CATEGORY ARCHIVE: Listings (for sale)
November 6, 2009
1381 Sanchez: Redesigned, Remodeled And Now Double The Size

Purchased for $1,005,000 in May 2008 (asking $899,000 at the time), 1381 Sanchez returns to the market with 4 bedrooms, 3 baths and 2,200 square feet (1,094 before).

Now asking $1,795,000 ($816 per square foot) for the completely remodeled (as designed by Shelly Amoroso) Noe Valley house.

∙ Listing: 1381 Sanchez (4/3) - $1,795,000 [MLS] [2008 Listing]
∙ Amoroso Design [amoroso-design.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)
November 5, 2009
The (Eichler) Summit Of 999 Green Street #2802

According to a plugged-in tipster, the three-bedroom Eichler Summit #2802 was purchased "off the market" (unlisted on the MLS) for $2,500,000 in October of 2008. And the sale price might have been partially based on the "comp" sale of #2804 for $2,720,000 in December of 2007 (which "was in worse condition" than #2802).

Back on the market four weeks ago asking $2,099,000, the price for 999 Green Street #2802 has been reduced to $1,950,000. Yes, the kitchen and baths could use some updating, but it's a classic building with big views and a price 22 percent less than in 2008.
. Listing: 999 Green Street #2802 (3/2) - $1,950,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)
November 4, 2009
Absolutely Stunning Indeed

From the listing: "Absolutely stunning remodeled single family house." We’ll just have to agree. Now about Sandoval's illegal paving legislation…
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader gets the credit and we simply couldn’t resist: "Slap the proper adornment in the right place and you've got yourself your own little Portuguese flag." But damn it, now we’re craving some port.
∙ Listing: 410 45th Avenue (4/2) - $839,000 [MLS]
∙ We’re All In Favor (But Wondering If It Will Actually Work) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (36) | (email story)
November 3, 2009
A Trio Of Comstock 05’s From Which To Choose, Are Any "Just Right?"

A tax assessed value of $2,393,000 would suggest a sale price not too far from the $2,350,000 asking price for 1333 Jones Street #505 when last on the market. Back on the market today, the two-bedroom and two-bath Comstock Co-op is asking $2,395,000.

Big views (which look even bigger through a telephoto lens), a "stunning" remodel (prior to the last sale), and a front door we kind of adore (although perhaps not on this unit).
Also on the market, the not so recently remodeled unit a floor above (#605) asking $2,399,000, and the not quite so view-tastic unit a floor below (#405) asking $1,645,000.
∙ Listing: 1333 Jones #405 (2/2) - $1,645,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1333 Jones #505 (2/2) - $2,395,000 [MLS] [Previous Listing]
∙ Listing: 1333 Jones #605 (2/2) - $2,399,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)
November 2, 2009
The Oh So Sexy Showers Of 188 South Park #7 Return

As we wrote about 188 South Park #7 when the developer's unit was listed for $1,995,000 in 2006:
We’re suckers for a luxurious shower (and doubly so when it’s outside). So you can imagine our glee when we first noticed the five shower heads (including two separately controlled rain-heads and a steam function) in the his & her shower at 188 South Park #7, and then our surprise when we walked upstairs to discover an outdoor shower (with unobstructed views of the city). Now that's luxury.
As always, please don’t forget to invite us to the housewarming (but be forewarned, we’re bringing towels...).
We never did get invited to that housewarming. Then again, it didn’t sell (refinanced instead). We now have another chance, however, as it’s back on the market and asking $1,750,000. We're packing the towels now.
∙ Listing: 188 South Park #7 (2/2) - $1,750,000 [MLS]
∙ Oh So Sexy Showers [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)
October 30, 2009
The Power Of Threes For A Remodeled 1155 Vallejo In Russian Hill

Three stories, three decks, three bedrooms and three (and one half) baths for the remodeled 1155 Vallejo asking just under three million ($2,995,000) in Russian Hill.
∙ Listing: 1155 Vallejo (3/3.5) - $2,995,000 [1155vallejo.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)
First Refreshed, Now Reduced For One Rincon Hill #806

Speaking of refreshed listings, withdrawn from the MLS in July after almost 120 days on the market at $945,000, the resale listing for One Rincon Hill (425 1st Street) #806 returned to the MLS two weeks ago asking $908,000.
Yesterday the list price was reduced to $899,000 for an official "15 days on the market" and a "$9,000" reduction from its "original" list. The resale of One Rincon Hill #1306 closed escrow in June with a reported contract price of $930,000 (tax records suggest an initial purchase from the developer at just over $975,000 in 2006).
If the sale of 425 1st Street #806 closed escrow tomorrow at its reduced ask, all MLS based aggregate statistics and market reports published by the San Francisco Association of Realtors, or Redfin, or Altos Research, or the likes of The RE Report would reflect a total of "16 days on the market" and a sale at "100% of list price" for this data point.
∙ Listing: 425 1st Street #806 (2/2) - $899,000 [MLS]
∙ An 06 Comp (In More Ways Than One) At One Rincon Hill [SocketSite]
∙ Quantifying The Impact Of Not Allowing Realtors To Reset DOM [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (71) | (email story)
It’s March Margarita Margarido Madness As 5950 Goes Live At $5.5M
With the flick of a switch and a plugged-in tip, The Margarido House (5950 Margarido Drive, Oakland) has officially gone from coming soon to on the market online.
The marketing site features a full gallery, plans and description for the five bedroom, five bath and 4,665 square foot LEED Platinum certified house in the Oakland Hills. The only detail that's conspicuously missing from the site, an official asking price.
UPDATE: Make that an official $5,500,000 (and the next time we spell Margarido correctly when searching Redfin).
∙ Listing: 5950 Margarido Drive (5/5), Oakland [themargaridohouse.com] [Redfin]
∙ There’s Green (And Perhaps Even Platinum) Up In Them Thar Hills [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
October 29, 2009
A New Dashiell Hammett Mystery: The Single-Family Short Sale

A single-family Edwardian "tucked away on quiet street between Nob Hill and Downtown neighborhoods," 33 Dashiell Hammett sold for $1,275,000 in January of 2007.
According to our tipster, it "looks like the current owner did minimal work on the house" since it's last sale, but did do a bit of repainting and "updated" the kitchen with new appliances.
Listed for $1,795,000 earlier this year and then $1,595,000 (with photos), the single-family home is now seeking $1,095,000 as a short sale.
∙ Listing: 33 Dashiell Hammett (3/2) - $1,095,000 [MLS] [Previous Listing with Photos]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)
Three Years Later And A Thirteen Percent Drop At 1635 California

Unable to sell out in 2006, a number of 1635 California’s 36 condos quietly headed to the rental market. As we wrote that February:
1635 California opened its doors over three months ago and at least 7 of the units are still on the market (with more yet to be “released”). And although we were not able to secure a full pricing sheet (the agents staffing the open house seemed downright defensive when asked), nor any property statements (none were made available), we’ve still got some numbers for our readers…
One of those numbers was for 1635 California #63, listed for $835,000 at the time. It's back on the market with Vanguard again but now asking $729,000 (a drop of 13%).
As some might recall, we featured the apples to apples sale of 1635 California #33 last year, purchased for ~$780,000 in 2006 and re-sold for $740,000 in 2008 (a drop of 5%).
∙ Listing: 1635 California Street #63 (2/2) - $729,000 [MLS]
∙ 1635 California Street [SocketSite]
∙ Another Apple Speaks On The Edge Of Nob Hill (1635 California #33) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)
October 27, 2009
Overlooking Architecture (And Upgrades) At The Montgomery (#502)

According to our plugged-in inside source, The Montgomery (74 New Montgomery) #502 offers great light and is surprisingly quiet ("thick walls and double-pane windows really keep the noise out").
Also noted, "the owners put a lot of money into it - subzero fridge (not a builder option) and custom cabinetry in living room, master bedroom and 2nd bedroom" so it’s not an apples to apples to comparison.
That being said, purchased for a recorded $1,242,500 in June 2008, asking $945,000 today (24% under its un-upgraded value in 2008). It's been on the market for 188 days with an original list price of $1,050,000.
Regardless, we're digging the old school city vistas and architecture.
∙ Listing: 74 New Montgomery #502 (2/2) 1,010 sqft - $945,000 [MLS]
∙ 74 New Montgomery: Soon To Be Sold Out Assuming Contracts Close [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (64) | (email story)
October 26, 2009
A Reader’s Report And Recommendation Across The Bay: 2830 Garber

A plugged-in San Francisco tipster crosses the bay and reports on 2830 Garber Street:
I saw it yesterday and I have rarely seen so much traffic at an open house. It has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on the top floor, and all of the bedrooms have Golden Gate and Bay View Bridge views.
It was built by the well known architect George Plowman as his personal residence and it is perfect example of Arts and Crafts architecture. The kitchen has been updated, but otherwise all the original details in intact.

It also has a basement area that could be used as an Au Pair residence or rented out to a student.
This area of Claremont Court is probably the best neighborhood in Berkeley and compares favorably with Rockridge or Noe Valley. This home would probably cost double this price in Noe or Forest Hill, if you could even find it.
And no, our tipster is neither an - much less the - agent nor has any vested interested in the sale of the property (as far as we know).
∙ Listing: 2830 Garber Street (3/2.5), Berkeley - $1,150,000 [Grubb Co.]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
October 23, 2009
Dark Light Passage At 1360 Montgomery: Outside And Atop

Designed by Irvin Goldstine and built in 1937, the Art Moderne Malloch building at 1360 Montgomery played a role in Dark Passage starring Bogart and Bacall.
Originally twelve apartments, the building was subsequently converted to condominiums. And while the vintage "Penthouse #12" isn’t listed, it is on the market.

1,080 square feet with one-bedroom, one-bath and over 700 square feet of outdoor space overlooking the bay; plus there's a 200 square foot "bonus" room, bath and terrace on the roof accessed via stairs on the deck.

One parking space and big, big bay and Telegraph Hill views (including Coit Tower from the bed). Asking $1,500,000 with monthly HOA dues of $544.
UPDATE (10/27): As a plugged-in tipster notes, 1360 Montgomery #12 is now listed (and official inventory).
Full Disclosure: The listing agent for 1360 Montgomery #12 advertises on SocketSite but provided no compensation for this post (but did provide a tour and photos at our request).
∙ Listing: 1360 Montgomery #12 (1/1+) - $1,500,000 [penthouseontelegraphhill.com]
∙ Malloch building: suave delight on storied hill [SFGate]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)
October 22, 2009
A Potentially Bitter Apple In Lower Pacific Heights: 3016 Pine Returns

As a reader notes, 3016 Pine Street is back on the market and is now listed for $2,350,000. On the market six months ago asking $2,595,000 before being withdrawn, purchased in July 2006 for $2,725,000.
As another plugged-in reader added in April:
If you want to go a little further back, a contractor (who RIP) paid $600k in 2002 and flipped it to a couple of brothers in 2003 who IIRC went on the Planning Commission to defend their project as it was going to be "their home". Soon after the project was done *surprise* it went on the market. :rolleyes:
There may have been issues with the remodel/expansion as scaffolding went up at least twice after the 2006 closing (but then, maybe they just wanted different paint colors). BTW, I think (at least one of) those decks went in after the project was "finaled" (i'm just saying).
A sale at its reduced asking would represent a 14% decline in value since July 2006 for this Lower Pacific Heights single-family home.
UPDATE: In the words of a tipster, a before photo "for those who are calling the current incanation fugly":

∙ Listing: 3016 Pine Street (5/3.5) - $2,350,000 [MLS]
∙ An Apple Rather Than Cone On The Pine Street Tree (3016 Pine) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)
October 21, 2009
Trying To Tell It Like It Is For 114 Crescent Avenue In Bernal Heights

From the listing (verbatim) for 114 Crescent Avenue:
50K pride redution. This is a beatiful house. It was just too much money before we reduced the price!
Now asking $875,000 for the the single-family home on the southern side of Bernal Heights. Purchased for $960,000 in July of 2005 (8.8% under its reduced ask). And no sale after 30 days on the market at $925,000.

We're assuming the renovation was prior to the last purchase, and as such it would likely have been more expensive on a per square foot basis than any neighborhood average including a mix of unrenovated homes in 2005. But apples to apples it works.
∙ Listing: 114 Crescent Avenue (3/2) - $875,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (45) | (email story)
October 20, 2009
Buy A BMR...For $10K More Than Bank-Owned At Candlestick Point
The Mayor’s Office of Housing is helping to promote the resale of Candlestick Point (101 Crescent Way) Below Market Rate unit #2213. It’s two bedrooms, two baths, 1,063 square feet and asking $399,945 with purchase and resale restrictions.
If interested, you might also want to take a look at the bank owned Candlestick Point #2305. It’s two bedrooms, two baths, 1,063 square feet and asking $389,900. And it's without any restrictions – other than the free market – of course.
∙ Listing: 101 Crescent Way #2213 (2/2) 1,063 sqft - $399,945 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 101 Crescent Way #2305 (2/2) 1,063 sqft - $389,900 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)
Suspended Disbelief (And Renderings) For 15 Surrey

As the 625 Square foot one bedroom and one bath 15 Surrey Street looked in August of 2007 when purchased for $731,000. And for the most part as it looks today.
Back on the market and asking $995,800 with "approved plans" for a 2,884 square foot four-bedroom and three and one-half bath Glen Park view home. As proposed:

For some strange reason a photo of its current state wasn’t included with the listing.
∙ Listing: 15 Surrey (1/1) - $995,800 [MLS] [Map]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (47) | (email story)
A "Fresh" Look At Firehouse 44 (3816 22nd Street) After 515 Days

It’s been on the market since May 22, 2008. And during that time the asking price has dropped from $6,375,000 to $5,175,000. And no, 3816 22nd Street (a.k.a. Firehouse 44) isn’t in contract.
But a new photo has been added to the listing (although not the one above). Perhaps it's an attempt to keep the 515 days on the market listing "fresh."
Once again, a few of the "before" photos and history.
∙ Listing: 3816 22nd Street (4/4.5) 6,140 sqft - $5,175,000 [firehouse44.com/] [MLS]
∙ The Holy Hotness Of Firehouse 44 (3816 22nd Street) Hits The Market [SocketSite]
∙ Holy Hotness, History, And Home: Engine Company No. 44 Returns [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)
October 19, 2009
104 Collins: This Time It’s Personal On The Market
Added to our Curb Appeal archives in 2005, and answering questions about the architect (Brad Polvorosa) and landscape designer (Peter Kline) in 2006, the Laurel Heights home wasn’t on the market at the time. But now 104 Collins is and you get to peek inside.
∙ Listing: 104 Collins (3/3) - $1,795,000 [MLS]
∙ Curb Appeal: 104 Collins [SocketSite]
∙ 104 Collins: The Architect And Landscape Designer [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)
Laying Down The Lawton For 2005 Neighborhood Comp Number 335

Unfortunately neither the kitchen nor baths match the condition of the living, dining or entry hall. And don’t get us started on those replacement windows.
Purchased for $1,175,000 in July of 2005, 335 Lawton is back on the market and seeking $999,000 as a short sale today (15% under its 2005 price).
∙ Listing: 335 Lawton (3/2) - $999,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (9) | (email story)
October 16, 2009
A Peek Inside The "Party Of Five" House At 2311 Broadway

Plugged-in people knew it was coming soon, and as a reader notes, 2311 Broadway (a.k.a. the "Party of Five" house) is now officially here.

Asking $7,280,000 for the seven bedrooms and five and one-half baths (which look to be in rather good shape). And it does appear to offer some rather nice views.

Once again, purchased for $5,400,000 in October 1999. And no, that party should (or would) not have had it so good.
∙ Listing: 2311 Broadway (7/5.5) - $7,280,000 [2311broadway.com] [MLS]
∙ "Party Of Five" House (2311 Broadway) Coming Soon [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | (email story)
Still Defying Gravity At Glen Park Market Place?

A few months after the 15-unit Glen Park Market Place premiered, 53 Wilder Street #406 closed escrow for $855,000 (September 2006). It’s two bedrooms, two baths and 1,249 square feet. And it’s back on the market and asking $839,000 (2% under its 2006 price).
Interestingly enough, a two bedroom, two bath and 1,279 square foot unit next-door (53 Wilder Street #405) sold for $871,000 this past April. It had been purchased for $810,000 in November 2006. As a plugged-in tipster noted about the sale at the time:
The only explanation I can come up with for the gravity-defying price is that Glen Park village has improved significantly in the meantime. The new Canyon Market on the ground floor seems to be successful and some nice new restaurants (Le P'tit Laurent, Sangha) have opened within 60 seconds walk.
Neighborhood, building or property changes can definitely muddle an "apples to apples" comparison when trying to divine how "the market" is moving. That being said, back to 53 Wilder #406 (or #203 which has been on the market for 70 days at $749,000, purchased for $729,000 in September of 2006).
Will changes in the village continue to help Glen Park Market Place defy beyond #405?
UPDATE: From the aforementioned tipster: "I should point out that one of the restaurants I cited (Sangha) has since closed." Perhaps that's what's changed for #406...
∙ Listing: 53 Wilder #203 (2/2) 1,212 sqft - $749,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 53 Wilder #406 (2/2) 1,249 sqft - $839,000 [MLS]
∙ Glen Park Market Place: Range Of Prices And BMR Deadline [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (38) | (email story)
October 15, 2009
It's Fall At The Four Seasons (765 Market Street) For #27B

With no reported or recorded purchase price we could find, the tax assessed value of $1,204,542 for The Four Seasons (765 Market) #27B would suggest a lowest possible original purchase price of just over a million dollars assuming a purchase from the developer in 2001 and maximum yearly reassessments.
Listed for sale at $1,695,000 this past March, the price was reduced to $1,595,000 in April, to $1,395,000 in June, to $1,325,000 in July, to $1,250,000 in September, and to $999,000 the day before yesterday.
That being said, we can’t call it year 2001 pricing for this Four Seasons condo, for as a plugged-in tipster notes, "Apartment is being sold furnished with classically designed furniture and lighting. Eclectic art collection included."
And as at least one voice is sure to shout out, it's still $995 per square foot! But that would be eight years without any effective appreciation. And a rather significant fall from peak.
∙ Listing: 765 Market #27B (1/1.5) - $999,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)
October 13, 2009
An Apples To Apples (And Rather Prime) Update For 2041 Sacramento

As we wrote last month:
Purchased for $2,286,500 in June of 2007, the top floor condo with two car parking at 2041 Sacramento is listed for $2,095,000 today. A sale at asking would represent an 8.4% drop in value over the past two years for this remodeled Pacific Heights condo home.
On Sunday the list price was reduced to $1,999,000. Assuming it sells for its new asking, call it a 12.6% drop in value over the past two years for this Pacific Heights condo home.
∙ Listing: 2041 Sacramento #Top (3/3) - $1,999,000 [MLS]
∙ North To South (And Apples To Apples) From Atop 2041 Sacramento [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
A Look Inside (Almost) Every Nook and Cranny Of That Monster

Plugged-in people knew it was coming and that the stagers were in the house. Now as another reader notes, with 73 listing photos welcome to the most exhaustive look inside Kirk Hammett’s old home (2505 Divisadero).
And yes, Hammett's recording studio appears to have been re-dubbed a "family room."
∙ Listing: 2505 Divisdero (8/8.5) - $8,995,000 [MLS] [Nina Hatvany]
∙ Kirk Hammett’s Pacific Heights Monster Is Back (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ Some Kind Of Monster In This Kind Of Market (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ Rock Star Floor Plan Porn [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)
October 9, 2009
The Best Possible Spin For A Bank-Owned Home In Eureka Valley

From the listing for 4105 21st Street:
Amazing new price! This property has been stripped of the appliances, many fixtures and hardware. .. this gives you an opportunity to come into a newly remodeled house and finish it as you like!
Purchased for $1,725,000 in July of 2005 and now owned by the bank (as opposed to the appliances, fixtures and hardware).
∙ Listing: 4105 21st Street (3/2) - $1,499,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
Apples To Apples On Anderson (#78) Atop Bernal Heights

Purchased for $990,000 in December of 2007, the four bedroom and two bath "updated Bernal cottage" at 78 Anderson is back on the market and asking $997,000. If you think you know Bernal, now’s the time to make the call (or don't bother with an "I told you so!").
∙ Listing: 78 Anderson Street (4/2) - $997,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)
October 8, 2009
590 Laidley: A Nod To Uniqueness (At Least On The Outside)

No real story of which we know. Just call it a nod to uniqueness and chance to peek inside.
∙ Listing: 590 Laidley (2/1) - $689,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)
Short And Shorter At The Beacon (250 King)
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From the listing for The Beacon (250 King) #860:
Approved Short Sale 9/30/09 AT $470K!!! Should close VERY quickly at this point.
Originally listed for $488,888 at which point it didn't close very quickly (it’s been on the market for three months) and purchased in February of 2007 for $672,000. Call it an already approved reduction of 30%.
And while we doubt this one has been approved (i.e., good luck), another one-bedroom short sale at the Beacon was just listed for "$300,000." Purchased for $599,000 in September of 2006.
∙ Listing: 250 King Street #00045 (1/1) 800 sqft– “$300,000” [MLS]
∙ Listing: 250 King Street #860 (1/1) 909 sqft – $470,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (41) | (email story)
Buy, Sell, Repeat, Retire...And Then The Music Stopped

Purchased for $820,000 in May of 2004, this Central Richmond home was resold in July of 2005 for $1,200,000. Bought back by the bank this past January, 595 32nd Avenue was listed a month ago for $774,900 and recently reduced to $774,700.
As a plugged-in tipster notes, a rent roll of $2,000 according to the MLS. Hopefully that doesn’t include - or better yet, only includes - the in-law.
∙ Listing: 595 32nd Avenue (3/2) - $774,700 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
October 7, 2009
Remodeled And Reduced Rooms With A View

Purchased for $2,442,000 in June of 2007 but then "remodeled by the current owners," the list price for 1100 Union #300 has been reduced to $2,695,000 after 111 days on the market at $2,995,000.
And as a plugged-in reader notes, the list price for the Stanley Saitowitz designed Marquee Lofts #702 has been reduced to $1,365,000. Purchased for $1,400,000 in November of 2004 and once asking $1,800,000 (197 days ago).

