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CATEGORY ARCHIVE: RealRecentReductions

November 2, 2009

Cubix Straight Scoop Redux: 766 Harrison Sales About To Resume

The Cubix sales office (766 Harrison) is about to re-open their doors. Lost to foreclosure in July, it’s no longer a HausBau property. And according to our sources it's still bank owned (although the paper has bounced from bank to bank via a number of acquisitions).

As a plugged-in tipster notes, a new banner now touts "from the high $100,000’s" versus the "starting from high $200K" of yesteryear (2008). And a new website sports a hyphen (now cubix-sf.com versus cubixsf.com).

As we reported in July when the bank took over, 80 of the 98 residential condos and the commercial space remained unsold. It was in January that the sales office had reduced prices by "up to 29.5%" with the goal of hitting 50 percent sold.

∙ SocketSite’s Straight Scoop On The Collapse Of Cubix (766 Harrison) [SocketSite]
∙ Cubix (766 Harrison) [cubix-sf.com]
∙ 766 Harrison: Condos Indeed And A Brand New Brand (“Cubix YB”) [SocketSite]
∙ Cubix (766 Harrison) Officially Cuts "Up To 29.5%" For Stimulus Sale [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)

October 30, 2009

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Speaking of refreshed listings, withdrawn from the MLS in July after almost 120 days on the market at $945,000, the resale listing for One Rincon Hill (425 1st Street) #806 returned to the MLS two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)

October 29, 2009

Citadine Cuts Between Four And Ten Percent For Listed Condos

While at least one of its 26 condos appears to be in contract (one-bedroom #204), after a month on the market list prices for 1299 Bush ("Citadine") were just reduced between four ($70,000 off #802) and ten ($80,000 off #203) percent.

∙ The "Citadine" Flags Are Flying At 1299 Bush [SocketSite]
∙ Citadine (1299 Bush): Current Pricing And A Peek Inside [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (3) | (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 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)

October 9, 2009

829 Folsom: Starting From $550,000 $485,000 $399,000 $365,000

Listed for $399,000 in June, 829 Folsom #308 is back on the MLS with an official one day on the market and an asking price of $365,000. Studios in the building were expected to be priced around $550,000 two years ago. One bedrooms are now starting at $499,000.

And while we don’t have a confirmed sales count, one source calls it around ten (10) of the sixty-nine (69) units either in contract or closed.

∙ Listing: 829 Folsom #306 (1/1) – $499,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 829 Folsom #308 (0/1) – $365,000 [MLS]
∙ 829 Folsom: Listed And Starting From $550,000 $485,000 $399,000 [SocketSite]
∙ 829 Folsom Street: 69 Luxury Condominiums Coming In 2008 [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 5:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)

October 8, 2009

Short And Shorter At The Beacon (250 King)

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)

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)

September 30, 2009

Kirk Hammett’s Pacific Heights Monster Is Back (2505 Divisadero)

As we wrote in October of 2008:

After an effective 1000+ days on the market, a few reductions [originally asking $12,500,000], and a remodeling, the listing for Kirk Hammett’s Pacific Heights mansion at 2505 Divisadero has been withdrawn from the market.

As we added in December:

Last listed for sale at $9,500,000 before being withdrawn, Kirk Hammett’s recently remodeled mansion atop Pacific Heights (2505 Divisadero) is now being offered for rent at $14,000 a month. Yes, that’s only $1,550 per bedroom (there are nine). [Editor's Note: Hmm...]

It never rented (in fact within an hour of our publishing the Craigslist post for 2505 Divisadero was quickly "deleted by its author"). And now as plugged-in readers and tipsters alike noted late last night (cheers), 2505 Divisadero is once again coming soon.

A new agent and a new new new asking price: $8,995,000. Floor plans via the old listing for those who just can't wait.

∙ The Monster Meets A Magnetic Death? (2505 Divisadero Withdrawn) [SocketSite]
∙ Some Kind Of Monster In This Kind Of Market (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ The Monster Comes Roaring Back (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ This Isn't Exactly How Mr. Hammett Used To Roll (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ Rent Kirk Hammett’s Mansion For $1,555 A Month (Split Nine Ways) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (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

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 11, 2009

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

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)

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)

August 24, 2009

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 19, 2009

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 17, 2009

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 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 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)

August 4, 2009

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)

July 24, 2009

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 hands eighteen six 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)

June 18, 2009

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

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 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

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

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)

June 3, 2009

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)

May 29, 2009

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 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)

May 20, 2009

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 14, 2009

Contract Prices Behind Six Recently Closed Condos At The Hayes

A rundown of six condos at The Hayes (55 Page) that have closed escrow over the past couple of months suggests an average discount of around 13% from already reduced list prices at the beginning of the year. And discounts of up to 23% from peak:

∙ #426 (2/2) 993 sqft - listed for $799,000 on 5/13/08, sold for $612,000 (-23%)
∙ #513 (2/2) 1,037 sqft - listed for $719,000 on 12/4/08, sold for $630,500 (-12%)
∙ #312 (2/2) 1,008 sqft - listed for $775,000 on 12/4/08, sold for $670,000 (-14%)
∙ #824 (2/2) 1,023 sqft - listed for $799,000 on 1/6/09, sold for $685,000 (-14%)
∙ #811 (1/1) 646 sqft - listed for $585,000 on 1/6/09, sold for $525,000 (-10%)
∙ #311 (1/1) 646 sqft - listed for $525,000 on 2/13/09, sold for $510,000 (-3%)

That’s an average contract price of $640 per square foot for these two-bedrooms (versus $762 asking) and $801 per square for the one's ($860 asking).

And as has been previously noted, the sales office is currenlty advertising "only 2 homes remaining" which includes #329 at $799,000 ($280,000/26% under its peak list).

∙ Listing: 55 Page #329 (2/2) 1,143 sqft - $799,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (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 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)

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)

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 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)

April 14, 2009

An Infinity "N" Of One (Or Two) But Still Significant At $650 Per Square

A plugged-in tipster in the market reports:

The ball is in my court on whether to accept a 2 Bed / 2 Bath condo at The Infinity for $650/sf. No water view however, but a good view of the Bay Bridge. This shows how quickly pricing are coming down at The Infinity. The unit is 1,309sf.

And while the aforementioned is an "n" of one, and we can't point to an exactly 1,309 square foot floor plan (other than over at One Rincon Hill), we'll also note the Infinity Tower Two listing for 338 Spear Street #5A asking $780,000 or $659 per square foot.

Infinity Tower Two corner two-bedrooms as pictured above are, however, presented at 1,316 square feet with an asterisk. Let's go ahead and make that an "n" of two.

∙ Listing: 338 Spear Street #5A (2/2) 1,184 sqft - $780,000 [MLS]
∙ Infinity Tower Two Sales Update: 50 Contracts Total Since January 1 [SocketSite]
∙ Infinity Sales Update: New Contracts Up But Driven By Discounts [SocketSite]
∙ The Infinity: Online Floor Plans And Condo Specifications [SocketSite]
∙ A Return To Reality For A One Rincon Hill "02" Stack Resale (#2202) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (77) | (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)

March 30, 2009

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

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)

March 23, 2009

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]
∙ Loft By Nature, Luxury By Design: Embarcadero Lofts (300 Beale) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)

March 20, 2009

Non-Secret At One Rincon Hill: "Over 20% Off" And 4% Commissions

It shouldn’t seem like much of a "secret" (or come as any surprise) to the plugged-in people, but as a tipster notes the sales office at One Rincon Hill is now advertising (at least to the agent community) "Over 20% Discounts On Many New Homes" as well as a "4% Broker co-op" (buyer's agent commission) through the end of March.

∙ One Rincon Hill: From The $500's $700's $500's [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (54) | (email story)

March 10, 2009

A $3,000,000 Reduction (That Might Not Seem Like So Much To Some)

It was the 2007 Decorator Showcase Home and has been on the market for over two years (an "official" DOM of 690). It was initially listed for $55,000,000 in early 2007 and received a rumored four offers a few months later (which were all countered at asking and all walked away). And it was reduced to $48,000,000 on March 6, 2008.

Yesterday the list price for 2901 Broadway was reduced another $3,000,000 (now asking $45,000,000). And while a $3,000,000 reduction might normally drop some jaws, do keep in mind that's a little over 6%. And since March 6, 2008 the Dow has dropped 46 (percent).

∙ Listing: 2901 Broadway (7/7.5) - $45,000,000 [2901broadwaystreet.com] [MLS]
∙ If You Have To Ask (2901 Broadway) [SocketSite]
∙ Your Chance To Slip Inside 2901 Broadway [SocketSite]
∙ Go Ahead And Ask: 2901 Broadway Is Listed (And Priced) [SocketSite]
∙ Rumor Has It: Four Offers On The 2007 Decorator Showcase Home? [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)

March 9, 2009

The Mysterious Case Of The Baker Street Trio: 3271, 3212 and 3520

While the list price for 3271 Baker Street has once again been reduced (now asking $2,195,000, 35% under its original list of $3,395,000 last July) another recently renovated single-family home on Baker (3212) has hit the market asking $4,250,000 (purchased for $2,306,000 in March of 2006 prior to its "no expense spared" renovation).

And curiously enough, a bit down the block and directly across from the Palace of Fine Arts 3520 Baker Street has been listed for $3,500,000.

Purchased for $3,350,000 in January of 2001 but renovated before (1997), the sale of 3520 Baker Street will be "apples to apples" as far as we can tell. And as such, a sale at asking would represent average annual appreciation of 0.5% over the past eight years for this rather "prime" Marina (District 7-A) home.

∙ Listing: 3271 Baker Street (4/2.5) - $2,195,000 [3271bakerstreet.com]
∙ Listing: 3212 Baker Street (5/3) - $4,250,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 3520 Baker Street (4/3.5) - $3,500,000 [MLS]
∙ Spanish/Mediterranean Flair From Traditional To Modern: 3271 Baker [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (60) | (email story)

March 6, 2009

Our Noe Valley Romanesque Victorian Apple Returns (1507 Dolores)

Our "Romanesque Victorian" apple at 1507 Dolores has retuned to the market with a new listing and a new price. Now asking $1,198,000.

Once again, purchased for $1,310,000 in February of 2006, returned to the market in November of 2008 asking $1,349,000, and was reduced to $1,295,000 before being withdrawn.

∙ Listing: 1507 Dolores Street (3/3) - $1,198,000 [1507Dolores.com] [MLS]
∙ A New Noe Valley Apple Varietal On The Tree: "Romanesque Victorian" [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (58) | (email story)

March 5, 2009

Cognitive Listing Dissonance At The Watermark (501 Beale #14D)

Originally listed as a Watermark resale for $1,585,000 last July, from a listing later last year: “Views Galore 501 Beale #14D Offered at $1,499,000 Extraordinary price reduction!”

From a listing after that: “Buyers and Agents, now is the time to take advantage of this price!” Asking $1,399,000 at the time.

From the listing today: “Great Opportunity!! Take advantage of HUGE PRICE REDUCTIONs and 1 yr. HOA concession. Motivated sellers!!” Now asking $1,365,000.

And from public records: purchased for $1,303,500 in September of 2006 (not including any incentives). Cognitive listing dissonance (TM) is the first thing that comes to mind.

∙ Listing: 501 Beale #14D (2/2) - $1,365,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)

February 25, 2009

Riders On The Storm (The Doors Of 55 Buena Vista Terrace Reduced)

As we wrote in September of 2008 when listed for $3,395,000:

It’s a 1905 Edwardian that’s been redesigned by architect Jonathan Feldman and interior designer Joseph Oroza (the seller). Big glass doors with some big city views.

And it still is (and still has). But as a tipster notes today: 55 Buena Vista Terrace was re-listed last month and recently reduced to $2,695,000 (now 21% under original asking).

Purchased for $2,177,000 in April of 2006, but significantly remodeled since (including adding a new bathroom, turning outdoor space in, and remodeling the kitchen and dining).

∙ Listing: 55 Buena Vista Terrace (3/3.5) - $2,695,000 [MLS] [residentphotography.com]
∙ Big Swinging…Doors (And Here Comes The Competition) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)

February 24, 2009

Trying To Catch The Market Over At One Rincon Hill (425 1st #2307)

Originally seeking $849,000 as a resale, the listing for One Rincon Hill #2307 was reduced down to $749,998 and then withdrawn from the MLS after 200+ days.

Returning to the MLS 21 days ago asking $699,000, the list price for the northeast corner and 819 square foot 425 1st Street #2307 was just reduced to $649,000.

∙ Listing: 425 1st Street #2307 (1/1) - $649,000 [MLS]
∙ One Rincon Hill (425 First Street): Secondary Market Stumbles [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (49) | (email story)

February 18, 2009

Dear Diary, San Francisco Sure Has Changed For Royal Real Estate…

As a plugged-in sleepiguy notes, 2601 Lyon is back on the MLS and listed for $6,399,500 (versus $8,250,000 last August). Once again, purchased for $5,750,000 in March of 2000 and "renovated throughout" its 4,126 square feet in 2002.

Yes, loose ties to The Princess Diaries (and possibly the Luries as well). And we do love the location and roof deck.

