CATEGORY ARCHIVE: Interesting Opportunities
April 10, 2008
The Circle Of Life In Pacific Heights: 1817 California Street #2E
If you happen to be the tenant(s) of 1817 California Street #2E and you’re not yet aware, your days are likely numbered. Two bedrooms, one and one-half baths, 787 square feet, one parking space, and listed at $498,000. Only one showing (this Sunday 4/13 from one to three) and offers thereafter.
UPDATE: Make that circles (plural). From a plugged-in reader:
11/18/05: property listed at $750,000
1/11/06: listing expires
2/08/06: listing comes back on, now up to $799,000
7/08/06: listing expires
7/11/06: listing comes back on, still $799,000
9/05/06: price reduced (back) to $750,000
9/28/06: listing is withdrawn by agent (owner)
7/27/07: property listed at $710,000
8/27/07: price reduced to $699,950
1/01/08: property withdrawn by agent (owner)
2/13/08: property listed at $675,000
3/10/08: price reduced to $665,000
4/08/08: property withdrawn by agent (owner)
4/07/08(huh?): new listing! new agent! new price! $498,000.
UPDATE: And as another plugged-in reader ads, purchased for $650,000 on 9/23/05.
∙ Listing: 1817 California #2E (2/1.5) - $498,000 [Century 21 via Pacific Union] [Map]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
March 31, 2008
Another Non-Comp Comp Along The Booming Van Ness Corridor
There's no longer a kitchen (or even really a bathroom). But the listing is touting “instant equity” and a “motivated” seller for this “unfinished” loft in the Marquee building along the booming Van Ness corridor.
Currently listed at $620,000, 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #708 changed hands on 9/30/04 for $607,500, on 10/05/06 for $865,000, and most recently on 1/9/08 for $708,933. Of course that last “sale” was to Merrill Lynch Mortgage Lending.
It's also interesting to note that #808 last changed hands on 4/27/2007 for $819,500. And at the time, the buyer likely counted on the sale of #708 in 2006 (at $865,000) as a comp.
∙ Listing: 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #708 (1/1) - $620,000 [MLS]
∙ JustQuotes: A Reminder That They’re Not Just Building Down In SoMa [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)
March 24, 2008
Going Once, Going Twice (For Real?*) At Shore|Line: 41 Federal #42
From a list price of $939,000 to $869,000 to $850,000 to $830,000 to $813,400 to $797,150 to an auction this Wednesday (3/26/08) at 4:15 PM.
As you might recall, 41 Federal #42 had been offered by the developer for $850,000 sixteen (16) months ago before being purchased and then lost to the bank. The opening bid this week will be $100,000*. Care to forecast the final price?
And in case you didn't catch it, our 41 Federal headline almost three months ago: “Going Once, Going Twice…Going Five Times At Shore|Line: 41 Federal.” Boo.
*UPDATE (Redux): While we originally noted the lack of a “reserve” price and intimated that “it will sell,” it appears as though ex SF-er correctly parsed the auction's "subject to approval" language, and tipster demonstrates how being the highest bidder isn't always high enough.
∙ Real Estate Auction: 41 Federal #42 [williamsauction.com]
∙ Seller Motivated Drastic Price Reduction Penthouse Unit [SocketSite]
∙ And Now We’re Back Below Where We Started [SocketSite]
∙ Savings At Shoreline (41 Federal) [SocketSite]
∙ Going Once, Going Twice…Going Five Times At Shore|Line: 41 Federal [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (40) | (email story)
March 6, 2008
JustQuotes: Might It Draw Demand From Way Over In San Francisco?
"The developer of the recently opened Eight Orchids condominium mid-rise in Oakland hopes to auction off nearly a third of the units, with some starting bids $300,000 below prior asking prices, as builders struggle to unload new properties in the current housing climate."
"The auction of 41 units is scheduled for March 30....The minimum bid for one-bedrooms is $245,000, down from as high as $520,888; two-bedrooms will start at $325,000, down from as high as $630,888; and three-bedrooms will begin at $475,000, discounted from as much as $805,888. There is no "secret reserve," meaning any unit that receives at least the minimum offer will go to the bidder."
∙ Prices cut for Oakland condo auction [SFGate]
∙ 8 Orchids (Oakland) [8-orchids.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)
February 14, 2008
Lunchtime Concert/Central Market Community Benefit District Event
From the folks at the Central Market Community Benefit District:
The Central Market Community Benefit District (CBD) and Friends of Mint Plaza invite you to celebrate Central Market and the launch of our long-awaited neighborhood services during Love Thy Neighbor(hood), a special lunchtime concert for the community on February 14, Valentine's Day.