∙ Listing: 1100 Union #300 (2/2.5) - $2,695,000 [sfproperties.com] [MLS]
∙ Listing: 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #702 (2/2) - $1,365,000 [Alain Pinel] [MLS]
∙ Insert Your Head Here (From The Terrace Of 1100 Union #300) [SocketSite]
∙ Name Dropping Hollywood Style: Marquee Lofts #702 [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)
October 6, 2009
See Inside But Not Around Jackson Square (845 Montgomery) #C

It looks to be one of the first attempted resales at Jackson Square (845 Montgomery).

And while we can’t confirm the original purchase price, according to a tipster the current asking price for the two-bedroom 845 Montgomery #C ($1,095,000) is roughly ten percent higher than its April 2008 purchase.
That being said, keep in mind that two bedroom homes were listed "from $1,200,000" when the development first opened in 2007. No report of any difficulties keeping the side of that master tub clean.
UPDATE: As a couple of plugged-in readers quickly figured out, fourteen listing photos of parks, places and restaurants, the closest one of which is about a mile away despite a plethora of better restaurants within blocks of 845 Montgomery's doors.
UPDATE: Assuming realtor.com is correct, purchased for $1,000,000 on 4/15/2008.
∙ Listing: 845 Montgomery Street #C (2/2) - $1,095,000 [MLS]
∙ The Jackson Square Condominiums (847 Montgomery) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)
October 5, 2009
The Renovation Of 3855 Washington: Before, After And Inside

While we have the before (above) and after (below) photos for 3855 Washington...

...as promised, the offering now features a few interior shots and a website as well.

∙ Listing: 3855 Washington (6/6.5) - $8,000,000 [3855washington.com] [MLS]
∙ 3855 Washington Joins The Recently Renovated "Heights" Fray [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
Feel Like A Feudal Lord In Forest Hill Extension: 112 Kensington Way

The empty Forest Hill Extension lot at 112 Kensington Way above, a rendering of the "approved" plans for a 5,652 square foot "French Provincial estate" on the site below.

Asking $998,000 for the lot and plans presumably. And sorry neighbor(s), we kid you not.
∙ Listing: 112 Kensington Way (lot) - $998,000 [MLS] [Map]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)
October 2, 2009
Quite Simply, We’re Suckers For The Arts (And Crafts)

Quite simply, we’re suckers for Arts & Crafts (even if it’s only "inspired by").

∙ Listing: 2 Ord Court (1/1) 1,100 sqft - $875,000 [secludedordcourt.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)
A Contemporary In 2003 Is Back On The Market In 2009, Is It Still So?

One of three relatively modern (or at least contemporary) homes in a row on 27th Street, 622 is on the market and asking $2,349,000. Purchased for $1,559,500 in 2003.

Not open this weekend, but there is a Tuesday Tour for brokers and floor plans to share.

∙ Listing: 622 27th Street (3/2.5) - $2,349,000 [MLS] [Map]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)
3855 Washington Joins The Recently Renovated "Heights" Fray
Adding to the expanding inventory of multi-million dollar "Heights" homes that have recently undergone multi-million dollar renovations and are now all hitting the market comes 3855 Washington with an asking price of $8,000,000. Interior photos coming soon.
∙ Listing: 3855 Washington (6/6.5) - $8,000,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
1495 Valencia: Two Of Eight New "City Homes" Now Official Inventory

Two of eight new "2 and 3 Bedroom City Homes" at 1495 Valencia have been listed with prices of $739,000 for #3 (a two-bedroom) and $999,000 for #4 (a three-bedroom). Two car parking each. And a logo that apparently cost 300 bucks.
∙ Listing: 1495 Valencia #3 (2/2.5) 950 sqft - $739,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1495 Valencia #4 (3/3) 1,425 sqft - $999,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)
We Have A 310 Townsend (#303) In Progress

Originally asking $957,000 through the sales office in 2007, 310 Townsend #303 ended up selling for $850,000 in November of that year (a discount of 11.2%). Back on the market today after a two year hold and asking $785,000 (7.6% below it purchase price, 18% under the developer’s original list).
Let’s call it an effective rent of around $4,000 per month for the one-bedroom plus den condo over the past two years not accounting for transaction costs or any capital loss (assuming a sale at asking). Call it closer to $9,200 per month if you do.
∙ Listing: 310 Townsend #303 (1/1) 1,136 sqft - $785,000 [MLS]
∙ 310 Townsend: Available And Selling [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | (email story)
October 1, 2009
Hitting For The Heublien Building Penthouse Cycle (#PH3)

We’ve featured the Heublien Building penthouse lofts number one and two in the past, so we might as well hit for the cycle with number three (601 4th Street #PH3).

Purchased for $1,500,000 in October 2006 (and then possibly remodeled), on the market and asking $1,498,000. And yes, it’s Evan Williams' old pad.
∙ Listing: 601 4th Street #3P (2/2) - $1,498,000 [MLS]
∙ The Heublien Building Lofts (601 4th Street) [SocketSite]
∙ A Truly Unique San Francisco Space And Penthouse: 601 4th St PH1 [SocketSite]
∙ Penthouse Number Two Of Three Atop Six Zero One Fourth [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)
September 30, 2009
If You Missed It When It Sold Five Months Ago...

As a plugged-in and ever on the luxury ball sleepiguy notes, 3570 Washington is back on the market after a five month (yes, month) hold. Purchased for a reported $5,225,000 in April, asking $5,600,000 today (roughly 7% more than was paid).

Floor plans and additional photos via the previous listing brochure. Watch your fingers, the ink might still be wet.
UPDATE (10/1): The current listing's virtual tour is now live.
∙ Listing: 3570 Washington (6/3.5) - $5,600,000 [presidioheightsviewhome.com] [MLS]
∙ Kirk Hammett’s Pacific Heights Monster Is Back (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)
If Only They Would Be Willing To Accept Virtual Mini-Dollars As Well
Speaking of recently staged, we can’t help but notice the first attempted Millennium flip resale has received a "virtual" treatment (click photo above to enlarge).
And while we applaud the "photo virtually staged" watermarks, we’re amazed at how much virtual furniture can fit in that real space: a couch with four armchairs and coffee table, a dinning room table for eight, and even a baby grand!

All in a twenty-five by thirty foot living room and kitchen with island? That’s incredible! Just ignore the original architects’ scaled drawing, perspective and floor plan.

∙ Listing: 301 Mission #40D (3/3) 1,952 sqft - $2,750,000 [ninahatvany.com] [MLS]
∙ The First Attempted Millennium Flip Resale: 301 Mission #40D [SocketSite]
∙ Inside A Recently Staged 2006 Washington Number Four [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
A Peek Inside A Recently Staged 2006 Washington Number Four

While "totally empty as of a couple of weeks ago," as a plugged-in reader notes with respect to 2006 Washington Number 4:
New Interior Pics online that should put to rest any questions about the interior condition of this unit. Although no pics of kitchen and some of the pics seem a bit overly staged.
Once again, originally listed for $15,000,000 with McGuire and then reduced to $12,500,000 in March, now listed with Malin (Coldwell Banker) and asking $8,500,000.
∙ Listing: 2006 Washington #4 (5/5.5) - $8,500,000 [sfproperties.com] [MLS]
∙ 2006 Washington Number 4 Returns Asking 32 (Plus) Percent Less [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
September 25, 2009
Another "Diabase LLC" Debacle As 1417 15th Street Returns?

Asking $3,750,000 for the one bedroom but 8,200 square foot BIG HOUSE studio in early 2007, but then subsequently reduced to $3,250,000, an off-the-MLS sale of 1417 15th Street was recorded in the amount of $3,065,000 to "Diabase LLC" at the end of that year.
Re-listed in November for $3,295,000 ("Buy, Sell, Repeat, Retire"), but it failed to sell. Back on the market in the Mission today and asking $2,750,000.
And perhaps it’s purely coincidence, but as a plugged-in reader notes, a "Diabase LLC" purchased 1756 North Point down in the Marina for $1,920,000 in April of 2007. It sold again for $1,575,000 in May of 2009.
∙ Listing: 1417 15th Street (1/2.5) - $2,750,000 [MLS]
∙ Picture This: One Big One-Bedroom [SocketSite]
∙ Two Relatively Big Reductions (Two Absolutely Big Properties) [SocketSite]
∙ Another "Real" Apple Closes Escrow In The Marina: 1756 North Point [SocketSite]
∙ A Rather "Real" Apple On The Tree In The Marina: 1756 North Point [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | (email story)
September 23, 2009
2140 Jefferson: Apparently "Lease To Own" Wasn’t An Option For Thiel

Speaking of big homes that private equity "bought," according to a plugged-in tipster 2140 Jefferson was home to Peter Thiel of PayPal and Clarium Capital notoriety. The twist, he was but a lowly renter of the $8,180,000 (asking) 7,000 square foot Marina home.
∙ Listing: 2140 Jefferson (5/5.5) - $8,180,000 [2140jefferson.com] [MLS]
∙ The Numbers Behind Perkins' Millennium Penthouse Purchase [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)
Have We Seen This Marquee Lofts (#708) Movie Before?
As we wrote in July:
As a plugged-in reader notes, a fully remodeled and renovated Marquee Lofts (151 Alice B. Toklas Place) #708 has returned to the market asking $739,000 following its kitchen-less foreclosure sale for $580,000 in June of 2008.
Once again, Marquee Lofts #708 first changed hands on 9/30/04 for $607,500; sold on 10/05/06 for $865,000; and was bought back by Merrill Lynch Mortgage Lending for $708,933 on 1/9/08.
After 103 days on the market the list price for 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #708 has been reduced $40,000 (5%) to $699,000 and the listing now notes: "MOTIVATED SELLER!! Price reduction, make an offer!"
No word on how much was invested in the new kitchen, bathroom or rest of the renovation, but we'll be keeping an eye on Craigslist.
∙ Listing: 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #708 (1/1) - $739,000 [MLS] [YouTube]
∙ A Remodeled Marquee Lofts #708 Returns…With A Kitchen! [SocketSite]
∙ Change Of Heart, Cash Crunch, Or A Condo Sitter Gone Crazy? [SocketSite]
∙ From Foreshadowing To Foreclosure For A Marquee Loft Off Van Ness [SocketSite]
∙ Another Non-Comp Comp Along The Booming Van Ness Corridor [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)
September 21, 2009
2849 Pacific: A Million Dollar (Double) "Take"

As we wrote in August:
If our plugged-in tipster is correct, 2849 Pacific will be hitting the market in a couple of weeks after a "big money [but no designer] redo" and with an asking price of around $13,000,000 (give or take a million).
As a number of plugged-in reader’s noted last week, 2849 Pacific has been officially listed and is asking $14,000,000. So make that "take."

No, it’s not zero bedrooms and three baths as listed. But yes, parking for eight.
∙ Listing: 2849 Pacific - $14,000,000 [MLS]
∙ Cleaned Up And Coming Soon: 2849 Pacific [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
The Liberty Belle (366 Liberty) Is Rung Again And By The AIA

The agent owned 366 Liberty received a unaffiliated tipster’s ringing design endorsement in July, landed on the AIA Home Tour last week (designed by Cary Bernstein), and is officially back on the market and asking $2,595,000 (down from $2,850,000).
∙ Listing: 366 Liberty (3/2.5) - $2,595,000 [366libertystreet.com] [MLS]
∙ A Ringing Endorsement For A Liberty Belle (366 Liberty) [SocketSite]
∙ AIA's 2009 San Francisco Living: Home Tours (Plugged-In) Challenge [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | (email story)
September 18, 2009
1223 Bosworth Wins First To List Challenge (And You A Peek Inside)

Officially hitting the market/MLS yesterday, we have our answer to which of the 2009 AIA San Franisco Living Home Tour homes would be the first to do so: 1223 Bosworth.

Design by Sasaki architect Strachan Forgan for himself, constructed in 2007, and featuring two master suites (plus a half-bath), a double height living room with lots of glass, "energy efficient materials and fixtures," radiant heating, and a 2 (plus) car garage.
And did we mention the climate controlled 400 bottle Vigilant wine racks or the climate controlled and digitally locked server room? Hello blogopreneur(s)...
∙ Listing: 1223 Bosworth (2/2.5) - $1,479,000 [1223bosworth.com] [MLS]
∙ AIA's 2009 San Francisco Living: Home Tours (Plugged-In) Challenge [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (53) | (email story)
September 17, 2009
Where Tony Bennett Left His Heart In San Francisco

From a plugged-in tipster with respect to 1133-1143 Taylor:
[I]t wasn't necessarily the building that caught my attention, as was the fact that the top unit (the owners unit penthouse) was where Tony Bennett wrote "I left my heart in San Francisco" and lived for a while.
Unfortunately we can’t confirm, but we have no reason to doubt (especially upon seeing said penthouse and its views).

∙ Listing: 1133-1143 Taylor (10 units) - $5,295,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)
September 16, 2009
Confidential Sales In More Ways Than One: 2430 Broadway

A plugged-in tipster notes that while not listed or official “inventory,” 2430 Broadway is on the market. As our tipster notes, "totally redone by Ann Brown a few years back, [and] it's a bit odd because the house sold in 2001 and again in 2004."

Neither the 2001 or 2004 sale prices were reported, but the 2004 sale included a $4,795,000 variable rate loan on what tax records would suggest was a roughly $7 million sale. The 2001 sale involved $5,500,000 in variable rate loans and was asking $8.9 million at the time. And in 2007 the property was refinanced with a $5 million fixed.
Price "upon request" (or as soon as another tipster picks up the phone).
∙ Listing: 2430 Broadway – “Price Upon Request” [Byzantium]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)
Care To Get Your Castle On? A Restored Albion Castle Returns

A few months after Laughing Squid launched their blog from Albion Castle in early 2005 the Hunter’s Point property at 881 Innes Avenue was auctioned off at the Palace Hotel in front of a thousand spectators and sold for $2,090,000 (purchased for $400,000 in 1999).
The mortgage banker buyer had planned to resurrect the Albion Porter & Ale Brewery for which the castle was originally constructed and open a restaurant on-site as well. And while the restaurant and re-brewery plans never materialized, the interior of the San Francisco Historic Landmark was renovated and restored.

Back on the market and asking $2,950,000 which includes water rights to a 10,000 gallon per day underground spring (think late night "pool" parties back in the day).

∙ Listing: 881 Innes Avenue (4/2) - $2,950,000 [MLS] [Map]
∙ The Albion Castle [Albioncastle.Us]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
September 15, 2009
Through The Looking Glass Floors Of 601 4th Street #319

One of 88 live/work lofts in the Holliday Development’s 1991 Heublien Building conversion, 601 4th Street #319 last sold for $335,000 in September 1995. Since then, however, the 1,965 square foot loft has undergone a rather extensive (and expensive) renovation.
A few features that caught our eye: Zebra and African Wenge wood cabinets; Solher Iron stairs and catwalk; and Bazaza, Waterworks, and Ocean Side Glass tiles. And yes, two deeded parking spaces (so you can leave the vehicles parked between jaunts to Stinson, Yosemite and Tahoe).
∙ Listing: 601 4th St #319 (2/2) 1,965 sqft - $1,349,000 [Climb] [MLS]
∙ The Heublien Building Lofts (601 4th Street) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)
See, Two (Shower) Heads Are Better Than One...

Agent owned and listed as a short sale, 4096 17th Street #206 was purchased for $500,000 in October of 2005 and then remodeled. And while there’s only one bedroom and one bath, there are two shower heads (and a listing that, umm...features the feature).
∙ Listing: 4096 17th Street #206 - $549,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
501 Beale #12G: No Short Sale For You! (Foreclosure Instead)

Purchased for $975,000 in May of 2006, Watermark (501 Beale) #12G returned to the market this past June as a short sale with a “$500,000” list price. Taken back by the bank in August with a loan balance of $760,000, it’s back on the market and asking $749,000.
A sale at asking would represent a 23% drop in value for the 1,032 square foot luxury two-bedroom condo over the past three years.
∙ Listing: 501 Beale #12G (2/2) 1,032 sqft - $749,000 [MLS]
∙ What’s Up With The Watermark "G"s? [SocketSite]
∙ Oh Geez, Watermark (501 Beale) Number 12G Returns As A Short Sale [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
September 11, 2009
Nine Years (Including Six Of Construction) In The Making: 2935 Pacific

Purchased for $4,125,000 in the year 2000 for the lot value, the newly constructed 2935 Pacific has been nine years in the making including six years (and nearly 100 vendors and sub-contractors) of construction. Now on the market and asking $12,900,000.

Eight bedrooms, seven full baths (three powder rooms), and a 2,500 square foot rooftop terrace with kitchen, built-in Jacuzzi and views. A property specific website is coming soon.

The still asking $65,000,000 2845 Broadway is across the street and a few doors down.
Full Disclosure: The listing agent for 2935 Pacific advertises on SocketSite but provided no compensation for this post.
∙ Listing: 2935 Pacific (8/7) - $12,900,000 [MLS]
∙ The $65,000,000 House [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (59) | (email story)
Can’t Sell Raffle? (1240 5th Avenue Returns)

The "$2.4 million San Francisco dream home raffle" grand prize (1240 5th Avenue), which the winner of the raffle turned down in exchange for $1.8 million in cash, is back on the MLS.
Last listed for $2,280,000 before being withdrawn prior to the raffle, and originally asking $2,389,000 this past September, they're asking $2,100,000 for the "$2.4 million dream home" today.
As we wrote in March: "We can’t argue with the Yerba Buena cause, but the market might argue with that "$2.4 million" valuation."
∙ Listing: 1240 5th Avenue (6/6.5) - $2,100,000 [MLS]
∙ Can’t Sell? Raffle! 1240 5th Avenue: The "San Francisco Dream House" [SocketSite]
∙ 1240 5th Avenue: Raffle Winner Chooses Reality Over The Dream [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1) | (email story)
September 9, 2009
The "Plugged-In(side) Scoop" And Candid Peek Inside: 2550 Webster

The listing photos for 2550 Webster do a nice job of highlighting some of its original detail, but a plugged-in tipster provides a more candid peek inside:
Now that I've returned from seeing this property, I am amazed and aghast at the same time. I'm not in the construction business so I can say without hesitation I've never seen anything like it before…
The first inkling that there might be trouble inside was the fact that a San Francisco Police Officer was in attendance near the front door, just to ensure there was no possibility of a problem. Then I heard whispers that "she" was inside. Of course this was referring to Arden Van Upp herself. I can only suspect that she was getting a chuckle over the fact that she was chaperoning the brokers' tour. For those that attended the tour and didn't notice her, she was the woman in all black and the black headscarf, perfectly made up on the 2nd floor. Very Grey Gardens. She was a bit conspicuously overdressed, almost like she was headed to a funeral.
As you enter the home on the first floor, there is a room on the left (parlor) that is crammed with personal effects. You practically cannot get in the room. I was under the impression that [Ms. Van Upp] had vacated completely but perhaps that is not the case. As expected, floors, walls and ceilings all need repair. Thankfully, most of the hand carved wood and adornments are intact. Some other areas are stuffed with items as well. The detailing in this home is unprecedented.