∙ Listing: 2601 Lyon (4/3) - $6,399,500 [MLS]
∙ A Shorter Set Of Lyon Street Steps (And A Few Numbers): 2601 Lyon [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)

Apples To Apples (If You Ignore The New Bath): 2203 Broderick

Purchased for $2,000,000 in June of 2004, 2203 Broderick in the heart of Pacific Heights returned to the market with a remodeled bath in October of 2008 asking $2,395,000. Reduced to $2,195,000 in November, and now asking $1,975,000 as of nine days ago.

A sale at asking would represent zero appreciation over the past four and one-half years. But do avoid the temptation to see that as "prices in Pacific Heights have been holding steady since 2004" versus having risen and are now falling since.

∙ Listing: 2203 Broderick (3/2) - $1,975,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (45) | (email story)

February 17, 2009

A Street, Agent And Now A Price In Common Too: 4432 19th Street

While it took the listing for 4552 19th Street a few reductions to join the Eureka Valley chapter of the million dollar cut club, down the street 4432 19th has done so in one fell swoop: previously seeking $3,999,000, now listed for $2,999,000.

Extensively renovated [beware the background tunes] and retrofitted since purchased for $1,200,000 in 2001, this District 5 single-family home is currently asking $750 per square foot based on its reported 4,000 square feet.

It's worth noting that both 19th Street listings share the same agent. And while it could be a cosmic coincidence, and the public facing listing doesn’t note a licensed agent owner, it’s a data digging reader that notes the agent and owner (at least in trust) for 4432 19th Street do appear to share the same name.

∙ Listing: 4432 19th Street (5/5.5) - $2,999,000 [MLS] [4432-19thst.com]
∙ 4552 19th Street Joins The High-End Half Million Dollar Cut Club [SocketSite]
∙ 4552 19th Street Joins The High-End Half-Million Dollar Cut Club [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)

February 13, 2009

Will The Twelfth Time Be The Charm? 830 El Camino Del Mar Returns

From a plugged-in reader last June:

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.

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.

Once again, two bedrooms and under 4,000 square feet, but "approved plans for a huge [penthouse] addition sure to be the world's most dynamic master" are included.

Our estimated cost to actually affect said addition on this particular home? Priceless...

UPDATE: With new photos added to the listing since we first posted and an "interactive brochure" now online (complete with soothing wave sounds), our piece on 830 El Camino Del Mar heads back to the top of the page.

∙ Listing: 830 El Camino Del Mar (2/2.5) - $15,000,000 [seacliffsentinel.com] [MLS]
∙ Behind The Great Wrought Iron Wooden Gate At 830 El Camino Del Mar [SocketSite]
∙ Secluded Sea Cliff home on the market for $9 million [SFGate]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (74) | (email story)

An "Exciting New Price" (And Club Initiation) For 3577 Pacific Avenue

Touting an “Exciting new price!” of $5,995,000, the newly renovated 3577 Pacific Ave has just joined our quickly growing high-end million dollar cut club.

That’s assuming you count the three days at which it was originally listed for $7,700,000 (now 22% lower). If not, it’s now only $955,000 (14%) under its last price of $6,950,000.

UPDATE: And from a plugged-in reader, the full floor plan monty (pdf).

∙ Listing: 3577 Pacific Avenue (6/4) - $5,995,000 [MLS]
∙ 4552 19th Street Joins The High-End Half Million Dollar Cut Club [SocketSite]
∙ 3577 Pacific: Inside Its Newly Contemporary Soul (And Market's Mind) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)

A Plugged-In Reader’s Perspective On The Montgomery And Its Cuts

A plugged-in reader’s perspective on The Montgomery (74 New Montgomery) and its cuts:

I bought a 1-bedroom pre-opening in 2007…for over 100K more than the new pricing (although we did get about $35K in pre-paid HOA and upgrade credits plus the standard 3 yrs parking) ... oh well.

The building, by the way, is quite nice, and I love the location ... this is a second home for my wife and me so we plan to keep it long term but I'd hate to be someone who needs to re-sell right now.

The new starting prices from the sales office:

Studios starting from $383,000
Executive Studios starting from $462,000
One Bedrooms starting from $452,000
One Bedrooms with Den starting from $625,000
Two Bedrooms starting from $882,000
Two Bedrooms with Den starting from $1,350,000

And a few of their original price ranges from the first release in 2007:

Studios $379,000 to $540,000 (420-580 sqft)
Junior one bedrooms $598,000 to $655,000 (500-600 sqft)
One bedrooms $487,000 to $647,000 (600-750 sqft)
One bedrooms + den $745,000 to $850,000 (700-900 sqft)

And everybody’s favorite of which to be aware, “New 4.5% Broker Co-op" (for new contracts before 3/31/09).

∙ The Montgomery (74 New Montgomery): Pricing And Reservations [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (39) | (email story)

February 12, 2009

BLU Cuts Pre-Sale Required Green To $575,000 (And Up To 26%)

According to the sales office over at BLŪ, the "starting price" cuts of 17 to 22% as reported by SF New Developments are in direct response to a fast approaching 25% pre-sale requirement (currently 10% of 108 units in contract), and aren't expected to last past their first round of closings in 60 or so days. As always, time, the market and SocketSite will tell.

The pre-sale starting price adjustments according to SFND:

“A” Plans: Originally from $925,000, currently from $743,000 (down 20%)
“B” Plans: Originally from $809,000, currently from $631,000 (down 22%)
“C” Plans: Originally from $799,000, currently from $622,000 (down 22%)
“D” Plans: Originally from $930,000, currently from $743,000 (down 20%)
“E” Plans: Originally from $739,000, currently from $575,000 (down 22%)
“F” Plans: Originally from $809,000, currently from $673,000 (down 17%)

And it's a plugged-in tipster that points out some specific unit price cuts of up to 26%:

631 Folsom #3B: Originally $749,000, now $630,000 (down 16%)
631 Folsom #6A: Originally $985,000, now $799,000 (down 19%)
631 Folsom #PHE: Originally $2,527,358, now $1,862,358 (down 26%)

UPDATE: The 25% pre-sale requirement insight was added for additional color (and accuracy). And yes, it's officially turned into one of those days.

Full Disclosure: BLU currently advertises on SocketSite but provided no compensation for (nor had any prior knowledge of) this post. They did, however, inform our update.

∙ Listing: 631 Folsom #3B (2/2) - $630,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 631 Folsom #6A (2/2) - $799,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 631 Folsom #PHE (3/3) - $1,862,358 [MLS]
∙ A Reader Starts Singing The BLŪ’s (631 Folsom Website Now Live) [SocketSite]
∙ BLU Slashes Prices - now starting at $575,000! [SF New Developments]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (70) | (email story)

4552 19th Street Joins The High-End Half Million Dollar Cut Club

With a $300,000 cut late yesterday, the recently renovated 4552 19th Street in District 5 joins the high-end million dollar (and over 30%) price cut club. Now asking $2,999,000 or $1,300,000 less than what was expected in October.

Also reduced late yesterday, 3271 Baker Street is now listed for $2,275,000. Hitting the market last July asking $3,395,000, expectations for the recently renovated (hmm...) Marina home have been lowered by $1,120,000 or 33% over the past seven months.

Keep in mind that MLS based industry reports on the state of the San Francisco real estate market now reflect 33 days on the market and a 12% drop from its "original" list price of $2,595,000 in January for 3271 Baker Street.

But hey, what’s six months, $800,000 and 20% between friends?

∙ Listing: 4552 19th Street (6/4.5) - $2,999,000 [MLS] [4552-19thst.com]
∙ Listing: 3271 Baker Street (4/2.5) - $2,275,000 [3271bakerstreet.com]
∙ 4552 19th Street Joins The High-End Half-Million Dollar Cut Club [SocketSite]
∙ Spanish/Mediterranean Flair From Traditional To Modern: 3271 Baker [SocketSite]
∙ Less Great Expectations: 3271 Baker Drops Its New Year Asking 24% [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (43) | (email story)

February 10, 2009

St. Regis Penthouse Now $21,000,000 Off (And No, That’s Not A Typo)

It’s a plugged-in reader that catches a slight change to the asking price for the Penthouse atop San Francisco’s St. Regis (188 Minna). Asking $70,000,000 in August of 2008, now listed on the Sotheby’s website for $49,000,000.

Once again, 20,000+ square feet (including 2,900 of terraces); six bedrooms (including a 2,500 square foot master suite) and seven full baths (four half); a thirteen-seat home cinema designed by Keith Yates; 22 foot floor-to-ceiling glass walls; and six car parking.

Purchased for roughly $30,000,000 as a raw shell in 2005, it’s been three years in the making, and as far as we know there’s still 15% to go (i.e., it’s 85% complete).

Full Disclosure: The co-listing agent for the penthouse atop the San Francisco St. Regis advertises on SocketSite but had no knowledge of this post.

∙ Listing: St. Regis (188 Minna) Penthouse - $49,000,000 [Sotheby’s]
∙ St. Regis Penthouse Asking $70M: Is San Francisco All Growns Up? [SocketSite]
∙ Inside The St. Regis Penthouse: The Rendering Scoop And Details [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (45) | (email story)

February 6, 2009

Another Friday, Another New Price: 943 Church Street One And Two

On the market last August asking $2,395,000, the list price for 943 Church Street #2 (once known as “B”) was reduced down to $1,950,000 before being withdrawn in December.

Back on the market for $1,895,000 in January, it’s a plugged-in reader that notes the list price has been reduced to $1,795,000 (now 25% under its original original asking). And at the same time, the lower unit (943 Church Street #1) which was once in contract when asking $1,995,000 has been reduced to $1,595,000.

UPDATE: As noted by another plugged-in reader, 943 Church Street #2 is also available for rent and asking $6,500 a month.

∙ Listing: 943 Church Street #1 (3/3) - $1,595,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 943 Church Street #2 (3/3) - $1,795,000 [MLS]
∙ It’s Friday, So Insert Cheeky Comment Here (943 Church Street #B) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)

Rare, Refined And Reduced: Radiance At Mission Bay Official Cuts

Plugged-in people knew the Radiance at Mission Bay price cuts were coming, and now they’re here. Official reductions of up to $365,000 (26.5%) off of original prices plus two years of pre-paid HOAs. And now priced from $576 per square foot.

That being said, do keep in mind that according to a reader 330 Mission Bay Boulevard (Radiance) #116 has already closed escrow with a reported contract price of $960,000 ($557 per square foot) while originally priced at $1,390,000 (a reduction of 31%).

∙ The SocketSite Scoop: Radiance To Announce Price Cuts Next Week [SocketSite]
∙ Radiance At Mission Bay Phase I Update: 55% “Sold” And Closing [SocketSite]
∙ Radiance At Mission Bay Phase II Update: Officially "Suspended" [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (25) | (email story)

A Modern Day Price Cut For A Modern Home: 313 Duncan Reduced

After 105 days on the market the list price for the Owen Kennerly designed "Modern Victorian" at 313 Duncan has been reduced $201,000 (7%). Now asking $2,649,000.

∙ Listing: 313 Duncan (5/5.5) - $2,649,000 [313duncan.com]
∙ Coming Soon: Victorians Gone Modern! (313 Duncan) [SocketSite]
∙ 313 Duncan: Before, After, And All Its Insides Now “Online” [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (39) | (email story)

February 4, 2009

A Quick Change Of Expectations Strategy Price Up On The Gold Coast

After four days on the MLS the list price for 2712 Broadway up on San Francisco’s Gold Coast has been reduced from $9,495,000 to $7,750,000. It’s a big house with big views and still asking over $1,100 per square foot (down from $1,350).

∙ Listing: 2712 Broadway (7/5) - $7,750,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)

February 2, 2009

Soma Grand (1160 Mission): Reductions, Restaurant, And Inventory

Three months ago the three-bedroom/two-bath 1160 Mission #601 was listed for $999,000 or $751 per square for each of the 1,331 square feet. This weekend the Soma Grand condo #601 returned to the MLS with a list price of $765,000, a 23% reduction and now asking well under $600 per square foot ($574).

Also listed this weekend was 1160 Mission #1212 for $505,000/$759 per square foot. In August of last year 1160 Mission #1012 was asking $590,000 or $887 per square, an effective drop of at least 15% (i.e., not accounting for the higher floor premium).

At the same time Charles Phan’s Heaven’s Dog restaurant has opened its doors on the ground floor of the building (a nice amenity and addition to the neighborhood). And as best we can tell, Soma Grand is now roughly 60% sold (including 29 BMR units) with around a hundred (100) of the 246 units to go (up from 50% sold last May).

∙ Listing: 1160 Mission Street #601 (3/2) 1,331 sqft - $765,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1160 Mission Street #1212 (1/1) - $505,000 [MLS]
∙ Soma Grand (1160 Mission) BMR Applications Are Now Available [SocketSite]
∙ SoMa Grand (1160 Mission) Update: Sales, Office, And Phan’s Food [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (56) | (email story)

Still Not An Official Apple Until It Sells, But A Suggestion (Or Two)

Our original post on 695 Grand View Avenue #101 sparked a good discussion with respect to real estate valuation and the frequently misrepresented misunderstood tax benefits of a mortgage.

At the time this condo was listed at a suggested short sale price of $489,000 (purchased for $552,000 in January of 2007). This morning that suggestion was reduced to $399,000.

