Mouton Cir, East Palo Alto

This section of East Palo Alto is probably one of the best, as it offers friendly neighbors, clean, modern homes, and a great investment opportunity at a relatively reasonable price. Mouton Circle is particularly tucked away in this development, away from University Drive and even the western entrance. It does happen to be accessible to Pulgas, and some of the eastern streets that are not as modern and gentrified as the rest of the development.

Be forewarned: this is a nice development in an otherwise less-wealthy town, which means it has a huge target on its back for theft and home break-ins. Do not overlook the importance of a strong, robust home alarm system.

Despite this *ahem* minor detail, this is a good bet for nice homes, investment opportunities, and a reasonable stretch of real estate in one of the wealthiest areas in the country. The whole area looks a little bit like my grandparents' retirement community in South Florida, so don't expect wild and crazy nightlife. But with downtown Palo Alto a mile away and San Francisco less than a 40-minute drive, it's not hard to forget that you live in this friendly, subdued community.