The second floor is the most beautiful…it has two enormous fireplaces, gorgeous woodworking and hand painted oil portraits on the walls.
Truth to the rumors? I was unable to see the garage and the alleged vintage Camaro in it. I did not see where a swimming pool could have been and the back yard was much smaller than I anticipated. The kitchen is pretty uninhabitable...

...and yes, half the ceiling is missing.

All the bathrooms that I saw are in rough, rough shape but are all carrera marble.

I was unable to get down to the basement because there was no light and I didn't want to risk breaking an ankle. As far as secret passageways go, there is one on the 3rd floor -- the bookcase opens up into a bathroom.

As for the solarium, yes, the back half is missing.

Most of the 4th floor ceilings have caved. There is a lot of mold throughout the house, but overall it just smells musty, not like pets or animal urine. I'm sure a lot of the odors have been captured in the carpets and fabric wallpaper. As I expected, there are amenities such as a safe, dumbwaiter and elevator (the dumbwaiter does not work and I was not going to try the elevator).
Good judgment (and excellent tip). As others have noted, this is not a project for the faint of heart wallet.
∙ Landmark Bourn Mansion (2550 Webster) Listed And Your Peek Inside [SocketSite]
∙ The Trap Door, Secret Passageways, And Dungeon Of 2550 Webster [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (52) | (email story)
Tis’ The Season (September) To Return: 2011 Golden Gate Ave Edition

As we wrote about 2011 Golden Gate Avenue in May:
We can't be certain that it started out as a "flip" (or more accurately a speculative remodel), but 2011 Golden Gate Avenue is back on the market and asking $1,995,000.
Purchased for $1,350,000 in July of 2007, according to its new listing the 4,356 square foot home has been "elegantly remodeled" since. And according to its permits, that remodel included the addition of a couple of new bathrooms as well as legal square feet.
UPDATE: As a plugged-in reader notes, we should have put that "new listing" in quotes. Asking $2,395,000 in October of 2008 and $2,200,000 in November. But only 12 days on the market according to industry stats.
In and out of contract, reduced and then withdrawn from the market last month, as a plugged-in reader notes: back on the market with an “official” two days on the market (and one less official MLS bath) asking $1,799,000.
∙ Listing: 2011 Golden Gate Avenue (5/4.5) - $1,799,000 [MLS]
∙ Not To Be Flip, But If It Wasn’t A "Flip" It Looks Like One Now [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
September 4, 2009
Apples To Apples (Aside From Any Other Analytics) In Bernal Heights

Let’s put aside any macro dollar per square foot analytics which would suggest home values in Bernal are down despite the alpha effects of the neighborhood’s gentrification and focus on a rather micro apple in the making: 82 Ellsworth.
Two blocks above the heart of Cortland, two bedrooms and two baths, and some views. Purchased in April of 2005 for $975,000, back on the market today and asking $899,000.
Keep in mind that under "normal" market appreciation of 4 percent a year, and not accounting for any gentrification or remodeling juicing, an asset purchased in 2005 for $975,000 should be worth around $1,158,000 today.
∙ Listing: 82 Ellsworth (2/2) - $899,000 [82Ellsworth.com] [MLS]
∙ Expectation Setting: San Francisco Appreciation [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (39) | (email story)
September 1, 2009
North To South (And Apples To Apples) From Atop 2041 Sacramento

An overlook of Lafayette Park to the north from the living room is a rather nice feature. The south facing private roof deck overlooking Cathedral Hill is as well.

Purchased for $2,286,500 in June of 2007, the top floor condo with two car parking at 2041 Sacramento is listed for $2,095,000 today. A sale at asking would represent an 8.4% drop in value over the past two years for this remodeled Pacific Heights condo home.
∙ Listing: 2041 Sacramento #Top (3/3) - $2,095,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)
August 31, 2009
The Trap Door, Secret Passageways, And Dungeon Of 2550 Webster
The lines that couldn't help but catch our attention from the sworn affidavit of Samuel Howard Sloan with respect to the Bourn Mansion at 2550 Webster:
I am well aware of everything in the house, including the trap door, the secret passageways, the dumb waiter, the elevator, the crawl space and the dungeon, all of which pose significant dangers to anybody who enters. There are significant dangers of serious injury or even death to anybody who enters this building.
The disclosures ought to be interesting. All comments on our earlier peek inside post.
∙ Landmark Bourn Mansion (2550 Webster) Listed And Your Peek Inside [SocketSite]
∙ Affidavit of Samuel Howard Sloan [groups.google.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:45 PM | Permalink | (email story)
New York In Nob Hill Returns After Three Years: 1022 Powell Street #3

As we wrote about 1022 Powell Street (behind the vines) in April of 2006:

As you know, it’s not often that we agree with listing hyperbole. And although we’ve only seen pictures (so far), we just might have to agree with the "One of a Kind Loft in Nob Hill!" claim for 1022 Powell St. #3.
Then again, we’re suckers for vines, brick, open floor plans, high ceilings, natural light, fireplaces, parking, and decks with a view...

Sold for asking ($1,625,000) shortly thereafter, it's back on the market and listed for $1,395,000 today, a sale at which would represent a 15% drop below its June 2006 value.
∙ Listing: 1022 Powell Street #3 (2/2) - $1,395,000 [MLS]
∙ New York In Nob Hill [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)
August 30, 2009
Landmark Bourn Mansion (2550 Webster) Listed And Your Peek Inside

As a plugged-in reader reported a week ago, "[The Bourn Mansion] is finally being emptied and mountains of trash removed." And with bankruptcy heading off its courthouse sale, the landmark 2550 Webster has hit the MLS with an asking price of $2,900,000.

The bad news, the past three decades have not been overly kind to the Willis Polk designed mansion. The good news, "Transfer of Possession: Close of Escrow" rather than subject to tenants rights and some gorgeous detailing still remains.

∙ Listing: 2550 Webster (14/4.5) 9,762 sqft - $2,900,000 [MLS]
∙ Bourn To Run Party: A San Francisco Mansion Of Ex-Glory And Dreams [SocketSite]
∙ The Bourn Foreclosure (2550 Webster) [SocketSite]
∙ The Eccentric Arden Van Upp Might Be Feeling A Bit Antsy These Days [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (88) | (email story)
August 27, 2009
An Homage To Kerouac And Snyder (The Matterhorn Not The House)

As we head to the Sierras to scramble up the Matterhorn in an homage to Kerouac and Snyder, the façade of 2214 14th Avenue seemed a rather fitting way to end the week.
Now if only its recent renovations were as so. And if ever there were a time for haiku...
∙ Listing: 2214 14th Avenue (2/1) - $769,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
The Full Floor Plan Monty For 2006 Washington Number Four

As a plugged-in reader notes, the floor plan for the full floor 2006 Washington #4 are now up on Malin’s site along with a couple of view and exterior photos as well.
As other’s have suggested, however, it’s not a good sign with respect to whether or not interior shots will show up anytime soon (if ever at this price point in this building).
∙ Listing: 2006 Washington #4 (5/5.5) - $8,500,000 [sfproperties.com]
∙ 2006 Washington Number 4 Returns Asking 32 (Plus) Percent Less [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (46) | (email story)
August 26, 2009
2006 Washington Number 4 Returns Asking 32 (Plus) Percent Less

While still noting "coming soon" on Malin’s San Francisco Properties site, 2006 Washington #4 has hit the MLS asking $8,500,000. As a plugged-in tipster adds, asking $12,500,000 with McGuire in March (and apparently $15,000,000 prior to that).
It’s a full floor in the classic, and überexclusive, Conrad Alfred Meussdorffer designed Pacific Heights cooperative building.
[2006 Washington] was designed to take advantage of 100 feet of open space to the west by facing towards the Golden Gate and so looks down on the George Applegarth-designed Spreckels Mansion.

Each of the main floors is about 5500 square feet…Originally ten apartments, the 2200 square foot penthouse has been separated from the tenth floor to create an eleventh apartment.
Number four includes four bedrooms (plus one for the maid), five full bathrooms (plus two half’s), and two terraces/parking spaces. We’ll let you know when/if interior photos arrive.
UPDATE (8/27): Still no interior shots, but we now have the full floor plan.
∙ Listing: 2006 Washington #4 (5/5.5) - $8,500,000 [sfproperties.com]
∙ Conrad Alfred Meussdorffer [sfhistoryencyclopedia.com]
∙ The Full Floor Plan Monty For 2006 Washington Number Four [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)
Fronds To Fronds For A Few One-Bedrooms At The Palms (555 4th)

Purchased for $562,000 ($853 per square foot) in January 2007, the Palms (555 4th Street) #540 is now bank owned and back on the market asking $376,646 ($570 per square foot).
At the same time, the non-bank owned 454 square foot one bedroom #447 which was purchased in August 2006 for $395,000 ($870 per square foot) remains on the market after 132 days, currently asking $375,000 ($825 per square foot).
Six other one-bedrooms in the Palms are currently listed for sale with asking prices ranging from $430,000 for the 691 square foot #733 which is currently in contract as a short sale (purchased for $645,000 in August 2006, listed for $589,000 in February 2009) to $579,000 for the 682 square foot #714 (which has been listed for 74 days).
UPDATE: Although all the details were correct, we originally misidentified unit #447 as #337 (since corrected). That being said, according to a plugged-in reader the unit is actually a studio despite its 132 day old MLS listing as a one bedroom.
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #447 (1/1) 454 sqft - $375,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #540 (1/1) 660 sqft - $376,646 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #714 (1/1) 682 sqft - $579,000 [MLS]
∙ Pushing Forward With Price Discovery At The Palms (555 4th Street) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (41) | (email story)
August 24, 2009
Five Years Of Appreciation Under Its Un-Renovated Year 2005 Price

Purchased for $1,295,000 in July of 2005, remodeled in 2007, and then bought back by the bank in July of 2009, 160 Westgate Drive is on the market and asking $1,025,000. From the listing:
Amazing opportunity! Bank owned, priced below neighborhood comps….Up-dated kitchen (no appliances)…Remodeled marble and tile baths.
A sale at asking would represent a 21 percent drop in value below its un-renovated year 2005 price. At 4 percent annual appreciation it’s a little less than five years to grow 21 percent.
From another perspective, if the buyers in 2005 were sold on long-term appreciation of 4 percent per year, their expectations would have been for a $1,522,000 value today (33 percent above asking). That's not accounting for the cost or value of remodeling of course.
∙ Listing: 160 Westgate Drive (3/2.5) - $1,025,000 [MLS]
∙ Expectation Setting: San Francisco Appreciation [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)
From Three To One And Six-ish To Five-ish (So Far): 75 Folsom #1204

Originally three individual units, the National Landmark Hills Plaza (75 Folsom) #1204 is now one 3,300+ square foot condo with three parking spaces, and three terraces. That's 1.5 parking spaces (and terraces) per bedroom with HOA dues of $3,376 per month.

Purchased for $4,125,000 in September 2000, #1204 returned to the market this past February asking $6,200,000, but since reduced to $4,900,000. It’s also now available for rent fully furnished asking $12,000-$15,000 per month depending upon term.
∙ Listing: 75 Folsom Street #1204 (2/4) 3,384 sqft - $4,900,000 [ubayp.com]
∙ Hills Plaza #1204 - Furnished 2 Bedroom Condo for Rent [ubayp.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)
Reductions Reach Below Market Rate Units On Ora Way (And Others)

Eight below market rate (BMR) condos on Ora Way are on the market up in Diamond Heights. Applicants can have household incomes of up to 120% of the Area Median Income and applications are "due on a rolling basis" with a two-bedroom for $350,000.
The rather unusual Mayor’s Office note on four of the Ora Way units that caught our eye: "REDUCED PRICE."
In addition to the eight (8) resales up in Diamond Heights, sixteen (16) other BMR resales are accepting applications on a rolling basis, upwards of twenty (20) new development units are either currently either accepting applications on a rolling basis or for a lottery, and thirty-two (32) new BMR’s are "upcoming."
∙ Listing: 85 Ora Way #E302 (2/1) 913 sqft - $350,000 (BMR) [85oraway.com]
∙ Mayor’s Office Of Housing: Current Below Market Rate Listings [SFGov]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)
August 21, 2009
Certain To Draw Out A Slater Or Two (449-451 Eureka)

If you’ve ever walked by and wondered what’s inside 449-451 Eureka, now you get to see.

And about that "Swim Suit Optional" open house scheduled for this weekend…
∙ Listing: 449-451 Eureka (4/2.5 + 2/2) - $2,000,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)
A Mission Apple Condo Times Two: 662 Capp Street #3

Built in 2000 and sold for $535,000 in March of that year, 662 Capp Street #3 resold for $780,000 in November 2004 for average annual appreciation of 8.4% over those 4 years.

As a tipster notes, it’s apples to apples to apples in the making and now asking $749,000.
∙ Listing: 662 Capp Street #3 (3/2) 1,631 sqft - $749,000 [Zephyr] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (96) | (email story)
August 20, 2009
A Bank Owned 10 South Park #1 (Insert Underpants Quotes Here)

Speaking of foreclosures in non-subprime territory, 10 South Park #1 was purchased for $760,100 in November of 2004. Bought back by the bank in July of 2009, it’s now on the market and asking $595,000.
In South Park vernacular, phase one...
∙ Listing: 10 South Park #1 (1/2) 1,196 sqft - $595,000 [MLS]
∙ New Subprime Foreclosures Ease But Prime Foreclosures Exacerbate [SocketSite]
∙ South Park - Gnomes 3 phases [YouTube]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (50) | (email story)
August 19, 2009
24 Karat Gold Coast (2950 Broadway) Brochure, Plans, And History

As a plugged-in tipster notes, the website for the 24 Karat Gold Coast 2950 Broadway has been updated with more photography, a ten page marketing brochure (including floor plans), and an "architectural and historical perspective."
Designed in 1922 by the distinguished and prolific San Francisco architect, Frederick H. Meyer for Stetson G. Hindes – a prominent engineer whose firm constructed the drydock at Pearl Harbor, built the shipyard at Alameda, and filled the cove for the Pan-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco – and at one time occupied by famed attorney Melvin Belli, the home stands today as a masterpiece that has withstood the test of time.
No mention of that Melvin Belli incident.

∙ Listing: 2950 Broadway (6/6) - $39,500,000 [2950broadway.com] [Brochure] [History]
∙ 24 Karat Gold Coast Coming Soon (2950 Broadway) [SocketSite]
∙ When Friia Ruled San Francisco Real Estate (A Reader’s Recollection) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)
The Listing For 1440 Kearny Sheds $100,000 Per Day! (Sort Of)
Perhaps it was simply a typo (or a successful attempt to catch our attention), but after 7 days on the MLS at $2,995,000 the list price for 1440 Kearny has been cut by $700,000 and is now back to where its previous listing left off ($2,295,000). Exuberance scratched.
∙ A New New New Listing (And Price Cut Bump) For 1440 Kearny [SocketSite]
∙ Sometimes It's Simply The View(s), And Sometimes It's Not [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | (email story)
August 18, 2009
Perhaps Just For Posterity’s Sake (504 Russia Avenue)

Perhaps it's just for posterity’s sake and to record what was at 504 Russia Ave before (i.e., today): one-bedroom and one-bath over a garage on a 25’x100’ lot zoned RH-2.
Could it be another 815 Alvarado (albeit a bit more challenging considering its current footprint and neighborhood) in its infancy?
∙ Listing: 504 Russia Avenue (1/1) - $349,000 [MLS] [Map]
∙ An Arts & Crafts 815 Alvarado By The Numbers In Noe [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)
August 17, 2009
An Arts & Crafts 815 Alvarado By The Numbers In Noe

One legal apartment; two (point nine six five) million dollars; three stories, balconies, and parking spaces; three point five bathrooms; four bedrooms; and fifty-one listing photos.

UPDATE (8/18): A reader asks and a reader responds, 815 Alvarado in 1997 when listed as a 688 square foot one-bedroom with one car parking and sold for $325,000:

∙ Listing: 815 Alvarado (4/3.5) - $2,965,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (43) | (email story)
A Four Year Hold For A Renovated 819 Haight: A Winner's Return

A renovated Victorian at 819 Haight Street hit the market in 2005 asking $1,395,000, it sold for $1,635,000 ($240,000 over asking). No word on what role the buyer’s agent played in advising their client on how to "win" in a competitive situation ("pay more!").
As a plugged-in tipster notes, back on the market today and asking $1,595,000. One and one-half rather nice baths then, one and one-half rather nice baths now.
∙ Listing: 819 Haight Street (3/1.5) - $1,595,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (49) | (email story)
Facing Foreclosure 3271 Baker Street Makes A Move In The Marina

As we wrote two weeks ago:
Listed for $3,395,000 a year ago but last asking $2,125,000, it’s a plugged-in tipster that notices 3271 Baker Street is now advertising "rent to own" for $8,995 a month. The advertised rent to own purchase price: $2,300,000.
As plugged-in reader added at the time, "Renting 3271 Baker Street is VERY risky...there was a Notice of Default filed on the property for $472,867 on May 21, 2009."
And additional details that have since rolled in: Notice of Trustee set for September 4th and back on the MLS for $1,969,000 ($331,000 under its advertised "rent to own" price and $657 per square foot for the extensively remodeled Marina single-family home).
∙ Listing: 3271 Baker Street (4/2.5) - $1,969,000 [MLS]
∙ Paying A Premium To Rent To Own: 3271 Baker Is Back [SocketSite]
∙ Spanish/Mediterranean Flair From Traditional To Modern: 3271 Baker [SocketSite]
∙ The Mysterious Case Of The Baker Street Trio: 3271, 3212 and 3520 [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (79) | (email story)
August 13, 2009
Fougeron's "Tehama Grasshopper" (431 Tehama #2) Hits The Market

On San Francisco’s AIA Home Tour in 2007.

On the cover and inside Metropolitan Home in 2008.

And now on the market and asking $4,128,000 in 2009, it's the Fougeron Architecture designed "Tehama Grasshopper" otherwise know as 431 Tehama #2.
∙ Listing: 431 Tehama #2 (3/3) - $4,128,000 [MLS]
∙ San Francisco Living: Home Tours (A Chance To Comment In General) [SocketSite]
∙ Urban Eco-tecture [pointclickhome.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)
A New New New Listing (And Price Cut Bump) For 1440 Kearny

Asking $2,850,000 in October of 2008, the list price for 1440 Kearny was reduced three times over the course of the past ten months and was last asking $2,295,000 (and noting "VERY MOTIVATED!") with a new new listing in June which was then withdrawn.
But as a plugged-in tipster notes, 1440 Kearny is back on the market with a new new new listing and asking $2,995,000. Has upper-end exuberance on the sales side returned?
Again, purchased for $1,995,000 in April 2004 (and we’re still digging the style and views).