The noontime neighborhood concert will be held from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the new Mint Plaza (on Fifth Street between Market and Mission Streets).
Find out how the Central Market CBD's new programs will help create a cleaner, safer and more inviting neighborhood. Learn about community organizations that are helping to enhance the environment in Central Market. Find out about volunteer opportunities in the community and how you can get involved in improving the neighborhood.
∙ Central Market CBD [central-market.org]
∙ JustQuotes: Care To Quote The Odds On The Success Of Mint Plaza? [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | (email story)
January 16, 2008
Homes On Esprit Park: Now Accepting Refundable ($3,000) Deposits
From a plugged-in tipster (and on the heels of yesterday's Esprit Park expose):
“With our model homes expected to deliver in February and more models following in months to come, The Homes on Esprit Park team is thrilled to offer an opportunity to reserve your favorite unit for up to 45 days with a refundable $3,000 deposit. Offered for the first time since the sales office opened in late ’07, our refundable reservations are designed to help our most interested buyers move closer to the unit they want before it’s complete without the risk of a binding contract.”
If you're interested, you might want to act now (there's nothing wrong with a free option), but also keep the offer in mind the next time you hear a stat about "sales." Oh, and also noted, 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath homes "now priced from $595,000 to the mid $600,000’s."
∙ Homes On Esprit Park: The Foreshadowing Comes To Fruition [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (2) | (email story)
January 11, 2008
Figure Out How To Fix The Façade And You’ll Probably Fare Quite Well
Compared to 2045 Quesada, it’s really not that bad. But then again, that’s not saying too much (or a design benchmark to which we would aspire). And perhaps that’s part of the reason the list price for 2550 Greenwich was just dropped $550,000 (15.7%).
And while we’re still trying to decipher the listing, it does appear that in addition to the three bedroom two and one-half bath main home (with elevator), the list price includes a guest cottage of 2,068 square feet as well (not to mention five parking spaces).
Figure out how to fix the façade and you’ll probably fare quite well (and garner the gratitude of more than one neighbor on the block).
UPDATE (2/22): 2550 Greenwich closed escrow on 2/21/08 with a reported contract price of $2,850,000.
∙ Listing: 2550 Greenwich (3/2.5) - $2,950,000 [MLS]
∙ At Least It Has The Requisite Bay Windows, Right? [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)
January 9, 2008
Another Opportunity For “Instant Equity” Over At One Rincon Hill?
While it’s not the first, and it’s not likely to be the last, a plugged-in tipster forwards a Craigslist ad for a “re-sale” (re-contract?) condo in the first tower of One Rincon Hill:
Looking for someone to take over my purchase agreement for a great price that you won't find again, ever, for a building like this. Unit will be ready for move-in around March 2008.
I'm looking to find a co-signer who I will sign over my initial deposit AND deed/title to. I now need a house outside the city, but I reserved this unit for the original low price a long time ago (above price [$700,000] not actual price). You can now secure a home for undermarket value.
We’re always more than a little weary when “under market” (a.k.a. “instant equity!”) is involved (and doubly so when closings are right around the corner). But then again, if you honestly feel like you initially missed out, perhaps it's an interesting opportunity to pursue (with the help of an excellent attorney of course).
∙ $700000 1 Rincon Hill - Original Purchase Sale [Craigslist]
∙ A Quick Flip At One Rincon Hill? [SocketSite]
∙ Not Exactly A Flip, But Possibly A Push, Over At One Rincon Hill [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
January 3, 2008
A Chance To Peek Inside San Francisco’s Pier 48 Tomorrow At Ten
From the Port of San Francisco (and related to the redevelopment of Seawall Lot 337): “If you are interested in viewing the inside of the Pier 48 facility, please join us this Friday, January 4th at 10:00 a.m. in front of Pier 48. No RSVP is required.”
∙ Could This Be Curtains For Cirque Du Soleil In The City? [SocketSite]
∙ Request For Proposals For San Francisco’s Seawall Lot 337 [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | (email story)
November 30, 2007
Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House Officially Opens Its Doors
As a plugged-in tipster notes, Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House officially opened its doors to the public today and will be open from 11/30 to 12/16 on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (9am-4pm). And yes, it looks like its ten week run has been reduced to two.
∙ Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House: A Few Facts [SocketSite]
∙ 2007 San Francisco Idea House [Sunset]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | (email story)
November 26, 2007
The Cost Of Failing To Accurately Manage (Market?) Expectations
It was almost two months ago that we noted the ceiling of 723 Bay Street (with which we were quite enamored along with the master bath and patio).
