The Tour de San Francisco is our version of the great cycling race, where we tour through our nano-markets around town. Last week we sprinted it out on the flats of Outer Parkside. This week, stage 10 stays in the flats of District 2C...Outer Sunset. We'll finish after 86 stages with district 10K...Bayview Heights. If you have anything you want to say about your neighborhood, we want to hear it. For past stages, visit our archives of the Tour.
There was a very vocal comment regarding the Outer Parkside last week that we posted, which you can read and discuss amongst yourselves. Now on with the show.
In describing the Outer Sunset, we could almost copy/paste what we wrote last week about the Outer Parkside. The homes, the streets, and the vibe are very similar, and the weather in the summer is just as lousy (statement of opinion, some people love the fog). Outer Sunset....Outer Parkside...they're practically carbon copies of one another. But! There are some differences that are hard to describe. More something you just feel when you spend some time in the two districts. The Outer Sunset is a liiiittle bit more desirable than the Outer Parkside, simply because people "feel" closer to the city. Homes can be a tiiiiny bit more expensive, and there are a few more shops and restaurants to choose from, but we have news for you. If you're looking for a home in the Outer Sunset, can't find "the one", and are afraid to "go out" to the Outer Parkside... get over it. Why do you think last week we said most people refer to the Outer Parkside as the Sunset? Because they are, in fact, that similar. But the difference between Outer and Inner (kind of like a belly button) is a little more glaring, and we'll get to that next week.
the listings
the stats
Comparison Shopping
You can have this (we're guessing roughly 700sf or less) Outer Sunset dream home for $670,000 (still available), or this 700 square foot condo in Harlem asking $299,000 and "priced to sell". Not too shabby for Harlem, eh? Thanks to our New York reader (Mark) for the link. Apparently the area is "up and coming."
SFhotspots
One of the few spots in the Outer Sunset you can actually sit outside and enjoy a coffee, Java Beach Cafe, can hold its own as a great coffee joint in San Francisco. The coffee is good, they have beers on tap, sandwiches, bagels, and all the tasty pastries to go with your caffeine. There is plenty of outdoor seating, and the mostly Irish staff is no nonsense charming. Go on a sunny day and feel the energy of the Outer Sunset coming alive, and enjoy some great people watching to boot.
Located on the corner of Judah and La Playa (might as well be 48th Ave).
Friday, January 19, 2007
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Stage 9, Outer Parkside
The Tour de San Francisco is our version of the great cycling race, where we tour through our nano-markets around town. Last week we wound our way through the hills of Golden Gate Heights. This week, the course flattens out as we head all the way to what used to be the desolate sand swept dunes of District 2B...Outer Parkside. We'll finish after 86 stages with district 10K...Bayview Heights. If you have anything you want to say about your neighborhood, we want to hear it. For past stages, contact your sfnewsletter provider.
-If you ask the average San Franciscan, "where is the Outer Parkside", they'll look at you like you're nuts. That is because most people commonly refer to anything "out there" as the Sunset. Homes in this area were primarily built in the 1930's and 40's, are typically two stories with 2 beds 1 bath up, 1 bed 1 bath down (often put in without permit, thus "unwarranted"), and average around 1200-1500 square feet in living space. They'll set you back around $7-800,000, and they still sell rather briskly when priced right.
-So what's the area like? Well, if you're looking for big Victorian facades, tree lined streets, warm summers, and "high end" shops, you're looking in the wrong place. But if you're looking for quaint homes, easy access to tons of recreation, cool summers, a house with a sizeable (San Francisco standards) yard, close proximity to SF State and Stonestown, and a quick jump onto the I-280, you've found nirvana. Another plus for this area is that if you know your ABC's, and 1-2-3's, it's almost impossible to get lost. (You need to know a little Spanish too.) The streets running east/west are Ortega, Pacheco, Quintara, Rivera, all the way to Yorba, ending at Sloat. The streets running north/south are 37th, 38th, 39th all the way to 48th, ending at Great Highway. You see!? Easy. Oh yeah... surf culture is alive and well in the Outer Parkside. Head out there during a nice fall or winter day, and you will be amazed at how many people actually climb into skin-tight neoprene and plunge themselves into the icy waters off Ocean Beach. And the surf isn't even that good!
the listings
the stats
SFhotspots
If you happen to find yourself in the Outer Parkside (we hope you do) you'll be happy to know there is a little deli that packs a big punch...George's Zoo Liquor Deli on Sloat at 44th across from the Zoo. The people behind the counter are extremely friendly and helpful, and there's something about their sandwiches. They're just so good.
Thoughts
Venture on down to the Outer Parkside, grab a sando, head to the playa, watch the surfers get tossed around like ragdolls, and ask yourself..."Who was Wawona?"
-If you ask the average San Franciscan, "where is the Outer Parkside", they'll look at you like you're nuts. That is because most people commonly refer to anything "out there" as the Sunset. Homes in this area were primarily built in the 1930's and 40's, are typically two stories with 2 beds 1 bath up, 1 bed 1 bath down (often put in without permit, thus "unwarranted"), and average around 1200-1500 square feet in living space. They'll set you back around $7-800,000, and they still sell rather briskly when priced right.