∙ Listing: 695 Grand View Avenue #101 (1/1) - $399,000 [MLS]
∙ Noe Valley Apples to Apples With A View: 695 Grand View Ave #101 [SocketSite]
∙ Yesterday's Comment Of The Day: An All Too Common Misconception [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (25) | (email story)

January 29, 2009

But Don’t Buyers In Noe Know That "Prices" Are Up?

While 651 27th Street is now in escrow (listed for 20% under its last close), 525 27th Street #2 is still active and available. As a reader notes, purchased for $1,349,000 in October of 2006, listed for $1,495,000 in September of 2008, and reduced four times since.

Currently asking $1,195,000 for this Noe Valley condominium with three bedrooms/baths and panoramic city views. Don’t buyers in Noe know that "prices" are up?

∙ Listing: 525 27th Street (3/3) - $1,195,000 [MLS]
∙ On The Market (But Not The Public Facing MLS): 651 27th Street [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (79) | (email story)

January 28, 2009

Just Under $900,000 Originally, Asking Just Under $800,000 Today

Asking just under $900,000 (not including upgrades) when the sales office first opened (acording to a plugged-in Infinity resident). Asking just under $900,000 ($885,000) as a resale last month (and subsequently reduced down to $849,000). Asking just under $800,000 ($799,000) today for 301 Main Street #9E at Infinity.

∙ Listing: 301 Main #9E (2/2) - $799,000 [MLS] [Climb]
∙ Another Infinity Resale (#9E) Within Those "Restricted" Two Years [SocketSite]
∙ Infinity Sales Update: New Contracts Up But Driven By Discounts [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (78) | (email story)

January 23, 2009

Not Exactly A Slam Duncan: 1005 Duncan Returns (This Time Reduced)

Asking $1,238,000 in October of 2007 the agents for 1005 Duncan were unable to find a buyer. So they renovated (Eichler purists look away). And raised the price to $1,275,000.

Back on the market today once again as "new." And now asking $1,150,000.

UPDATE (1/26): From a plugged-in reader:

We looked at this house in '07 and seriously considered putting in a bid, but the agents told us that there were 7 other interested parties and we just weren't interested in putting up a fight….They allegedly got six bids on the offer date, but they declined to sell because they were looking for something over asking.

∙ Listing: 1005 Duncan (4/2.5) - $1,150,000 [MLS] [1005duncan.com]
∙ Duncan Chic (No, Not Sheik): An Eichler Up In Diamond Heights [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 5:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)

It’s Not Quite 2004, But It’s Really Not 2008. Or 2007. Or 2006…

We’re not so sure "phatty" would agree, but perhaps it’s best he didn’t have that extra three million lying around last May when 650 2nd Street #502 hit the market asking $3,215,000. It’s back on the market today seeking $2,750,000. And yes, it's a sweet pad.

Once again, five bedrooms, four baths, three parking spaces, two dishwashers and one big span (60 feet) of industrial windows. And as Garrett notes, purchased for $2.3M in 2004.

∙ Listing: 650 2nd Street #502 (5/4) - $2,750,000 [MLS]
∙ The Full Count(Down) For Number Five Hundred And Two On Second [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)

An Apple In The "Heights" Of Our Tree: 3444 Washington Reduced

From a plugged-in Sleepiguy when the rather handsome 3444 Washington hit the market last May asking $17,500,000: “This property sold a couple of years ago for 16.5 million.”

From the MLS today: now asking $15,750,000 with an "official" one day on the market.

UPDATE: It appears as though sleepiguy (or his agent) might have been thrown by an asterisk. From a plugged-in FSBO:

MLS shows the 1/31/2006 sale price as $16.5M with an *. Current assessed value is $15.8M - so the actual sale price was probably about $15.2M or so...

Cheers. And something tells us we’ll see another one when this sells (asterisk that is).

∙ Listing: 3444 Washington Street (6/6.5) - $15,750,000 [MLS]
∙ It's Not Often A Listing Can Tout A Private Outdoor Amphitheater [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

January 22, 2009

The Hayes 72-Hour Sale (And Up To 20% Off According To A Tipster)

According to their sales office The Hayes is holding a “72-Hour Sale” this weekend during which "twelve select homes at The Hayes will be offered at incredible prices-more than $2million in total price reductions."

According to a plugged-in tipster, think up to 20% off (but we don't know if that's on top of the reductions we previously reported in October). Regardless, we’re pretty sure this constitutes the "real" Hayes Valley (and San Francisco as far as we’re concerned).

UPDATE: A reader's comment we had to highlight: "Here's an idea: mount a rotating blue police light on a roller cart. Roll it into various units and announce that there is a special deal on that unit for a limited time only. Kart-MARkeTing."

∙ New Development “Closeout” Sales: The Potrero And 170 Off Third [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (46) | (email story)

A Marina Apple On The Tree (Again) And Asking $654 Per Square Foot

Purchased for $1,280,000 in November of 2004, the 2,217 square foot two-bedroom/bath condo at 1531 Beach Street returned to the market last year asking $1,550,000 ($699 per square foot) but failed to find its buyer.

Back on the market today for $654 per square foot ($1,450,000) in the Marina and an “official” 2 days on the market. A sale at the current asking would represent average annual appreciation of 2.9% over the past four and one-half years.

∙ Listing: 1531 Beach Street (2/2) - $1,450,000 [1531beach.com] [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)

Throwing In The Towel Or Banking On A Bidding War?

As we wrote this past September:

The sales office for 368 Elm Street on the edge of Hayes Valley first opened its doors in November of 2006. At the time, 368 Elm Street #406 was priced by the developer at $589,000. And it sold.

Back on the market last month for $615,000, the list price has been reduced twice since. And yes, most recently by only $2,000 (obviously to catch all those buyers with a cutoff of $598,000...).

Now asking $597,000, a sale at which would represent annual appreciation of roughly 0.74% over the past two years.

Apparently annual appreciation of 0.74% was a bit too aggressive. Now asking $375,000.

∙ Listing: 368 Elm #406 (1/1) - $375,000 [via Pacific Union]
∙ A Hayes Valleyish New Construction Apple On The Tree: 368 Elm #406 [SocketSite]
∙ 368 Elm Street Condos: First Release Pricing And Scoop [SocketSite]
∙ 368 Elm Street Condos: Complete Pricing (And An Update) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)

New Year, Listing, And Price (Same Sweet Loft): 540 Delancey #401

If you liked it at $1,150,000 in September, you’ll like it even more today. Now asking $1,098,000 for Cape Horn Lofts (540 Delancey) #401.

∙ Listing: 540 Delancey #401 (1/2) - $1,098,000 [MLS] [openhomesphotography.com]
∙ Cape Horn Lofts (540 Delancey) In General, And #401 In Specific [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (30) | (email story)

January 21, 2009

The SocketSite Scoop: Radiance To Announce Price Cuts Next Week

A plugged-in tipster reports on Radiance at Mission Bay:

I received an email from the sales person at Radiance "pre-announcing" a sales cut that will go out to the broker community next week. Looks like things aren't moving. On a similar note, I saw on sfgate.com that unit 116 (1722 SF, east facing) sold for $960K. Original asking? $1.39M.

As we noted in August, “while prices reductions haven’t officially been advertised, according to our sources there's definitely room for negotiation (especially on the mid-priced units).”

Yes, it's good to be plugged-in (and details on the "official" cuts when we have them).

∙ Radiance At Mission Bay Phase I Update: 55% “Sold” And Closing [SocketSite]
∙ Radiance At Mission Bay Phase II Update: Officially "Suspended" [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | (email story)

January 20, 2009

Cubix (766 Harrison) Officially Cuts "Up To 29.5%" For Stimulus Sale

With around 24 of their 98 condos either closed or in contract, Cubix (766 Harrison) launches a four week “Economic Stimulus Sale” today with reductions of up to 29.5% off of their original list prices. The goal, “to reach 50% sold, at which time lenders can offer FHA financing to [Cubix Yerba Buena] buyers.”

Prices on select units offering the most significant savings range from $215,000 for a courtyard-facing studio with patio (savings of $90,000 off the original price of $305,000) to $279,000 for a penthouse level home with a city view (savings of $65,000 off original price of $344,000).

As you might recall we caught a couple of early reductions when the inventory first hit the MLS (again, above savings are off original prices). And no word on whether or not the twelve-ish buyers who have already closed escrow are feeling "stimulated" (or the love).

∙ 766 Harrison: Condos Indeed And A Brand New Brand (“Cubix YB”) [SocketSite]
∙ Cubix Yerba Buena (766 Harrison): Reader Perspective And Pricing [SocketSite]
∙ A Couple Of Cubix Condos Hit The MLS (Now Starting At $249,000) [SocketSite]
∙ The SocketSite Scoop: Millennium Cuts Prices 15% Across The Board [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)

January 17, 2009

The SocketSite Scoop: Millennium Cuts Prices 15% Across The Board

From a plugged-in tipster with a unit in escrow at San Francisco’s Millennium Tower:

I have a deposit down in a unit in the Millennium and just received a call informing me that prices have been cut 15% across the board, including those already in escrow. They still intend to maintain their "no negotiating" policy and claim that this will be the last (only) drop for a very long time.

A tip of the hat to the Millennium team for taking care of their early adopters. And of course to our tipster, let's not forget those invitations to the housewarming.

∙ The Millennium: A Few Things You Might Know (And A Few You Don’t) [SocketSite]
∙ Millennium Tower Sales Watch: Rumors Of Day One Results [SocketSite]
∙ San Francisco Rising And A Fresh Perspective On Millennium Tower [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (207) | (email story)

January 15, 2009

Why Stop With Voyeurlicious, Let's Add Instastyle-istic (TM) As Well

It’s another cut in the New Year for the voyeurlicious St. Regis condo #23F. Listed for $2,595,000 three months ago, now asking $2,350,000 and including the Limn furniture.

Any interior designers, architects, or plugged-in power shoppers care to take a stab at the fair value of said furnishings? And if you buy it, do let us know if you don’t want the lamp.

∙ Listing: 188 Minna #23F ( 2/2.5) - $2,350,000 [Janet Krahling] [MLS]
∙ Voyeurlicious Design (TM) In More Ways Than One: 188 Minna #23F [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (49) | (email story)

January 13, 2009

Another Shot At A Ripening Pacific Heights Apple: 2155 Buchanan #9

Purchased for $1,000,000 in June of 2006, listed for $950,000 in November 0f 2008, and...reduced to $885,000 last week. Once again: top floor, corner, renovated, parking and in the real Pacific Heights (i.e., north of California and a block to Lafayette park).

∙ Listing: 2155 Buchanan #9 (2/1) - $885,000 [MLS]
∙ A Pacific Heights Apple Up In The Tree: 2155 Buchanan #9 [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (140) | (email story)

It’s Double Entendre Time For 46 Tingley Once Again: Go Bears!

Purchased for $620,000 in September of 2004, 46 Tingely returned to the market in December of 2007 as a potential short sale asking $599,000. In September of 2008 the single-family home in Mission Terrace was bought back by the bank for $442,717. And yesterday it returned to the market asking $472,500.

Be sure not to miss those year-old but still quite relevant (some might even say prescient) plugged-in readers' comments, especially missionite’s worksheet (just don’t forget to update those assumptions with regard to purchase price and appreciation).

∙ Listing: 46 Tingley (4/2) - $472,500 [MLS]
∙ Another Chance To Be A Hero (Or Show Your Support For The Bears) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (54) | (email story)

January 12, 2009

Less Great Expectations: 3271 Baker Drops Its New Year Asking 24%

As we first wrote about 3271 Baker when it hit the market six months ago (and was staged a bit differently):

While the stucco, tiles, wrought iron railings, doorways, beamed ceilings and wooden trim of both the overhauled façade and second floor of 3271 Baker Street are all true to the traditional Spanish/Mediterranean ethos of the house, the new first floor master suite is a bit more Ibiza (and the kitchen Italian).

And for the record, we’re not complaining (about either the suite, the island or Italy).

Asking $3,395,000 ($1,125 per square foot) in 2008, asking $2,595,000 ($860 per square foot) today. And yes, "two days" on the market (at least according to those MLS reports).

∙ Listing: 3271 Baker Street (4/2.5) - $2,595,000 [3271bakerstreet.com] [MLS]
∙ Spanish/Mediterranean Flair From Traditional To Modern: 3271 Baker [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (117) | (email story)

January 5, 2009

New Year, New Listing, And New Price (But Old Victorian Grandeur)

It’s a new year, a new listing (now an official three days on the market), and a new price (now asking $300,000/15.4% less than its asking in early December) for 908 Steiner. But it's still the same old Victorian grandeur and detail which you'll either love or hate.

∙ Listing: 908 Steiner (4/3.5) - $1,650,000 [MLS]
∙ Victorian Through And Through (For The Most Part): 908 Steiner [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)

December 24, 2008

One Rincon Hill: From The $500's $700's $500's

In the words of a plugged-in reader:

Has anyone noticed on One Rincon Hill's website, prices are stated as being from the "$500's" as opposed to the "$700's" a couple weeks ago? Not really a tip, but perhaps the developer is getting a bit more aggressive...

No word on when - or rather if - they'll be changing that "from the $700's" sign by One Rincon Hill drive. And do keep in mind that when the sales office first opened over two years ago there were at least a few units priced from the (high) $500's as well.