And while we didn’t point out the $155,000 (7.2%) price reduction last month, we are pointing out the additional $220,000 (11.0%) price reduction that occurred last week. And the situation (which might make it an opportunity, and also serve as a warning, for a truly plugged-in person): “…must sell…owner in escrow on another property….”
∙ Listing: 723 Bay Street (2/1.5 and 1/1) - $1,775,000 [MLS]
∙ What Can We Say, We’re Suckers For A Nice Ceiling (723 Bay) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | (email story)
November 8, 2007
If This Is Old News (And You Know Even More), Then Drop Us A Line
One: while the 22-story "Axis" in downtown San Jose (38 Almaden Boulevard) will officially open its sales and presentation center to the public this weekend (November 10th), they will not start taking reservations/deposits until late January 2008 (with priority given to those pre-registered/qualified).
The 329 condos will range from around 655 (studio) to 1,863 (three bedroom penthouse) square feet and will be priced “from the $400,000s to more than $2 million.” Initial closings and occupancy staring in May (2008). And yes, floor plans are available online.
And two: speaking of San Jose, we still need a couple of outstanding editors to champion our Silicon Valley coverage. So drop us a note (tips@socketsite.com) if you’re plugged-in, analytic, and articulate.
∙ Axis San Jose (38 Almaden Boulevard) [axissanjose.com]
∙ SocketSite Silicon Valley Coverage Coming Soon (sv.SocketSite.com) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)
November 6, 2007
Now Half Off (And Lender Owned) In Pacific Heights? (2990 Clay #1)
It’s a “lender owned” condominium “in need of renovation” two blocks off of Alta Plaza park in Pacific Heights. And while it appears that 2990 Clay Street #1 last changed hands for $1,061,444 on 6/6/2007 (in the sale to the lender) and prior to that for $1,490,000 on 5/31/2006, it’s now on the market for $699,900.
Granted “[t]he prior owner removed many items” (as those who have been foreclosed upon are prone to do), but unless those items included solid gold fixtures and outlet coverings, something doesn’t quite add up. Perhaps a plugged-in reader can help us out with the math (and the inside scoop).
UPDATE: And a reader comes through: “Okay, I got the scoop - looks like the unit is actually closer to 1k sq feet, even though the tax records show 1500. The additional sq ft and the fact that it "sold" for close to 1.5M is all most likely fraud...Sounds like this place is VERY rough, and 699k isn't a price they're hoping to get bidding wars over, but rather is the generous starting price they think they'll have to come down from....”
∙ Listing: 2990 Clay #1 (2/1) - $699,900 [MLS] [Redfin]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (49) | (email story)
November 2, 2007
Prime Pacific Heights Single Family For Under Five Hundred A Square!
Okay, so it’s “almost fully” gutted, unreinforced masonry, and over five thousand square feet of really raw space for $2,490,000. And in case you were wondering, 2201 Baker was built as a single-family (around 1904), was converted to a boarding house in the 1940’s, and then was apparently Ellis Acted in 2002 (“details not yet verified” according to the listing).
No word on whether or not the evicted tenants were responsible for any of said gutting…
∙ Listing: 2201 Baker Street (?) - $2,490,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
October 24, 2007
A Quick Reminder: Tonight’s (10/24) Gathering Of Plugged-In People
Cocktails start flowing at 6:00 and the panel discussion at 6:30. If you’re on the list, we’ll see you then. If not, perhaps we’ll see you at the next event (stay tuned). And if you’re on the list but have had a change of plans, please let us know (email rsvp@socketsite.com) as we have a long list of people waiting in the wings for any last minute cancellations.
∙ The Scoop On Wednesday’s (10/24) Gathering For Plugged-In People [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:19 PM | Permalink | (email story)
October 22, 2007
50 Spots Have Been Added To This Wednesday’s (10/24) Gathering
Negotiations for a larger cocktail budget were a success (okay, so we really didn’t have to twist anybody’s arm) and we’ve opened up another 50 spots for this Wednesday’s (10/24) gathering and discussion. And once again, don’t fret if you can’t make it on Wednesday or aren’t interested in the topic, our next gathering is already in the works.
UPDATE: The 150 spots have been filled (and the registration is now closed).
∙ The Scoop On Wednesday’s (10/24) Gathering For Plugged-In People [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:40 AM | Permalink | (email story)
October 19, 2007
The Scoop On Wednesday’s (10/24) Gathering For Plugged-In People
As promised, we’re hosting another gathering for plugged-in people next Wednesday (10/24). The topic of the evening: SoMa’s emerging midtown/mid-market neighborhood.