-So what's the area like? Well, if you're looking for big Victorian facades, tree lined streets, warm summers, and "high end" shops, you're looking in the wrong place. But if you're looking for quaint homes, easy access to tons of recreation, cool summers, a house with a sizeable (San Francisco standards) yard, close proximity to SF State and Stonestown, and a quick jump onto the I-280, you've found nirvana. Another plus for this area is that if you know your ABC's, and 1-2-3's, it's almost impossible to get lost. (You need to know a little Spanish too.) The streets running east/west are Ortega, Pacheco, Quintara, Rivera, all the way to Yorba, ending at Sloat. The streets running north/south are 37th, 38th, 39th all the way to 48th, ending at Great Highway. You see!? Easy. Oh yeah... surf culture is alive and well in the Outer Parkside. Head out there during a nice fall or winter day, and you will be amazed at how many people actually climb into skin-tight neoprene and plunge themselves into the icy waters off Ocean Beach. And the surf isn't even that good!
the listings
the stats
SFhotspots
If you happen to find yourself in the Outer Parkside (we hope you do) you'll be happy to know there is a little deli that packs a big punch...George's Zoo Liquor Deli on Sloat at 44th across from the Zoo. The people behind the counter are extremely friendly and helpful, and there's something about their sandwiches. They're just so good.
Thoughts
Venture on down to the Outer Parkside, grab a sando, head to the playa, watch the surfers get tossed around like ragdolls, and ask yourself..."Who was Wawona?"
Stage 8, Golden Gate Heights
A sample of what you miss by not receiving sfnewsletter delivered to you:
Welcome to sfnewsletter, a fast, fun, and fresh look at the San Francisco real estate market. In this issue, we have:
-New, Sold, and Open House listings
-Market Update with graphs and our 2-cents
-Stage 8 of our Tour de SF--Golden Gate Heights
-Stalefish--2 bed on 120 days
-Comparison Shopping--Olympia, WA
-SFhotspots--Grandview Park
-Thoughts--Always Real, Always Random
As always, feedback is welcomed and encouraged, so please don't hesitate to contact us. We hope you enjoy sfnewsletter and find its information useful.
*Unless stated otherwise, all content of sfnewsletter is written by sfnewsletter and not necessarily the person sending this to you.
Stage 8
Having had two weeks of rest, today we continue with stage 8 of Le Tour de San Francisco. The TDSF is our version of the great cycling race, where we tour through our nano-markets around town. This week we look at District 2A...Golden Gate Heights. We'll finish after 86 stages with district 10K...Bayview Heights. If you have anything you want to say about your neighborhood, we want to hear it. For past stages, contact your sfnewsletter provider. So....
Where the heck is Golden Gate Heights (GGH)? If you're driving south on 19th Ave from Golden Gate Park, look to your left. You'll see a big hill with a bald head (dirt) and a few hairs (trees) sticking out. That is Grandview Park and it has what else...grand views. Then you'll see the hill continues and there are many homes clinging desperately to its slopes with stilts and Lord knows what other marvels of engineering. Those hills and those homes "up there" are essentially GGH. If there were one thing that all the homes in this area might have in common, it would be views...big views in all directions. Views of the ocean, the bridge, the bay, the park, and downtown. The area feels very isolated, quiet, and can be very windy on the west side of the hill. GGH is extremely hilly and has many little streets (Aloha, Cragmont, Oriole, Radio) that might remind you of the hills of an Italian or French village, complete with massive retaining walls supporting switch back tight turns up/down the hills. Steep, and tiny alleyways are abundant, and stairways that rival the Lyon St. steps abound (think Moraga Steps). Go explore! Tip: Go between 1-3pm on a Tuesday, or 2-4pm on a Sunday, and get in to see some homes while you're there.
the listings
the stats
Stalefish
What is a Stalefish? A property that has been on the market 100+ days. Keeping with our Tour, we found a Stalefish in Golden Gate Heights at 601 Pacheco that is just begging for an offer. It is a 2 bed, 1.5 bath, 1380 square foot home with 2 car parking, asking a mere $1,079,000 that has sat 120 days on the market. Look at the picture. Doesn't look like your "typical" San Francisco home, does it? Looks more like something you'd see in the suburbs of Marin county.
Comparison Shopping
Why not see what $1,079,000 gets you in Olympia, WA? Well for $11,000 more ($1,090,000), you can have an extra 2500 square feet, 2 more bedrooms, 2 1/2 more baths, 2.1 more acres, a main residence, apartment, and detached cottage. Oh...and we forgot to mention Views! Have a look.
SFhotspots
Grandview Park, in Golden Gate Heights, is a 140 Million year old rock that provides breathtaking (literally) views and should be explored at least once while you live here, or visit here. You can get to the top by climbing either side of the Moraga Steps. Go on a clear day. If you go in the fog, you'll see nothing. Plan on huffing and puffing on your way up.