∙ First Impressions: One Rincon Hill Sales Center [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)

December 16, 2008

Back To The Future Past (And Then Some) For Marquee Building #403

Purchased for $551,000 in May of 2005, 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #403 returned to the market in August of 2008 asking $599,000, a sale at which would have represented average annual appreciation of roughly 2.5% over the past three years.

In September the price on the Marquee building one-bedroom was reduced to $525,000, in October to $475,000, and in November to $425,000 where it remains available today assuming a successful short sale.

We should also mention that the person who sold it for $551,000 in May of 2005 bought it for $415,000 in September of 2002. Perhaps it’s time to include that "not included in sale" chandelier.

∙ Listing: 151 Alice B. Toklas Place #403 (1/1) - $425,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)

December 10, 2008

Chelsea Park Christmas Special (But Lump Of Coal If It's Your Comp?)

It’s a “Christmas special!” at Chelsea Park as the list price for 3620 19th Street #26 has just been reduced to $799,000 (previously listed for $899,000).

Originally asking $949,000 for this 1,332 square foot three-bedroom, two-bath condo, the reduction might seem more like a lump coal, however, if considered to be your comp.

∙ Listing: 3620 19th Street #26 (3/2) - $799,000 [MLS]
∙ Changing Chelsea Park Expectations Versus Eleven Months Ago [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)

December 5, 2008

To Comp Or Not To Comp, Perhaps We Have An Answer

In August the sale of unit #421 at The Palms (555 4th Street) closed escrow with a reported contract price or $700,000, purchased for $789,000 in 2006. The sale was “subject to lender’s approval,” however, so perhaps not a “real” comp.

Then again, as a plugged-in tipster notes 555 4th Street #521 has been on the market for seven months and the price reduced five times. Now asking $699,000 after a month at $749,000, and once again, purchased for $789,000 in 2006.

Perhaps the real(ity) is so.

∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #521 (2/2) - $699,000 [MLS]
∙ The Palms (555 4th St.): Secondary Market Slowdown And Short Sale [SocketSite]
∙ To Comp Or Not To Comp, The Question Of More Than The Day [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (53) | (email story)

December 3, 2008

Ritz-Carlton Residences Penthouse Shell: Now Seeking 2006 Price?

Another $600,000 (10%) has been cut from the list price for the staged penthouse shell resale atop San Francisco’s Ritz-Carlton Residences, now asking $5,395,000. That’s $1,105,000 less than was being asked this past June, and $25,000 less than was being sought by the sales office at the end of 2006 (we're not privy to the actual contract price).

UPDATE: Assuming a plugged-in reader is right, the current "asking price, minus commission, would still be above the original purchase price." By just how much will still don't know.

∙ Listing: 690 Market #2401 (3,595 square foot shell) - $5,395,000 [MLS]
∙ The Staging (And Reduction) Of That Ritz-Carlton Penthouse Shell [SocketSite]
∙ Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market): Listed [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)

December 2, 2008

Fourteen Months Four Days On The Market For 7 Gaviota Way

Purchased for $933,000 in June of 2007 and then immediately remodeled (think new kitchen and bath on the main floor plus two new bedrooms and baths below), 7 Gaviota Way returned to the market three months later asking $1,498,000.

Now working on its fourth MLS number, and having lowered expectations at least five times over the past fourteen months but never quite enough, last week this Miraloma Park home was listed anew (now asking $1,198,000). And yes, it's an official four days on the market as far as any MLS based report or statistic is concerned.

∙ Listing: 7 Gaviota Way (4/4) - $1,198,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (82) | (email story)

November 26, 2008

Warm Thoughts Of A Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner (2008 Edition)

We’re making it Thanksgiving time tradition: a recent reduction (listed on 11/06 for $1,175,000, reduced to $1,098,000 on 11/21) and a gorgeous old stove.

Here's to hoping your pantry is plentiful along with your family and friends. Safe travels if you are (traveling). And we'll see you next week.

∙ Listing: 956-958 Sanchez (4/2) - $1,098,000 [Virtual Tour] [MLS]
∙ Conjuring Up Warm Thoughts Of A Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)

New Woodwork (And Price?) To Rival That Of Old: 3960 20th Street

The woodwork (“vertical grain fir to complete the turn-of-the century craftsman design”) caught our fancy.

Was the recent reduction (from $2,295,000 to $1,995,000) enough to catch yours?

∙ Listing: 3960 20th Street (4/3.5) - $1,995,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

November 25, 2008

Did We Mention How Much That Third Party Matters?

From the plugged-in listing agent for 835 Foerster:

We received an offer several months [ago] for $855,000. It took months to negotiate this sale price with the lenders (both a 1st and a 2nd), not to mention other costs such as back taxes, expenses, commissions, etc., etc...

The lenders unfortunately took too long to approve the payoff (and their losses), and the buyers just pulled out of the deal, citing personal and financing reasons. So yes, the lenders did approve the $855,000 price, but since the contract was submitted several months ago, we've experienced a big market shift.

We lowered to asking price to $788,000 [yesterday] and hope to take a new offer(s) to the lenders, and re-open negotiations.

As we said, while a seller and lender might agree, it's that third party (i.e., the buyer) that really matters. Once again, purchased with loans totaling $950,000 in July of 2006 up in Miraloma Park (District 4). And as always, thank you for plugging in.

∙ Listing: 835 Foerster (3/2.5) - $788,000 [MLS]
∙ While Those Two Agree, It’s A Third That Really Matters [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)

November 20, 2008

From “Very” To “Extremely” For The Seller, Decoder Ring On The Way

Purchased in March of 2002 for $975,000 but then "extensively remodeled" in 2003, 1821-23 Lyon was listed two months ago for $3,295,500, reduced a month later to $2,995,500, and then cut to $2,695,000 the day before yesterday.

According to the listing(s), the seller of has gone from being very to extremely motivated (don't worry, a SocketSite decoder ring is on the way). And “OMC2” you ask? Owner may carry second (and not to be confused with OMD, they are back together you know).

∙ Listing: 1821-1823 Lyon (5/3.5) - $2,695,000 [McGuire] [MLS]
∙ A SocketSite Guide To Price Reductions [SocketSite 3/06]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

November 19, 2008

224 Twin Peaks Boulevard: A Study In Rising Prices Yet Falling Values

Purchased for $1,360,000 a year ago (11/2/07), 224 Twin Peaks Boulevard returned to the market in June asking $1,395,000 and was subsequently reduced to $1,249,000.

Unable to find its buyer, the property has since undergone a “fantastic transformation” with the exterior, front & rear decks, landscaping, kitchen, bathrooms and floor plan all having been “beautifully brought up to date for today's lifestyle.”

Listed once again two weeks ago for $1,749,000, reduced yesterday to $1,655,000, and touting a “Motivated seller!” We’ll let you figure out just how much so.

∙ Listing: 224 Twin Peaks Boulevard (3/2) - $1,655,000 [MLS] [Old Listing]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (78) | (email story)

November 18, 2008

The Noe Valley Summit Gets Closer Still (And Listings Anew For Two)

Listed five months ago and priced at $1,949,000, and then reduced to $1,649,000 three months after that, 4121 Cesar Chavez #6 was listed anew yesterday for $1,599,000. That's an "official" two days on the Noe Valley market according to those sell side stats.

Also "newly" added to the MLS, 4121 Cesar Chavez #2 with a list price of $998,000 ($778/sqft). In the words of a plugged-in laura four months ago:

These units are indeed spectacular, particularly the upper floor units 5 &6. These won't move at their current price point and my agent (who's VERY well connected to the SF agent network) advised me to sit back and wait til this drops to at least $800 per.

As always, it's good to be connected and plugged-in.

Oh, and while 4121 Cesar Chavez #1 is now in contract with an "original" list price of $1,198,000 ($771/sqft), it's a plugged-in tipster that reminds us they were once asking $1,349,000. Remember to adjust those industry reports accordingly.

∙ Listing: 4121 Cesar Chavez St #2 (2/2.5) - $998,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 4121 Cesar Chavez St #6 (3/2.5) - $1,599,000 [MLS]
∙ It Gets A Little Easier To Reach The Summit (4121 Cesar Chavez) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 5:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)

The Latest Listing Verbiage From Chelsea Park: "Prices Slashed"

The latest listing verbiage from the sales office at Chelsea Park: "Prices slashed for stunning homes in the heart of the Castro/Mission Dolores neighborhoods! $500/day bonus for quick escrows, free parking for 5 years."

At least 18% of the 39 units in the development remain available with 7 currently listed and prices reduced by up to $100,000 (9.5%). And while originally starting at $679,000, now available from $619,000 (down 8.8%).

UPDATE: Make that reduced by up to $150,000 (14.3%):

[T]he unit (#9) Socketsite lists as $949K seems to have dropped another $50K today, it's now showing $899K. The text of the listing still says "only" $949, but the top of the listing shows the reduced price.

∙ Listing: 3620 19th Street #9 (2/2.5) - $949,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 3620 19th Street #27 (1/1) - $619,000 [MLS]
∙ Chelsea Park (Phase I): On The MLS And Opening Tomorrow (1/27) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (38) | (email story)

October 31, 2008

It’s Not Officially An Apple Until It’s Sold, But We’ve Seen This Movie…

After four weeks on the market the asking price for 1968 Greenwich has been reduced for the second time, now asking $1,800,000. Once again, purchased in May of 2005 for $2,100,000. And bonus points for the best rationalization of how we “cherry picked” this renovated District 7 apple four weeks ago when it just as easily could have sold for more.

UPDATE: And on the topic of apples, the sale of 632 Ashbury Street closed escrow today with a reported contract price of $870,000. That's $5,000 over its purchase price in November of 2005.

∙ Listing: 1968 Greenwich (3/2.5) - $1,800,000 [MLS]
∙ A Renovated Cow Hollow Apple On The Tree: 1968 Greenwich Street [SocketSite]
∙ Two Cow Hollow Apples On Greenwich Get A Little Less Green [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)

October 30, 2008

4552 19th Street Joins The High-End Half-Million Dollar Cut Club

It’s a plugged-in agent who suggests $500,000 cuts seem to be all the rage at the upper end of the market. And 4552 19th Street recently embraced the new new thing.

Completely redesigned by architect Chris McMahon and rebuilt with a few traditional touches (think new bay windows), but modern baths and solar panels "for six" up top.

A couple of big city views and a sweet little backyard retreat. Reduced from $4,299,000 after three weeks on the market, but still seeking $935 per square.

∙ Listing: 4552 19th Street (6/4.5) - $3,749,000 [4552-19thst.com] [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (80) | (email story)

208 Glenview: No Real Story, Simply A Bit Of Seasonal Color Flair

No real story, simply a bit of seasonal color flair. Oh, and recently reduced $92,000. Boo.

∙ Listing: 208 Glenview Drive (4/4) - $1,198,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (5) | (email story)

October 27, 2008

Still Drawn To The Decks (Amongst Other Things) For A Third Time

We were first drawn to the decks a little over five months ago when it was priced at $2,535,000. It was two months ago that the asking price was adjusted down to $2,348,000. And as a reader noted this weekend, 4419 19th Street is “back on the market” and asking $1,995,000 (after a one day stint at $2,295,000).

And yes, an official three days on the market according to those industry/agent reports.

∙ Listing: 4419 19th Street (3/3.5) - $1,995,000 [moderncastrohome.com] [MLS]
∙ Drawn To The Decks (But Perhaps Not The Best For Entertaining) [SocketSite]
∙ A Couple Of Recent Reductions On Properties You Might Recognize [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)

October 25, 2008

Price Cuts Of Up To 30% At Symphony Towers (750 Van Ness)

Plugged-in people knew the cuts were coming. And as one reports, they’re here. Prices at Symphony Towers (750 Van Ness) have been reduced by up to 30% or $136,000. A few examples:

∙ 750 Van Ness #T-405 (1/1) - $399,000 (was $535,000)
∙ 750 Van Ness #T-601 (1/1) - $459,000 (was $577,000)
∙ 750 Van Ness #T-602 (1/1) - $449,000 (was $565,000)
∙ 750 Van Ness #T-804 (0/1) - $295,000 (was $420,000)
∙ 750 Van Ness #T-806 (0/1) - $319,000 (was $455,000)
∙ 750 Van Ness #T-907 (0/1) - $419,000 (was $515,000)

Once again, currently around 55% sold. And with The Hayes cutting prices by up to 21%, the race for buyers in San Francisco is on. And it's plugged-in people that will win.

∙ Symphony Towers (750 Van Ness): Announcing Additional Cuts [SocketSite]
∙ Symphony Towers Update: Buying Love (But Dropping Prices Too) [SocketSite]
∙ New Development “Closeout” Sales: The Potrero And 170 Off Third [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (68) | (email story)

October 22, 2008

Two Cow Hollow Apples On Greenwich Get A Little Less Green

After three weeks on the market in the heart of Cow Hollow, it’s a new price (now asking $1,975,000) and a few new photos for the listing of 1968 Greenwich. But it’s still the same story: purchased in May of 2005 for $2,100,000.

And yes, the infamous 2243 Greenwich a few blocks to the west remains on the market as well. Currently asking $1,545,000. Purchased at the end of 2005 for $1,800,000.