We’ll be moderating a panel discussion and Q&A (which will include Sarah Karlinsky of SPUR and Chip Conley of Joie de Vivre amongst others); SomaGrand will be providing the venue (as well as the cocktails and snacks); and you’re invited (to get the inside scoop on the neighborhood and network with other plugged-in people).
The gathering will be held from 6:00-7:30pm at the SomaGrand Sales and Marketing center in San Francisco (1085 Mission Street at Seventh Street). Attendance will be limited to the first 100 150 people to sign up: http://socketsite.wikispaces.com/Midtown102407. And no, this isn't going to be a sales pitch.
We’ll see you on the 24th. And as always, thank you for plugging in.
UDPATE: Yes, the 100 spots have been filled but we’re negotiating for a bigger cocktail budget and will add some more spots (exact number TBD) first thing Monday (10/24) morning. And if you can’t make it on Wednesday or aren’t interested in the topic? Fret not, our next gathering is already in the works.
UPDATE (10/22): As of 6:30 AM another 50 spots have been added.
∙ Got Plans For Next Wednesday (10/22) Evening? Cancel Them Now. [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)
October 17, 2007
Got Plans For Next Wednesday (10/24) Evening? Cancel Them Now.
We promised a “grander” gathering of plugged-in people in October, and damn it if we’re not going to deliver. So pencil ink your calendars for next Wednesday (10/24) from six to eight. We’ll publish full details later today (or early tomorrow), but suffice it to say, if you have any interest in the future of San Francisco’s mid-Market neighborhood, you might want to plan on plugging in.
∙ Unplugging Tonight’s Gathering (But Planting The Seeds For October) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:35 PM | Permalink | (email story)
October 1, 2007
The Next Era In San Francisco’s Development: It’s All About Density
Going green might be trendy (and we’re all for it), but as far as we’re concerned it’s a focus on density (and infill) that will define the next era in San Francisco’s development, neighborhoods, and lifestyle.
Speaking of (or on) which, David Baker will be delivering a "Better Living Through Density" lecture next Monday (10/8/07 @ 7pm) at the California College of The Arts (Timken Lecture Hall, 1111 Eighth Street, San Francisco).
Denser neighborhoods are more active, more interesting, safer places that support local retail and services and foster community. But what makes urban housing beautiful and functional for residents and neighborhood alike? David Baker will describe—using some of his own work as examples—the components of good urban design, including active pedestrian edges, the hierarchy of open spaces, sensible parking strategies, and sustainable approaches that make higher densities better for all.
It’s free, no RSVP is required, and additional information is available by phone (415.703.9562) or email (architecture@cca.edu).
∙ California College of the Arts: Calendar of Events [CCA]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (91) | (email story)
September 28, 2007
The SocketSite Scoop: Half Of The Sunset Idea House Hits The Market
A plugged-in tipster forwards an email exchange between two incredulous San Francisco real estate watchers. The basic gist:
A: Half of that “freaky-eco project” on Alabama and 25th just hit the market. Open this weekend. For free!
M: $900/sqft for a TIC in this part of the Mission? And after selling tickets to see it this past Sunday? That’s so wrong.
A: No, that’s some funny sh&*! [And destined for SocketSite]
That’s right, 1303 Alabama (half of Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House) will be open this Sunday (9/30). No ticket (or donation) necessary. Although tips (email tips@socketsite.com) are always appreciated.
And no, we can't imagine Sunset is all too pleased.
∙ Listing: 1303 Alabama (2/2.5) -$1,089,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House: 3027 25th Street [SocketSite]
∙ Lotus House Rising (And A Plug For SF’s Build It Green Home Tour) [SocketSite]
∙ An Early Peek Inside “La Casa Verde” (a.k.a. The Future Idea House) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
September 21, 2007
Not Exactly A Flip, But Possibly A Push, Over At One Rincon Hill
According to a plugged-in tipster, a coveted “02” series two-bedroom/two-bath condo at One Rincon Hill is quietly being shopped by a contract holder.
The 1,300+ square foot unit is reported to have been secured with a non-refundable deposit of $65,000 and at a contract price of $1,595,000. And apparently the contract can be amended to reflect a new buyer prior to close (which we haven’t confirmed).
The asking price? $1,595,000. Or more accurately $65,000 to make the contract holder whole on his deposit. It's a bit different story than a reader reported fourteen months ago, but it's also but a single data point. (And we're at least waiting until after the first wave of closings before drawing too many conclusions on the health of the hill.)