Welcome to sfnewsletter, a fast, fun, and fresh look at the San Francisco real estate market. In this issue, we have:
-New, Sold, and Open House listings
-Market Update with graphs and our 2-cents
-Stage 8 of our Tour de SF--Golden Gate Heights
-Stalefish--2 bed on 120 days
-Comparison Shopping--Olympia, WA
-SFhotspots--Grandview Park
-Thoughts--Always Real, Always Random
As always, feedback is welcomed and encouraged, so please don't hesitate to contact us. We hope you enjoy sfnewsletter and find its information useful.
*Unless stated otherwise, all content of sfnewsletter is written by sfnewsletter and not necessarily the person sending this to you.
Stage 8
Having had two weeks of rest, today we continue with stage 8 of Le Tour de San Francisco. The TDSF is our version of the great cycling race, where we tour through our nano-markets around town. This week we look at District 2A...Golden Gate Heights. We'll finish after 86 stages with district 10K...Bayview Heights. If you have anything you want to say about your neighborhood, we want to hear it. For past stages, contact your sfnewsletter provider. So....
Where the heck is Golden Gate Heights (GGH)? If you're driving south on 19th Ave from Golden Gate Park, look to your left. You'll see a big hill with a bald head (dirt) and a few hairs (trees) sticking out. That is Grandview Park and it has what else...grand views. Then you'll see the hill continues and there are many homes clinging desperately to its slopes with stilts and Lord knows what other marvels of engineering. Those hills and those homes "up there" are essentially GGH. If there were one thing that all the homes in this area might have in common, it would be views...big views in all directions. Views of the ocean, the bridge, the bay, the park, and downtown. The area feels very isolated, quiet, and can be very windy on the west side of the hill. GGH is extremely hilly and has many little streets (Aloha, Cragmont, Oriole, Radio) that might remind you of the hills of an Italian or French village, complete with massive retaining walls supporting switch back tight turns up/down the hills. Steep, and tiny alleyways are abundant, and stairways that rival the Lyon St. steps abound (think Moraga Steps). Go explore! Tip: Go between 1-3pm on a Tuesday, or 2-4pm on a Sunday, and get in to see some homes while you're there.
the listings
the stats
Stalefish
What is a Stalefish? A property that has been on the market 100+ days. Keeping with our Tour, we found a Stalefish in Golden Gate Heights at 601 Pacheco that is just begging for an offer. It is a 2 bed, 1.5 bath, 1380 square foot home with 2 car parking, asking a mere $1,079,000 that has sat 120 days on the market. Look at the picture. Doesn't look like your "typical" San Francisco home, does it? Looks more like something you'd see in the suburbs of Marin county.
Comparison Shopping
Why not see what $1,079,000 gets you in Olympia, WA? Well for $11,000 more ($1,090,000), you can have an extra 2500 square feet, 2 more bedrooms, 2 1/2 more baths, 2.1 more acres, a main residence, apartment, and detached cottage. Oh...and we forgot to mention Views! Have a look.
SFhotspots
Grandview Park, in Golden Gate Heights, is a 140 Million year old rock that provides breathtaking (literally) views and should be explored at least once while you live here, or visit here. You can get to the top by climbing either side of the Moraga Steps. Go on a clear day. If you go in the fog, you'll see nothing. Plan on huffing and puffing on your way up.
Stage 7, Lone Mountain
Home to the University of San Francisco and built largely on a cemetery (thanks Chris), Lone Mountain truly has its share of history, not to mention great property and a great college vibe. Streets like Paramount, Temescal, Annapolis, etc., are very small and quaint; however, streets like Fulton, Stanyan, and Turk are anything but. The homes are very typical of early 1900's San Francisco architecture, and if you get high enough up on the "mountain", the views are second to none (on a clear day). So get your season tickets for the Dons' games, and supress your fear of living on hallowed ground, because this is a great part of town.
the listings
the stats
Stalefish
What is a Stalefish? A property that has been on the market 100+ days and is still not sold. 473-475 Parker is a 6 bed, 4.5 bath, 4000 square foot $2.65MM contemporary two unit remodel in Lone Mountain, we are pleased to report, is finally in contract. It was originally listed at $2,975,000 and from what we can gather (MLS is not entirely perfect), has sat 193 days on the market. Congratulations to the person(s) picking up this property. It is pretty sweet. It's still a Stalefish, but that doesn't mean it can't be sweet. There are other Stalefish in the Lone Mountain area. Sniff 'em out and we'll give you and a friend a free drink at Blue Bottle Coffee.
The ever so popular... list of Stalefish.
Comparison Shopping
We're betting those two units on Parker sell for around $2.5MM. Look what you get on the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand for $2.5MM. There's just too much to describe, you have to check it out.