∙ A Renovated Cow Hollow Apple On The Tree: 1968 Greenwich Street [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 1968 Greenwich (3/2.5) - $1,975,000 [MLS]
∙ A Little Extra Perspective On The Listing Market? (2243 Greenwich) [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 2243 Greenwich (3/2.5) - $1,545,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)

October 14, 2008

A Japanese Styled Home (And Market As Well?)

The Japanese influenced 121 Edgehill Way has fallen out of contract and its list price reduced to $1,195,000. As a plugged-in reader previously noted, “sold for $1,195,000 in February of 2006.”

We’re still suckers for the Japanese influenced design elements, but in terms of a Japanese styled real estate market...

∙ Listing: 121 Edgehill Way (4/2.5) - $1,195,000 [121edgehill.com] [MLS]
∙ From The People Person Who Brought You Green Tea In The Park [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)

Homes on Esprit Park Update: Another Round Of Reductions

In addition to rolling out (mostly) refundable purchase deposits, it appears that the Homes on Esprit Park sales office has rolled out another round of reductions as well.

The list price for 900 Minnesota #S503 has been reduced from $1,293,500 to $1,199,000 (7.3%), the list price for 900 Minnesota #S122 has been reduced from $781,000 to $740,000 (now under $600 per square), and the list price for 900 Minnesota #S116 has been reduced from $613,000 to $582,000 (now under six hundered thousand).

And if our counts are correct, roughly 35% of the 142 units are now in contract, up from 25% in May, and representing a little under three net new contracts a month (with just over 90 to go).

∙ Listing: 900 Minnesota #S116 (1/1.5) - $582,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 900 Minnesota #S122 (1/2) - $740,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 900 Minnesota #S503 (2/2.5) - $1,199,000 [MLS]
∙ Homes On Esprit Park: Now Offering Refundable Purchase Deposits [SocketSite]
∙ Homes On Esprit Park (900 Minnesota) Sales Update: 25% In Contract [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)

October 8, 2008

Second Mover's Advantage In Noe Valley? (1278-1282 Church Street)

While 1278 Church Street closed escrow on 9/19/08 with a reported contract price of $1,368,000 ($27,000/2% under asking), the list prices on the other two new TIC's in the building have just been reduced: 1280 Church by $66,000 (5.3%) and 1282 Church by $70,000 (5.4%). Plus, "seller will [now] buy down your interest rate!"

And speaking of listings on Church Street...

∙ Newish Construction In Noe: Three TICs At 1278-1282 Church Street [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 1280 Church Street (3/3) - $1,245,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1282 Church Street (3/2) - $1,365,000 (TIC) [MLS]
∙ It’s Friday, So Insert Cheeky Comment Here (943 Church Street #B) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)

October 3, 2008

Symphony Towers Update: Buying Love (But Dropping Prices Too)

Symphony Towers (750 Van Ness) is now offering brokers 4% commissions as well, with studios starting at $329,000 (down from around $350,000 when they first opened a year ago and buyers lined up to buy).

And in terms of sales, as best we can tell Symphony Towers is around 55% sold which would mean roughly 15 net new contracts over the past ten months. At this rate the development should be sold out by 2012.

∙ The SocketSite Scoop On Sales At Symphony Towers (750 Van Ness) [SocketSite]
∙ One Rincon Hill Update: Now Offering 4% Commissions [SocketSite]
∙ Symphony Towers: A SocketSite Reader Reports On Opening Day [SocketSite]
∙ Symphony Towers Update: 45% In Contract And Opening February 08 [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (28) | (email story)

October 2, 2008

One Of The Four Copper Clad Condos Atop 17th Street Hits The MLS

Seven months ago two for the four “copper clad condos” atop 17th Street hit the MLS. Listed for $1,399,000 ($774/sqft), 4588 17th Street closed escrow two months later on 5/20/08 with a reported contract price of $1,390,000 ($769/sqft). And at the time 4590 17th Street was listed for $1,349,000 ($785/sqft) but never sold.

Last week 4590 17th Street returned to the market with a new listing, an official seven days on the market, and now asking $1,299,000 ($756/sqft).

∙ Listing: 4590 17th Street (3/3.5) 1,718 sqft - $1,299,000 [MLS]
∙ Two Of The Four Copper Clad Condos Atop 17th Street Hit The MLS [SocketSite]
∙ Copper (And Wood) Clad And Coming Semi-Soon At 17th And Clayton [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)

October 1, 2008

In Need Of Some Attention (In More Ways Than One): 1773 15th Ave

Down the street from 1915 15th Avenue (which has fallen out of contract) lies 1773. Listed in November of 2007 for $1,600,000 (amid a chorus of neighborhood high fives) the listing noted “A Must see!” and soon thereafter added “Motivated Seller! Bring in any offers!”

In December of 2007 the list price was first reduced to $1,550,000 and then to $1,499,000. In January of 2008 the list price was first reduced to $1,399,000 and then to $1,188,000. And in February the house was briefly in contract.

In early April 2008 “short sales, already have the 1st lender’s approval, and waiting for 2nd lender’s approval” was added to the notes as were two exclamation points after “Motivated Seller!!!” And two weeks later the property shed those pesky days on the market and reset the MLS clock with a new listing at $1,188,000.

Four days ago 1773 15th Avenue returned to the market once again. Now asking $949,000 and noting “an original condition property which needs some attention.” Agreed.

∙ Listing: 1773 15th Avenue (4/3.5) - $949,000 [Vanguard via Pacific Union]
∙ What’s 140 Days On The Market And $280,000 Between Friends? [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)

September 29, 2008

A Quick Cut (And Case Of Cash Back?) For 310 Townsend #308

Priced by the developer at $611,000 when the building first opened in February of 2007, 310 Townsend #308 closed escrow in June of 2007 with a reported contract price of $617,500 (no word on whether we're talking upgrades or another case of “cash back”).

Back on the market two weeks ago with an asking price of $629,000 (a sale at which would have represented average annual appreciation of roughly 1.4% over the past sixteen months), the list price has since been cut to $599,000.

∙ Listing: 310 Townsend #308 (1/1) - $599,000 [MLS]
∙ 310 Townsend: Available And Selling [SocketSite]
∙ Can Bank Owned Comps Kill (Values)? 246 2nd Street #502 Returns [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)

152 Banks In Bernal Heights Reduced (And Not Moving So Fast)

To recap: 152 Banks in Bernal Heights was purchased for $675,000 in July of 2005; sold in April of 2006 for $900,000; appears to have been bought back by the bank three weeks ago; and returned to the market two weeks ago for $749,900 (“will go fast at 750K” according to one rather bullish "anon[ymous]" commenter). Just reduced to $699,900.

As a plugged-in reader notes, “just hope no one used that silly $900K price a few years ago as a comp!”

∙ Listing: 152 Banks (3/2) - $699,900 [MLS]
∙ Bad Data In Bernal Heights Or Something Else Afoot? (152 Banks) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)

September 26, 2008

One Day On The Market (But You Might Have Seen This View Before)

Five months ago 175 Grand View Avenue hit the market with a list price of $1,200,000.

Reduced to $1,149,000 a month later (“New price! Condo alternative!”), and then to $1,090,000 about a month after that, it’s now back on the MLS with a new listing, one official day on the market (average DOM statistics anyone?), and asking $995,000.

∙ Listing: 175 Grand View Avenue (2/2) - $995,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)

Not A Perfectly Clean Apple In Bernal, But You'll Get The Gist

After three weeks on the market the list price for 22 Coleridge on the edge of Bernal has been dropped from $599,000 to $587,000. Purchased in April of 2005 for $607,000.

Unfortunately it's not a perfectly clean “apple” as the kitchen was completely renovated in 2006 (new cabinets, appliances, flooring, etc.), but you'll get the gist. And as a plugged-in reader notes, “seller is a licensed real estate agent.” You know, in the trenches and all.

∙ Listing: 22 Coleridge (1/1) - $587,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (41) | (email story)

September 23, 2008

Cow Hollow Contemporary (And Apparent Foreclosure): 215 Moulton

As a plugged-in tipster notes, 215 Moulton “in the heart of Cow Hollow” appears to have been bought back by the bank with a loan balance of $1,893,000 this past July.

And while the contract price for its previous sale in November of 2007 doesn’t appear to be public, we will note a 2008 tax assessed value of $1,800,000 for this District 7 single-family contemporary townhouse.

Listed in April prior to foreclosure for $1,895,000, reduced to $1,795,000 in July, and currently asking $1,750,000.

∙ Listing: 215 Moulton (3/3.5) - $1,750,000 [215moulton.com] [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)

September 22, 2008

1515 Lyon: Now “Totally Upgraded” (And Asking A Little Less)

While it was a fairly clean apple six months ago when listed for $1,389,000 (or a few months later for $1,369,000), this single-family home (with off street parking) in Lower Pacific Heights has been “TOTALLY UPGRADED” since.

That being said, the list price for 1515 Lyon has once again been reduced (now asking $1,275,000) as have its official days on the market (now four). Purchased just under two years ago (10/25/06) for the same ($1,275,000).

∙ Listing: 1515 Lyon (3/3) - $1,275,000 [MLS]
∙ A Single-Family Apple On The Tree In Lower Pacific Heights [SocketSite]
∙ An Apple Is Withdrawn Without Selling (But Quickly Returns As New) [SocketSite]
∙ An Old Listing Suddenly Returns (While The New One Disappears) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)

September 16, 2008

Nothing To See Here (Unless 2924 19th Avenue Was Once Your Comp)

Once again, purchased for $1,030,000 in August of 2005 establishing a comp by which other neighborhood (District 3) single-family homes were priced and valued.

2924 19th Avenue returned to the market as a “short sale” at the beginning of August with a list price of $988,000. Reduced to $899,000. Then to $849,000. And now asking $799,000 (a sale at which would represent a 22.4% drop in value).

And while it is a rather busy location, it isn't any busier than it was in 2005.

∙ Listing: 2924 19th Avenue (3/2) - $899,000 [MLS]
∙ The Comps They Are A Changing: The Short Sale Of 2924 19th Avenue [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (42) | (email story)

September 10, 2008

From Eight Eight Eight To Nine Nine Nine Nine For 76 Caselli

Last month 76 Caselli returned to the market on 8/8/08 with a list price of $2,288,800 ($269,200 under what it was listed for three months prior). Our questions at the time: "Will those triple eights be auspicious? Will it be enough to make tipster jump?"

Apparently not (on either account). As a plugged-in reader notes, yesterday the list price for 76 Caselli was reduced to $1,999,900. That’s what "tipster" gets for waiting.

∙ Listing: 76 Caselli (3/3.5) - $1,999,900 [MLS]
∙ Eight Eight Eight On Eight Eight Oh Eight: An Auspicious Return? [SocketSite]
∙ Our First And Second Thoughts For The Recently Reduced 76 Caselli [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)

Never Mind The Nine Reductions, Focus On The Previous Sale (Comp)

Once again, a challenging Cow Hollow location (although no more so now than when purchased for $1,800,000 in October of 2005); briefly in contract earlier this year after being reduced from $2,195,000 to $1,745,000 (damn those wily buyers, or perhaps banks); and after nine reductions, now asking $1,595,000 (11.4% below its previous sale).

∙ Listing: 2243 Greenwich (6/5) - $1,595,000 [MLS]
∙ A Little Extra Perspective On The Listing Market? (2243 Greenwich) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (33) | (email story)

September 9, 2008

Now Priced To Catch Your Attention (As It Did Ours): 1578 Indiana #8

Considering the size (1,410 square feet), layout (dual bathrooms and lofts), and upgrades (the glass railings are working for us), the current $600,000 list price for 1578 Indiana Street #8 caught our attention (as it was designed to do). Then again, so did the fact that it was originally listed for $735,000 four days ago (when we passed it by).

UPDATE: As a plugged-in reader notes, is $600,000 is the new “made you look” black?

∙ Listing: 1578 Indiana Street #8 (1/2) - $600,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)

September 5, 2008

It Gets A Little Easier To Reach The Summit (4121 Cesar Chavez)

List prices haven’t fallen to reader laura’s $800 per square foot target at The Summit, but the asking price for 4121 Cesar Chavez #6 has dropped from $1,949,000 ($1,029/sqft) to $1,649,000 ($871/sqft) over the past three months.

The list price for 4121 Cesar Chavez #3 has also been reduced (from $1,499,000 to $1,379,000). And while we don't know if any of the six condos have closed escrow, and if so at what prices, at least three of the Noe Valley units remain listed and available.

∙ Listing: 4121 Cesar Chavez St #6 (3/2.5) - $1,649,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 4121 Cesar Chavez St #3 (2/2.5) - $1,379,000 [MLS]
∙ Coming Soon: The Six Unit Summit In Noe Valley (4121 Cesar Chavez) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (58) | (email story)

The Staging (And Reduction) Of That Ritz-Carlton Penthouse Shell

Plugged-in people might recall the empty 3,595 square foot penthouse shell at San Francisco’s Ritz-Carlton Residences known as 690 Market #2401. And as a tipster notes, while it's still a shell, it's no longer empty. Yes, it's been "staged."

And while some furnishings (and "un-fixed" fixtures) have been added, a half-million dollars have been taken away. Now asking $5,995,000 (down from $6,500,000 in June).