∙ Listing: 1440 Kearny (3/2.5) - $2,995,000 [MLS]
∙ Sometimes It's Simply The View(s), And Sometimes It's Not [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)
A Banked Owned White Picket Fence And Dream (126 Chester Ave)

Purchased for $750,000 in December 2004 with what appears to have been $25,000 down, 126 Chester Avenue was bought back by the bank in November of 2008, white picket fence and all. Back on the market and asking $447,000 in 2009.
With a sale for $360,000 in March of 1999, a sale at asking would represent average annual appreciation (CAGR) of 2.1% over the past ten years, but a 40% drop in value over the past five.
∙ Listing: 126 Chester (4/2) - $447,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)
August 12, 2009
393 Carl: One Of Four New Construction Condos After And Before

One of four new construction condos completed in March and asking $1,395,000 at the time, the listing for 393 Carl was withdrawn from the MLS in May. Back on the market in August with a new broker and now asking $1,295,000.
And before said construction by way of MapJack.com:

∙ Listing: 393 Carl (2/2) - $1,295,000 [MLS] [March Photos]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)
August 11, 2009
From Full Financial Monty To Dropping The Drawers For 135 Fernwood

The listing for 135 Fernwood has fallen out of contract and its list price has been reduced $600,000 (20%). Now asking $2,395,000 which is $605,000 (20%) under its purchase price in December of 2005 ($3,000,000) after which it was completely renovated and restored in 2007 (and after which they were asking $4,285,000).
From the listing prior to its latest reduction: "Home is priced at below $500 per sq ft & represents INCREDIBLE VALUE." Now priced at just under $400.
UPDATE: From a plugged-in reader with respect to 135 Fernwood:
NOD confirmed on SF Recorder's website. RealtyTrac appears to be showing an auction date of Sept. 23 with $2.4 million (Yahoo shows it as $2.845 million) set as the price (but I don't see a NOTS on the Recorder's website). And to think, I was worried about the neighbors defaulting...
∙ Listing: 135 Fernwood Drive (7/4.5) - $2,395,000 [MLS]
∙ The Full Plan Financial Monty For 135 Fernwood Drive [SocketSite]
∙ The Full Plan Monty (135 Fernwood Drive) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
August 10, 2009
Behind The Wooden Fence (And NanaWall) At 870 Kansas

Transformed from a little cottage to a two-story Potrero home in 2007, the great NanaWall and garden of 870 Kansas lurk behind its Kansas Street fence.

Indoor/outdoor living on a warm summer day? Yep, it’s bound to get a mention. Now if only it were the kitchen and dining room that opened to the great outdoors (and grill).
∙ Listing: 870 Kansas (4/2) - $1,350,000 [870kansas.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
August 7, 2009
Apples To Apples (And Seeking A Short Sale) For 4114 20th Street

Purchased for $1,513,000 in October of 2007, 4114 20th Street returned to the market in Eureka Valley this past January asking $1,695,000 but was withdrawn in February after reducing its price to $1,598,000.

Back on the market today and asking an enticing $1,150,000 as a short sale. There’s a hearsay story behind the sale that we’re not going to tell, but let’s just say a tipster told us to be on the lookout for the house as a foreclosure almost four months ago.
And perhaps we shouldn't be surprised that the listing doesn't mention it's agent owned.
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader notes:
The MLS listing does include the following in the agent [i.e., non-public] remarks: "Lender has already approved short sale price but is requesting COE on or before 8/27/09. Seller is a licensed CA real estate agent."
∙ Listing: 4114 20th Street (4/3) - $1,150,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (68) | (email story)
2125-2135 Leavenworth: From One To Two And Six (New Condos)

As the parcel and building once looked in blue above, as the two new buildings with six new condos at 2125-2135 Leavenworth now look below.

2133 Leavenworth looks to be lived in; 2131 appears to have sold; 2135 is in contract (asking $2,595,000); and 2125, 2127, and 2129 are asking $849,000 to $2,595,000.
∙ Listing: 2125 Leavenworth (1/1.5) 930 sqft - $849,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 2127 Leavenworth (2/2.5) 1,401 sqft - $1,449,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 2129 Leavenworth (3/2.5) 2,298 sqft - $2,595,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)
August 6, 2009
What’s Below A BMR? (To Be Said At Least Two Times Fast)

A Yerba Buena Lofts (855 Folsom) two-bedroom listed for $399,000. A one-bedroom at the Metropolitan (355 1st) listed for $297,588. Considering both are Below Market Rate (BMR) resales the prices shouldn’t come as any big surprise, the fact that both have been on the market for over four months without a sale might.
∙ Listing: 855 Folsom #342 (2/1) - $399,000 (BMR) [MLS]
∙ Listing: 355 1st Street #310 (1/1) - $297,588 (BMR) [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)
August 5, 2009
A Full 1001 California Floor Which Would Have Made Vincent Friia Flip

It’s the first resale of the 3,640 square foot full-floor 1001 California #3 since its complete overhaul by architect Andrew Skurman and designer Suzanne Tucker in the late 90’s.

From its Architectural Digest "before and after" feature in 1999 with regard to its pre-overhauled state: "The apartment was trying to be French, but it wasn’t doing a very good job. The quality wasn’t there." Not unlike many a "luxury" property about town.

If you have to ask monthly HOA dues of $5,886 which doesn't include the $325 a month for leased (but at least valet) parking nearby. And Friia if you have to ask that as well.
With regard to 1001 California's long vacant ground floor, a plugged-in reader reports:
Plans are afoot to convert the empty ground floor restaurant space, which has had multiple failed attempts, most recently Beaucoup in 2002, into two multi-level condos. Design by noted Pac Heights architect Butler-Armsden.
∙ Listing: 1001 California #3 (2/2.5) - $7,250,000 [1001california.com] [MLS]
∙ When Friia Ruled San Francisco Real Estate (A Reader’s Recollection) [SocketSite]
∙ Obviously Only Because It's On The Wrong Side Of Those Tracks [SocketSite]
∙ One Expensive One-Bedroom In A Beaux Arts Building We Love [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)
August 4, 2009
Single Family "Fixer" Asking Three Fives In The Mission (981 Shotwell)

Purchased in the Inner Mission for $541,000 in April of 2003, a bank owned and previous owner's work in progress 981 Shotwell is back on the market and asking $555,000.
New kitchen, electrical service and "other mechanical upgrades" but it’s not yet construction complete (pay special inspection to those braces during any inspection).
∙ Listing: 981 Shotwell (3/3) - $555,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
Ritz-Carlton Sales Office Pulls An Infinity In An Attempt To Sell Out

Asking $2,090,000 for the 1,545 square foot two-bedroom in January of 2008 ($1,352 per square foot), the Ritz-Carlton Residences sales office is now offering 690 Market #1701 for $1,399,000, that’s $906 per square foot and 33% off.
In related resale news, the listing for the 2,090 square foot three-bedroom #1404 is now advertising "Over $500K price reduction! Make an offer!" on an asking price of $2,590,000 ($1,239 per square foot).
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1404 (3/3) 2,090 sqft - $2,590,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1701 (2/2) 1,545 sqft - $1,399,000 [MLS]
∙ Reductions And Returns At The Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
August 3, 2009
Unlucky Lucky Number Thirteen For 830 El Camino Del Mar?

Once again, as a plugged-in reader wrote a little over a year ago:
I know this house and [had] spoken with this owner decades ago. Since 1998 he has put it on the market 11 times, each time with a [high-end/profile] realtor at an improbable price.
As we wrote in February:
Make that twelve. 830 El Camino Del Mar is back on the market asking $15,000,000. And while that's $3,000,000 less than eight months ago, it's also $6,000,000 more than was being asked in 2002.
Reduced to $11,500,000 in April but then withdrawn at the beginning of July, it’s another plugged-in reader that notes 830 El Camino Del Mar has been relisted for $11,900,000.
And yes, a new agent and brokerage are leading this thirteenth charge.
∙ Listing: 830 El Camino Del Mar (2/2.5) - $11,900,000 [MLS]
∙ Behind The Great Wrought Iron Wooden Gate At 830 El Camino Del Mar [SocketSite]
∙ Will The Twelfth Time Be The Charm? 830 El Camino Del Mar Returns [SocketSite]
∙ 830 El Camino Del Mar Moves Away From 2008 And Closer To 2002 [SocketSite]
∙ Steel Magnate Kidnap Foilded [SFGate]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
July 31, 2009
Apples To Apples And Year Over Year In Pacific Heights (2221 Baker)

It might not ring any bells without that photoshopped street. And it’s not currently listed on the MLS (or official inventory). But 2221 Baker Street has returned to the market 13 months after its purchase for $4,200,000 (was listed for $3,795,000 at the time).
Now asking $4,495,000 in 2009. Perhaps hoping the soup to nuts renovation of 2201 Baker next door will give it a boost. And once again, designed by Albert Sutton and Charles Peter Weeks in 1905.
∙ Listing: 2221 Baker Street (5/3.5) - $4,495,000 [domicileproperties.com]
∙ The Only Appropriate Headline: "What The Hell Were They Thinking?" [SocketSite]
∙ Say Hello To My Little Friend Frond (And An Orchid) At 2221 Baker [SocketSite]
∙ The 2201 Baker Street Site Scoop: Full Gallery And Floor Plans Live [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
July 30, 2009
Call It Sunroom, Fogroom, Whatever…We’d Never Leave That Floor

Our main concern with 470 Vallejo is that we’d never want to leave the "pent-level" floor. And as such we’d very likely end up spending every night on the couch.
A related renovation aside, both 2209 Scott Street #1 and #2 closed escrow last week.
∙ Listing: 470 Vallejo (4/4) – $3,995,000 [470vallejo.com] [MLS]
∙ With Memorial Day Barbeques On The Brain (2209 Scott Street) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (60) | (email story)
Telling It Like It Is For 533 Laidley

From the listing for 533 Laidley:
This lot value sale of a 1906 Earthquake Cottage on lovely Laidley St. in Glen Park is ready for a new owner/developer…Home is not salvageable & is unsafe to enter or climb on (Do not attempt!). No plans drawn or approved for this property.
How somebody else might spin it, "asking over $1,000 a square foot in Glen Park!"
∙ Listing: 533 Laidley (1/1) - $499,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (61) | (email story)
July 29, 2009
A Round Of...Cuts For The All New "Arden Estates" On 15th Avenue

Originally priced between $1,995,000 and $2,195,000, a plugged-in tipster notices the new $1,699,000 to $1,950,000 range for five of the seven new construction homes of "Arden Estates" on the edge of West Portal on 15th Avenue.

Two of the seven four bed, three and one-half bath detached homes are advertising prices TBD. In the opinion of said tipster who walked through, "Interesting houses, but a pretty high price point given what $1.7-2M gets you in Saint Francis Wood."
∙ Arden Estates [ardenestatesluxuryhomes.com]
∙ Listing: 2733 15th Avenue (4/3.5) 3,290 sqft - $1,699,000 [Barbagelata via Pacunion]
∙ Listing: 2763 15th Avenue (4/3.5) 3,300 sqft - $1,950,000 [Barbagelata via Pacunion]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)
July 28, 2009
You Might Bump Your Head In The Morning But Did You See The Bath?

It’s a Bernal Heights renovation (i.e., no apple) with limited head room in the master bed but with an open master bath with dual walk-in showers and natural light that we adore.
∙ Listing: 224 Elsie (3/2) - $948,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (47) | (email story)
July 27, 2009
Apples To Apples To Apples Over The Past Five Years (1578 Noe)

Purchased for $1,005,000 in May of 2004 on a namesake street, 1578 Noe returned to the market a little over two years later and sold for $1,300,000 in November of 2006. It’s back on the market today and listed for $1,075,000.
A sale at asking would represent average annual depreciation of roughly 6.8% per year (a 17.3% drop) from 2006 to 2009 versus average annual appreciation of 11.0% (a 29.4% gain) from 2004 to 2006 for this single-family (albeit both currently and historically only one and one-half bath) Noe Valley home.
∙ Listing: 1578 Noe (2/1.5) - $1,075,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (54) | (email story)
July 24, 2009
A (195) Beacon Of Renovated "Hollywood Hills Style" Up In Glen Park
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It’s a Ross Levy renovation of a "1960's Hollywood Hills style view home" up in Glen Park.
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Did we mention the courtyard pool? If only we shared that Hollywood Hills styled weather.
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And if it looks familiar, to plugged-in people it should (especially if your name's Dave). Asking $6,000 a month in rent in May, purchased for $1,650,000 in October of 2007.
∙ Listing: 195 Beacon Street (4/3) - $1,650,000 [195beacon.com] [MLS]
∙ Name That "Noe Valley" House (And Architect) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
Obviously Only Because It's On The Wrong Side Of Those Tracks

As we wrote in June of 2008:
We’ve always loved the William Randolph Hearst built Beaux Arts building at 1001 California Street, both in terms of location and style. And as far as we know, the 3,500 square foot #9 was the last unit to change handseighteensix months ago (12/12/07) with a reported contract price of $2,888,000.
And while unit #8 is only a one-bedroom, it is rather large (1500 square feet) and offers multiple terraces and "views for miles." Asking $2,495,000 which doesn’t include a parking space or the $2,237 monthly dues. Once again, if you have to ask...
Last September the list price for #8 was reduced to $1,750,000. And last night the list price was reduced to $1,195,000. Purchased for $1,460,000 in June of 2000, a sale at asking would represent an 18% drop in value below its year 2000 pricing and a 52% drop in expectations over the past year. Then again it is on the south side of California.
And non-sardonically, we wouldn't be shocked to see multiple offers at this point.
∙ Listing: 1001 California Street #8 (1/1.5) - $1,195,000 [MLS]
∙ One Expensive One-Bedroom In A Beaux Arts Building We Love [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (61) | (email story)
July 22, 2009
A Bit Of Before And After And Plugged-In Perspective For 12 Rico Way


A bit of before and after and a plugged-in owner’s perspective on 12 Rico Way:
When I first walked into this house, I felt that we could build an approachable floor plan that would honor the formality of a Marina home and deliver something quite different. The wide lot allows for a formal living room on the left and a den directly on the right. It just feels so much brighter and alive than the typical 25' wide lots all over the city.
The radiant heating is amazing, I highly suggest that on your next remodel you install the Cal Steam system. (If you have to budget, at least do the master bathroom--warm on the feet!) Makes such a difference on the chilly evening and foggy mornings. The square footage is 2520, the master suite alone is 500 square feet.
And of course: "Oh, my wife loves white : ) very fresh and elegant she says..."


Cheers. And having been inside the house, we’ll have to agree with the above.
∙ Deconstructed And Reconstructed At 12 Rico Way [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (52) | (email story)
July 21, 2009
1943 House Of Tomorrow (1599 Shrader) Back On The Market In 2009

On the market a little over a year ago asking $1,695,000, the John C. Campbell and Worley Wong designed 1599 Shrader Street (which Sunset magazine dubbed its "House of Tomorrow" in 1943) sold for a reported $1,600,000 in July of 2008.

Back on the market in 2009 and asking $1,495,000.
∙ Listing: 1599 Shrader (3/3) - $1,495,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (47) | (email story)
The Market Takes A Bite Out Of The Lighthouse Lofts Signature Apple

It remains one of our favorite loft spaces in San Francisco. And after four months on the market it remains active and available, but the asking price for 1097 Howard #308 has been reduced by 13% to $1,995,000.

A sale at asking would represent an 18.6% drop in value since its sale in 2007.
∙ Listing: 1097 Howard #308 (3/2.5) 4,207 sqft - $1,995,000 [MLS]
∙ The Lighthouse Lofts Apple Of Our Eye Returns (1097 Howard #308) [SocketSite]
∙ The Lighthouse Lofts In General (1097 Howard), And #308 In Specific [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
July 20, 2009
Deconstructed And Reconstructed At 12 Rico Way

Purchased for $1,750,000 in June 2007 but then deconstructed and reconstructed as those designer types are wont to do with their homes, 12 Rico Way returns asking $2,495,000.

UPDATE (7/22): A bit of before and after.
∙ Listing: 12 Rico Way (4/3) - $2,495,000 [12ricoway.com] [MLS]
∙ A Bit Of Before And After And Plugged-In Perspective For 12 Rico Way [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)
July 17, 2009
Please Don’t Burn The Built-In Bunk Beds Or Desk (2912 Sacramento)

With built-in bunk beds even we wouldn’t mind sleeping in, a couple of wood burning fireplaces and anything but a cookie cutter interior, we had to take a peek.
∙ Listing: 2912 Sacramento (4/3) - $1,600,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (36) | (email story)
July 14, 2009
A Ringing Endorsement For A Liberty Belle (366 Liberty)

In the words of a plugged-in tipster with respect to 366 Liberty:
It's quite an amazing house, very understated (except the price). On a double lot so you have a very large living room and master bedroom off a huge deck that extends to the width of the house. Access to the house is through a very peaceful and private front yard. This is one case where the listing photos do not do justice to this house.
No, this tipster’s not the agent. And don't forget that view.

∙ Listing: 366 Liberty Street (3/2.5) - $2,850,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
Ten Below Over Freezing. Except For That One At Twenty-Nine...
If you read Bloomberg yesterday you learned that the past three Decorator Showcase homes in San Francisco are on the market, and that this year’s showcase (2830 Pacific) "was listed at $12.9 million in April and the price was reduced in May."
“Things reached a fever pitch two years ago when people thought they could do no wrong in real estate,” said Malin Giddings, co-listing agent for this year’s seven-bedroom, six- bathroom home. “Now the game is over.”
You were also told that the "last time a house in San Francisco fetched at least $10 million was in June 2008, according to the city assessor-recorder office."
Of course plugged-in people know that 2830 Pacific was actually asking $15,500,000 before being listed in April (and then reduced in May), and that it’s more like six out of the past ten showcase homes that are struggling to find buyers.
Oh, and 2799 Broadway (A.K.A. 37 Raycliff Terrace) sold for $29 million in September 2008. But hey, who are we to quibble with Bloomberg.
∙ Mansion Glut in Pelosi’s San Francisco Neighborhood Slows Sales [Bloomberg]
∙ Another Ex-Decorator Showcase Is Officially Listed: 2500 Divisadero [SocketSite]
∙ 2009 Decorator Showcase (2830 Pacific) Opens Its Doors And Kimono [SocketSite]
∙ Showcasing A Designer Price Cut: 2830 Pacific Sheds Another 29% [SocketSite]
∙ The SocketSite Scoop On 37 Raycliff Terrace (A.K.A. 2799 Broadway) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)
St. Regis Penthouse Animation, Reality A Couple Months Out
A plugged-in tipster notes a newly public animation for the St. Regis Penthouse. According to a plugged-in source, however, the animation will soon be obsolete as construction should be finished in a couple of months and the renderings will give way to reality.
Still asking $49,000,000.
UPDATE (7/15): Well, what was briefly public is now once again private. Hopefully those who were interested caught a peek. And if you didn’t, let's just call it a reminder to plug in early and often.
Full Disclosure: The co-listing agent for the penthouse atop the San Francisco St. Regis advertises on SocketSite but had no prior knowledge of this post.
∙ St. Regis Penthouse Asking $70M: Is San Francisco All Growns Up? [SocketSite]
∙ St. Regis Penthouse Now $21,000,000 Off (And No, That’s Not A Typo) [SocketSite]
∙ Inside The St. Regis Penthouse: The Rendering Scoop And Details [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)
July 13, 2009
Okay, So How About Half? (4252 22nd Street Goes "Pre-Foreclosure")

Purchased for $760,000 in May 2006, a rough and tumble (and tenant occupied) 4252 22nd Street returned to the market in September 2008 asking $1,495,000.
From the listing at the time:
Contractor special/investor sweat equity. Beautiful home in the heart of Noe Valley. Owners started work, needs your finish. City Permits and plans are completely approved as of mid November. Plans are available for review. Tenants will be out by March 15th or sooner.
The tenants are gone, as is a working kitchen, and the list price has been reduced a number of times. Now advertising "pre-foreclosure opportunity!" and asking $749,000 cash (no kitchen equals good luck tough times getting a mortgage).
UPDATE: From a plugged-in reader:
You can get loan on a house without a kitchen (I did it recently). The bank added a reserve to the loan if they needed to get in and add a kitchen (and a bath in my case) for resale if they were stuck with the property. I'm not paying on that reserve it's only used if needed, and added to the loan amount total vs. comps to confirm they are still good. We put a healthy chunk down but didn't pay all cash.
∙ Listing: 4252 22nd Street (5/4) - $749,000 (cash) [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
A Fall From Great Heights? (3444 Washington Reduced Again)

With a tax assessed value of $15,840,090 (suggesting a sale price of around $15,200,000 in 2006), 3444 Washington returned to the market a year ago asking $17,500,000. Six months ago the home was relisted at $15,750,000.
Two weeks ago the listing expired but was then reactivated. And this past Friday the asking price was cut to $12,000,000 (21% under its implied 2006 price/value).
∙ Listing: 3444 Washington Street (6/6.5) - $12,000,000 [MLS]
∙ It's Not Often A Listing Can Tout A Private Outdoor Amphitheater [SocketSite]
∙ An Apple In The "Heights" Of Our Tree: 3444 Washington Reduced [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)
July 10, 2009
Morgan Beauty That’s More Than Skin (And Views) Deep: 1023 Vallejo

As evidenced by 20 of the 50 listing photos, 1023 Vallejo’s got views. And based on the other 30, its insides can compare.