SFhotspots
Did you know that USF has an excellent Sports and Fitness center that is open to the public? Well it is true. The Koret Center located on the corner of Stanyan and Turk has an olympic sized indoor swimming pool, racquetball courts, indoor batting cages, and so much more. All that indoor can help when the weather makes it hard to go outdoor.
the listings
the stats
Stalefish
What is a Stalefish? A property that has been on the market 100+ days and is still not sold. 473-475 Parker is a 6 bed, 4.5 bath, 4000 square foot $2.65MM contemporary two unit remodel in Lone Mountain, we are pleased to report, is finally in contract. It was originally listed at $2,975,000 and from what we can gather (MLS is not entirely perfect), has sat 193 days on the market. Congratulations to the person(s) picking up this property. It is pretty sweet. It's still a Stalefish, but that doesn't mean it can't be sweet. There are other Stalefish in the Lone Mountain area. Sniff 'em out and we'll give you and a friend a free drink at Blue Bottle Coffee.
The ever so popular... list of Stalefish.
Comparison Shopping
We're betting those two units on Parker sell for around $2.5MM. Look what you get on the Coromandel Peninsula in New Zealand for $2.5MM. There's just too much to describe, you have to check it out.
SFhotspots
Did you know that USF has an excellent Sports and Fitness center that is open to the public? Well it is true. The Koret Center located on the corner of Stanyan and Turk has an olympic sized indoor swimming pool, racquetball courts, indoor batting cages, and so much more. All that indoor can help when the weather makes it hard to go outdoor.
Stage 6, Sea Cliff
Market Update
Ahhh...Sea Cliff. This is another one of those San Francisco nano-markets that can really do no wrong, unless of course, you are our insanely over-priced $23.5MM fixer, 5 bed, 4.5 bath, 9436 square foot Stalefish of the Year, which came on the market at $18MM in 2003. (You catch that? Didn't sell at $18MM, so they increased the price to $23.5MM. Brilliant!) Mercifully, it has finally been taken off the market, and is undergoing a massive renovation, so keep an eye out for it. We shudder to think of the price after a couple million dollars have been pumped into it. Stalefish aside, if you are looking for one-of-a-kind properties in a very quiet neighborhood with actual front yards, spectacular ocean views, and the sound of crashing surf out your window, this is the neighborhood for you. Just don't plan on riding your single speed beach cruiser to the beach. This is still San Francisco and that means there are hills... big, long, steep ones. It isn't called Sea CLIFF for nothing.
the listings
the stats
Comparison Shopping
We love shopping for homes with $23.5MM (the price of the Stalefish of the Year). But why settle for simply a home when you could buy an entire island in Grenada, Caribbean. We couldn't find a good $23.5MM fixer island (strange, we know), but we did find a pretty sweet uninhabited island with four houses, an airstrip, beaches, small bays, lush vegetation, tropical climate, and two volcanic knolls that will only set you back $18MM. Or just hop across our pond to Belvedere Island and pick up this modern stunner, also for $18MM. One micro-climate away, and an entirely different micro-market.
SFhotspots
Sea Cliff has no bars, clubs, restaurants, grocery stores...nada! But it does have China Beach. Take your kids to play and climb on the rocks (you might bring blinders for the occasional exhibitionists), dare to take a swim, watch the surf pound the shore, taste the salt air, feel the icy wind on your cheeks, and bundle up. You know...your typical San Francisco beach day.
Ahhh...Sea Cliff. This is another one of those San Francisco nano-markets that can really do no wrong, unless of course, you are our insanely over-priced $23.5MM fixer, 5 bed, 4.5 bath, 9436 square foot Stalefish of the Year, which came on the market at $18MM in 2003. (You catch that? Didn't sell at $18MM, so they increased the price to $23.5MM. Brilliant!) Mercifully, it has finally been taken off the market, and is undergoing a massive renovation, so keep an eye out for it. We shudder to think of the price after a couple million dollars have been pumped into it. Stalefish aside, if you are looking for one-of-a-kind properties in a very quiet neighborhood with actual front yards, spectacular ocean views, and the sound of crashing surf out your window, this is the neighborhood for you. Just don't plan on riding your single speed beach cruiser to the beach. This is still San Francisco and that means there are hills... big, long, steep ones. It isn't called Sea CLIFF for nothing.
the listings
the stats
Comparison Shopping
We love shopping for homes with $23.5MM (the price of the Stalefish of the Year). But why settle for simply a home when you could buy an entire island in Grenada, Caribbean. We couldn't find a good $23.5MM fixer island (strange, we know), but we did find a pretty sweet uninhabited island with four houses, an airstrip, beaches, small bays, lush vegetation, tropical climate, and two volcanic knolls that will only set you back $18MM. Or just hop across our pond to Belvedere Island and pick up this modern stunner, also for $18MM. One micro-climate away, and an entirely different micro-market.
SFhotspots
Sea Cliff has no bars, clubs, restaurants, grocery stores...nada! But it does have China Beach. Take your kids to play and climb on the rocks (you might bring blinders for the occasional exhibitionists), dare to take a swim, watch the surf pound the shore, taste the salt air, feel the icy wind on your cheeks, and bundle up. You know...your typical San Francisco beach day.