And at the same time, we have been hearing rumors of a rather significant waiting list of buyers willing to pay big money for penthouse units that should happen to fall out of contract prior to closing. Again, unconfirmed (but no real reason to be doubted).
UPDATE: There’s a reason we originally filed this one under “Interesting Opportunities.” If you believe in the building, and like the floor plan, then it is (and as a plugged-in person, you now have the number to call). And if not, at the very least it's another interesting opportunity for some unique insight (into One Rincon Hill) and discussion (about the market).
∙ A Quick Flip At One Rincon Hill? [SocketSite]
∙ What Happens When It’s Time To Fund? We’ll Have To Wait And See [SocketSite]
∙ One Rincon Hill: An Unofficial Update On The Timing Of The Two Towers [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (174) | (email story)
September 6, 2007
Mo' Modern, Mo' Modern, Mo' Modern (But No Nelly) Over In Noe
A few quick details on 8 Kronquist Court: glass, steel and stucco; roof terrace, radiant floors and solar panels; and a wall of fold away glass doors that make us want to cry (in a very good way). The architect: Jonathan Feldman.
UPDATE: And yes, a "Garden Party" preview showing this evening (9/6) from 6 to 8. And no, we don’t accept any compensation for highlighting these places, open houses, or opportunities.
∙ Listing: 8 Kronquist Court (3/3) - $2,295,000 [Vanguard] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (25) | (email story)
August 29, 2007
A SocketSite Save The Date/Time: September 18, 2007 at 6PM
Don’t ask too many questions (details next week), but you might want to pencil it in.
Posted by socketadmin at 9:05 AM | Permalink | (email story)
July 24, 2007
Transbay Design Competition: The Revised Schedule And Unveiling
Frederick has heard rumblings of a 1,500 foot tower (despite the current height limits of 550 feet), and as Jamie notes, you can watch the unveiling on SFGTV (channel 26) if you can’t make it in person (on August 6th).
The public is invited to a Special TJPA Board Meeting on Monday, August 6th, 2007 from 6 pm to 9 pm in San Francisco City Hall Board Chamber Room where we will be unveiling the proposed design concepts for the new landmark Transbay Transit Center and Tower in downtown San Francisco.
Presentations will be given at the August 6th, Special TJPA Board Meeting, at City Hall, 6:00 to 9:00 PM, (in order) by the following teams:
* Richard Rogers Partnership/Forest City Enterprises/MacFarlane Partners
* Skidmore Owings and Merrill/Rockefeller Group Development Corporation
* Pelli Clark Pelli Architects/Hines
The design models will also be on display for the public Tuesday, August 7th, 2007 from 8 am to 6 pm in the North Light Court at San Francisco City Hall.
And while we have no interest in stealing the city’s thunder (and are probably aiming even higher than the tower), we are calling on all plugged-in tipsters that might have access to initial sketches, ideas or design concepts that were never submitted. Heck, we’ll even settle for homemade renderings (Godzilla anyone?) or additional rumors.
∙ Transbay Terminal Design Update: And Then There Were Three [SocketSite]
∙ Transbay Terminal (And Tower) Design Competition: The Teams [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | (email story)
July 11, 2007
JustQuotes: Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House
“Sunset, in a joint venture with Meridian Builders & Developers, Inc., will create a 2007 Idea House in San Francisco that will take the magazine's Idea House Program into a dense urban area for the first time, and demonstrate how to maximize construction on a compact site. Opening in August 2007, the Mission District home will be one of the first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified residential remodeled homes in the nation."
UPDATE: We now have the actual address (and a photo of the work in progress).
∙ 2007 San Francisco Idea House: Dates And Details [Sunset]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (36) | (email story)
June 13, 2007
Special Guests Confirmed: We’ll See You Tomorrow (6/14/07) In SJC
The special guests are confirmed for Thursday’s gathering of "plugged-in" people in San Jose. So please consider joining us, San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed, Vice Mayor David D. Cortese, Councilmember Sam Liccardo, San Jose Redevelopment Agency Deputy Director John Weis, Mesa Development Director Charles Young and a host of other readers as we delve into the residential real estate renaissance of downtown San Jose.