Designed by Julia Morgan for a Mrs. Livermore in 1917, renovated by Hal Riney in 2005.

∙ Listing: 1023 Vallejo Street (4/5) - $4,900,000 [Virtual Tour] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)
July 9, 2009
Insert Your Head Here (From The Terrace Of 1100 Union #300)

It’s an enviable view from the terrace of 1100 Union (La Mirada) #300. Bonus points for naming the sculptor (or identifying other originals in the mix).
∙ Listing: 1100 Union #300 (2/2.5) - $2,995,000 [sfproperties.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
July 8, 2009
Hidden Behind A Two-Unit Building (And Possibly The Paint)

Simplemente, "La Casa Roja" (not to be confused with "La Casa Verde") es muy colorida.

∙ Listing: 766 South Van Ness Ave #766 (3/2) - $749,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ It's Not That Easy Being Green For "La Casa Verde" (3027-3029 25th) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)
Another One Rincon Hill "02" Returns One Floor Below (Step Beyond?)

On the heels of One Rincon Hill (425 1st Street) #2202 closing escrow with a recorded contract price of $1,150,000 this past March (purchased for a recorded $1,300,000 in June of 2008), #2102 has returned to the market asking $1,180,000 ($901 per square foot).
Originally offered by the sales office for $1,010,000 not including any upgrades on the first day of sales back in 2006, prices were subsequently raised on day two. And as a plugged-in reader beat us to it, tax records suggest a purchase price with upgrades of $1,128,346.
∙ Listing: 425 1st Street #2102 (2/2) - $1,180,000 [MLS]
∙ A Return To Reality For A One Rincon Hill "02" Stack Resale (#2202) [SocketSite]
∙ The First "Official" Resale At One Rincon Hill Closes Escrow: #2202 [SocketSite]
∙ First Impressions: One Rincon Hill Sales Center [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)
July 6, 2009
A Remodeled Marquee Lofts #708 Returns…With A Kitchen!

As a plugged-in reader notes, a fully remodeled and renovated Marquee Lofts (151 Alice B. Toklas Place) #708 has returned to the market asking $739,000 following its kitchen-less foreclosure sale for $580,000 in June of 2008.
Once again, Marquee Lofts #708 first changed hands on 9/30/04 for $607,500; sold on 10/05/06 for $865,000; and was bought back by Merrill Lynch Mortgage Lending for $708,933 on 1/9/08. As it looked at that time:

∙ Listing: 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #708 (1/1) - $739,000 [MLS]
∙ Change Of Heart, Cash Crunch, Or A Condo Sitter Gone Crazy? [SocketSite]
∙ From Foreshadowing To Foreclosure For A Marquee Loft Off Van Ness [SocketSite]
∙ Another Non-Comp Comp Along The Booming Van Ness Corridor [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
July 3, 2009
We Should All Be So Fortunate As To Have A Fireplace In Our Foyer

The listing currently notes banked owned, but we don’t think it is. And if you caught the estate sale you probably knew it was coming and might have already peeked inside.

If not, here's your chance to peruse the Edgar Mathews designed home at 2421 Pierce with gorgeous original woodwork, leaded glass and details.

∙ Listing: 2421 Pierce (6/6) - $4,950,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)
Nothing A Quart Gallon Of Paint Stripper Couldn’t Fix

For the most part it’s a nicely restored Arts and Crafts home with "updated" baths. We only wish they hadn’t painted the woodwork in the bedrooms. Okay, and that there were another one of those baths.
∙ Listing: 53 Clifford Terrace (3/1.5) - $1,825,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)
July 2, 2009
For Some Reason The Façade Just Seemed Fitting...

Like there's any way we could resist the Colonial styled facade of 120 Santa Ana Avenue leading up to a long 4th of July weekend. But don't worry, we're not there quite yet...
∙ Listing: 120 Santa Ana Avenue (5/6) - $2,995,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)
July 1, 2009
Behind The Old Carriage House Entrance Of The Mark Hopkins Mansion

Speaking of captain’s homes, if you’ve ever wandered around the area of what was once the Mark Hopkins Mansion, now home to the Mark Hopkins Hotel, and wondered what was behind a former carriage house entrance at 1030 Leavenworth, here’s your chance to see.

Built in 1907 by Captain H. Mottet after the subsequent three-day fire rather than the 1906 earthquake itself destroyed the mansion. It's been in the same family for over 30 years.

∙ Listing: 1030 Leavenworth (4/3.5) - $2,395,000 [MLS]
∙ Is The Captain’s House (300 Sea Cliff) Preparing For Another Voyage? [SocketSite]
∙ Mark Hopkins Hotel [wikipedia.org]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
June 30, 2009
Restored Façade, Newly Constructed Interior And Muni On The Corner

It’s a restored classic façade with a newly constructed interior and plan on 21st Street.

Close to Muni would be an understatement as the developers traded a new J-Church sidewalk stop, fence and retaining wall in exchange for a new easement agreement to allow access to a parking garage.

And for once it really is a condo that would live like a house with the other three totally new construction units in the association next door.

∙ Listing: 3567 21 Street (3/2.5) - $1,895,000 [MLS] [luxury21st.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (44) | (email story)
June 26, 2009
A White House To End A Black Week

Five bedrooms, five baths and over 5,000 square feet, the contemporary 388 Lansdale was built in 1991 the same year Michael Jackson released Dangerous. And while not one of his best efforts, track number 13 can't help but be somewhere on the mind.
∙ Listing: 388 Lansdale (5/5) - $2,100,000 [MLS]
∙ Gone Too Soon [wikipedia.org]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)
June 24, 2009
Build A New Home For The Cost Of A High-End Kitchen?

From the listing and statement for 586 Lisbon in Excelsior:
Great opportunity to build a spectacular contemporary 3,200 square foot San Francisco and Downtown City view home. Approved architectural plans available. Estimate from contractor available to build a new home for $238,750. Three decks, 4-car parking plus additional parking on the driveway. Foundation already poured, extensive steel beam work completed.
Now who’s got the plans (or scoop)?
∙ Listing: 586 Lisbon Street (lot) - $488,000 [McGuire] [Statement]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)
June 23, 2009
735 Geary: 21 TIC's On The Border Of The Tenderloin And Downtown

735 Geary consists of twenty-one (21) units that have been renovated and turned Tenancy in Common (TIC). They’re offering 10-yr fixed fractional financing at 5.87% with 10% down. And while currently in the Tenderloin according to the MLS, according to a listing this block will soon be Downtown ("MLS will rezone this neighborhood to 8A downtown").

And yes, parking is leased ($250 per month) and a block away (855 Geary).
∙ 735 Geary [735geary.com]
∙ Listing: 735 Geary #102 (1/1) 676 sqft - $315,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ Listing: 735 Geary #503 (1/1) 817 sqft - $475,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ San Francisco Real Estate Districts: Maps And Neighborhoods [SocketSite]
∙ A Rose By Any Other Name (But Not Necessarily A Neighborhood) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (39) | (email story)
June 22, 2009
Calling All Contractors That Still Have Cash...

From the listing for 324 Day over in Noe Valley:
Contractor special! Construction stopped during renovation and was foreclosed. Seller/lender anxious to sell, very motivated. Bring your best offer, don't worry about the listing price. Seller/lender will finance with reasonable down payment.
No recorded previous sales price that we can find, but tax records would suggest a purchase at a little under around a million in September 2007.
∙ Listing: 324 Day Street (3/1.5) - $760,000 [ERA Golden Gate Properties Via Pacific Union]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
June 18, 2009
The 2201 Baker Street Site Scoop: Full Gallery And Floor Plans Live

While a bit of our thunder is once again stolen by a plugged-in reader with regard to 2201 Baker Street, here’s the real scoop...the "Modern By Design SF" website is live.

It features a fairly full gallery of pictures and floor plans (and that $7,100,000 price tag).

And yes, the grand grand opening was last night. It’s built for entertaining either en masse on the main floor and garden, or more intimately above (in the third floor family room and terrace) or below (where the sweet media room and glass enclosed wine cellar lie).
∙ Listing: 2201 Baker Street (7/9) - $7,100,000 [2201bakerst.com]
∙ An Eco-Friendly "Baker Acres" Prepares Its Return (2201 Baker) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (63) | (email story)
Confidentially Speaking About The Infinity
The re-sale of 301 Main Street #9E has fallen out of contract, its list price has been cut to $749,000 (asking just under $900,000 when the Infinity sales office first opened), and its listing now notes "Infinity's BEST 2BR VALUE."
According to a plugged-in tipster, however, at least one mid-rise Infinity two-bedroom, two-bath has been sold by the sales office for under $600,000. Unfortunately we can't officially confirm with details, and we’ll have to consider that nugget a "random rumor" for now, as apparently a confidentially agreement was attached to the sale.
That being said, we have no reason to doubt our tipster and based on what we’ve been hearing from other sources we have no reason to doubt that price.
UPDATE: Another plugged-in reader adds, "Not sure if this is the same unit, but I know someone who just closed on a 2 bedroom viewless unit for 605k with 2 years of Hoa dues included."
∙ Listing: 301 Main #9E (2/2) - $749,000 [MLS]
∙ Just Under $900,000 Originally, Asking Just Under $800,000 Today [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (116) | (email story)
June 17, 2009
A Historic Look At 437 Hoffman (Before Noe Was All Builts Up)

Who could resist a historic look at 437 Hoffman atop Noe Valley circa 1905, versus as it looks today after all those damn density hounds had their way with the neighborhood.

∙ Listing: 437 Hoffman (3/2) - $1,495,000 [MLS]
∙ The Next Era In San Francisco’s Development: It’s All About Density [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
First Feng Shuied Now Sai Wonged At Sutter Heights (1521 Sutter)

Listed for $879,000 when roughly half of the 28 "Feng Shuied" Sutter Heights condos were spoken for in April of 2008, 1521 Sutter Street #306 was relisted three days ago with a new “original” list price of $678,900 (a drop of 23%).
At the same time the listing for 1521 Sutter Street #305 is now asking $709,080 (a 27% drop in pricing since 2008), while 1521 Sutter Street #206 is in contract with a list price of $745,000, originally asking $879,000 (a drop of 15%).
According to the new listing Sutter Heights is now 66% sold. And on the positive side, perhaps it's a blessing in disguise for those who were previously "priced out forever."
∙ Listing: 1521 Sutter Street #306 (2/2) 930 sqft - $678,900 [MLS] [Floor Plan]
∙ Floor Plans And Feng Shui At Sutter Heights (1521 Sutter) [SocketSite]
∙ Sutter Heights (1521 Sutter) Update: Preview Showings And Pricing [SocketSite]
∙ Sutter Heights (1521 Sutter) Update: Construction Nears Completion [SocketSite]
∙ Chinese Idiom: Misfortune may be a blessing in disguise [asianresearch.org]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (7) | (email story)
June 16, 2009
Walk The Plank To See The Views (1971 14th Avenue)

With simply a bit of a mid-century (if not Eichler) nod we note 1971 14th Street.

Okay, and we couldn’t resist the bridge to the front door. Nor the big San Francisco views.

∙ Listing: 1971 14th Avenue (3/2.5) - $1,099,000 [14thaveviewhome.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)
June 15, 2009
Are The "Exceptions" (And Big Losses) Becoming A Palms Rule?

What some are wont to characterize as San Francisco "exceptions" are quickly becoming the rule for two-bedroom condo re-sales at The Palms (555 4th Street).
While #401 closed escrow with a reported contract price of $599,900 in January (purchased for $779,000 in October 2006), and #313 is still seeking a short sale at $599,900 (purchased for $800,000 in January 2007), the list price for #731 has been reduced to a "bank approved price" of $619,000 (purchased for $925,000 in August 2006).
555 4th Street #823 is currently in contract having been listed at $605,000 (purchased for $815,000 in January 2007). And the only other two-bedroom currently listed at The Palms is #309, purchased for $842,500 in September 2006 and currently seeking $670,000.
Once again, all two-bedroom condos with declines in value ranging from 23% to 33% since late 2006/early 2007. Of course that's assuming sales at list.
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #309 (2/2) 1,113 sqft - $670,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #313 (2/2) 1,111 sqft - $599,900 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #731 (2/2) 1,052 sqft - $619,000 [MLS]
∙ Pushing Forward With Price Discovery At The Palms (555 4th Street) [SocketSite]
∙ A SoMa/Palms Wake Up Call (And Apple): 555 4th Street #401 [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (66) | (email story)
June 12, 2009
A Schoolboy’s Fantasy Floor (Or Rather Perch Beneath)

It’s a schoolboy’s fantasy floor, or rather perch beneath, up at 89 Alpine Terrace. From above above, and from below below (with a skylight above it all).

If you’re planning on hitting an open house you might not want to wear a skirt. Then again you might (who are we to judge). And there’s a lot more of this "opulent" property to see.
∙ Listing: 89 Alpine Terrace (3/2 + 2 units) - $3,295,000 [Joel Goodrich] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
The One With The Deer Lions On It (3859 21st Street)

Purchased for $2,080,000 in July of 2007, The Lion House (a.k.a. 3859 21st Street) returned to the market in April asking $1,975,000.
As a plugged-in reader notes, the price was dropped to $1,895,000 today, a sale at which would represent a 8.9% drop in value over the past two years.
And a bit of history and trivia, "built in 1893 for $3200." Ah, the good old days.
∙ Listing: 3859 21st Street (3/4) - $1,895,000 [herbalston.com] [MLS]
∙ 1470 Noe Closes For 100% Of Asking (But $25,000 Less Than In 2005) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (49) | (email story)
June 11, 2009
Hinting At Some Rather Spectacular Views (1454-1456 Kearny)

Next door to the cottage at 1448 Kearny, and sharing the same seller, lies 1454-1456. It’s a legal two-unit building that’s being used as one (with two kitchens), and with a relatively unspectacular façade that hints at some rather spectacular views.

∙ Listing: 1454-1465 Kearny (3/2) - $3,500,000 [homesonkearny.com] [MLS]
∙ That Might Explain The Shocked Look On The Cottage's Face Façade [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)
That Might Explain The Shocked Look On The Cottage's Face Facade

As we wrote this past September:
Purchased for $633,000 in October of 2005, this Telegraph Hill single-family "cottage" failed to find a buyer when it was listed for $779,000 eighteen months ago. Back on the market in 2008. And now asking $629,000.
No word on whether or not the fair market value of the “magical transformation by renowned, interior designer, Linda Applewhite to resemble the cottages of napa valley bed & breakfast” will need to be backed out of the future sale price in order to establish an “apple.”
Withdrawn from the MLS in November, 1448 Kearny officially returned to the market yesterday. Now asking $525,000, a sale at which would represent a 17% drop in value over the past four years (not accounting for the value of that magical transformation), and a 32% drop in expectations over the past two.
∙ Listing: 1448 Kearny Street (0/1) - $525,000 [MLS] [Floor Plan]
∙ Same Location And Size (And For The Most Part Price) As In 2005 [SocketSite]
∙ The Single Family Studio Home [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
June 9, 2009
Price "Slashing!" In Pacific Heights (And Return To A Near 2000 Value)

Purchased for $5,000,000 in July 2000, 2775 Green returned to the market this past February asking $5,950,000. A sale at which would have represented average annual appreciation of 2% over the past nine years.

A week ago, however, the list price was "slashed!" (their words, not ours) by $700,000. A sale at the reduced asking of $5,250,000 would represent average annual appreciation of 0.6% over the past nine years for this prime Pacific Heights "French Renaissance" home.
We trust no truly plugged-in person will confuse a 2009 sale price at a near 2000 purchase price as values have effectively been holding steady since 2000 or 2001.
UPDATE: A plugged-in eddy is on a roll. Also available for rent and asking $15,000 per month. We'll let you do the math (and figure out what happened to that other bathroom).
UPDATE: While the year 2000 sale at $5,000,000 stands, a plugged-in sleepiguy is correct about another sale with an undisclosed price in June 2004 (and some subsequent "fixing") that we missed. Cheers.
∙ Listing: 2775 Green (5/4.5) 4,892 sqft - $5,250,000 [2775green.com] [MLS]
∙ $15000 / 5br - Dramatic!Fully Renovated 5brm; 3.5 ba; Fabulous Grdn & Dks [Craigslist]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (80) | (email story)
A Classic Victorian Façade With A Bit More Modern Interior (And Rear)

2949 Sacramento still sports its classic Victorian façade, but its innards have been renovated and expanded, and its rear modernized. Anne Forell Architecture led the 2008-2009 renovation while Malin has all the pretty pictures, floor plans and listing.

UPDATE: And a before by way of Google Maps and a plugged reader:

∙ Listing: 2949 Sacramento (5/4.5) - $2,995,000 [SFProperties] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (65) | (email story)
June 8, 2009
A "Peek-A-Boo View" (For The Six Million Dollar Man)

It’s not only currently a "peek-a-boo view" from the back, but apparently one which might require supernatural (or Six Million Dollar Man) sight to see.

∙ Listing: 740 Bay Street (2/1) - $1,059,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)
A New Valencia Corridor Comp Coming Soon (3615 20th Street #6)

It was a Valencia Corridor comp at $950,000 in August of 2007 . And while it’s already in contract, although not without contingencies, it’s a plugged-in tipster that notes they were asking $799,000 in 2009 (15.8% less than what was paid).
We’ll let you know when it closes.
∙ Listing: 3615 20th Street #6 (2/2) - $799,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (47) | (email story)
Putting Their Permits And Plans To Work On Pacific (2219 and 2223)

As we wrote this past December:
In April of 2007 the listing for 2219 Pacific Avenue touted "Beautifully remodeled and maintained Pacific Heights Edwardian…Detached 2 car garage…All bedrooms are generously sized." It closed escrow two months later with a reported contract price of $4,250,000.
Three days ago a gutted and reframed 2219 Pacific returned to the market touting "Permits issued and complete plans available to finish this spectacular 3 story home in AAA Pac Hts...needs elect, plumbing, flrs, mechanical…will be a 4900 sq ft home…3/4 of foundation is brand new w/ all current seismic upgrades."
Two months later the listing for 2219 Pacific Avenue was withdrawn from the market without a sale, asking $3,495,000 at the time. And as a plugged-in tipster notes, the finishing of 2219 Pacific appears to be underway (no word on whether speculatively or not).
Also noted: while not listed nor official inventory, a renovated 2223 Pacific is now on the market and asking $3,600,000.
∙ From “Beautifully Remodeled” to Gutted And Asking $755K Less In PH [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)
June 5, 2009
Simply Two Small Single-Family Homes Under Fives On A Friday

∙ Listing: 191 Chilton Avenue (1/1) 443 sqft - $479,000 [MLS] [Pacific Union]
∙ Listing: 59 Winfield (0/1) 437 sqft - $435,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (53) | (email story)
Apples To Apples In Dolores Heights With Big Views: 3872 19th Street

3872 19th Street sports panoramic city views from the top two floors and a THX home theater below, but no deeded parking (the listed spot is leased for $200 per month).