Stage 5, Outer Richmond
Market Update
Just like the Central Richmond district, many people are discovering the Outer Richmond. How can you argue? Go west and BAM! you hit the ocean. Go north and FORE! you've got a decent little public golf course, not to mention one of the city's best walking trails at Land's End. There is a surf spot tucked among the cliffs, many great restaurants, sunset views, Golden Gate Park to the south, the Palace of the Legion of Honor, and the ruins of Sutro Baths. Generally, properties exchange hands pretty briskly when priced right, and did you know this district has a few standout streets? Seal Rock always gets lots of attention, as does Sutro Heights. But even more unique than those two streets, there is a little area, and street, called Shore View. Homes in Shore View look like they were air-lifted out of Sea Cliff and dropped here. Go do a drive by (not that kind) and you'll be impressed. As more and more families get priced out of the "centrally located" neighborhoods, the Outer Richmond could see continued, and better than normal growth.
the listings
the stats
Comparison Shopping
Five bedrooms in our Shore View will set you back a cool $2.3MM. In Shoreview, Minnesota, you could have 5 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2008 square feet of property on over one acre of land for a mere $275,000. You even get some sort of structure hidden in the woods. Storage shed? Out-house? Gun cabinet? Meth Lab? Who knows. Ahhh, but it's quiet and you have plenty of privacy. Isn't that why people move to the middle of nowhere? It's true that outside of San Francisco homes are certainly less expensive, but that doesn't always mean the grass is greener. ;-)
SFhotspots
Seal Rock Inn, located at 545 Point Lobos Ave. at 48th, is a reader recommended hotspot in the Outer Richmond. This is hardly a "new" hotspot, but when you are in the mood for that 3pm breakfast, and feel like taking a stroll on the beach to burn it off, this is the best place to go. Food is very "diner" style... hearty and good.
SFpocketlistings
What is a pocket listing? A property that an owner is willing to sell, but is not currently on the market. sfnewsletter knows of the following:
--6 unit building on a very large lot in Pacific Heights. Great development opportunity. On Washington at Baker. Each unit is one bedroom, one bath, with original details, wood floors, fireplaces, and lots of San Francisco charm. The whole building is for sale around $3+Million. Possibility to also purchase individual TICs around $500,000. This property is a fixer.
--3 units in SOMA on Boardman Street between Bryant and Brannan. 2 residential, 1 commercial. One unit is vacant. Commercial tenant is Bail Bonds shop. 3 car parking. Previously listed at $995,000. Seller is willing to negotiate.
--Single Family center patio home on 41st Ave @ Taraval. Two bedrooms, one bath up, wood floors, skylights, formal dining room, fireplace, beatiful yard, studio inlaw down (unwarranted). $800,000
Please contact your sfnewsletter provider if any of these sound of interest to you.
Just like the Central Richmond district, many people are discovering the Outer Richmond. How can you argue? Go west and BAM! you hit the ocean. Go north and FORE! you've got a decent little public golf course, not to mention one of the city's best walking trails at Land's End. There is a surf spot tucked among the cliffs, many great restaurants, sunset views, Golden Gate Park to the south, the Palace of the Legion of Honor, and the ruins of Sutro Baths. Generally, properties exchange hands pretty briskly when priced right, and did you know this district has a few standout streets? Seal Rock always gets lots of attention, as does Sutro Heights. But even more unique than those two streets, there is a little area, and street, called Shore View. Homes in Shore View look like they were air-lifted out of Sea Cliff and dropped here. Go do a drive by (not that kind) and you'll be impressed. As more and more families get priced out of the "centrally located" neighborhoods, the Outer Richmond could see continued, and better than normal growth.
the listings
the stats
Comparison Shopping
Five bedrooms in our Shore View will set you back a cool $2.3MM. In Shoreview, Minnesota, you could have 5 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2008 square feet of property on over one acre of land for a mere $275,000. You even get some sort of structure hidden in the woods. Storage shed? Out-house? Gun cabinet? Meth Lab? Who knows. Ahhh, but it's quiet and you have plenty of privacy. Isn't that why people move to the middle of nowhere? It's true that outside of San Francisco homes are certainly less expensive, but that doesn't always mean the grass is greener. ;-)
SFhotspots
Seal Rock Inn, located at 545 Point Lobos Ave. at 48th, is a reader recommended hotspot in the Outer Richmond. This is hardly a "new" hotspot, but when you are in the mood for that 3pm breakfast, and feel like taking a stroll on the beach to burn it off, this is the best place to go. Food is very "diner" style... hearty and good.
SFpocketlistings
What is a pocket listing? A property that an owner is willing to sell, but is not currently on the market. sfnewsletter knows of the following:
--6 unit building on a very large lot in Pacific Heights. Great development opportunity. On Washington at Baker. Each unit is one bedroom, one bath, with original details, wood floors, fireplaces, and lots of San Francisco charm. The whole building is for sale around $3+Million. Possibility to also purchase individual TICs around $500,000. This property is a fixer.
