures or information on this best find, best view home. 

Italian Rural Estate in Sun Ridge Meadows

Mar. 10, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
     
Swift Road, Shingle Springs, CA - There were 34 homes on the MLS tour for our area this week located throughout El Dorado Hills, Rescue, and Shingle Springs.  I picked 10 homes to see and though I covered a lot of miles, they were well worth it.  I saw several amazing homes that beautiful spring day starting with a Folsom Lake view home in the gated Summit Neighborhood; and ending with 4  stunning homes in the rural gated community of Sun Ridge Meadows, where property boundaries are marked by white split rail fences.  The most amazing home of all was an Italian rural estate of 35+ acres, one of the largest parcels in Sun Ridge Meadows, and is exquisite in every way.  The home itself is perched high on a knoll overlooking the Sacramento Valley.  I could only imagine the magnificent sunsets the owners must enjoy.   Built in 2004, there is approximately 5884 feet in the main house that includes 3+ bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms.  The first thing that caught my eye when I walked in was the quartz stone and distressed hickory floors, that I later found out have radiant heating beneath them. Then I looked past some fellow Realtors gathered in the great room to the outside where I could see the infinity edge pool and the incredible views beyond it.  The kitchen was grand yet still casual with the stonework used around the stove and, though you can't see it in the picture above, the semicircular island/ eating bar.   The grandeur continued in the master suite where the closet had a back door that exited next to the laundry room.  In the master bathroom was a beautiful stone fireplace with its own hearth.  The estate also includes a custom guest house, it's own pond, and horse amenities that include a covered arena and two barns.  This one of a kind, best find is listed at $3,800,000 and is quite a deal for what you'll be getting.  For more information or pictures on this or any of the homes in Sun Ridge Meadows, please email me

Beatiful Custom El Dorado Hills Neighborhood - The Summit

Feb. 25, 2008
Categorized in: Best Neighborhoods

The Summit, El Dorado Hills, CA - This beautiful neighborhood is situated on the northern end of El Dorado Hills off Francisco Boulevard.  So exquisite an area that it was chosen for the location of the 1988 Street of Dreams Home Tour for the Sacramento area.  There were a few homes in there before that time but really took off in the 90's and since.  There are approximately 190 home sites inside the gated community ranging in size from just over 1/3 acre to 2.33 acres and only a few of those lots remain undeveloped but tightly held by their owners.  The homes range in size from just over 3000 to just under 11,000 square feet.  Some of the homes towards the back of the neighborhood have Folsom Lake views adding to their gracious ambiance.  Even though I feel such a sense of awe when I drive through the streets, I have always felt a friendliness too.  Maybe it's the little neighborhood park and tennis courts that make me think of family.  There are HOA dues of $130 per month but no Mello Roos.  Currently there are 7 homes for sale in this wonderful neighborhood ranging from just under $900,000 to $1,950,000.  For more information on any homes for sale here in the Summit or other developments of its quality in our area, please contact me.  

Classic "Country Craftsman" Custom in Serrano

Feb. 4, 2008
Categorized in: Best Finds
   
Aldea Drive, El Dorao Hills, CA - Situated inside the gates of  the Serrano Country Club, this beautiful home, built by Wichert Homes, is not only spectacular but refreshing with it's country craftsman style architecture.  The lot itself is approximately .42 acre,  wooded with native oaks and gently sloping to an open space that has a seasonal creek running through it.  The home flows very well throughout it's 4962 square feet with 5 bedrooms, 6 baths (4 full and 2 half), an amazing gourmet kitchen that opens to a great room, and a large downstairs bonus room with an outside loggia. This builder tends to put a lot of thought into his floor-plan designs.  An example of this is the 3 conveniently located washer-dryer hookups; one in the master suite, one on the lower level where you'll find 3 of the 5 bedrooms, and one behind the kitchen.  The one on the lower level is situated where it can be turned into an elevator if that is needed instead.  There are many quality features used throughout including Anderson windows, hand scraped maple hardwood floors, and Thermador appliances.  It is listed for $1,499,000.  As always please call or email me for more information.      

Stunning Custom in Folsom with Views

Jan. 7, 2008
Categorized in: Best Views
   
Serpa Way, Folsom, CA - This stunning custom is conveniently located just west of El Dorado Hills on the knolls above Folsom and has panoramic views of the Sacramento Valley.   It was built in 2007 on .29 acres with 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and  4200 square feet and includes upgrades such as travertine floors and granite counters.  There is an indoor/outdoor courtyard with a fireplace and a fountain that allows you a cozy place to gather if you're not out enjoying your view.  The master suite is very grand with 2 fireplaces, one in the bedroom and one in the bathroom.  Currently there is a built-in pool and spa in progress.  Included in the price of this beautiful home is a Bosch washer and dryer and a flat screen TV.  It is  offered at $1,450,000.  Please call or email me for more information.      