∙ A Silicon Valley Gathering Of Plugged-In People (June 14, 2007) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | (email story)
June 8, 2007
Weekend Reminders: SocketSite Survey And San Jose Gathering
1. Two days left to take the SocketSite reader survey (which ends Sunday at 5).
2. Thirty (or so) spots left for our San Jose gathering (next Thursday at 6).
Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 PM | Permalink | (email story)
June 6, 2007
A Silicon Valley Gathering Of Plugged-In People (June 14, 2007)
If you’re interested in (or located around) San Jose, we hoped you saved the date, as next Thursday (June 14) we’re holding a gathering for plugged-in people in Silicon Valley. The topic: the development and renaissance of downtown San Jose (San Jose 2.0 if you will).
We’ll be moderating a panel discussion and Q&A (which will include the San Jose Redevelopment Agency, Mesa Development, and a potential special guest or two); Three Sixty Residences will be providing the venue (as well as drinks and snacks); and you’re invited (to get the scoop on all the new developments and network with other “plugged-in” people). And yes, we’ll be making a little announcement as well.
The gathering will be held from 6:00-7:30pm at Three Sixty Residences' Sales and Marketing center in San Jose (170 South Market, Suite 120 in the Fairmont Annex). No, this isn't going to be a sales pitch. And yes, attendance will be limited to the first 75 people to sign up at http://socketsite.wikispaces.com/SVGathering061407.
Please feel free to forward this to anyone who you think might be looking for the scoop on San Jose. And as always, thank you for plugging in.
∙ A Hint Of Things To Come: Three Sixty Residences (And San Jose) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:15 PM | Permalink | (email story)
May 23, 2007
"Excellent Potential" (And We Just Might Have To Agree)
We haven't been inside (or seen the disclosures) be we are seeing the "excellent potential" in 1447 Funston (not to mention what appears to be the makings of an “unwarranted in-law” on the ground floor).
UPDATE (6/18): Sold on 6/15/07 for $920,000 (26.2% over asking).
∙ Listing: 1447 Funston (2/1) - $729,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)
May 8, 2007
733 Front Street: Pre-Opening This Weekend (5/12/07)
Thanks to a plugged-in tipster, we (and now you) know about 733 Front Street's “Pre-Opening” event this Saturday (5/12/07) from 11am to 6pm. Reservations will be taken (along with $5,000 reservation checks or 3% deposits), tours will be available, and “[t]his exclusive opportunity arrives prior to opening our doors to the public.”
Luckily you’re "plugged-in" (and the "public" be damned).
∙ 733 Front Street: A SocketSite Forum Inquiry (And Answer) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)
April 19, 2007
To BMR Or Not To BMR At 3208 Pierce: Two Neighboring Condos
While it was originally designated as a market rate unit with a price of $1,119,000, 3208 Pierce #403 was just listed as a BMR unit with a price tag of $202,590. Applications are due by 5pm on 5/8/07 and the lottery for the condo will be held on 5/11/07. And no, we don't know what happened to #201 (which we were led to believe was the original BMR unit in the new development).
And if a BMR isn’t your thing, but you do like the building, 3208 Pierce #404 remains available for $1,079,000.
∙ Listing: 3208 Pierce St #403 (2/2.5) - $202,590 (BMR) [3208piercebmr.com] [MLS]
∙ Listing: 3208 Pierce St #404 (2/1.5) - $1,079,000 [MLS]
∙ 3208 Pierce: New Website And Photo Gallery [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)
March 19, 2007
Serenity Now, Serenity Now
A “plugged in” reader notes the “extreme marketing” for 940 Duncan Street #D307 in Diamond Heights. We note some nice photography, a great use of space (not to mention a handy floor plan), and a relatively low maintenance fee of $393 per month.
∙ Listing: 940 Duncan Street #D307 (1/1) - $497,000 [diamondheightsserenity.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (9) | (email story)
March 14, 2007
Picture This: One Big One-Bedroom
At first blush, $3,750,000 for a one-bedroom might seem a wee bit over the top. (Yes, even in San Francisco.) But this isn’t just any one bedroom, it’s the 8,200 square foot BIG HOUSE studio. It’s one hell of a live/work space. Or at the very least, a bachelor car collector's dream come true (think indoor parking).
∙ Listing: 1417 15th Street (1/2.5) - $3,750,000 [Zephyr] [Virtual Tour]
∙ BIG HOUSE studio [bighousestudio.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)
March 7, 2007
Your Chance To Slip Inside 2901 Broadway
For those of you that have to ask (and unfortunately we do), chances are you haven’t been invited to take a tour inside 2901 Broadway. And while the virtual tour is comprehensive (additional photos added since we last checked), it’s simply not the same as wandering the halls or gazing out the windows (or so we’ve been told).