--3 units in SOMA on Boardman Street between Bryant and Brannan. 2 residential, 1 commercial. One unit is vacant. Commercial tenant is Bail Bonds shop. 3 car parking. Previously listed at $995,000. Seller is willing to negotiate.
--Single Family center patio home on 41st Ave @ Taraval. Two bedrooms, one bath up, wood floors, skylights, formal dining room, fireplace, beatiful yard, studio inlaw down (unwarranted). $800,000
Please contact your sfnewsletter provider if any of these sound of interest to you.
Stage 4, Lake
Market Update
Before we dive into the Lake district, here's an interesting tid-bit we picked up from Zee Chronicle. Headline: Home sales plunge, prices flat.
October sales down 24 percent from 2005; new houses costing less in many counties. You had to literally go to the very last paragraph (3rd from last sentence) to read this summary of sorts, "We still don't see anything that says the Bay Area market is tanking..."
If you'd like more reading, here are two other reports on the market:
Bay Area Housing Market Going Strong (pdf)
Wells Fargo: How long will the slowdown last...(pdf)
Take two Aspirin, call us in the morning, because you will get a headache reading all that.
Le Lac
If you're looking to live amongst throngs of tattoos, piercings, slim fit jeans, beatnick cafes, dark bars, and clubs that stay up late, this ain't the place for you. The Lake district is very quiet, and very much a family neighborhood. Single family homes in this district, especially north of Lake street, tend to fly off the shelf. However, there has been a little slow down for some condos and the less than perfect properties. The fog plays a huge factor the further you head west, significantly reducing the number of buyers, and scaring away many of those that thought they'd give it a try anyway. But when the sun does come out, you're steps from Baker Beach, Presidio Golf Course, the GG Bridge, Mountain Lake Park, and the Presidio is practically in your back yard. If you have your heart set on living in Pac Heights, but can't afford it, give Lake a try.
the listings
the stats
Maximum Overbid of the Week
This 4 bed, 2.5 bath home at 55 6th Ave in the Lake district, came on the market two months ago (9/14/2006) for $2.1MM. It spent 13 days on the market and sold $200,000 above asking or $2.3MM. Ce n'est pas mal. Non?
Comparison Shopping
Generally we don't like to repeat places we've been, but every now and then a reader from out of state contacts us, (Hi M.H.) and we have to go shopping in their town. This week we return to Bend, Oregon, where $2.3MM buys you a "Charming estate evoking European Country architecture...2.5 acre site...Two master suites...4 baths...bonus/game room...3 car garage...1,560 s.ft. coach house w/shop & 1/2 bath...waterfall/creek w/pond, fenced property w/ponderosa, aspen, fir & spruce trees." It sounds great, but wouldn't a "European Country" estate fit better in Europe? Just curious.
SFhotspots
You've probably driven by this place 100 times racing up and down California. Village Market has to be one of the best neighborhood organic corner stores in the city. They have some great fresh produce, excellent wines, lovely selection of flowers, and so much more. They also now have a location in the Ferry Building, but it all started here, so stop in and say Hi to Kamron. They are located on the South East corner of 8th Ave. and California.
Before we dive into the Lake district, here's an interesting tid-bit we picked up from Zee Chronicle. Headline: Home sales plunge, prices flat.
October sales down 24 percent from 2005; new houses costing less in many counties. You had to literally go to the very last paragraph (3rd from last sentence) to read this summary of sorts, "We still don't see anything that says the Bay Area market is tanking..."
If you'd like more reading, here are two other reports on the market:
Bay Area Housing Market Going Strong (pdf)
Wells Fargo: How long will the slowdown last...(pdf)
Take two Aspirin, call us in the morning, because you will get a headache reading all that.
Le Lac
If you're looking to live amongst throngs of tattoos, piercings, slim fit jeans, beatnick cafes, dark bars, and clubs that stay up late, this ain't the place for you. The Lake district is very quiet, and very much a family neighborhood. Single family homes in this district, especially north of Lake street, tend to fly off the shelf. However, there has been a little slow down for some condos and the less than perfect properties. The fog plays a huge factor the further you head west, significantly reducing the number of buyers, and scaring away many of those that thought they'd give it a try anyway. But when the sun does come out, you're steps from Baker Beach, Presidio Golf Course, the GG Bridge, Mountain Lake Park, and the Presidio is practically in your back yard. If you have your heart set on living in Pac Heights, but can't afford it, give Lake a try.
the listings
the stats
Maximum Overbid of the Week
This 4 bed, 2.5 bath home at 55 6th Ave in the Lake district, came on the market two months ago (9/14/2006) for $2.1MM. It spent 13 days on the market and sold $200,000 above asking or $2.3MM. Ce n'est pas mal. Non?
Comparison Shopping
Generally we don't like to repeat places we've been, but every now and then a reader from out of state contacts us, (Hi M.H.) and we have to go shopping in their town. This week we return to Bend, Oregon, where $2.3MM buys you a "Charming estate evoking European Country architecture...2.5 acre site...Two master suites...4 baths...bonus/game room...3 car garage...1,560 s.ft. coach house w/shop & 1/2 bath...waterfall/creek w/pond, fenced property w/ponderosa, aspen, fir & spruce trees." It sounds great, but wouldn't a "European Country" estate fit better in Europe? Just curious.
