A Smart Buy in San Mateo: Where Sunnybrae Meets Hayward Park

Some of the best opportunities on the Peninsula aren’t in the neighborhoods everyone talks about — they’re in the ones most buyers overlook.

1502 S Delaware Street is one of those rare finds.

Located at the intersection of Sunnybrae and Hayward Park, this home offers access to two distinct San Mateo neighborhood experiences, walkability to parks and downtown, and built-in flexibility that today’s buyers are actively searching for.

A Location Most Buyers Don’t Realize Exists

This home sits in Sunnybrae, a planned residential neighborhood developed between the late 1930s and 1940s. Known for its sunny streets, friendly neighbors, and strong sense of community, Sunnybrae has historically been more approachable in price compared to surrounding Peninsula pockets.

Just steps away is Hayward Park, one of San Mateo’s most charming historic neighborhoods, known for tree-lined streets, classic architecture, and walkable access to Central Park, Caltrain, and downtown.

From one address, you get:

• Sunnybrae’s community-focused, residential feel

• Hayward Park’s walkability and amenities

• Easy access to downtown San Mateo

• Proximity to both Hayward Park and San Mateo Caltrain

It’s a location that quietly delivers value without sacrificing lifestyle.

A 1940s Classic Updated for Modern Living

The main home is a Sunnybrae original, offering over 2,200 square feet of total living space, including:

• 4 bedrooms

• 3 bathrooms

• A fully finished attached ADU

Inside, the layout reflects the best of 1940s design — connected spaces that flow naturally without feeling overly open.

The living room centers around a cozy fireplace and large windows that bring in natural light throughout the day. The dining area and kitchen connect seamlessly, making the home functional for both everyday living and entertaining.

Kitchen Designed for Real Life on the Peninsula

The kitchen is equipped with Jenn-Air and Bosch appliances, marble countertops, and ample storage and prep space.

Its layout supports how Peninsula households actually live — quick mornings before Caltrain, weekend meal prep, and casual hosting without feeling disconnected from the rest of the home.

Bedroom Layout That Balances Privacy and Flexibility

The second level features two spacious bedrooms and a full hall bathroom, ideal for children’s rooms, guests, or home office use.

The primary suite sits on a split level above, creating true separation from the rest of the home. This elevated layout offers a retreat-like feel while remaining connected — perfect for parents or anyone working from home who values privacy.

The Game Changer: A Fully Finished Attached ADU

One of the most valuable features of this property is the approximately 426-square-foot attached ADU.

Originally built in the 1970s and fully finished, it includes:

• One bedroom

• One bathroom

• A full kitchen

• Dual access — connected to the main home and opening directly to the backyard

This space creates flexibility that’s increasingly essential on the Peninsula, whether for multigenerational living, a private home office, guest accommodations, or potential rental income (buyer to verify).

Having this flexibility already built in — rather than needing to add it later — is a significant advantage.

A Backyard You’ll Actually Use

The backyard offers a flat, functional lawn — a rare find in many Peninsula neighborhoods.

Mature orange and lemon trees add to the California lifestyle feel, and the ADU’s direct access to the yard enhances indoor-outdoor flow. It’s a space designed for entertaining, relaxing, or everyday family use without excessive maintenance.

Life in Sunnybrae: Community Comes First

Sunnybrae is known for its authentic neighborhood feel.

Residents take pride in their homes without taking themselves too seriously. Block parties, seasonal traditions, and friendly streets define daily life here.

The neighborhood also offers:

• Quick access to Highway 101 and Highway 92

• Easy connections to Foster City and the East Bay

• Walkability to Sunnybrae Elementary

• Nearby neighborhood parks

You’re well-connected, without feeling like you live on top of traffic.

Hayward Park: Walkability and Central Park Access

A short walk brings you into Hayward Park, where mature trees, historic homes, and one of San Mateo’s best parks define the lifestyle.

Central Park features tennis courts, open lawns, playgrounds, and a Japanese Tea Garden that hosts events year-round. Residents treat the park as an extension of their living space.

From here, downtown San Mateo is easily accessible — offering independent restaurants, cafes, shops, and farmers markets without the tourist crowds found in other Peninsula cities.

What Daily Life Looks Like From This Address

Life at 1502 S Delaware Street is both connected and relaxed.

Mornings might include a walk to school and coffee downtown. Commutes are predictable with Caltrain nearby. Work-from-home days are supported by true separation of space.

Evenings are spent walking to dinner, enjoying Central Park, or relaxing in the backyard — not sitting in traffic.

It’s the kind of neighborhood where people quickly feel at home.

Why This Home Stands Out in Today’s Market

This property delivers what many Peninsula buyers are searching for:

• Two distinct neighborhood experiences

• Walkability and lifestyle amenities

• Excellent commuter access

• Built-in ADU flexibility

• Strong value relative to surrounding markets

At a time when buyers are often overpaying for limited layouts, this home offers thoughtful positioning and long-term livability.

Explore San Mateo With Clarity

If you’re considering San Mateo or other Peninsula neighborhoods and want guidance on where lifestyle and value truly intersect, I’m happy to help.

Even a brief conversation can provide clarity and help you make a confident next move.

👉 Be sure to watch the full video tour for a complete walkthrough of this home and neighborhood.