So either get busy building up that bank account, or simply swing by the mansion between April 28th and May 28th with $30 in hand. That’s right, 2901 Broadway is the 2007 San Francisco Decorator Showcase House. We'll see you there. (And we're bringing our tennis racquets...)
∙ Listing: 2901 Broadway (7/6.5) - "Make Your Best Offer" [2901broadwaystreet.com]
∙ If You Have To Ask (2901 Broadway) [SocketSite]
∙ The San Francisco Decorator Showcase [decoratorshowcase.org]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)
February 8, 2007
Yesterday’s Gathering Of “Plugged In” People (Recap And Thanks)
Our thanks to all the “plugged in” readers who braved the weather to join us last night for an evening of candid real estate talk, insight, and networking. And a special thanks to Redfin for doing a fantastic job of coordinating and sponsoring the event (and all the kind words).
If you missed the gathering, not to worry - we’ll update this post with a full recap later this afternoon soon (apologies for the delay, but we’ve been hindered by a server meltdown). And better yet, the next gathering is already in the works…
∙ Another Gathering Of “Plugged In” People (February 7, 2007) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)
January 29, 2007
Another Gathering Of “Plugged In” People (February 7, 2007)
It’s been two months since our last gathering of “plugged in” people, and we’re long overdue for another. And while our last theme was quite specific (contemporary renovations), this time it’s quite broad (what the heck is going on in San Francisco).
We’ll be talking (about San Francisco real estate trends, developments, and what to watch in 2007); Redfin will be buying (beer, wine, and snacks); and you’re invited (to meet us and other “plugged in” people). The gathering will be held next Wednesday (February 7) from 6:30-8:30pm at Fluid (662 Mission), and attendance will be limited to the first 100 200 people that add their name to the attendee list (http://socketsite.wetpaint.com).
We'll see you then/there. And as always, thanks for “plugging in.”
UPDATE (1/30): Okay, we probably should have seen this coming, but the first 100 spots were filled within 24 hours. And we say “first,” because Redfin has agreed to double the size of the beer/wine tab. And as such, we’re maxing out the capacity of the venue and opening up the attendee list to the first 200 “plugged in” people to add their names. What have we gotten ourselves into…
UPDATE (2/2): Sorry folks, but we’ve maxed out capacity and the attendee list is now closed for this gathering.
∙ SocketSite Gathering: November 15th, 2006 [SocketSite]
∙ Redfin: New Maps (Virtual Earth), Areas, And More [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:56 AM | Permalink | (email story)
December 18, 2006
Not For The Faint Of Heart (Or Wallet)
The “Italianate Victorian Fixer” at 1232 Treat is not for the faint of heart (or wallet). Seriously. We’re talking about a single family house that's been carved up into five units with two additional units over the carriage house out back (think commercial financing), two protected tenants and two vacancies, and quite a bit of deferred maintenance.
At the same time, we’re talking about an interesting pedigree (built in 1885 by John McCarthy, the masonry contractor who built the Palace Hotel and Mills Building), some beautiful original detailing, and intriguing “bones.”
UPDATE (1/16): The asking price has been reduced to $1,099,000, and as the agent notes, “[t]he property is squarely located *across* the street from Garfield Square Park.” (And a new “soccer field, children's playground and…security cameras installed by the City.”)
∙ Listing: 1232 Treat (7 units) - $1,199,000 [1232treat.net] [Property Statement (pdf)]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | (email story)
November 30, 2006
Lundberg, ClockTower, And Cocktails…Oh My!
We’re huge fans of Architect Olle Lundberg’s design aesthetic (and happen to covet the Norwegian car ferry he inhabits near China Beach). And seeing as how we're not expecting an invitation to tour the inside of Ellison’s San Francisco pad (a Lundberg designed home), we’re jumping on the opportunity to explore a ClockTower loft that Lundberg designed along with interior decorator Linda Lee.
461 2nd Street #557 took four years to complete and features "2 tons of River Rock, $400,000 worth of fabricated glass and steel, and reclaimed Navy Turret ship mirrors on opposing sides of the windows to capture the partial water views."
You had us at the Hobart (refrigerator).
UPDATE (12/1): Okay, we’ve been and we’re fans (the storage space, built-ins, and level of detail/finish are fantastic). And yes, that sofa has got to go...