SFhotspots
You've probably driven by this place 100 times racing up and down California. Village Market has to be one of the best neighborhood organic corner stores in the city. They have some great fresh produce, excellent wines, lovely selection of flowers, and so much more. They also now have a location in the Ferry Building, but it all started here, so stop in and say Hi to Kamron. They are located on the South East corner of 8th Ave. and California.
Stage 3, Jordan Park/Laurel Heights
Stage 3 of Le Tour de San Francisco begins today. If you are new to sfnewsletter, the TDSF is our real estate version of the great cycling race, where we tour through our nano-markets around town. This week we look at District 1C...Jordan Park/Laurel Heights. We'll finish after 86 stages with district 10K...Bayview Heights. So if you have anything you want to say about your district, we want to hear it. For past stages, contact your sfnewsletter provider.
Market Update
The market in Jordan Park/Laurel Heights is, like the rest of the city, spotty. Some homes sell well, some get stale. This district has big homes on Jordan, Palm, and Commonwealth with big front yards, tree lined streets, and that "suburban" feel selling in the blink of an eye for $3+Million (when they come around). It has condos on top of the hill (above where Masonic meets Euclid), with killer downtown views, selling for a fraction of that. It also has the less desirables, which are again the homes closest to Geary. And finally, it has an entirely different market on Spruce, Heather, Iris, Collins (away from Geary), and Manzanita that commands very high prices, and homes there tend to fly off the shelf. Wow! Right there you have four different nano-markets within one sub-district. In general, district 1C is a very desirable place to be and properties tend to sell quickly in this area when priced right. Think Zillow can calculate all that?
the listings
the stats
Didn't They Get the Memo?
Will somebody please tell the buyers of this 4 bed, 3.5 bath, beautiful home in Jordan Park, that according to the media, the market has tanked, and paying upwards of $3.5MM for a home is ludicrous? That is of course unless these buyers have a mind of their own, they realize that indeed the sky is not falling, we're surrounded by water on three sides, our average yearly temp is around 60, it never snows (correction, it never requires a snow plow), we have some of the best restuarants, bars, clubs, shows, and culture in this country, and if they want to live here....well, they'll have to pay. This ain't propoganda! This is life in San Francisco, and these buyers must "get it".
Comparison Shopping
You don't even want to know what $3.5MM gets you in Telluride, CO. Go ahead, have a laugh.
SFhotspots
Spanish Fly. Located at 3300 Geary @ Parker, it used to be Straits Cafe. They're now dishing up tapas. We have never been, but have heard good things. Michael Bauer had this to say about it. Give it a try and let us know what you think. You might even take a walk around the block when you're done and check out some of the great homes in the area.
Market Update
The market in Jordan Park/Laurel Heights is, like the rest of the city, spotty. Some homes sell well, some get stale. This district has big homes on Jordan, Palm, and Commonwealth with big front yards, tree lined streets, and that "suburban" feel selling in the blink of an eye for $3+Million (when they come around). It has condos on top of the hill (above where Masonic meets Euclid), with killer downtown views, selling for a fraction of that. It also has the less desirables, which are again the homes closest to Geary. And finally, it has an entirely different market on Spruce, Heather, Iris, Collins (away from Geary), and Manzanita that commands very high prices, and homes there tend to fly off the shelf. Wow! Right there you have four different nano-markets within one sub-district. In general, district 1C is a very desirable place to be and properties tend to sell quickly in this area when priced right. Think Zillow can calculate all that?
the listings
the stats
Didn't They Get the Memo?
Will somebody please tell the buyers of this 4 bed, 3.5 bath, beautiful home in Jordan Park, that according to the media, the market has tanked, and paying upwards of $3.5MM for a home is ludicrous? That is of course unless these buyers have a mind of their own, they realize that indeed the sky is not falling, we're surrounded by water on three sides, our average yearly temp is around 60, it never snows (correction, it never requires a snow plow), we have some of the best restuarants, bars, clubs, shows, and culture in this country, and if they want to live here....well, they'll have to pay. This ain't propoganda! This is life in San Francisco, and these buyers must "get it".
Comparison Shopping
You don't even want to know what $3.5MM gets you in Telluride, CO. Go ahead, have a laugh.
SFhotspots
Spanish Fly. Located at 3300 Geary @ Parker, it used to be Straits Cafe. They're now dishing up tapas. We have never been, but have heard good things. Michael Bauer had this to say about it. Give it a try and let us know what you think. You might even take a walk around the block when you're done and check out some of the great homes in the area.
Stage 2, Inner Richmond
Stage 2 of Le Tour de San Francisco begins today. If you are new to sfnewsletter, the TDSF is our real estate version of the great cycling race, where we tour through our nano-markets around town. This week we look at District 1B...Inner Richmond. We'll finish after 86 stages with district 10K...Bayview Heights. So if you have anything you want to say about your district, we want to hear it. For past stages, contact your sfnewsletter provider.