Stunning Tuscan in Custom Serrano

Dec. 11, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds

Greenview Drive, El Dorado Hills, CA

- This stunning custom home, inside the guarded gates of Serrano Country Club is exquisite and grand starting at the entry. Built this year by Hudgens Construction, the 5125 square feet floor plan is well thought out with 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, an office, a library/media room, and a game room. Four of the bedrooms are suites and 3 of them are on the main level. In the large kitchen you'll find all the chef necessities. Other amenities include a 4-car garage, two covered patios, and an outdoor kitchen. The home is just getting the finishing touches including some of the landscaping but the .525 acre lot is nicely studded with native oaks. It is offered at $1,895,000. Please email me if you have an questions on this home or our wonderful foothill area.

Sprawling Single Story Custom in Milton Ranch Estates - Shingle Springs

Nov. 9, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds
Shingle Springs, CA - Located in prestigious Milton Ranch Estates, on 5 level acres, this sprawling single story custom home has it all. It was built in 2004 on Pyracantha Drive; and it just so happens as you drive south on South Shingle Springs Road beautiful Pyracantha bushes mark the road side boundary's for the development on both sides of the entry gate. This time of year they are in their splendor with bright red orange berries. The 3627 square foot, 4 bedroom home has many elegant touches throughout including the use of Italian travertine on the floors and floor to ceiling in all shower and tub areas, coffered ceilings, crown moldings, and a slate fireplace in the great room. The large gourmet kitchen features beautiful granite counters, stainless steel appliances, a commercial range, a butler's station, and a large pantry. Outside you'll find a covered patio and a wonderful pool with a rock waterfall. Milton Ranch Estates are horse properties as well and this home is already set up with a two stall barn, tack room, and a round pen; and is completely fenced. This is a great find and is offered for $1,199,999. Please call or email me for more information.

El Dorado Hills Custom Home in Francisco Oaks

Nov. 1, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds
El Dorado Hills, CA - This wonderful home was built on just under a third of an acre in 2004 by DiChristina Custom Builders. It sits on a cul-de-sac just inside the gates of the Francisco Oaks neighborhood. It's impressive, yet still has a homey feel, due in part to the hardwood floors throughout much of the downstairs including the very open kitchen /family room area. Within the 4920 square foot living space are 5 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and an upstairs bonus room where you can catch a peek of Folsom Lake. The spacious master bedroom, located on the second floor, has a cozy fireplace and also has a view of the lake. The private backyard has a friendly feel with many areas to enjoy - an outdoor kitchen, a beautiful Wisteria covered arbor, a quaint fire pit area, and a large luscious lawn. This best find is available for $993,353. Please don't hesitate to call or email me for more info.

Contemporary Beauty with City Light Views

Oct. 19, 2007
Categorized in: Best Views
El Dorado Hills, CA - This 4168 square feet best find rests on .45 acre in the Ridgeview area and looks like another Mediterranean when you pull up into the cul-de-sac and see the front of the house. However, upon entering the home, you get a whole other feel. The contemporary design and open floor plan combined with the beautiful city light view outside the many windows makes you feel like you're in a flat in San Francisco. The house is designed so that all the bedrooms and main living areas can enjoy the amazing view. On the main level you'll find the master suite, the kitchen, family room, dining room, and guest suite. There you can also go out the sliding doors to a large deck where you can take in the sunset or be mesmerized the the city lights. If the need strikes you, stairs off the deck lead down to the back yard oasis. Back inside and down to the second level, you'll find another two bedrooms, a game room, laundry area, mud room, and another access to the back yard where you can relax in the spa or sunbathe by the beautiful, sparkling pool. It is offered at $1,295,000. Please call me at 916-225-2719 or email me at driley@golyon.com for more information or pictures.

Serrano Beauty on the Golf Course*

Sep. 23, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds
El Dorado Hills, CA - This beautiful and amazing home captured my attention from the moment I walked through the gates of the front courtyard and past the outdoor fireplace to the entry. All throughout the house you are greeted by quality and comfort in its exquisite design. It sits on the 4th tee of the prestigious Serrano Golf Course behind the gated community that was home to the 1997 Street of Dreams. The walls of windows you see in the picture on the right, not only light the rooms adding to their elegance but also show off the golf course views. It is offered at $1,479,000. Please call or email me for more information.  This home is now sold as of Dec. 2007. 

