Communications Hill

San Jose, CA

Neighborhood Market Analysis

Q3 2025 Report
$952,000 (July 2025)
Median Home Price
High (pedestrian-oriented design)
Walkability Score
Schools are rated average to above-average; many families consider private options for K-12
School Rating

Location Overview

Neighborhood Boundaries

South of Downtown San Jose, hillside between Highway 87 and Monterey Road

Zip Codes

95136

Market Data Summary

Price RangeRecent sales range from $850,000 to $1.2M for townhomes and single-family homes
Price per Sq Ft$638 (down 15.6% YoY)
Inventory LevelsLow inventory; homes go pending in 11-26 days, with 'hot' homes pending in as few as 7 days.

Property Characteristics

Home Types & Architecture

Home Types

TownhomesSingle-family homesCondos

Architectural Styles

ContemporaryMediterranean-inspiredModern

Property Details

Typical Lot SizesSmall to medium lots, often with shared community spaces
Home Age RangeMostly built 2000s to present; new construction ongoing
Construction QualityHigh-quality, modern construction with energy-efficient features

Community Profile

Demographics & Lifestyle

Demographics

Among the 15% highest income neighborhoods in the US; 66% of residents in executive, management, or professional roles; low childhood poverty rate (4.9%)

Community Vibe

Close-knit, pedestrian-oriented, active neighborhood association, frequent social events

Typical Residents

  • Young professionals
  • Families
  • Executives
  • Retirees

Family Friendly

Very family-friendly, with community events and safe streets

Amenities & Lifestyle

Parks & Recreation

  • Grand Staircase
  • Multiple walking trails
  • Community parks

Dining Options

  • Local cafes
  • Nearby restaurants along Monterey Rd and Curtner Ave

Shopping Centers

  • The Plant Shopping Center
  • Nearby grocery stores and retail

Local Businesses

  • Cafes
  • Fitness studios
  • Daycares

Education & Schools

Schools are rated average to above-average; many families consider private options for K-12
Overall School Rating

Elementary Schools

  • Rachel Carson Elementary
  • Ernesto Galarza Elementary

Middle Schools

  • Sylvandale Middle School

High Schools

  • Andrew Hill High School

Private Schools

  • Holy Family School
  • Valley Christian Schools

Transportation & Accessibility

Transit & Roads

Public Transit

  • VTA Light Rail (Capitol Station nearby)
  • Multiple bus lines

Major Roads

  • Highway 87
  • Monterey Road

Commute & Walkability

Commute Times10-15 minutes to Downtown San Jose; 20-30 minutes to major Silicon Valley employers
WalkabilityHigh within the neighborhood; moderate for errands
ParkingGarage and street parking available; some areas can be tight during events

Marketing Intelligence

Target Buyer Types

  • Tech professionals
  • Young families
  • Move-up buyers
  • Investors

Key Selling Points

  • Pedestrian-friendly design
  • Stunning valley views
  • Active community
  • Modern homes

Pricing Considerations

Price competitively due to recent market softening; highlight value versus nearby neighborhoods

Common Objections & Response Strategies

Objection: Prices have declined recently—will values recover?

Response Strategy:

Highlight long-term desirability, low inventory, and strong community as stabilizing factors.

Objection: HOA fees are high.

Response Strategy:

Emphasize amenities, maintenance, and community events included in fees.

Objection: Small lot sizes compared to traditional suburbs.

Response Strategy:

Focus on walkability, shared green spaces, and low-maintenance lifestyle.

Investment Insights

Investment Potential

Appreciation Potential

Moderate; recent price declines may present buying opportunities, but long-term outlook remains positive due to location and community quality

Rental Demand

Strong, especially for townhomes and newer builds

Buyer Competition

High; multiple offers and quick sales are common

Best For

  • Young professionals
  • Growing families
  • Investors seeking stable rental income

Potential Concerns

  • Recent price declines
  • HOA fees
  • Limited lot sizes

Professional Recommendations

1

Leverage community events and social media to connect with buyers.

2

Stage homes to highlight views and flexible spaces for remote work.

3

Educate buyers on HOA benefits and neighborhood amenities.

4

Monitor new construction for competitive listings.

5

Network with local businesses and schools to provide hyperlocal insights.

Competitive Analysis

Comparable Markets

  • Willow Glen
  • Blossom Valley
  • Almaden Valley

Market Positioning

Premium, modern, community-focused alternative to older San Jose neighborhoods

Competitive Advantages

  • Newer construction
  • Community events
  • Views and walkability

Price Comparison

Slightly more affordable than Willow Glen, but more expensive than Blossom Valley

Investment Metrics

3.5-4.2% for well-maintained townhomes
Cap Rates
4-5% gross yield typical
Rental Yields
22-25
Price-to-Rent
Neutral to slightly positive for 20% down payment; best for long-term hold
Cash Flow
Moderate (3-5% annually over next 5 years, barring major economic shifts)
Appreciation

Buyer Journey Insights

First-Time Buyers

Accessible entry point for Silicon Valley; modern homes, strong community, but must budget for HOA fees.

Move-Up Buyers

Attractive for those seeking more space and amenities without leaving city core.

Downsizers

Low-maintenance living, walkable, social community.

Investors

Strong rental demand, stable tenant base, but moderate cash flow.

Relocators

Proximity to jobs and transit, easy integration via community events.

This neighborhood analysis was generated using hyperlocal data and AI intelligence.

Neighborhood conditions change - consult with local real estate professionals for the most current information.

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