∙ Listing: 690 Market #2401 (3,595 square feet) - $5,995,000 [MLS]
∙ A Concerning Comp (And Empty Shell) At The Ritz-Carlton Residences [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (27) | (email story)

September 4, 2008

Another $1,000 A Day In “Built-In” Equity On Potrero Hill?

Purchased for $435,000 in July of 2005, the listing for 2225 23rd Street #310 has been advertising “Bank APPROVED SHORT SALE! JUST WRITE OFFER & CLOSE WITHIN 30 DAYS!! IMMEDIATE 10% BUILT-IN EQUITY!” for the past thirty days. Yesterday the list price was reduced from $363,000 to $333,000. Another 8.3% of “built-in" equity?

And then there’s 2225 23rd Street #218 in the same Potrero Court complex. Purchased in 1999 for $183,000, but refinanced in 2001, it’s simply a “Pre-foreclosre Opportunty!” [sic and sic] with a list price that has been reduced from $333,000 to $299,000.

A few other relatively recent sales of same sized condos (602 square feet) in the Potrero Court development: 2250 23rd Street #122, $385,000 on 4/11/08 (had previously sold for $457,000 in June of 2005); 2250 23rd Street #334, $400,000 on 5/22/08 (purchased for $180,000 in March of 1999); and 2225 23rd Street #318, $400,000 on 5/30/08 (purchased for $300,000 in July of 2002).

∙ Listing: 2225 23rd Street #310 (1/1) - $333,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 2225 23rd Street #218 (1/1) - $299,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)

August 25, 2008

Heritage Fillmore: And Then There Were Five (And Up To $230K Off)

From the Heritage on Fillmore sales office in June by way of a plugged-in reader:

Thank you to all who participated in our Heritage on Fillmore survey. The feedback we received was very informative. You spoke, and we listened. Price was your biggest concern, so we are answering this concern with some amazing pricing specials on our remaining 7 homes!

> 1104, 1 Bed/1 Bath, -$42,000, Now $695,000
> Penthouse 1-E, 1 Bed/1 Bath, -$40,000, Now $690,000
> 604, 2 Bed/2 Bath, -$46,000, Now $765,000
> 1003, 2 Bed/2 Bath, -$50,000, Now $825,000
> 1102, 2 Bed/2 Bath, -$40,000, Now $975,000
> Penthouse 2-C, 2 Bed/2 Bath, -$65,000, Now $905,000
> Penthouse 2-A, 2 Bed+/2 Bath, -$100,000, Now $1,125,000

To further increase the value of these homes, they've been upgraded to include hardwood flooring, designer carpeting, stainless steel appliances, large capacity washer & dryer, refrigerator, indoor exclusive use parking and much more!

It's two months later, and while two have sold, it's even more amazing pricing on the last five:

> 1104, Reduced another $45,000 and SOLD
> Penthouse 1-E, Reduced another $40,000, Now $650,000
> 604, SOLD
> 1003, Still asking $825,000
> 1102, Reduced another $25,000, Now $950,000
> Penthouse 2-C, Reduced another $15,000, Now $890,000
> Penthouse 2-A, Reduced another $130,000, Now $995,000

And yes, that's now a total of $230,000 off (plus upgrades) for Penthouse 2-A.

∙ Heritage On Fillmore Update: 90% Sold, Reductions And Incentives [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (36) | (email story)

Let’s Do The Time Warp Again (In Glen Park): 461 Chenery

It’s a plugged-in tipster with a good memory that notes another price cut for the bank owned 461 Chenery in Glen Park. The property was first noted by a SocketSite reader in May soon after it was bought back by the bank on 5/12/08 for $601,343 and subsequently listed on 5/19/08 for $669,900.

After a month on the market the list price was reduced to $629,900, after another month to $599,900, and after another month (five days ago) to $539,900. As best we can tell, the pre-bank owner had purchased the property for $485,000 in January of 2003 (and had pre-spent a bit of that “appreciation”).

From our tipster (and prior to anyone wrongly screaming “schadenfreude!”):

Interesting to see what it goes for given that it is very much walking distance to BART.

Huge fan of the site and bought a house in the Glen Park area 13 months ago. Jealous of this listing price for sure but let’s see where the sale price comes in because it is still well above 2 bedroom rent for cash flow.

Oh, and the current Zillow “Zestimate”: $776,500 (with a “low” of $628,965).

∙ Listing: 461 Chenery (2/1) - $539,900 [MLS]
∙ March S&P/Case-Shiller: San Francisco MSA Declines, Top Tier Flat [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (98) | (email story)

August 22, 2008

If $550,000 Were A Rounding Error, Would $2,000,000 Be As Well?

Purchased for $9,500,000 last fall (including the lot next door), initially seeking $11,500,000 (according to its website) and then officially listed for $10,950,000 last month (with the later two prices not including the lot next door), the list price for 2151 Green Street has been reduced $2,000,000. Now asking $8,950,000.

The lot next door? It's no longer listed for $24,500,000 fully developed, but as a plugged-in reader notes, now asking $5,900,000 as an entitled lot.

∙ Listing: 2151 Green Street (6/5) - $8,950,000 [2151green.com] [MLS]
∙ Listing: 2157 Green Street (entitled lot) - $5,900,000 [MLS]
∙ But Hey, $550,000 Is Simply A Rounding Error To A Proper Industrialist [SocketSite]
∙ The Scoop On 2157 Green Street (Could You See The Foreshadowing?) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (31) | (email story)

The "Best Deal" In SoMa Nine Months Ago, A "Motivated Seller" Today

About nine months ago 246 2nd Street #1306 hit the market with a list price of $939,000, quickly shaved $20,000 off the asking, and added the following line to the property description: "Now Best Deal in SOMA: GO!" As far as we know, nobody went.

Last week 246 2nd Street #1306 returned to the MLS with a list price of $859,000. The new line: "Motivated seller: priced to sell."

Now about those bank owned comps that "don't really matter"...

∙ Listing: 246 2nd Street #1306 (2/2) 1,101 sqft - $859,000 [MLS]
∙ Something Tells Us That “By Far” Wasn’t By Accident [SocketSite]
∙ It's A Good Thing Those Bank Owned Comps Don't Matter, Right? [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 5:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (73) | (email story)

August 21, 2008

The Comps They Are A Changing: The Short Sale Of 2924 19th Avenue

Purchased for $1,030,000 in August of 2005, and establishing a new neighborhood comp at the time, 2924 19th Avenue (a single-family home in District 3) returned to the market two weeks ago with a list price of $988,000 and advertising “short sale.” And yesterday, the potential sale became a little shorter as the list price was reduced to $899,000.

Yes, the comps they are a changing. And once again, painting a very different picture of what's happening in the market versus any change in median sales price or even average dollars per square foot for homes sold in the neighborhood over the past three years.

∙ Listing: 2924 19th Avenue (3/2) - $899,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

August 19, 2008

The Hayes (55 Page): Current Pricing, Incentives And A Reduction

Current list prices for The Hayes (55 Page) above. And while developers do prefer to offer “incentives” (currently “up to” $25,000 at The Hayes, up from $20,000 in March) rather than to lower prices (it helps hide any reductions and keeps the comps up), we will note that 55 Page #611 was originally listed on the MLS at $599,000 (versus $579,000 above).

∙ The Building Through The Trees: The Hayes (55 Page) Opens Up [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)

August 11, 2008

A Couple Of Recent Reductions On Properties You Might Recognize

As previously noted, 4419 19th Street returned to the market last week with the same list price of three months before. And after just five days back, said price has now been reduced $187,000 (7.4%). We remain drawn to the decks (and kitchen).

Over at Heritage on Fillmore (1310 Fillmore), while the listing for 1310 Fillmore #PH1E still notes, “Last opportunity! Only one left at the low price of $690,000,” on Thursday the price was reduced another $40,000 (5.8%). And the next day #1104 hit the MLS with a price $650,000 as well (so make that at least two).

In terms of two-bedrooms (of which at least four remain available), the list price on 1310 Fillmore #PH2A has been reduced another $130,000 (11.6%), now asking $995,000 or $230,000 (18.8%) below its original list price of $1,225,000 last year.

∙ Listing: 4419 19th Street (3/3.5) - $2,348,000 [MLS]
∙ Drawn To The Decks (But Perhaps Not The Best For Entertaining) [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 1310 Fillmore #PH1E (1/1) - $650,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 1310 Fillmore #PH2A (2/2) - $995,000 [MLS]
∙ Heritage On Fillmore Update: 90% Sold, Reductions And Incentives [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (69) | (email story)

August 8, 2008

Eight Eight Eight On Eight Eight Oh Eight: An Auspicious Return?

From a plugged-in "tipster" when it was listed for $2,458,000 two months ago:

That's a first class job and a reasonable price in a great neighborhood. They really did everything well. The only thing missing is the market....If I didn't think I could get something like this next year for even less, I'd jump on it.

From one (not the) secret agent "sanfrantim" a few moments later:

Very nice. At the new price ($877 psf), this will sell fast (just not to tipster).

And from the newly minted listing today: $2,288,800 ($817 psf).

Will those triple eights be auspicious? Will it be enough to make tipster jump? We'll keep you posted. And of course, plugged in.

UPDATE: Although those beautiful rear stairs don't appear to have made the cut this time around, listing photos are now online.

UPDATE (8/9): The stairs are back (along with a handful of other photos).

∙ Listing: 76 Caselli (3/3.5) - $2,288,800 [MLS]
∙ Our First And Second Thoughts For The Recently Reduced 76 Caselli [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (87) | (email story)

August 7, 2008

We’ll Wait For The Closing To See (And Know) For Sure, But...

From a plugged-in "cornbread" with respect to 4086 25th Street two weeks ago: "It's going to need a 'very healthy level of demand' now to hit $2.4m in this market." Check.

From the MLS today: Reduced $396,000 (now asking $1,999,000).

∙ 4086 25th Street Is On The Market (And At Least We're On The Ball) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)

August 5, 2008

Same "Great Investment" (Only Now For $101,000 Less): 2136 18th

It still appears to be very much tenant occupied (and continues to tout “Location Location Location!”). And while it quickly went into escrow eleven months ago when listed for $750,000, it never closed. And the price was subsequently reduced (twice). Now asking $649,000).

The year old comment from reader Brad we just can’t shake:

My coworker (his wife is a realtor) just told me this was a great investment and I should buy up. I am not kidding.

Well, it's still the same "great investment," only now for $101,000 less. Wait a minute...

∙ Listing: 2136 18th Street (1/1) - $649,000 [MLS]
∙ Why Get All Gussied Up When It's "Location, Location, Location!" [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

A Shorter Set Of Lyon Street Steps (And A Few Numbers): 2601 Lyon

Purchased for $5,750,000 in March of 2000 and renovated "with quality and luxury" in 2002, the "Villa" at 2601 Lyon Street is once again on the market and asking $8,250,000.

A few other numbers to play with: $4,025,000 (the variable rate loan balance in 2000); 6.7% (the average 1-year mortgage rate in March of 2000); and 4,146 (the square footage of the renovated property).

As an aside and across the street, after a little over a year on the market (but "officially" only 88 days), 2500 Lyon is advertising a "New Price" (reduced to $7,950,000 two weeks ago, asking $9,800,000 in June of 2007) and a “New Look." Still seeking a "New Buyer."

∙ Listing: 2601 Lyon (4/3) - $8,250,000 [MLS]
∙ The Hanging Gardens Of San Francisco: 2500 Lyon [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)

August 1, 2008

Oh Jeeze, Here We Go Again (356 Santana Row #306 In San Jose)

Having hit the market two months ago for $4,000,000 and boasting $750,000 in upgrades, the asking price for 356 Santana Row #306 was quickly dropped to $3,500,000 after two weeks, and two days ago was dropped to $3,300,000.

And while Santana Row isn’t in San Francisco, it’s a plugged-in tipster that notes its “oh jeeze” San Francisco ties. Or should we say, oh “G’s”...

∙ Listing: 356 Santana Row #306 (4/4) 3,856 sqft - $3,300,000 [306villacornet.com]
∙ Infinity Penthouse Unit 37B: Before And After (And The Budget) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)

July 23, 2008

A Little Extra Perspective On The Listing Market? (2243 Greenwich)

As any truly plugged-in person should know, the location of 2243 Greenwich is a bit more problematic than any of the tightly cropped listing photos might suggest.

And as such, that’s most likely why this six-bedroom Cow Hollow home sold for only $1,800,000 at the end of 2005 (and became an asterisked neighborhood comp).

And while it was briefly in escrow when it was listed for $1,745,000, it is no longer. And the price has once again been reduced. Asking $2,195,000 five months ago. Asking $1,695,000 today (5.8% below its selling price in 2005).

∙ Listing: 2243 Greenwich (6/5) - $1,695,000 [MLS]
∙ A Little Extra Perspective On The Listing: 2243 Greenwich [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (24) | (email story)

Think Of The Decorating Damage You Could Do At DWR With 100 Grand

It’s a Henry Hill home up in Forest Hill that you’ve seen before. The only difference now? Expectations and asking price (just reduced $100,000 or 7%).

∙ Listing: 2245 9th Ave (3/2.5) - $1,295,000 [MLS]
∙ Flamboyant modernism: Henry Hill's stellar taste and love... [SFGate]
∙ And After the Power Outage And Subsequent Storm…A Pool! [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (22) | (email story)

July 21, 2008

Exceptional, Exquisite, And Impeccable...And Now Reduced As Well

719 Ashbury remains "exceptional," "exquisite," and "impeccable." And as of this afternoon, it's now “REDUCED!” – by $200,000 or 7.7% – as well.