∙ Lundberg Design [2620 Third Street]
∙ New York Times Slideshow: Debris Decor [NYT]
∙ Friday Fun: Name This House [SocketSite]
∙ The ClockTower Lofts (461 2nd Street) [SocketSite]
∙ Listings: 461 2nd Street #557 (1,815 sq.ft.) - $1,195,000 [Meredith Martin]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)
November 16, 2006
PropertyShark Launches San Francisco Foreclosure Listings
Forget that rogue sea lion, it’s the shark that captures all of our attention today. PropertyShark added free foreclosure listings for San Francisco to its site this afternoon (fourteen currently listed).
For example, according to PropertyShark, 311 Marina Blvd last changed hands on 6/2/2004 for $2,350,000 and the property was refinanced on 6/14/2005 using two variable rate loans (one for $1,950,000 and another for $530,000). The property is currently in foreclosure (with an estimated unpaid balance of $327,573.97) and will be auctioned off on 11/27/2006 at City Hall.
At the other end of the spectrum is 3018 Casto Street which was purchased on 11/09/2005 with a $569,000 variable rate mortgage. A year later, the current unpaid balance on the loan is now $609,014.48 and the property is scheduled to be auctioned off on 12/04/2006 (once again, at City Hall).
If you’re not familiar with PropertyShark you’ll probably be a bit shocked by the depth and breadth of information that’s available for the vast majority of residential and commercial properties in San Francisco (not just foreclosures). Also added to the PropertyShark site today, a number of San Francisco property maps including land use and property outlines.
∙ Rogue sea lion in S.F. menaces swimmers [SFGate]
∙ Circling The Waters [SocketSite]
∙ PropertyShark: San Francisco Foreclosures [propertyshark.com]
∙ PropertyShark: San Francisco Maps [propertyshark.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)
November 9, 2006
SocketSite Gathering: November 15th, 2006
Our thanks to all the “plugged in” readers who expressed an interest in attending a casual gathering for those considering a contemporary renovation (or tackling a modern new build). The date (Wednesday, November 15) has been set. And you do need to RSVP...
As we previously wrote, this gathering will be an opportunity to share ideas, insights, and inspiration; to exchange notes on architects, builders, and buildings; and to help develop a network of “plugged in” potential partners (for those who might need them).
And while we have a date (11/15/06), and even a time (6:30 PM), the exact location (most likely SOMA/Transbay) is still up in the air (it depends upon the size of the crowd). As such, please RSVP by sending an email to rsvp@socketsite.com by Monday evening (11/13/06). We’ll announce the location on Tuesday and hope to see you Wednesday.
And not to worry, if contemporary renovations aren’t your thing, we’re working on a couple of other gatherings that we'll announce shortly. Regardless, thanks for “plugging in.”
∙ A Gathering Of “Plugged In” People [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:26 PM | Permalink | (email story)
November 2, 2006
Coming Soon: Another Possibility In Potrero?
Two months ago we gave 2130b 24th Street two thumbs up (“A Possibility In Potrero?”) and provided our readers with the inside scoop: 2130a (the top two floors and ~1,800 sqft) would hit the market in a couple of months.
Well, according to a tipster, 2130b sold after just 15 days on the market and at a contract price of $965,000 (slightly under the list price of $979,000). And yes, 2130a should hit the market within the next few weeks at a list price of ~$1.3M.
Also noted, the “Architect/Developer is Michael Levitt.”
∙ A Possibility In Potrero? [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)
October 16, 2006
A Gathering Of “Plugged In” People
We’ve been working on a number of gatherings for our “plugged in” readers, and we’re off and running with a reader’s email as a theme for the first:
My fiancée and I are interested in finding, buying and, using an architect we respect very highly, expanding and doing a substantial, contemporary renovation of a two-unit building in the Mission District (or building from scratch on a vacant lot). The catch is that we need a partner to make the project financially viable for us--someone to share the risk and enjoy the benefit of occupying the other unit. (We're good for up to ~$1M...) I imagine that there are many other regular readers of your site who share our (your) aesthetic sensibilities and our energy and ambition to do something really special. But the question is, how to find them?
We love the vision and want to help. So here’s the deal, send us a note (tips@socketsite) if you’re interested in exploring this opportunity (or something similar). Be sure to include a brief background (vision, style, budget, etc.) and contact information (which we will NOT share with anyone without your permission).
We’re looking at early November for a casual gathering of like-minded readers. Pass it along.
UPDATE: Based on a couple of emails, perhaps we should clarify. The “theme” of the first casual gathering will likely be contemporary renovation and construction. The gathering will be an opportunity to share ideas, insights, and inspiration; to exchange notes on architects, builders, and buildings; and to help develop a network of “plugged in” potential partners (for those who need them).
Posted by socketadmin at 12:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | (email story)