Market Update
Before we get into the market in the Inner Richmond, we thought you should read this, Bubble Proof Markets on Business 2.0
So how's the market in the Inner Richmond? Generally, the closer you get to the outer edges of the district box (Park Presidio, Arguello, Fulton, and California), the more the property values increase. Geary, is kind of like a black hole. Some Avenues on the north side of Geary do better than the same Avenue on the south side of Geary and vice versa. If you are on Funston, then you should do okay no matter what. Being on Arguello and Fulton isn't exactly the best location, and that little tiny street, Cornwall, has three markets of its own. Confusing? Hell ya! That's why you need to talk to a Realtor who actually works IN the city before you make any decisions about buying or selling your home.
some stats
Inner Richmond Listings
One Block is All it Takes
Have a look at 350 3rd Ave ($1,550,000) and 227 3rd Ave ($1,725,000). Same Avenue, similar homes, but on different sides of the track (Clement). Without delving into all the details and amenities of each property, let's do a very rudimentary comparison. Take the square footage of 350 (2,650sf) and multiply it by the price per square foot of 227 ($616) and you'll get $1,632,400. So if that home was on the 200 block of 3rd instead of the 300 block, it might sell for $1,632,000 or $82,000 more than it fetched on the 300 block. Is it that simple? No, but we're trying to give you an idea of some of the dynamics. Keep in mind that in the Inner Richmond (and most of San Francisco for that matter) there are literally no two properties that are exactly alike, so we're working with what we have and getting as close as we can. Got questions? We want to hear them. Here is a side by side comparison of these two properties with square footage and all that fun stuff.
Comparison Shopping
It's that time of year when the snow starts falling. Some of you could probably care less and that is okay. But if you are a skier/boarder and would love for all of your closest friends here at sfnewsletter to crash in your pad, you could pick up this plush ski huette at Alpine Meadows, CA for $1.6MM. It even has a "doggy bath in the garage", and rental income of around $50,000/year. Thank you Kim Thomas, of Tahoe Real Estate Group, for that link.
SFhotspots
Have you ever been on Clement and wondered about the stores with all the produce out front? There are a couple of good markets in that area, but New May Wah on Clement @ 8th (right next to Radio Shack) has some excellent fruit, vegetables, meats, fish, and all kinds of other goods from around the world. Their candy aisle alone is enough to bring a sweet junkie to their knees, and their prices are truly hard to beat. It is crowded and bustled, so don't expect a relaxing shopping experience, but you should at least check it out.
Market Update
Before we get into the market in the Inner Richmond, we thought you should read this, Bubble Proof Markets on Business 2.0
So how's the market in the Inner Richmond? Generally, the closer you get to the outer edges of the district box (Park Presidio, Arguello, Fulton, and California), the more the property values increase. Geary, is kind of like a black hole. Some Avenues on the north side of Geary do better than the same Avenue on the south side of Geary and vice versa. If you are on Funston, then you should do okay no matter what. Being on Arguello and Fulton isn't exactly the best location, and that little tiny street, Cornwall, has three markets of its own. Confusing? Hell ya! That's why you need to talk to a Realtor who actually works IN the city before you make any decisions about buying or selling your home.
some stats
Inner Richmond Listings
One Block is All it Takes
Have a look at 350 3rd Ave ($1,550,000) and 227 3rd Ave ($1,725,000). Same Avenue, similar homes, but on different sides of the track (Clement). Without delving into all the details and amenities of each property, let's do a very rudimentary comparison. Take the square footage of 350 (2,650sf) and multiply it by the price per square foot of 227 ($616) and you'll get $1,632,400. So if that home was on the 200 block of 3rd instead of the 300 block, it might sell for $1,632,000 or $82,000 more than it fetched on the 300 block. Is it that simple? No, but we're trying to give you an idea of some of the dynamics. Keep in mind that in the Inner Richmond (and most of San Francisco for that matter) there are literally no two properties that are exactly alike, so we're working with what we have and getting as close as we can. Got questions? We want to hear them. Here is a side by side comparison of these two properties with square footage and all that fun stuff.
Comparison Shopping
It's that time of year when the snow starts falling. Some of you could probably care less and that is okay. But if you are a skier/boarder and would love for all of your closest friends here at sfnewsletter to crash in your pad, you could pick up this plush ski huette at Alpine Meadows, CA for $1.6MM. It even has a "doggy bath in the garage", and rental income of around $50,000/year. Thank you Kim Thomas, of Tahoe Real Estate Group, for that link.
SFhotspots
Have you ever been on Clement and wondered about the stores with all the produce out front? There are a couple of good markets in that area, but New May Wah on Clement @ 8th (right next to Radio Shack) has some excellent fruit, vegetables, meats, fish, and all kinds of other goods from around the world. Their candy aisle alone is enough to bring a sweet junkie to their knees, and their prices are truly hard to beat. It is crowded and bustled, so don't expect a relaxing shopping experience, but you should at least check it out.
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