Purchased in June of 2006 for $2,100,000, asking $2,095,000 today. And as always, it’s time to go on record if you’re planning to play the "I told you so" card.
∙ Listing: 3872 19th Street (4/3.5) - $2,095,000 [MLS]
∙ A Parking Space (And MLS) Pet Peeve [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)
June 4, 2009
A Noe "House With A Conscience" (And Listing Lob): 3961 25th Street

From the the listing for 3961 25th Street:
A house with a conscience. Everything about this house is centered on a simple, yet noble premise: minimize waste for maximum grace. Now you can do what is right for your environment without sacrificing the pleasures of your everyday living.
From a reader who couldn’t resist the lob:
What happens when your house-with-a-conscience starts to feel guilty about the $2.85M you paid for it?

Regardless, we will note some sweet Noe Valley indoor/outdoor living and deck action with floor plans and a full list of green features online.
∙ Listing: 3961 25th Street (4/3.5) - $2,850,000 [3961-25thstreet.com] [Floor Plans] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (77) | (email story)
If Not A Fat Finger Problem, A Montgomery Two-Bedroom For $750K
In February The Montgomery (74 New Montgomery) announced an official round of reductions with "Two Bedrooms starting from $882,000." At the same time buyers' agents' commissions were raised to 4.5%.
As plugged-in people know, buyers' agents' commission were raised to 5% in May. And yesterday 74 New Montgomery #316 (a two bedroom, two bath) was listed for $750,000.
∙ Listing: 74 New Montgomery #316 (2/2) 1,216 sqft - $750,000 [MLS]
∙ A Plugged-In Reader’s Perspective On The Montgomery And Its Cuts [SocketSite]
∙ The Montgomery Surpasses Itself (Now Offering 5% Commissions) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
June 3, 2009
Oh Geez, Watermark (501 Beale) Number 12G Returns As A Short Sale
The unit number isn’t identified on the MLS, but it’s 501 Beale #12G. Purchased for $975,000 in May of 2006, the two bedroom and two bath Watermark condo was listed as a short sale for "$500,000" yesterday.
Expect a couple of competing offers, an "over asking" sale (assuming the bank even agrees), and perhaps a grumpy neighbor or two above and below.
∙ Listing: 501 Beale #12G (2/2) 1,032 sqft - $500,000 [MLS]
∙ What’s Up With The Watermark "G"s? [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)
A Rather Red Kitchen (And 58 Other Photos) We Couldn’t Resist

There’s a lot to look at in the listing for 719 Carolina, and we’re not just talking about the number of photos (59) but rather renovations, materials, and styles alike. And yes, a rather red Scavollini kitchen we simply couldn’t resist (showing)...

∙ Listing: 719 Carolina (4/3.5) - $2,500,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)
The Full Plan Financial Monty For 135 Fernwood Drive

As a plugged-in reader points out, 135 Fernwood Drive is back on the market and asking $2,985,000. Purchased for $3,000,000 in December of 2005, its 6,000 square feet were completely renovated, restored and returned to the market in 2007 asking $4,285,000.

Last listed at $3,095,000 before being withdrawn in April.
∙ Listing: 135 Fernwood Drive (7/4.5) - $2,985,000 [MLS] [Plans (pdf)]
∙ The Full Plan Monty (135 Fernwood Drive) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)
June 2, 2009
829 Folsom: Listed And Starting From $550,000 $485,000 $399,000

Expected to be priced starting around $550,000 for a studio at the end of 2007, then from $485,000 a year ago, the first studio at 829 Folsom (#308) has been listed on the MLS and is asking $399,000.

As a reader notes, however, the listing for #308 doesn't include parking (there are sixty-three parking spaces in the building, but sixty-nine units).
∙ Listing: 829 Folsom #308 (0/1) - $399,000 [MLS]
∙ 829 Folsom Street: 69 Luxury Condominiums Coming In 2008 [SocketSite]
∙ 829 Folsom Street: New Details, Online Registration, And Timing [SocketSite]
∙ 829 Folsom [829folsom.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (58) | (email story)
You Make The Call: Bullish Or Bearish Data Point to Be (324 Williams)

Purchased for $680,000 in September 2005, bought back by the bank for $404,000 in December 2008, and now listed for $267,300, 324 Williams represents the kind of transaction that’s driving an uptick in U.S., California, and San Francisco District 10 sales.
And while an uptick in sales activity is oft considered a bullish sign, would the sale of 324 Williams at 50 percent below its value of three years ago be bullish or bearish by nature?
∙ Listing: 324 Williams (3/1) - $267,300 [MLS]
∙ Pending U.S. Home Sales Up 3.2% YOY (Down 2.9% In The West) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)
June 1, 2009
At The Base Of Billy Goat Hill Overlooking Noe Valley (634 30th St)

No real story of which we know, we’re simply digging on a couple of the details of the remodeled 634 30th Street at the base of Billy Goat Hill and overlooking Noe Valley.

∙ Listing: 634 30th Street (3/4) - $1,695,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
May 29, 2009
From A Peek To A Poke For 54 And 56 South Park

A few weeks ago we gave you the sneak peek inside 54 and 56 South Park. A week ago the listings went live. And the vanity site has since been flushed out.

The fit, finish, and fixture quality are impressive in person. And if your interest was piqued, now’s your chance to poke around (if you haven't already).
∙ Listing: 54 South Park (3/4) - $3,845,000 [54-56southpark.com] [MLS]
∙ Listing: 56 South Park (2/2.5) - $2,695,000 [54-56southpark.com] [MLS]
∙ 54-58 South Park: The Inside Scoop (Both Literally And Figuratively) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)
3022 Washington Returns With The Traina Quote Of The Day

After a two year listing hiatus 3022 Washington (a.k.a. Engine Company Number 23) returns to the market asking $4,400,000 (versus $4,850,000 in February 2007).
Engine Company Number 23 was retired as a firehouse in 1964 and was then purchased by world-renowned designer John Dickenson….Former owners have also included former Governor Jerry Brown as well as world-famed advertising guru Hal Riney…. The current owner, who is a collector of rare and fine objects has brilliantly refined and maintained the property to its present glory.
Said current owner remains John Traina (of whom you’ve might have heard). And we remain smitten with that wood burning stove (a John Dickenson original).

The quote of the day from the Wall Street Journal’s coverage of the property’s listing:
Original elements in the ex-firehouse include “brass poles that are popular with the younger set,” Mr. Traina says.
So we've heard.
Full Disclosure: The co-listing agent for this property advertises on SocketSite, but we would have written about it regardless (as we did in 2007).
∙ Listing: 3022 Washington (4/5) - $4,400,000 [pacificheightsfirehouse.com]
∙ For Our Love Of Old Engine House #23 (3022 Washington) [SocketSite]
∙ San Francisco Landmark 93: Engine Company #23 [NoeHill]
∙ Jerry Brown’s Old Firehouse [Wall Street Journal]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (38) | (email story)
Take Two (Or Three) For Five New Condos On Telegraph Hill

Originally priced "from $3.1 million to $7.5 million," all five condos at the newly built 567 Vallejo on Telegraph Hill remain available and are now listed with prices ranging from $2,250,000 to $4,750,000 for the penthouse (whose floor plan is below).

∙ Listing: 567 Vallejo #302 (2/2.5) - $2,250,000 [MLS] [567vallejo.com]
∙ Listing: 567 Vallejo #500 (3/3) - $4,750,000 [MLS] [567vallejo.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (25) | (email story)
May 27, 2009
A Bank Owned TIC In Lower Pacific Heights? (2033 Pine Street)

It's a three-bedroom Tenancy in Common (TIC) with parking in a three-unit building in Lower Pacific Heights that's two blocks from "the heart" of Fillmore. And if the MLS is correct, 2033 Pine Street is also bank owned.
Again, TIC and bank owned (which would be the first such combo we've seen) assuming the listing is correct.
UPDATE: Well, despite the fact that it's been listed on the MLS (and sites that rely on the MLS) for 19 days as a bank owned sale...

...apparently it's not.
UPDATE: And after three hours on SocketSite, the listing has been corrected. Cheers.
∙ Listing: 2033 Pine Street (3/2) 1,600 sqft - $1,075,000 (TIC) [2033pine.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)
May 26, 2009
An Updated Oakland (The Architect) Eichler Across The Bay In Marin

It’s a Claude Oakland designed Eichler across the bridge in Lucas Valley. Built in 1963 but renovated (modern lovers keep looking, Eichler purists look away) and expanded since.

We’re not sure we get the carpeted dining room, but otherwise we’re digging the design (and lot). Not yet listed but the vanity site just went live and asking $1,550,000.

∙ Listing: 26 Oak Mountain Court, San Rafael (4/3) - $1,550,000 [26OakMountainCt.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
77 Van Ness: It’s Two Years Later And The Sales Office Opens Today

It’s been a little over two years since a reader first asked what was happening on the corner of Van Ness and Fell (and a plugged-in reader responded, "77 Van Ness Avenue, an eight-story, 100-foot-tall mixed-use development providing residential, office, and retail space."). And today, the 77 Van Ness sales office opens.
A mix of studios, one-bedrooms and two-bedrooms with 500 square foot studios starting in "the mid to upper $300’s," one-bedrooms listed from $443,170, and two-bedrooms listed from $641,449. Fifty (50) residential condos total and all floor plans online.
Full Disclosure: While the sales and marketing company for 77 Van Ness currently advertises on SocketSite, 77 Van Ness currently does not (and did not provide any consideration for this post).
∙ 77 Van Ness [77vanness.com] [Floor Plans]
∙ Listing: 77 Van Ness #609 (1/1) 575 sqft - $443,170 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 77 Van Ness #503 (2/2) 1,162 sqft - $641,449 [MLS]
∙ Reader’s Questions: That Eureka Moment [SocketSite]
∙ The Unfinished Façade Of 77 Van Ness (And Its 56 Residential Units) [SocketSite]
∙ 77 Van Ness Rising (And Our Request For A Rendering) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (44) | (email story)
May 23, 2009
With Memorial Day Barbeques On The Brain (2209 Scott Street)

It was simply the wide plank floors (for which we’re suckers) and high ceilings (ditto) of the down to the studs (if not foundation) remodel of 2209 Scott that piqued our interest. And we were drawn right up to the roof deck with Memorial Day barbeques on the brain...
∙ Listing: 2209 Scott Street #1 (3/3.5) - $2,395,000 (TIC) [2209scottstreet.com] [MLS]
∙ Listing: 2209 Scott Street #2 (2/2.5) - $2,195,000 (TIC) [2209scottstreet.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)
May 22, 2009
Act Now (After Seventy-Seven Days On The Market) Or Else!

Purchased for $1,170,000 a year ago, 337 Douglass retuned to the market this past March asking $1,195,000. Reduced to $1,095,000 on April 1st and then to $995,000 on April 30th, a buyer has yet to emerge.
A sale at asking would represent a 15% drop in value over the past year for this single-family Eureka Valley home. But that’s not what caught our tipster’s eye. No, it was the following language from the listing:
It may be now or never...I am going to recommend to the Seller that we increase the price.
No word on who recommended the purchase in the first place.
And in other "last chance" news, a plugged-in reader points out that the listing for 1409 20th Street now notes: "LAST CALL! Final $ Reduction." Purchased for $860,000 in May of 2005, now asking $799,000 (down from $949,000).
∙ Listing: 337 Douglass (3/2.5) - $995,000 [MLS]
∙ A Potential Single-Family Apple Atop Potrero Hill: 1409 20th Street [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)
66 Everson: Charles Warren Callister Designed Mid-Century Modern

It’s a Charles Warren Callister designed Mid-Century Modern home up in Glen Park.

In great condition and "largely unchanged from its original design" except for what looks like some new bathroom fixtures and counters, a remodeled lower level (which "may not be warranted"), and an updated kitchen (in a way that works).

∙ Listing: 66 Everson (3/2.5) - $1,849,000 [66everson.com] [talklien.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)
May 21, 2009
Bank Owned And Back On The Market On The South Slope Of Bernal

Purchased for $510,000 in September 2005 and then flipped five months later for $631,000 ("Buy, sell, repeat, retire!"), 622 Gates Street was taken back by the bank in September 2008. The Bernal Heights home is back on the market and asking $428,900.
As was overheard on the north slope of Bernal in September 2005, so went the chatter on the south slope in February 2006: "If that place is worth $631,000 then..."
∙ Listing: 622 Gates ("2/2") - $428,900 [MLS]
∙ Bank Owned And Back On The Market On The North Slope Of Bernal [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)
Under Two Hundred Per Square Foot (Just Not Including The House)

This four story, four bedroom, and six and one-half bath Forest Hill* home is listed for under $200 per square foot! Unfortunately that doesn’t include the cost of building it.

*UPDATE: As a plugged-in reader correctly points out, it's Forest Hill Extension for this lot not Forest Hill.
∙ Listing: 63 Garcia ("4/6.5") - $998,000 (lot) [MLS] [Map]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
May 20, 2009
Bank Owned And Back On The Market On The North Slope Of Bernal

Purchased for $841,000 in August of 2005, the single-family 3261 Harrison was bought back by the bank this past January for $703,120. The single-family (but zoned RH-2) home on the north slope of Bernal is now back on the market and asking $658,630.
Overheard in September 2005: "If that place is worth $841,000 then..."
∙ Listing: 3261 Harrison Street (2/1) - $658,630 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (49) | (email story)
Calling 911 For Number 911 At 199 New Montgomery
No photos and few details, but we couldn’t help but notice the (short sale) listing for a ninth floor studio at 199 New Montgomery seeking $225,000.
In addition to said studio there are currently ten other listings at 199 New Montgomery. And as plugged-in people know, that's only about half the effective inventory.
∙ Listing: 199 New Montgomery #911 (0/1) - $225,000 [MLS]
∙ Selling The Rest Of Their Sold Out Inventory At 199 New Montgomery [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
Showcasing A Designer Price Cut: 2830 Pacific Sheds Another 29%

On the market but unlisted asking $15,500,000 seven months ago but then listed for $12,900,000 last month, it’s a plugged-in reader that notes the asking price for 2830 Pacific (a.k.a. the 2009 Decorator Showcase) has been cut to $9,995,000.
And speaking of designer digs, as noted by a number of readers the list price for the solar panel sporting 118-120 Cervantes has been cut from $3,000,000 to $2,850,000.
∙ Listing: 2830 Pacific Avenue (7/6) - $9,995,000 [MLS]
∙ 2009 Decorator Showcase (2830 Pacific) Opens Its Doors And Kimono [SocketSite]
∙ 118 Cervantes Boulevard: Listed, Numbers, And Your Peek Inside [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)
May 19, 2009
The First Attempted Millennium Flip Resale: 301 Mission #40D

It’s the first attempted resale at the Millennium (as far as we know). Asking $2,750,000 ($1,409 per square foot) for the coveted southeast corner Grand Residences "D" plan on the fortieth floor with big Bay Bridge views.

No word on the original contract price for the sake of comparison. Tipsters?
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader reports:
The D Stack was selling for 1550-1600 psf when they first came on, but the prices were dropped 15% a couple of months ago, so figure that this buyer paid $1300-1350 psf for this place. They may have added upgrades that would increase the price some, but it looks to me like they are try to "flip" and make a small profit.
∙ Listing: 301 Mission #40D (3/3) 1,952 sqft - $2,750,000 [MLS]
∙ The Millennium: A Few Things You Might Know (And A Few You Don’t) [SocketSite]
∙ The SocketSite Scoop: Millennium Cuts Prices 15% Across The Board [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (43) | (email story)
May 18, 2009
In Case You Missed It As You Were Running By This Weekend...

The photography probably won't win any awards and the layout or stairs are certain to be off-putting to some. But the listing for 857 Hayes Street made us stop and sucked us in.
And it wasn't what looks to be a respectful remodel and restoration of the grand scale Victorian nor the dollars per square foot (four hundred and seventy-five) which did the trick. It was simply that porch off the kitchen which any entertainer would adore.
∙ Listing: 857 Hayes (4/2) - $949,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | (email story)
Carl Terrace (415-437 Carl) Update: On Pace For A Sale A Year

It was almost two years ago that a reader first wondered about the renovation of twelve units up at 415 Carl. And it was about six months later that they first hit the market.
Asking $489,000 in January of 2008, the list price for 415 Carl has been reduced to $399,000 while the list price for 437 Carl has been reduced to $499,000 (from $529,000).
Of the six TICs and six condos within Carl Terrace, ten remain unsold (including all six of the TICs). And the seller is now offering five year financing (interest only at 5.5% with a balloon payment) with 15% down.
∙ Moving Pictures: Can You Help A Reader (And Us) Out? [SocketSite]
∙ Two Of The TICs At 415 (And 437) Carl Hit The Market In Cole Valley [SocketSite]
∙ Carl Terrace [carlterrace.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
May 15, 2009
Craig Steely Has Been Busy As A On Beaver (2-4 Beaver Street)

It’s a pair of TIC flats on Beaver that have been "remodeled from top to bottom in 2008 by renowned architect Craig Steely of Steely architecture" (think 306 Mullen). And if we’re not mistaken, they’re next door to the architect’s own domicile (to the left above).
The two-bedroom upper unit (4 Beaver) has been listed on the MLS asking $998,000, while the three-bedroom lower units is currently not (but asking $1,198,000).

The self conscious need not inquire with respect to the lower unit.

Exhibitionists on the other hand, don't forget those invitations to the housewarming.
∙ Listing: 2-4 Beaver Street (3/2 and 2/1) - $1,198,000 and $998,000 [Zephyr]
∙ Listing: 4 Beaver (2/1) - $998,000 [MLS]
∙ Modern Architecture Hits The Market Up On Mullen (306 Mullen) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (58) | (email story)
May 13, 2009
Apples To Apples In The Marina (And A Neighboring Comp To Boot)

Purchased for $1,219,000 in February 2007, 3423 Divisadero re-hit the market down in the Marina twenty-six (26) days ago asking $1,295,000. It's two bedrooms, two and one-half baths, and two parking spaces.
And while not a perfect "comp," a reader can't help but compare it with the competition next door (which isn't a perfect apple in and of itself).

Purchased for $750,000 in November of 2002 (with a little work in 2006), 3415 Divisadero #1 returned to the market twelve (12) days ago asking $1,245,000. Two bedrooms and two parking space as well, but only one and one-half baths.
A couple of other tradeoffs between the two on which to weigh in: 3415 is an upper unit while 3423 is a lower, but 3423 includes an exclusive use yard while with 3415 it's shared.
UPDATE: We missed it, but as a plugged-in reader notes...despite its "official" 26 days on the market and "original" list price of $1,295,000 (a sale at which would be reported as "at asking"), 3423 Divisadero also hit the market last July asking $1,349,000.
∙ Listing: 3423 Divisadero (2/2.5) - $1,295,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 3415 Divisadero #1 (2/1.5) - $1,245,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (47) | (email story)
May 12, 2009
A Single-Family In The Threes (But Expect At Least As Many Offers)

So Williams isn’t the most scenic of residential avenues in San Francisco. But it is near the 3rd Street Muni line. There is development in the area. And 70 Williams is a single-family home that's asking $349,000 and looks to be in good, albeit a bit dated, shape.
∙ Listing: 70 Williams Avenue (2/2) - $349,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (69) | (email story)
May 11, 2009
Add A Garage Condo (Or Two): 1810-1812 Pacific Avenue

No real story of which we yet know (readers?). But as a tipster notes, where there were none now there are two (three bedroom, two bath condos with parking below).

And at least one (unhappy neighbor we'll suppose).
∙ Listing: 1810-1812 Pacific (3/2.5)- $1,875,000/$1,995,000 [1810-1812pacific.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (60) | (email story)
May 8, 2009
This One Goes Out To All The Babies' Mamas...