∙ Listing: 719 Ashbury (5/3.5) - $2,395,000 [MLS]
∙ From Anarchists & Hell’s Angels To Exquisite And No Arguments Here [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)

July 17, 2008

The Palms (555 4th St.): Secondary Market Slowdown And Short Sale

Of the 300 condos at The Palms (555 4th Street), sixteen (16) are currently listed for sale with none currently in contract.

Of those sixteen, four appear to be developer sales (through what’s left of the sales office), at least five have been reduced in price, and at least one (a two-bedroom) is soliciting a short sale (purchased for $789,000 in 2006, listed for $868,000 three months ago, and asking $750,000 “subject to lender’s approval” for the past five weeks).

We also can't help but note that while 555 4th Street #629 has been described as “The Palm's Largest Residence!” with “Over 2100 square feet of luxury” for 111 days, ten days ago 555 4th Street #107 hit the market advertising a “spacious 2585 square feet.”

∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #107 (3/3) - $1,759,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #421 (2/2) - $750,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 555 4th Street #629 (4/3) - $2,395,000 [MLS]
∙ Apparently Only Eight Condos Left At The Palms (555 4th Street) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (56) | (email story)

July 14, 2008

At Least Some Of The Photos Look To Be "New" As Well: 2170 Pacific

Having been listed at $3,445,000 and $3,345,000 earlier this year, the new listing for 2170 Pacific isn’t entirely (new that is). But along with the asking price ($3,250,000) and "days on the market" (two), a few of the photos are (with details we can’t help but admire).

∙ 2170 Pacific Avenue (3/3.5) - $3,250,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (9) | (email story)

July 8, 2008

It’s Time For Another Industry Report Asterisk (2100 Vallejo Edition)

On Sunday the listing for 2100 Vallejo “expired” along with its 214 days on the market (DOM), original list price of $25,000,000, and subsequent $2,000,000 reduction. On Monday, however, a new listing appeared.

Official MLS days on the market for purposes of industry reporting: one (1). And its new "original" list price: $23,000,000 (which includes the garden/lot next door).

∙ Listing: 2100 Vallejo (5/5.5) - $23,000,000 [MLS]
∙ It Might Not Have A Name, But It’s A Vallejo Mansion Nonetheless [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)

June 23, 2008

A Concerning Comp (And Empty Shell) At The Ritz-Carlton Residences

Last week #1805 at San Francisco’s Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market) closed escrow with a reported contract price of $1,300,000. Not too shabby considering it’s a one-bedroom. But perhaps a bit concerning considering the sales office was asking $1,505,000.

It’s definitely something to consider if you’re interested in #1905 one floor above (still listed by the sales office for $1,525,000), or #1705 one floor below (which “motivated sellers” are now offering for $1,450,000, down from $1,499,000 five months prior).

Also back on the market, the 3,595 square foot penthouse shell known as #2401. Current asking price: $6,500,000 (offered by the sales office for $5,420,000 in 2006).

UPDATE: From a trusted plugged-in tipster: "I've heard that one-third of the Ritz units fell out of escrow. I gather some buyers were upset that the retail space, which was supposed to be a restaurant, will instead be spun off as a commercial condo and sold to a bank. Also, gym has been delayed by quite a bit."

∙ Listing: 690 Market #1705 (1/1.5) - $1,450,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1905 (1/1.5) - $1,525,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #2401 (3,595 square feet) - $6,500,000 [MLS]
∙ Reductions And Returns At The Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market) [SocketSite]
∙ Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market): Listed [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (62) | (email story)

June 11, 2008

Will A Winner's Curse (And Subsequent Relocation) Be Your Reward?

From a plugged-in tipster two weeks ago: "This house was sold in late March for 1.4 million and is back on the market for 1.45 million. The owner is relocating. It's beautiful but no parking..." Last week the list price was reduced $50,000.

From the listing today: "Price reduced an additional $50,000! Motivated sellers are ready for offers."

There's nothing quite like more perfect information. And if you really wanted it three months ago (but lost out to a higher bidder), consider this your reward today. Just don't forget those invitations to the housewarming (or to hire a valet we'll take Muni).

∙ Listing: 1081 Church (2/2) - $1,350,000 [1081church.com] [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (138) | (email story)

June 10, 2008

And On His Little Urban Farm He Grew A Little Apple...

Purchased for $749,000 in March of 2007, another one of the four little Donald MacDonald “Urban Townhouses” on Hermann (396) didn’t find a buyer at $795,000 (which would have represented annual appreciation of roughly 5%) and is now asking $779,000 (which would represent annual appreciation of closer to 3%).

And while these little homes aren’t everybody’s cup of tea, we do happen to like little spaces, big windows, and wood burning fireplaces (not to mention the neighborhood).

UPDATE: We also should have noted that 398 Hermann (the little blue one next door which benefits from one less shared wall and a few extra windows) closed escrow on 11/30/2007 with a reported contract price of $747,000.

∙ Listing: 396 Hermann (2/1) - $779,000 [MLS]
∙ One Of Four Little Donald MacDonald Urban Townhouses On Hermann [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (56) | (email story)

June 9, 2008

Our First And Second Thoughts For The Recently Reduced 76 Caselli

Our first thoughts upon noticing the $100,000 (3.8%) reduction for 76 Caselli: Tips From Brokers on How to Renovate [a NYC] Apartment. (Ironically, “Sellers are licensed real estate agents.”) Our second thoughts? We’re rather enamored with those rear stairs.

∙ Listing: 76 Caselli (3/3.5) - $2,458,000 [MLS]
∙ Tips from brokers on how to renovate [a NYC] apartment: Start in Neutral [NYTimes]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)

June 6, 2008

At Least Five Condos Remaining At Park Terrace And Cuts Up To 11%

While we don’t have an official update (readers?), we have a feeling there might be more inventory remaining at Park Terrace than just the five units listed above. Regardless, published reductions of up to 11% (and perhaps more not in writing).

UPDATE: And a plugged-in reader kindly responds: "Last I heard they had 14 units left, so if two sold, then that leaves ~12 units in their inventory..."

∙ Park Terrace (325 Berry) Sales Update: Now 70% Sold? [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)

June 5, 2008

Perhaps The Views Aren’t The Only Thing To See: 3911-17 19th Street

It’s not exactly an apple but it is kind of interesting (and perhaps the views and architecture aren’t the only things to “see”). From a plugged-in reader seven weeks ago:

It's not quite a tip, but 3911 19th Street is on the market now. 3917 19th street, designed by the same architect [James Shay] with essentially the same floor plan, and built at the same time, sold in December for 2.095. 3911 is listed for 2.295. My agent says the additional 300 sqft (over four levels?) justifies the higher price, and that the seller will be reviewing offers on Wednesday [4/16]. I guess we'll see.

A week later the list price was reduced $100,000. And a month after that (two days ago) the list price was reduced another $100,000. Currently asking $2,095,000 (additional 300 square feet and all).

No word on what our reader's agent is saying now.

∙ Listing: 3911 19th Street (4/3) - $2,095,000 [MLS] [Virtual Tour]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | (email story)

May 28, 2008

Noise, Dust, Or Design In Noe Valley? Or Could It Be Something Else?

While 326 Valley will most likely benefit from the past tense construction next door, the rather beautiful 1217 Dolores might be suffering a bit from the future tense construction next to it (the list price was recently reduced $225,000 or 8.7%). From our tipster:

[1217 Dolores] was well received but no offers….All agree the house is great but the construction scheduled for the lot next door has scared away potential buyers. Surprising it hasn’t sold.

So is it noise, dust, or neighboring design? Who’s got the drawings? And is it possible that the surprise could actually be symptomatic of something else?

UPDATE: Still no drawings, but from a plugged-in reader: "I did some research on the next door development. It appears that someone (not me...) bought 1225 Dolors for $1.05M in Aug '06 and filed two permits: one to demolish the garage, which was approved and another one to erect 4 story building with 3 condos. The 2nd permit is still pending approval."

∙ Listing: 1217 Dolores (5/3.5) - $2,375,000 [1217dolores.com] [MLS]
∙ A Neighbor Notices Another Noe Valley Apple On The Tree: 326 Valley [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (35) | (email story)

May 22, 2008

Can Bank Owned Comps Kill (Values)? 246 2nd Street #502 Returns

Two months ago we noted the “Newest Comp For A Two-Bedroom Condo At 246 2nd Street” when the bank owned #1302 closed escrow with a reported contract price of $775,000 (roughly $125K below what #902 sold for late last year and exactly $220K below what the seller of #502 was asking at the time).

As we wrote at the time: Damn those unemotional sellers to hell. And once again, that’s not likely to be a neighbor(hood) pleaser.

And as a plugged-in reader notes today: 246 2nd Street #502 has returned to the market with a list price of $739,900. That’s a reduction of $255,100. And more noteworthy, that’s $210,100 less than what was paid for the condo over three years prior (12/9/05).

Now about whether or not those bank owned sales in San Francisco (however few and far between) are irrelevant or meaningless...

UPDATE: An excerpt from a plugged-in reader’s comment that shouldn’t be missed: “According to mls records that agents have records to. It sold for $950,000 in 12/05 but with a $110,000 credit to buyer at closing. I am quite sure this was never disclosed to the actual lending bank. NEVER would have flown.”

∙ The Newest Comp For A Two-Bedroom Condo At 246 2nd Street [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 246 2nd Street #502 (2/2) - $739,900 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)

Perhaps It Wasn’t Just Marketing: 1635 Castro Sheds Another $100K

If you liked it or expected it to fly at $1,495,000, perhaps you’ll love it or really expect it to fly at $1,400,000. The latest listing language for 1635 Castro: “The deal of the year!”

∙ Listing: 1635 Castro (3/2) - $1,400,000 [MLS]
∙ It Might Just Be Marketing, But What The Heck: 1635 Castro Street [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (64) | (email story)

May 19, 2008

310 Townsend Update: 93% "Sold" (And Reductions Of Up To 23%)

While originally priced from $869,000 to $975,000 fifteen months ago, the three “remaining new homes” at 310 Townsend were recently listed from $750,000 to $775,000 (representing reductions of between fourteen and twenty-three percent). All three listings are also advertising $20,000 in additional incentives (another 2-3% of the purchase price).

No word on how many/if any of the other forty-three (43) units have been retained by the developer rather than sold.

∙ Listing: 310 Townsend #105 (2/2) - $750,000 [MLS] [Floor Plan]
∙ Listing: 310 Townsend #209 (2/2) - $750,000 [MLS] [Floor Plan]
∙ Listing: 310 Townsend #310 (2/2) - $775,000 [MLS] [Floor Plan]
∙ 310 Townsend: Available And Selling [SocketSite 10/07]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)

May 7, 2008

It Might Just Be Marketing, But What The Heck: 1635 Castro Street

With only two weeks on the market it might just be marketing, but the list price on 1635 Castro (Noe Valley) was just reduced $100,000 (6.3%) and the listing now notes, “Owner is motivated, has bought another house.”

If nothing else, we are quite enamored with that sunroom and deck. And okay, perhaps the kitchen too.

∙ Listing: 1635 Castro (3/2) - $1,495,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)

May 5, 2008

Reader’s Reports: Homes On Esprit Park Now Starting From $549,000

A plugged-in reader in the market for a home at Homes on Esprit Park receives an email from the sales office alluding to some new pricing (“can't release the pricing via email”) with a request to call.

I just spoke with them, and found that some 855 SqF units have just been released for $549k, well under the $600k they were asking for similars across the courtyard just a few weeks ago when I went on a hard hat tour of the site.

Interested parties (and price guarantee holders) take note (or action).

∙ 900 Minnesota: Now And Then [SocketSite]
∙ Homes On Esprit Park: The Foreshadowing Comes To Fruition [SocketSite]
∙ A Price Guarantee From (And Proof Of Price Reductions At) Esprit Park [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (6) | (email story)

May 1, 2008

The Potrero Update: 85% Sold And Offering 12 Months Paid Mortgage

According to a plugged-in tipster, The Potrero has moved roughly 25 units over the past five months (~5 per month) and is now 85% sold with 25 condos left to move. And as of today, the sales team is offering twelve months of paid mortgage payments on any of the remaining units (versus only six months on one-bedrooms earlier this year).

The Potrero Sales Team is proud to announce an unbelievable, limited-time incentive - No Mortgage Payments for 1 Year* on any of our 25 remaining homes! This offer starts May 1st and must end June 15th, so don't miss the chance to take advantage of our attractive prices and this special incentive.

A bit of the fine print: first mortgage only with a maximum loan to value of 80%. No word on what happens if you're currently in contract but haven't already closed (although we can probably guess). And once again, don't forget to adjust those future median sales price and comp calculations accordingly (as they'll be overstated by somewhere around 6%).

∙ A New Incentive At The Potrero: Six Months No Mortgage Payment [SocketSite]
∙ The Potrero (451 Kansas) Update: Now 70% In Contract Or Closed [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (10) | (email story)

An Update On Those Acronyms And An Apple In Pacific Heights

The list price for 1392 McAllister (which sports a great comment from a plugged-in previous tenant) was just reduced $99,000 (9.9%). While the list price on 2243 Franklin (an apple in Pacific Heights) was just reduced $80,000 (now listed at $1,195,000 while purchased on 5/31/07 for $1,250,500).