Amazing Home in Shingle Springs- Best Find

Sep. 9, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds
   
Shingle Springs, CA - Wow!  Once you exit Highway 50 and head down South Shingle Road, it takes less than 4 minutes to arrive at the gates of this prestigious neighborhood.  As you take another couple minutes and meander through the streets of estate size parcels, you pass one beautiful home after another.   Some homes I come across on my Realtor tours are exquisite but I can't imagine living in them.  This one, though it is absolutely stunning, still has a homey feeling and is well thought out, flowing from room to room.  Situated on 5 acres, it has approximately 4151 square feet and includes a beautiful pool, outdoor kitchen, Loggia with a fireplace, wine cellar, and a  7-car garage.  This best find is offered at $1,495.000.  Please contact me for more information.  

Amazing View Home in El Dorado Hills*

Jul. 28, 2007
Categorized in: Best Views

El Dorado Hills, CA - As you drive east on Highway 50, and pass Folsom, you leave the Sacramento Valley floor and start into the Sierra Foothills. This is where you find El Dorado Hills, nestled between two ridges that run north and south from Highway 50 towards Folsom Lake with a valley in between. The first ridge you see is called Ridgeview. The two main streets there run the length of the ridge and the homes along them have views of the Sacramento Valley on the southern most end to views of Folsom Lake on the northern end, the lucky ones see both. The views of course all vary. Some homes have views from the front, some from the back, some see just little peaks of the view past another home. This stunning home has beautiful views of both the Sacramento city lights and Folsom Lake that you can enjoy from the places you spend most of your time, the breakfast nook, the family room, the master bedroom, the game room, the pool and spa. It was built in 2004 and superbly crafted and finished with high end materials and appliances. It has approximately 4587 square feet that includes 5 bedrooms, 4 1/2 bathroom, a bonus room, a study, and a wine storage area. Imagine sitting on the upper deck, the sun has just set, the lake's color slowly changes from blue to a golden color, and the lights start to come on across the valley. Having a view similar to this, I can tell you there is nothing like it! This best view, best find home is offered at $1,599,000. For more information or photos on this home or others like it, please call or email me. (This home sold February 06, 2008.)

Former Model in Rescue

Jul. 20, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds
Rescue, CA - Just east of El Dorado Hills in the community of Rescue is a subdivision of beautiful homes on 1 acre sites. The homes were built in 2005 and 2006 and include floor plans between 3427 and 4399 square feet. Being a former model this amazing 4399 square foot home has all the bells and whistles including a casita. The kitchen has everything a chef would want including a Wolf gas range, double ovens, Subzero frig, pantry, and a warming drawer. The picture on the right is from the back corner of the property looking towards the house. On the right you can see the pool and casita. The entire acre lot is well planned out and fully landscaped in addition to the pool with extensive patios, a built-in BBQ, fire pit, water features, and lush plantings. The casita has tile floors, a gas fireplace, a full bath, and a kitchenette. It can be used for guests or as a game room. I would definitely call this home an entertainer's paradise. The home comes with all it's decorator furniture and accessories and is offered at $950,000. There are so many amenities and upgrades for the purpose of this blog I couldn't list them all, but please call or email me for more information on this amazing find.

Hilltop Mansion in El Dorado Hills

Jul. 5, 2007
Categorized in: Best Views

   

El Dorado Hills, CAPerched on a hilltop, this mansion sits all by itself on three beautifully landscaped acres with views of Folsom Lake, the Sacramento Valley, and the Sierra Mountains.  It was built in 1987 and totally remodeled just this year.  The home is approximately 10,500 square feet and includes 7 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms, a poker room, a ball room, a maids quarters, and a kitchen with Viking appliances and granite counters.  Outside in addition to the heated pool with swim-up seats that overlook the Lake are three covered patios and reflection ponds you see in the picture on the right.  One of the covered patios contains an outdoor kitchen.  For the car enthusiast there is a 20+ car garage.   With 3 acres, there's still room for a tennis court or even a heliport if you so desire.  It is situated in a very quiet and upscale neighborhood and though the neighborhood isn't gated, the property itself is fully fenced and has a security gate at its entrance.  If this isn't enough for you, the home is professionally decorated and fully furnished as well.  It is currently listed for $4,500,000.      

Best Find - Feels Like the Country*

Jun. 22, 2007
Categorized in: Best Finds
   

El Dorado Hills, CA - This wonderful home sits on 1.7 acres in a cul-de-sac with only 4 other homes.  It has the relaxing, tranquil feeling of being in the country but is really right here in El Dorado Hills.  The house itself is also beautifully crafted.  The master suite is on the first level.  Here you see the spacious master bath.  Upstairs are two of the bedrooms, each having its own wrought iron balcony.  The back yard is just natural now but has room for a pool, sport's court, or whatever your heart desires.  It is offered at $1,125,000.  For more information on this home or others like it in our area, please don't hesitate to contact me.  *This home sold May 6, 2008.

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