It’s a classic Tudor facade with a Wiseman Group designed interior and the Presidio in the backyard. And some incredible art as well. Not a bad way to start the weekend.
∙ Listing: 3712 Jackson (6/5) - $7,995,000 [SF Properties] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)
A Post-Preview List Price Of $3,900,000 For 465 Hoffman Avenue

Plugged-in people got the pre-preview super sneak peek last week (sorry, we couldn’t resist). Now 465 Hoffman is listed with a few more photos, an asking price of $3,900,000 ($886 per square foot), and a new placeholder for another website that's "coming soon."
And yes, there's been a listing brokerage and agent switcheroo (originally "coming soon" with Paragon, on the market with Vanguard).
∙ Listing: 465 Hoffman Avenue (4/4.5) - $3,900,000 [MLS]
∙ 465 Hoffman: Architects Unveiling This Evening (And On The Market) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (76) | (email story)
If You Think You Know Noe, Now’s The Time To Tell (3976 25th Street)

There aren’t a lot of photos (at least not yet) but at least we have a few facts: new construction in Noe circa 2006; three bedrooms and two and one-half baths in the main house plus a one-bedroom apartment; and 4,000 square feet.
Purchased for $2,900,000 in November of 2006 and now back on the market and asking $2,895,000. If you think you know Noe, now’s the time to tell.
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader tracks down the listing from 2006 which offers a few more photos and a great recap of how the market responded at the time:
Priced at $2.899MM, we faced considerable marketing risk with one of the highest asking prices ever in Noe Valley for a single family home. Activity level was so high we did not have time to set a bid date, with 15 private showings within 5 days of marketing commencement. We originated a full-price offer within seven days of marketing commencement. The sales price represents the third-highest price ever achieved in Noe Valley for a single family home.
∙ Listing: 3976 25th Street (4/3.5) - $2,895,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
An "Undisclosed" Marina Apple On The Tree (142 Mallorca Way)

The address might be “undisclosed” on the public facing MLS, but plugged-in people know it's 142 Mallorca Way (and a Marina apple to be). Purchased for $1,226,000 in February of 2006, asking $1,157,000 today.
∙ Listing: 142 Mallorca Way (2/2) - $1,157,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
A Three Bedroom San Francisco TIC In The High Threes (135 Clayton)

A 1,600 square foot three-bedroom in San Francisco proper for $375,000? Yes.
But a couple of things to keep in mind: it’s being offered as one of three TICs in the building; the Ellis Act was enacted in September 2006; and the Ellis act was completed in September 2007 (which might suggest a protected tenant was involved).
Oh, and the "kitchens have been partially demoed" which could complicate your financing, but also makes us think the seller might be, well...let's just say "motivated."
∙ Listing: 135 Clayton Street (3/1.25) - $375,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ Listing: 131-135 Clayton Street - $1,350,000 [MLS]
∙ Prohibition On Condominium Conversion Passes [SocketSite 5/06]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)
Won’t You Be A Neighbor? (59 Rodgers Street #A)

We’re digging the high ceilings, light, vibe and façade of this true conversion loft space.

One thing we’re not super "hip" about, however, the listed parking space that’s leased.
∙ Listing: 59 Rodgers Street A (1/1) 1,171 sqft - $609,000 [MLS]
∙ A Parking Space (And MLS) Pet Peeve [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
May 7, 2009
Pushing Forward With Price Discovery At The Palms (555 4th Street)

Four months ago 555 4th Street #401 broke through the $600,000 mark on the downside for two-bedroom condos at The Palms and closed escrow with a reported contract price of $599,900 (purchased for $779,000 in October 2006). It was, however, a bank owned sale and lacking its kitchen appliances.
And while 555 4th Street #313 isn’t yet bank owned and its owner hasn’t yet "freaked out" (as far as we know), it did hit the market yesterday seeking a short sale at $599,900 ($540 per square foot). The two bedroom condo (with appliances intact) was purchased for $800,000 in January 2007.
With respect to one-bedrooms (six of which are currently listed), 555 4th Street #733 hit the market in February seeking $589,000. Currently listed at $469,000 ($679 per square foot) having been reduced four times since, the listing notes "VACANT" and "possible short-sale." The seller paid $645,000 in August 2006.
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #313 (2/2) 1,111 sqft - $599,900 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #733 (1/1) 691 sqft - $469,000 [MLS]
∙ A SoMa/Palms Wake Up Call (And Apple): 555 4th Street #401 [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)
May 6, 2009
Not To Be Flip, But If It Wasn’t A "Flip" It Looks Like One Now

We can't be certain that it started out as a "flip" (or more accurately a speculative remodel), but 2011 Golden Gate Avenue is back on the market and asking $1,995,000.
Purchased for $1,350,000 in July of 2007, according to its new listing the 4,356 square foot home has been "elegantly remodeled" since. And according to its permits, that remodel included the addition of a couple of new bathrooms as well as legal square feet.
UPDATE: As a plugged-in reader notes, we should have put that "new listing" in quotes. Asking $2,395,000 in October of 2008 and $2,200,000 in November. But only 12 days on the market according to industry stats.
∙ Listing: 2011 Golden Gate Avenue (5/5.5) - $1,995,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (45) | (email story)
An Unemotional Fifty-Four Percent Off In The Excelsior (398 Vienna)
From the listing for 398 Vienna a little over a year ago (eight months after being purchased for $549,000):
Gem of a property on the inside. Large one bedroom and bath and an additional oversized room and bath with own private separate entrance on Brazil. Laminate floors, updated bathroom, and spacious living room/dining room combo.
Asking $499,000 at the time and perhaps banking on a bidding war. Subsequently reduced to $425,000. Then to $349,000. And then to $330,000. Bought back by the bank in January for $289,960 and now on the market and asking an unemotional $251,750.
It's funny what happens with real estate when emotions don't get in the way.
∙ Listing: 398 Vienna (1/2) - $251,750 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
May 5, 2009
2404 Washington: Perhaps An Apple And An Anecdote To Be...

Purchased for $1,300,000 in September 2006, according to its latest listing this "AAA location" Pacific Heights two-bedroom condo has been "newly remodeled since" (kitchen, both bathrooms, hardwood floors). And now asking $1,275,000.
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader who toured the property in 2006 wonders if the listing language might be a bit hyperbolic (a notion the permit history appears to support). If so, consider this property a "prime" apple (and anecdote of other things) to be.
UPDATE (5/6): A few interior photos have been added to the listing.

And an update from our aforementioned reader:
It does look like they updated the floors to a different finish and made some subtle changes / updates throughout so I may have been a bit too harsh in my earlier comments. But these are updates / finishing touches, not totally remodeled.
∙ Listing: 2404 Washington (2/2) 1,337 sqft - $1,275,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
May 4, 2009
Thirty Percent Of 767 Bryant Returns As REO (But Not Speedwagon)

In August of 2006 twenty apartments at 767 Bryant hit the market as condos. At the time list prices ranged from $676,920 to $1,850,000 including 767 Bryant #409 at $676,920 and 767 Bryant #210 at $1,200,000.
Despite a subsequent remodeling, reductions and incentives (including a free Prius or Mini Cooper), at least six of the units failed to sell and were lost to foreclosure.
On Friday 767 Bryant #409 returned to the market as a bank owned property (REO) asking $525,000 (23% less than in 2006) and 767 Bryant #210 returned to the market as an REO property asking $799,000 (33% less than in 2006).
∙ Listing: 767 Bryant #409 (1/2) 908 sqft - $525,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 767 Bryant #210 (2/3) 2,041 sqft - $799,000 [MLS]
∙ 767 Bryant: The Apartments Condominiums [SocketSite]
∙ Buy A Condo Get A Car At 767 Bryant [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)
May 1, 2009
Prettier (Or Pettier) In Pink For 23 Presidio Terrace?

It’s a plugged-in reader that points it out (we even stole his headline). And while we don’t really have a story, it’s hard to believe there isn’t one behind the before (above) and after (below) for number 23 in the rather conservative enclave of Presidio Terrace.

It's time to spill it if you know the story. Oh, and on the market and asking $8,900,000.
∙ Listing: 23 Presidio Terrace (10/4) - $8,900,000 [MLS]
∙ Tainted Love Of Presidio Terrace [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
From The Hollywood Hills Of San Francisco: 765 Sanchez

Okay, so we know the rest of the house could use some updating. And we’re not touching "value." But it’s Friday and we’re suckers for a Hollywood Hills style terrace and city views.
∙ Listing: 765 Sanchez (3/2.75) - $3,250,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (51) | (email story)
465 Hoffman: Architects Unveiling This Evening (And On The Market)

Purchased for $1,150,000 as an 800 square foot "tear-down" in March of 2007, on the lot now stands nearly 4,500 square feet of living space with four bedrooms and four and one-half baths spread across two legal units ("Catered to a family with Au Pair...").

And this evening, Group 41 officially unveils their "H House" (a.k.a. 465 Hoffman).

Floor plans (pdf) and a few renderings already online, we’ll have additional updates and details throughout the day (or perhaps night).
UPDATE: The reality below (versus the rendering above):

And a pre-preview party peek at the master bath, bedroom, and staircase rendered above for the truly plugged-in...



∙ 465 Hoffman Avenue [465hoffman.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (56) | (email story)
April 30, 2009
2009 Decorator Showcase (2830 Pacific) Opens Its Doors And Kimono

San Francisco's 2009 Decorator Showcase at 2830 Pacific simultaneously opened its doors this past weekend and hit the market this week. As a plugged-in reader noted, now listed at an official $12,900,000 and rather uniquely presented in all its design glory online.

If you like what you see, go see it for yourself and report back. It is a fundraiser after all.

At this point we count at least five other recent Decorator Showcase homes on the market in addition to 2830 Pacific including 2500 Divisadero and 2601 Broadway.
UPDATE: According to a plugged-in tipster the property was being shopped at $15.5M about 6 months ago.
∙ Listing: 2830 Pacific (7/6) - $12,900,000 [sfproperties.com] [MLS]
∙ Another Ex-Decorator Showcase Is Officially Listed: 2500 Divisadero [SocketSite]
∙ Decorator Showcase Miss 2000 Officially Hits The Market On Broadway [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)
I’ll See Your $800 Per Square Foot And Raise Lower You $200 At 235

Purchased for $1,052,500 in February 2007, 235 Berry #416 returned to the market 34 days ago and is asking $1,295,000 ($804/sqft). Purchased for $757,000 in February 2007, 235 Berry #317 returned to the market 14 days ago and is asking $838,000 ($783/sqft).
And as a plugged-in tipster notes, yesterday 235 Berry #413 aggressively joined the two three five resale fray. Purchased for $950,000 in June of 2007 (which at $18,900 under what the developer was asking might have seemed like a good negotiation at the time), the two-bedroom condo has returned to the market asking $789,000 ($639/sqft).
∙ Listing: 235 Berry #416 (2/2.5) 1,610 sqft - $1,295,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 235 Berry #317 (2/2) 1,070 sqft - $838,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 235 Berry #413 (2/2) 1,235 sqft - $789,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)
April 29, 2009
Apples To Apples (To Un-Upgraded Apples) On Mallorca In The Marina

Down in the heart of the Marina in May 2000 a three-bedroom and two-bath condo at 228 Mallorca Way changed hands for $1,100,000. According to a plugged-in tipster, the owner then remodeled to the tune of around $200,000.
In May 2004 the upgraded condo with two parking spaces was sold for $1,225,000.
Returning to the market this January asking $1,395,000, the listing has been delisted, relisted, and reduced twice. Now asking $1,195,000. In the words of our tipster, is this the one "prime" condo the bull market forgot (or simply a nod to the new realty reality)?
∙ Listing: 228 Mallorca Way (3/2) - $1,195,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (55) | (email story)
1536 Pacific: From Coming To Coming Along To Six New Condos Here

Plugged-in people knew what was coming, how they were coming along, and now that they’re here. As a tipster notes, the six new condos at 1536 Pacific hit the open house circuit this afternoon yesterday with prices starting at $1,250,000 for unit #3.
∙ Listing: 1536 Pacific Avenue #3 (2/2) - $1,250,000 [Alain Pinel]
∙ The Community Delivers Once Again: 1536 Pacific Drawings/Details [SocketSite]
∙ 1536 Pacific Rising: Pictorial Progress To Date (And Recap) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)
A Completely Renovated And Then Remodeled 2525 Webster Returns

Purchased for $4,000,000 in July 2005, the 7,500-7,800 square foot 2525 Webster was completely renovated over the course of a year and then returned to the market asking $7,150,000 in August 2006.

Closing escrow in January 2007 with a recorded contract price of $6,300,000, the home is back on the market asking $6,750,000 with a few changes in-between. For example, plugged-in people might recall that the kitchen wasn’t open to the dining room in 2006.
∙ Listing: 2525 Webster (7/6.5) - $6,750,000 [2525websterst.com] [MLS]
∙ Coming Soon: 2525 Webster [SocketSite 8/06]
∙ Inside 2525 Webster [SocketSite 8/06]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)
April 27, 2009
Nice Gold Mine Hill Neighbor (And 1960's Design Lover) Seeks Same
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Designed by Fisher-Friedman Associates and constructed up in Diamond Heights as part of an "urban renewal" project in 1967, “Gold Mine Hill" is a collection of fifty-three units in four different styles (a duplex, two single-family houses, and a townhouse).
Fom a plugged-in reader:
I am a fellow homeowner in an award-winning '60's development in Diamond Heights. I wanted to send this info in as 2 houses in it are for sale and it would be great if the people that bought the houses were lovers of '60's design.
They are actually great deals for the amount of space they have. 38 Topaz has a power retractable roof over an upstairs atrium. 43 Topaz is huge and has a sauna and hot tub.
These 2 houses are great and I'd love it if the people who bought them knew about their history. I've attached a pdf of some of the background of the neighborhood. We are nice neighbors!
Don't forget those invitations to the housewarming(s). And more importantly, don’t forget our invitations to the next neighborhood block party. We'll bring the hula hoops.
Editor’s Note: We'll have the aforementioned pdf online soon tomorrow.
∙ Listing: 38 Topaz Way (3/2.5) 1,792 sqft - $849,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 43 Topaz Way (5/4.5) 3,338 sqft - $1,688,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)
April 24, 2009
Fit For A King San Francisco Mayor (Or Getty): 1101 Green #2001

Five weeks after a plugged-in reader reported the Mayor’s Bellaire Tower penthouse condo was on the market for $3,200,000 (which Matier & Ross confirmed three weeks later), 1101 Green Street #2001 has been listed. The price, however, has been reduced to $2,995,000.

Once again, purchased from Peter Getty for $2,350,000 in February 2006 as a two-bedroom, but "completely remodeled & stripped to the studs & designed by Michael Agins & Assoc Interior Design" since.

Now a rather spectacular 1,693 square foot one-bedroom with one and one-half baths.
∙ Listing: 1101 Green Street #2001 (1/1.5) - $2,995,000 [MLS]
∙ It’s Three Weeks Later And They’re Still Asking Three Point Two [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (53) | (email story)
715 Cole: A Crispy Cole Valley Apple With Potential On The Tree

We’d at least redo the kitchen and repaint the façade. And based on the lack of bathroom photos we’d probably budget for them as well. But we do like a lot of its original woodwork and bones (if not meat) of 715 Cole.

On the market for $1,349,000, purchased in July of 2005 for $1,326,000 (hopefully not with "buy, sell, repeat, retire" in mind).
∙ Listing: 715 Cole Street (3/2) - $1,349,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
Tehama Lofts #304 Takes You Higher (Boom-Shaka-Laka-Laka)

We’re digging the high windows, high-end finishes (including the "sly" fireplace surround), and staircase within the true conversion Tehama Lofts #304 (245 5th Street). Now if only there were a few more windows on that main living level, then boom-shaka-laka-laka...
∙ Listing: 245 5th Street #304 (2/1) - $1,095,000 [Paragon] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)
Four Weeks Riper (And Another Reduction) For This Noe Valley Apple

As we wrote when 714 Duncan hit the market four weeks ago asking $1,295,000 having been purchased for $1,413,000 in January of 2008:
There’s little doubt the quick turn will result in a loss as even with "typical San Francisco appreciation" transaction costs wouldn’t be covered. But that doesn’t mean this data point will be flawed. In fact, this sale will provide some rather clean commentary on changing neighborhood values over just the past year. And that’s why we like, and offer, our apples.
As a plugged-in reader notes, the list price for 714 Duncan has been reduced for a second time in four weeks, now asking $1,195,000 or 15.4% under its sale price in early 2008.
∙ Listing: 714 Duncan (4/2) 2,050 sqft - $1,195,000 [MLS]
∙ Apples To Apples With Views, Views, Views! (714 Duncan) [SocketSite]
∙ Expectation Setting: San Francisco Appreciation [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (39) | (email story)
April 22, 2009
An Apple Rather Than Cone On The Pine Street Tree (3016 Pine)

Purchased for $710,000 in May of 2003, a complete overhaul, remodel and bullish market resulted in the sale of 3016 Pine Street for $2,725,000 in July of 2006.

Back on the market today and currently asking $2,595,000.
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader ads:
If you want to go a little further back, a contractor (who RIP) paid $600k in 2002 and flipped it to a couple of brothers in 2003 who IIRC went on the Planning Commission to defend their project as it was going to be "their home". Soon after the project was done *surprise* it went on the market. :rolleyes:
There may have been issues with the remodel/expansion as scaffolding went up at least twice after the 2006 closing (but then, maybe they just wanted different paint colors). BTW, I think (at least one of) those decks went in after the project was "finaled" (i'm just saying).
We can't confirm the comment with respect to the deck(s), but if you're interested in the property we might suggest double checking just to be safe. Cheers.
∙ Listing: 3016 Pine Street (5/3.5) - $2,595,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (51) | (email story)
April 20, 2009
Apples To Apples And A Fall From For Sierra Heights: 55 Sierra #C101

Purchased for $769,000 in February of 2007, 55 Sierra #C101 was bought back by the bank with a loan balance of $665,076 in February of 2009. A week later the Sierra Heights condo returned to the market asking $719,900.
After two weeks on the market the list price was reduced to $699,000; two weeks later to $669,900; two weeks later to $619,900; and two weeks after that (and five days ago) to $589,900. A sale at asking would represent a 23.3% drop in value since early 2007.
And while it’s not "prime" Potrero Hill, nor one of the nicer Sierra Heights units we’ve seen, it is apples to apples and a three-bedroom condo under $600,000/$415 per square foot.
∙ Listing: 55 Sierra #C101 (3/2) 1,424 sqft - $589,900 [MLS]
∙ New Developments: Sierra Heights [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
April 17, 2009
118 Cervantes Boulevard: Listed, Numbers, And Your Peek Inside

A few numbers for 118-120 Cervantes Boulevard: a total of 2 parking spaces, 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, and 2992 square feet; a 4.8kw photovoltaic system (façade and roof) with solar assisted heating (water and interior); and asking $3,000,000 for the whole shebang.

And while legally two units, from the listing: "...top floor (or apartment with separate street entrance); also accessed via the Mezzanine/Den; can be a family room, homework or conference room, secondary eating area; partial kitchen and laundry...."
∙ Listing: 118-120 Cervantes (4/4.5) - $3,000,000 [118cervantes.com] [MLS]
∙ 118 Cervantes: From Architecture Watch To (Almost) On The Market [SocketSite]
∙ Architecture Watch: 118 Cervantes Boulevard Gone Green/Modern [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
April 16, 2009
An Überprime Data Point Update: A Little Something Extra Off The Top

Tax records suggested an August 2000 purchase price of roughly $7,000,000 for 2306 Broadway while a plugged-in reader puts it at $6,600,500. Listed as expected for $6,495,000 twenty days ago, but recently reduced to $5,995,000.
Once again, updated since its last sale and the sellers are simply moving next door.
And in terms of photoshopping the views, let’s just say it’s already been a rough day on our tongues. Okay, and that we could have sworn that bridge and Palace were oriented a bit more to the west. Like they are below.

∙ Listing: 2306 Broadway (4/4.5) - $5,995,000 [Nina Hatvany] [MLS]
∙ Coming Soon And An Überprime Data Point To Be: 2306 Broadway [SocketSite]
∙ The Side Story (Quite Literally) For 2306 Broadway: 2310 Next Door [SocketSite]
∙ Why Stick With Just One Style When You Can Incorporate Them All [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
Why Settle For Just One Style When You Can Incorporate Them All...
The marketing statement: "This home is a rarely available example of the very best in modern architecture. The facade is elegant."

The sound (or lack thereof): our tongues being bit. Hard.
∙ Listing: 156 12th Avenue (3/3) - $1,599,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (45) | (email story)
April 15, 2009
Below 2004 Or 2001 Pricing? Why Choose When You Can Have Both!

