Thomas Henthorne Marin Real Estate Blog Cover Photo

Welcome to My Marin Real Estate and Lifestyle Blog!

Welcome to My Marin County Real Estate Blog! On this page I share Marin real estate market news and advice for both home buyers and sellers... and those that enjoy reading about real estate. Also you will find other Northern California…
Bay to Breakers runners in colorful costumes in San Francisco Things-to-Do-in-SF-Bay-Area-May-2026-Bay-to-Breakers

Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area | May 2026

Looking for the best things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area in May 2026? This curated guide highlights Bay to Breakers, Carnaval San Francisco, Marin Irish Festival, Bay Area Book Festival, FanimeCon, BottleRock, Wine Country events, and more.
Things to Do in SF Bay Area April 2026

Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area | April 2026

April brings a full calendar of Bay Area events, from spring festivals and cultural celebrations to film, food, and wine experiences across Marin, San Francisco, Oakland, Petaluma, Napa, and San Jose. Here is a curated look at some of the standout things to do around the Bay this month.
March 2026 Things to do in the SF Bay Area st patricks day parade march 14

Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area | March 2026

March brings a renewing energy to the San Francisco Bay Area. Explore my curated guide to this month's premier events, from the iconic Chinese New Year Parade and the Sonoma International Film Festival to the first spring wildflower blooms on Marin County's Ring Mountain.
Golden Gate Bridge photo courtesy of Thomas Henthorne Marin Top Real Estate Agent

Vista Point Parking Alternatives: 5 Best Golden Gate Bridge Views

Trying to park at the Golden Gate Bridge’s Vista Point parking lot can be frustrating on busy days. Here are five better places to enjoy Golden Gate Bridge views, plus practical tips on current parking limits, closures, and what to check before you head out.
Horse Hill Hike Banner showing horses grazing on hillside with Mill Valley and Mt. Tamalpais in the background
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Horse Hill – Alto Bowl Preserve Hike | Marin County Hikes

Have you ever wondered about those horses visible from Highway 101? They aren't just scenery—they are the hardworking residents of the Alto Bowl Preserve. Join me for a guide to the Horse Hill hike, a "top of the world" loop in Mill Valley featuring panoramic views, rich history, and a touch of Old California.
A performer in traditional costume at the Lunar New Year Festival, one of the top things to do in the SF Bay Area in February 2026

Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area | February 2026

Explore the best things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area in February 2026, from Lunar New Year celebrations to concerts, food, and winter events.
Marin County Fire Prevention Tips for Homeowners - Defensible space graphic

Marin County Fire Prevention: What Homeowners Need to Know

A practical, up-to-date guide to wildfire risk, defensible space, evacuation planning, and home hardening for Marin County homeowners and buyers.
Hands protecting a house symbol, representing what to expect for California homeowners insurance in 2026

California Homeowners Insurance 2026 | Marin County Guide

California homeowners insurance is changing rapidly. Here’s what Marin County and Bay Area homeowners need to know about insurance in 2026, including wildfire risk, the FAIR Plan, and how coverage issues can affect buying and selling a home.
Jerry and Dawg Revisited with Stu Allen performing live at Sweetwater Music Hall, one of the top things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area in January 2026

Things to Do in the San Francisco Bay Area | January 2026

Discover the best things to do in the San Francisco Bay Area in January 2026—from concerts and festivals to food, culture, and other events.
Architect Joseph Esherick in 1994
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Architect Joseph Esherick: Mid-Century Master in Marin and Beyond

Joseph Esherick stands as one of the most influential and widely respected architects in California's history. Known for his masterful ability to merge form with function, landscape with lifestyle, and structure with soul, Esherick's work has helped define the architectural character of the San Francisco Bay Area for over half a century. From elegant hilltop residences to major civic and institutional landmarks, his designs exemplify clarity, warmth, and a deep respect for place. He designed one of my current listings, a gorgeous example of his work at 11 Crest Road in Belvedere.
photo of window being cleaned for Marin County Spring Home To Do List

Complete Marin County Spring Home To-Do List | Marin Life

Wondering what you need to do to your home now that the winter rains are ending in Marin County and spring has arrived? I decided to compile this spring home maintenance to-do list for Marin County. While I have begun to tackle some of the eleven items on this list, I must confess that the busy real estate season has delayed me a bit as I tackle this list. Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in Marin and I hope you are enjoying it!
Milky Way photo by Derek Rowley Sonoma coast
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The Stars Shine Brightly On The Sonoma Coast

As I have spent more time up on the Sonoma Coast preparing my new listing ready for market, I have been reflecting about what I have always loved about that part of Northern California. There is nothing like the stars at night on the Sonoma coast. Far from the lights of the big city, the sky is pitch black and reminds me of the sky when I was growing up in a small town in Alabama...
What's Happening Around Marin May 2023 Banner
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What’s Happening Around Marin County in May 2023

Looking for things to do in May 2023 in Marin County? From Woofstock to the Mill Valley Music Festival, there's plenty to keep you busy. Read more here.
Leaves being cleaned from a gutter for Marin winter storm preparation guide article

Marin County Winter Storm Preparation Guide | Winter Storm Checklist

Marin County winter storm season is right around the corner - are you ready? While winters in Marin County are not as severe as in other parts of the country where residents must contend with snow and months of freezing temperatures, we do receive a fair amount of rain and on occasion extreme cold and some high winds. I advise my friends and clients to take a few precautions in the relatively mild weather of the fall before the winter rains begin.
Freitas Parkway Terra Linda hike view of Mt. Tamalpais Best hikes in Marin county
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Freitas Parkway / Terra Linda Hike | Marin County Hikes

Looking for a dog-friendly Marin County hike with easy access, beautiful views, and lots of options? This hike which begins at the end of Freitas Parkway in San Rafael is a wonderful 45-minute loop hike. Read more here.