Having sold for for $2,900,000 in March of 2001 and then again for $2,900,000 in May of 2004, 2922 Sacramento returned to the market this past January seeking $3,150,000.
In February the asking price was lowered to $2,950,000. And as a tipster notes, yesterday the list price for this Pacific Heights "Large-scale Victorian…on over-sized lot…[in] Meticulous condition!" was reduced to $2,800,000.
Without the context of its two previous sales would two point eight million dollars for this property seem like bullish or bearish commentary to you?
UPDATE: We missed the withdrawn listing from last year. Asking $3,595,000 in May of 2008 and then withdrawn in December. So while it's an "official" 76 days on the market for this property according to those Realtor stats, in reality it has been closer to a year.
∙ Listing: 2922 Sacramento (4/3.5) - $2,800,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (65) | (email story)
April 13, 2009
Entitled, Envisioned And For Sale (But Not Permitted): 1600 Market

The corner of Market at Franklin and Page as it looks (for the most part) above, the same corner (1600 Market) as envisioned by Stanley Saitowitz and as is being marketed below.

Note no building permit in hand, but entitled for 23 condos as proposed with nine stories, ground floor retail, and parking for nine cars.

∙ Listing: 1600 Market (Proposed Development) - $3,195,000 [MLS] [Existing Building]
∙ Stanley Saitowitz | Natoma Architects Inc. [saitowitz.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (93) | (email story)
April 8, 2009
After And Before And Asking 25% More: 632 El Camino Del Mar Redux

Inside Villa Vecchia (632 El Camino Del Mar) after its renovation, a few new baths, and return to the market asking an even $10,000,000. And inside Villa Vecchia before when asking (and sold) for $7,950,000 in March of 2007.
∙ Listing: 632 El Camino Del Mar (5/7.5) 7,089 sqft - $10,000,000 [Byzantium] [MLS]
∙ Inside Villa Vecchia [SocketSite 9/06]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)
April 7, 2009
The Income Might Look Interesting But Don't Neglect The Principal(s)

We can’t vouch for the quality of the stated "$7,000" per month rent roll nor the legality of all three units (the listing notes "with permit" but then features only two meters), but from a cap rate perspective one can’t help but be intrigued by how the proffered numbers for 1270-1272 Fitzgerald Avenue (asking $699,950) appear on paper.
It’s a bit of caution, however, by way of the listing for 1636 Palou Avenue which features three vacant units and is currently asking $599,950. From the listing: "Identical building was sold for $1,100,000 3 years ago." No word on its rent roll at the time.
∙ Listing: 1270-1272 Fitzgerald Avenue (9/5) - $699,950 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1636 Palou Avenue (9/4) - $599,950 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (78) | (email story)
April 6, 2009
830 El Camino Del Mar Moves Away From 2008 And Closer To 2002

As a plugged-in reader notes, the asking price for 830 El Camino Del Mar has been reduced for the third time since being listed (for the twelfth time) two months ago.
Now asking $11,500,000. That's $3,500,000 (23%) under the expectations of early 2009 and $6,500,000 (36%) under those in the middle of 2008, but remains $2,500,000 (28%) over the asking in 2002.
∙ Listing: 830 El Camino Del Mar (2/2.5) - $11,500,000 [seacliffsentinel.com][MLS]
∙ Will The Twelfth Time Be The Charm? 830 El Camino Del Mar Returns [SocketSite]
∙ Behind The Great Wrought Iron Wooden Gate At 830 El Camino Del Mar [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
Mo' Mansions On A Monday Morn: 1037 Church Street (The "Hulse")

It’s another turn of the century San Francisco mansion (this time the "Hulse") that’s been renovated and modernized but manages to maintain a bit of its period flair.

Purchased for $1,553,500 in January of 2003 but with some remodeling (new master bath) and renovation (new kitchen) since. Floor plans online.

∙ Listing: 1037 Church (5/4) 5,852 sqft - $2,895,000 [1037church.com] [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)
From Flippy To Floppy For Watermark (501 Beale) Penthouse #2B
Two months after its initial sale for $1,250,000 in October of 2006 Watermark (501 Beale) Penthouse #2B was flipped for $1,375,000. (Ah, the good old days.) It's now a little over two years later and the top floor condo is back on the market and asking $1,094,500.
The listing notes both short sale and bank owned (we believe it’s the former) and the condo failed to sell earlier this year when seeking $1,195,000. Keep in mind that the identical "penthouse" unit a floor below (#PH1B) sold for $1,300,000 in October of 2006 and was likley a supporting comp for the flip of #PH2B. And so on. And so forth.
∙ Listing: 501 Beale Street #PH2B (2/2) - $1,094,500 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (81) | (email story)
April 3, 2009
Whiter Than The Colgate Mansion (But Not As "Improved"): 940 Grove

While the down to the studs renovation of 924 Grove (a.k.a. the Colgate Mansion) is complete, with 940 Grove it's all about the bones and enviable 125 foot by 137.5 foot lot.

Currently home to Burt Children’s Center, the 10 bedroom and 5 bath single-family home will be delivered vacant. And hey, if you think you're into "commercial grade kitchens"...

Original design by Albert Pissis, the founding father of San Francisco's Beaux-Arts style and architect behind the Hibernia Bank.
∙ Listing: 940 Grove (10/5) - $2,750,000 [MLS]
∙ 924 Grove: New And "Improved" For A Whiter Smile And Space [SocketSite]
∙ Albert Pissis [wikipedia]
∙ Hibernia Bank Buyer Unmasked (The Dolmen Property Group) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)
Back In Black By Brown (And Not By Auction): 3731 Fillmore #2
It’s a plugged-in tipster that notes 3731 Fillmore Street #2 is back on the MLS. If the address sounds familiar it should. As we wrote in February:
Asking $699,000 when originally marketed by Brown & Co. but then re-listed, reduced and withdrawn at $549,000 last month, 3731 Fillmore Street #2 is back on the MLS with a "list price" of $295,888 (from the listing: "Must sell by tuesday, february 24th. Auctioned to the highest bidder at the property.”).
As you might recall the highest bidder came in at $410,000 but the seller declined to sell (apparently "must" means something else in listing land). So it’s once again listed by Brown & Co. and back to asking $549,000.
As previously noted, 3731 Fillmore #6 sold for $710,000 in October of 2008 and four other units remain availble in the six-unit building.
∙ Listing: 3731 Fillmore Street #2 (1/1) - $549,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ Now Up For Auction In The Marina (And Originally Asking $699,000) [SocketSite]
∙ A Plugged-In Reader Calls Shenanigans And Sets The Record Straight [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)
April 2, 2009
Apples To Apples With Views, Views, Views! (714 Duncan)

Purchased for $1,413,000 in January of 2008, the four-bedroom 714 Duncan is back on the market in Noe Valley and asking $1,295,000. A transfer forces the sale.

There’s little doubt the quick turn will result in a loss as even with "typical San Francisco appreciation" transaction costs wouldn’t be covered. But that doesn’t mean this data point will be flawed. In fact, this sale will provide some rather clean commentary on changing neighborhood values over just the past year. And that’s why we like, and offer, our apples.
∙ Listing: 714 Duncan (4/2) 2,050 sqft - $1,295,000 [MLS]
∙ Expectation Setting: San Francisco Appreciation [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (53) | (email story)
924 Grove: New And "Improved" For A Whiter Smile And Space

It’s a to the studs (and systems) renovation of the 1903 Colgate Mansion at 924 Grove.

And yes, as in the toothpaste.
UPDATE: "[L]isted at 4400 square feet when the property was last on the market in '05..."
UPDATE: A plugged-in reader connects the dots. From the Chronicle this past November:
The 4,800-square-foot house, which also has a carriage house in back, had been converted into apartments. [Maryam Monsef and her husband, Alan Sagatelyan] have spent the past two years restoring it into a single-family home for themselves and their three children. They hope to move in soon.
∙ Listing: 924 Grove (6/5.5) - $3,390,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (57) | (email story)
March 30, 2009
Apples To Apples (But Likely No Longer 5% Down): 4174 26th Street

On April 13, 2004 4174 26th Street in the heart of Noe Valley sold for $829,000. The buyer put 25% down. Two years later it sold for $995,000. The buyer put 5% down.
A few months later the property appears to have changed hands between family members, and in October of 2006 the property was refinanced with two loans totaling $1,029,750. It appears that the property was taken back by the bank two months ago, and three weeks ago it was sold to a couple of agents. It's now on the market and asking $799,000.
There’s no doubt this property has its challenges (including a lack of parking). And perhaps this is the only house in Noe Valley that was purchased with 5% or less down (but we wouldn’t bet on it). Regardless, it was a legitimate comp for other sales in 2004 and 2006, all of which went on to become comps of their own. And so on. And so forth.
So what happens now if the imperfect comp upon which the values of other more perfect homes were based now sells for 20% less?
∙ Listing: 4174 26th Street (2/2) - $799,000 [MLS]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (112) | (email story)
SocketSite's San Francisco Listed Housing Update: 3/30/09

Inventory of Active listed single-family homes, condos, and TICs in San Francisco rose 3.3% over the past two weeks (versus an average of 4.7% for the same two week period over the previous three years) and is now running 26.8% higher on a year-over-year basis (up 18.2% for single-family homes and 32.7% for condos/TICs) and 72.6% higher than at the same point in 2006.
Twelve percent (12.1%) of listed inventory in San Francisco is known to either be bank owned (REO) or seeking a short sale including One Rincon Hill (425 1st Street) #2307, 1870 Jackson #701 in Pacific Heights, and 2510 Jackson (which we profiled last year when asking $14,900,000).
The standard SocketSite Listed Inventory footnote: Keep in mind that our listed inventory count does not include listings in any stage of contract (even those which are simply contingent) nor does it include listings for multi-family properties (unless the units are individually listed).
∙ SocketSite's San Francisco Listed Housing Update: 3/16/09 [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 425 1st Street #2307 (1/1) - $649,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1870 Jackson #701 (2/2) - $975,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 2510 Jackson (7/6.5) - $13,495,000 [MLS]
∙ Fortunes Can Be Fleeting (And Mansions Can Be Foreclosed Upon) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 5:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)
March 27, 2009
For The Love Of Fridays And 433 Lovell Across The Way (Mill Valley)

We were tempted to simply write "too beautiful to describe," but we didn't. It’s been in DWELL, but we won’t hold that against it. And yes, it's in Mill Valley on half an acre.

Completed in 2006 by its architect owners, 433 Lovell features four bedrooms, three and one-half baths, and around 4,000 square feet (not including the tree house out back).

Not yet listed or official inventory, but coming soon and seeking $4,175,000.
∙ Listing: 433 Lovell Avenue, Mill Valley (4/3.5) - $4,175,000 [433lovell.com]
∙ A Maybeck On The Market (And Display) Once Again: 270 Castenada [SocketSite]
∙ Quezada Architecture [thinkqa.com]
Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)
A Maybeck On The Market (And Display) Once Again: 270 Castenada

If you missed seeing 270 Castenada (a.k.a. 1916 Erlanger house) a year ago, don't let it happen again. In the words of its architect Bernard Maybeck (think Palace of Fine Arts):
The house is our attempt to suggest the idea of an English character in California. Although this house would never happen in England, it yet has an English feeling. The lower wing is a chapel form living room greatly used in an early period, the ceiling of this room is very similar to one in Sainesbury Hill Lancashire. The second story windows are of iron like their English prototypes. The building and its setting among the trees loudly proclaims the good taste of Mrs. and Mr. Erlanger from whom the suggestions came.
Asking $3,890,000 and briefly in contract before being withdrawn last April, listed at $2,995,000 today. Still touting "too beautiful to describe" despite Maybeck's (and the Vernacular Language North) attempt.
∙ Listing: 270 Castenada (4/3.5) - $2,995,000 [MLS]
∙ Vernacular Language North: S. Erlanger house [VLN]
∙ Bernard Maybeck: California Architect [harvardsquarelibrary.org]
∙ A Peek Inside 270 Castenada (And Now About Those Drawings...) [SocketSite]
∙ Too Beautiful To Describe (Except By The Architect): 270 Castenada [SocketSite]
∙ Past Post And Property Update: Listing For 270 Castenada Withdrawn [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (52) | (email story)
The Dow Continues To Move (While 2170 Pacific Still Hasn’t)

It’s at least the fourth time a listing for 2170 Pacific Avenue has touted "On Tour as New" and "1st OPEN!" Now asking $2,995,000 with an official one day on the market according to those industry stats.
Purchased on 5/27/2004 for $2,350,000. Once again, closing price for the Dow Jones Industrial Average on that day: 9,958. On October 10, 2008 when last listed at $3,250,000: 8,174. And currently: 7,787.
∙ Listing: 2170 Pacific Avenue (3/3.5) - $2,995,000 [MLS]
∙ At Least Some Of The Photos Look To Be "New" As Well: 2170 Pacific [SocketSite]
∙ It's Deja Vu (But Not DJIA) All Over Again: 2170 Pacific Avenue Edition [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)
1333 Green Street Back In Black And White (And Now 1331 As Well)

As we wrote last July:
Added on to the front of the lot where Imogen Cunningham once had her home and studio (1331 Green). Designed by Paulette Taggart. And now on the market as a TIC.
Asking $979,000 for 1333 Green at the time, asking $850,000 today (still without interior shots unfortunately). And this time 1331 Green is on the market as well (with photos).
∙ Listing: 1331 Green Street (3/2) - $2,000,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1333 Green Street (1/1) - $850,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ The Imogen Cunningham Trust [imogencunningham.com]
∙ Paulette Taggart Architects [ptarc.com]
∙ 1331-1333 Green In Black And White (In Honor Of Imogen) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | (email story)
And Then There Were Six - And One Resale - At The Hayes (55 Page)

According to the sales office there are only six new condos left to be sold at The Hayes (55 Page). And there are only two units currently listed for sale on the MLS (one of which is a two-bedroom penthouse re-sale asking $998,000 or $665 per square foot).
UPDATE: A bit of plugged-in insight on the aforementioned penthouse unit:
This unit shown is/was also listed for rent. I checked it out and while very nice, I didn't like that the whole place is carpeted. Owner/agent said it was previously rented to a banking couple who had lost their jobs and moved to Sac. Said they had been paying over $5000 for rent, then was listed at $4500 when I saw it, and recently saw it listed at $4200 I think.
Now asking for $4,000.
∙ Listing: 55 Page #820 (2/2) 1,500 sqft - $998,000 [MLS]
∙ Magnificent Penthouse w/excellent city view [Craigslist]
Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)
March 26, 2009
Name Dropping Hollywood Style: Marquee Lofts #702

In terms of overall design and space we remain partial to Lighthouse Lofts #308, but in terms of a Hollywood-esque story we present the Marquee #702.
Another multi-unit combo (#701 and #702), the interior of the 2,300 square foot loft was designed by Stanley Saitowitz; it features a "custom designed steel audio cabinet" by sculptor Kyle Reicher (and wenge wood bookshelf by Robert Croutier); and it was Keanu Reeves' character’s apartment in the 2001 movie "Sweet November."
We’re digging the steel pocket doors, big windows, and easy access to the theaters below. And in keeping with the Hollywood theme, there’s a "sneak preview" tonight (3/26).
∙ Listing: 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #702 (2/2) - $1,800,000 [Alain Pinel] [MLS]
∙ The Lighthouse Lofts Apple Of Our Eye Returns (1097 Howard #308) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)
March 25, 2009
Caution: A Few Forward Looking Statements For 188 Haight

The parking out back is a bit funky, and its insides need some work, but we do like the bones of 188 Haight and its proximity to what could one day be.
∙ Listing: 188 Haight (4/2.5) - $1,095,000 [MLS]
∙ 55 Laguna: Approved On Appeal And In Front Of San Francisco’s BOS [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)
The Lighthouse Lofts Apple Of Our Eye Returns (1097 Howard #308)

As we wrote about Lighthouse Lofts (1097 Howard) #308 when it was listed for $2,400,000 and sold for $2,450,000 in 2007:
Featuring 18-foot ceilings up high, and hickory and pecan hardwood floors down low; a glass enclosed shower and tub with views (in more ways than one)...

[At] 4,200 square feet of living space, unit #308 is actually a merger of three lofts into one. And yes, a merger of three monthly HOA payments [($1,199)] and two parking spaces to match.
As we added after the fact in 2007:
While the Brazilian owner…admittedly suffered through the first winter, the addition of two gas fireplaces has apparently made all the difference in the world (PG&E bills maxed out at around $200/month...and typically run under $100).
Also, it’s definitely loft living but the pictures don’t do it justice (especially the master bath and kitchen), the little touches are great (washer/dryer in the walk-in master closet; electric shades; sliding panels and storage), and the urban views (from the Federal Building to One Rincon) are to be appreciated.
And as we write today: the Lighthouse Lofts apple of our eye is back on the market and asking $2,300,000.
∙ Listing: 1097 Howard #308 (3/2.5) 4,207 sqft - $2,300,000 [MLS]
∙ The Lighthouse Lofts In General (1097 Howard), And #308 In Specific [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)
March 23, 2009
Another Ex-Decorator Showcase Is Officially Listed: 2500 Divisadero

From coming soon in February to on the market today, with the listing of 2500 Divisadero at $10,000,000 over half a decade of San Francisco's most recent Decorator Showcase homes are officially up for sale.

Designed by Angus McSweeney and built in 1934, the Tudor was remodeled in 1999 to become a San Francisco Decorator Showcase home, and then again in 2005/2006.
A major renovation for the 1999 Decorator Showcase transformed this residence into more livable space when, among other things, the ceiling of the top floor was opened up and a major staircase was added. Under this same ownership the residence underwent an additional 2005/2006 renovation when all windows in the home were replaced, the kitchen wing was completely remodeled with a guest apartment added on the lower level, radiant heat was installed in the foyer and hallway.
Purchased pre-remodel(s) for $3,825,000 in November of 1998, highlights include the five bedrooms (not including the apartment), a home theater, "Gentleman's Bar" and library.

∙ Listing: 2500 Divisadero (6/5) 8,671 sqft - $10,000,000 [MLS] [sffinehomes.com]
∙ Decorator Showcase Miss 2000 Officially Hits The Market On Broadway [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)
From One Of Six To One Of Eight At The Hamilton (631 O’Farrell)

Listed for $379,000 last July then reduced to $369,000 and threatening "last chance before being withdrawn," 631 O’Farrell #504 was in fact withdrawn from the MLS.
Now back on the market in March asking $349,000. There were six studio condos in the Hamilton listed from $369,000 to $399,000 late last year, there are eight condos in the building priced from $289,900 to $399,000 listed today.
Purchased for $285,000 in January of 2005 (no word on improvements since). And the most recent sale in the building appears to be #1410: purchased for $360,000 in October of 2005, closed escrow on March 3, 2009 for a reported $270,000.
UPDATE: A sad bit of color on the recent sale of #1410:
#1410 was destroyed by someone who had a drug problem. The person owned the property, it was taken back by the bank, and then the person ended up squatting there. The person sold some of the items in the unit to pay for drugs. So, the unit was trashed, and it should not be used as a comparison for other units.
∙ Listing: 631 O’Farrell #504 (0/1) - $349,000 [MLS]
∙ Pay For 520, But Live Like 800 (With Bonus Points For “Trendyloin”) [SocketSite]
Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)
Three At Three Hundred Beale Priced At One Point Three (Nine Five)

Asking $1,595,000 early last October, Embarcadero Lofts #406 was re-listed in February asking the same, reduced by $100,000 two weeks later, and then by another $100,000 two weeks after that. Now asking $1,395,000 as are 300 Beale #609 (listed in February as well) and 300 Beale #611 (listed in March).
∙ Listing: 300 Beale #406 (2/2) 1,686 sqft - $1,395,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 300 Beale #609 (2/2.5) 1,899 sqft - $1,395,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 300 Beale #611 (2/2.5) 1,820 sqft - $1,395,000 [MLS]
∙ You’ve Seen Two, But You Haven’t Seen Them All: 300 Beale #406 [SocketSite]
∙