∙ A Couple Of Acronyms, But Lots Of Character/Space: 1392 McAllister [SocketSite]
∙ Apples To Apples To Be In Pacific Heights: 2243 Franklin Street [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | (email story)

April 25, 2008

Symphony Towers: 65% Sold / “Penthouse” Release This Weekend

According to the sales office, Symphony Towers is currently 65% sold (or in contract), 50% occupied, and will be releasing their “penthouse” units this weekend. That’s roughly 26 net new sales over the past four months with 46 left to move.

And while we missed it when it was originally reduced, and it’s now in contract, we’ll note that the list price on 650 Turk Street #T204 was reduced $40,000 (7.6%) which might suggest some room for negotiation on the remaining Symphony Tower’s inventory (which consists of both 750 Van Ness and 650 Turk).

UPDATE (4/28): According to a plugged-in reader the list price on 650 Turk Street #T204 was reduced $40,000 to reflect the unbundling of a deeded parking space (rather than a reduction in unit pricing).

∙ Symphony Towers Update: 45% In Contract And Opening February 08 [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | (email story)

April 23, 2008

An Update (And Reduction) For A Marina Apple To Be: 3342 Divisadero

Two and one-half months ago 3342 Divisadero hit the market with a list price of $1,295,000. Two bedrooms (but only one bathroom), two car parking, top floor, remodeled, and in the heart of the Marina (District 7).

Five weeks ago the list price was reduced $46,000. And yesterday, the price was reduced another $44,000. Now asking $1,195,000. That is $45,000 more than the contract price of two years ago (which would suggest annual appreciation of 1.9% over the past two years). But if a plugged-in tipster is correct, both the kitchen and bath have been remodeled since (which might effectively suggest no appreciation at all).

∙ Listing: 3342 Divisadero (2/1) - $1,195,000 [MLS]
∙ Apples To Apples: 3342 Divisadero (2 Bedroom Condo In The Marina) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)

April 21, 2008

A Plugged-In Reader Reports: Mission Valencia Reduction/Impression

Initially priced at $659,000 as part of “Valencia Triangle” (subsequently reduced to $585,000), and then initially priced at $599,000 as part of “Mission Valencia,” a plugged-in reader notes that 3184 Mission Street #302 is now on the market for $549,000 and offers some thoughts and impressions.

I wanted to post my recent impressions of Mission Valencia since some of the only info I could find about the place came [from this site]. I saw several of the units at an open house last week and was most interested in #302, which is currently on the market for $549K (reduced price) with 2 yrs paid HOA. This is one of the smaller, cheaper units.

The unit was very nice and new with a great kitchen and living room. However, the bedrooms were tiny and the bathroom layout seemed odd with the washer/ dryer taking up a lot of the space. The unit also overlooks busy Mission St. and the BART grates, and when the trains went by (which is very often) it was quite loud. There was almost no storage space in the unit, just small closets in the bedrooms. I did not see evidence of the pigeon problem that I had read about [here], but there was a fake owl on the balcony. The balcony was really small and not very usable--I would've rather had storage space.

You have to make your own decision about the neighborhood and how safe you feel there, so I won't go into that. The parking is secured and overall the building seemed secure. You can walk to 24th St. BART and there is bus service on Mission right outside the building. But other than the bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the building, I don't think you'd be able to walk to very many fun places (Noe Valley, Bernal Heights) very easily. But they would be a short drive/trip away.

Overall, the building is nice and new, but the unit still seemed overpriced for what you get even with the incentives and price reductions. However, if you are looking in this price range, it is one of the nicer things I have seen for below 600K. If the price comes down another 50K, I think it would be a great buy. Hopefully, this will help someone out there.

UPDATE: And from another: "Word is that they are really willing to negotiate on these prices. For those interested in 2BR 2BA 1Pkg, it's probably difficult to find a better deal. I think you could get most of the units for 10% less than the listed price, which is already reduced. And don't be bamboozled by the realtor telling you only a few are for sale- they're all for sale. I think only the 2BMR units closed and one unit is in contract. This project has been a financial disaster for the builder as a result of having the condo approvals pulled in spring 2006."

∙ Listing: 3184 Mission #302 (2/1.5) - $549,000 [MLS]
∙ Take Two For Valencia Triangle Mission Valencia (3184 Mission) [SocketSite]
∙ Valencia Triangle (3184 Mission) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (54) | (email story)

April 11, 2008

Homes On Esprit Park: A Two-Bedroom (With Timbers) "Right Pricing"

While the first round of reductions might have been limited to new construction one-bedroom units at Homes on Esprit Park, we can confirm that's no longer the case.

Yesterday the list price for 900 Minnesota #S320 was officially reduced $61,620 (5.8%) and the list price for 900 Minnesota #S322 (above) was officially reduced $51,972 (4.9%).

No word on any new price guarantees (or recent references to those of yore).

∙ Listing: 900 Minnesota #S320 (2/2) - $991,830 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 900 Minnesota #S322 (2/2) - $1,007,478 [MLS]
∙ Homes On Esprit Park: The Foreshadowing Comes To Fruition [SocketSite]
∙ A Price Guarantee From (And Proof Of Price Reductions At) Esprit Park [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

April 7, 2008

Sleepiguy Says: “5.9 Might Be A Possibility” Listing Says: “New Price!”

From a plugged-in “Sleepiguy” last month: "The long expected price reduction [for 3400 Clay] is here! They knocked off about 700k. It's now $6,295,000. Honestly, that's still not enough. 5.9 might be a possibility, but that's pushing it."

From the listing today: “New price reduction!” Now listed at $5,800,000 (a reduction of $495,000 and now $1,300,000 under original asking).

∙ Listing: 3400 Clay Street (4/5) - $5,800,000 [MLS]
∙ Nothing But Numbers (And A Pretty Picture): 3400 Clay Street [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)

April 2, 2008

188 King Street #305 Returns To The Market (And Is Quickly Reduced)

Originally offered by the developer in May of 2006 for $925,000 (and purchased for said amount according to tax records), 188 King #305 returned to the market a month ago with a list price of $869,000. And two weeks later, that list price was reduced down to $849,000.

As you might recall, it was eighteen months ago that we calculated that only seven of the 44 condos that compose 188 King Street had been sold on the open market despite “multiple releases” and five additional units being advertised as “sold” for marketing purposes (but retained by the developers).

And keep in mind that unsold units ended up becoming rentals (which could affect financing), and a week after the sale of #305 closed escrow the developer cut prices by up to $100,000 (which still didn't manage to move the sales needle at the time).

∙ Listing: 188 King Street (1/2) 1,123 sqft - $849,000 [MLS]
∙ 188 King: Phase I Pricing [SocketSite]
∙ 188 King Street: The Rents [SocketSite]
∙ The Scoop On 188 King Street: Now Selling Leasing [SocketSite]
∙ Price Reductions At 188 King [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (11) | (email story)

March 28, 2008

A SocketSite Reader Reports: 65 Caselli Returns With Just One DOM

As we wrote a little over two weeks ago:

The listing for 65 Caselli expired without generating a sale (as far as we know). If the seller is in fact "motivated" to sell, we wouldn't be surprised to see the properties return under a new broker. (And perhaps another new price...)

As a plugged-in Trip writes today:

I see that 65 Caselli, oft-featured here for the, um, interesting, bathroom, and significant price reductions is newly listed again. I believe it's now at an even further reduced price, and, of course, "officially" now on the market for 1 day.

And in summary: Originally listed a little over four months ago at $2,295,000, expired a few weeks ago at $1,699,000, and back on the market today at $1,649,000.

∙ Listing: 65 Caselli Avenue (3/4) - $1,649,000 [MLS]
∙ And Sometimes It’s Simply The Sinks (65 Caselli Avenue) [SocketSite]
∙ We Have A Motivated Seller! (But Still Seeking A Motivated Buyer!) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)

March 21, 2008

An Admittedly Incomplete Update For A Few Featured Properties

From $992,000 in December, to $895,000 in January, to $825,000 today, a short sale at the current list price for 1150 Folsom #1 would represent no appreciation for this Sternberg-Benjamin designed loft since October 2005.

Over in Lower Pacific Heights the list price on the already bank owned 1944-1948 Buchanan has been reduced $100,000 (5.6%), while a few blocks up the hill the listing for 2021 Webster has been withdrawn. And in Noe, one apple is now in contract (480 Duncan) while another is still on the tree (1420 Douglass).

∙ Listing: 1150 Folsom #1 (2/2.5) - $825,000 [MLS]
∙ A Folsom Rausch Lofts Short Sale (Assuming 3.3% Appreciation) [SocketSite]
∙ A “Bitter” Renter Reports: Repossessed In Lower Pacific Heights [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 1944-1948 Buchanan - $1,695,000 [MLS]
∙ From The Future To The Past (Tense): 2021 Webster Cuts Again [SocketSite]
∙ Another Single-Family Apple On The Noe Valley Tree: 480 Duncan [SocketSite]
∙ Another Look At 1420 Douglass (And A Reader's "Lazy Noe Indicator") [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)

March 18, 2008

Apples To Apples: 3342 Divisadero (2 Bedroom Condo In The Marina)

It’s a top floor, two-bedroom, and seismically retrofitted condo with 2 car parking in the Marina. Its list price was recently reduced $46,000 (3.6%) after just over a month on the market. And a sale at its current list price of $1,249,000 would represent annual appreciation of 4.4% since its purchase for $1,150,000 on 4/14/2006.

Yes, it's almost apple time (which shouldn't be confused with Hammer time).

∙ Listing: 3342 Divisadero (2/1) 1,492 sqft- $1,249,000 [Monica Pauli] [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (65) | (email story)

March 17, 2008

After Two Months Five Cuts On The Condos At 84 Vandewater

With zero (0) of the five (5) condos at 84 Vandewater in contract after almost two months on the market, the list prices on the units have been reduced from $26,000 (2.8%) to $124,000 (9.9%).

∙ 84 Vandewater #201 (2/2.5) 1,109 sqft - $925,000 $899,000
∙ 84 Vandewater #202 (2/2) 986 sqft - $945,000 $900,000
∙ 84 Vandewater #301 (2/2.5) 1,039 sqft - $1,049,000 $950,000
∙ 84 Vandewater #302 (2/2) 1,009 sqft - $975,000 $915,000
∙ 84 Vandewater #401 (3/2.5) 1,253 sqft - $1,249,000 $1,125,000

∙ 84 Vandewater [84vandewater.com] [Floor Plans] [Photos]
∙ Five New North Beach Condominiums Hit The Market: 84 Vandewater [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (16) | (email story)

March 11, 2008

A Million "Motivated" Reasons To Get That New Album Out The Door

After 330 days on the market at $10,500,000, and a little de-rockstaring, the asking price on 2505 Divisadero has been reduced $1,000,000 (9.5%). And while a year on the market at this price point isn’t too unusual, do keep in mind that it was also on the market for another 475 days at $12,500,000. And the listing now notes, "Motivated!"

On a somewhat related note (the relation being big houses), and as “sleepiguy” noted a few days ago, the list price on 3400 Clay Street has once again been reduced (this time by $700,000 or 10%).

∙ Listing: 2505 Divsisadero (9/7) - $9,500,000 [MLS]
∙ The Monster Comes Roaring Back (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ This Isn't Exactly How Mr. Hammett Used To Roll (2505 Divisadero) [SocketSite]
∙ Rock Star Floor Plan Porn [SocketSite]
∙ Nothing But Numbers (And A Pretty Picture): 3400 Clay Street [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (7) | (email story)

March 7, 2008

Another Look At 1420 Douglass (And A Reader's "Lazy Noe Indicator")

Another plugged-in reader already stole our thunder (and pretty much all our lines), but to sum it all up: 1. Eight months ago 1420 Douglass was purchased for $1,945,000 ($250,000 over asking); 2. Two months ago it returned to the market with a list price of $2,095,000 (and a few “I don't think it will be on the market for very long” type comments); and 3. Last night the list price was reduced $100,000 (5%).

Granted, the sellers are still asking for $50,000 more than they purchased it for just seven months ago, and we don’t yet have a final sale price, but as our reader notes: "[O]riginally sold 8/09/07, GOOG: $514.73. Today - Not sold, (perhaps) languishing, GOOG: $433.35. Maybe dub dub is on to something with his "lazy indicator"!"

∙ Listing: 1420 Douglass (3/2) - $1,995,000 [MLS]
∙ Not Overheard Everyday (Again): Five Months After Closing, It’s Back [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 6:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)

It’s Really Not Often We Get To Write…Reduced Seven Million Dollars

If you missed last year’s Decorator Showcase, we just noticed that the listing for 2901 Broadway now features the newly decorated shots (and the virtual tour before and afters).

And there’s good news if you’ve been thinking, “fifty-five is ludicrous, but maybe at forty-eight.” After 322 days on the market, the list price has just been reduced $7,000,000.

Perhaps countering those four offers at fifty-five wasn’t the way to go. Live and learn.

UPDATE: From a plugged-in reader's comment: "I spoke to a contractor about this property who estimated the substructure and engineering work alone on this house could cost 10 million."

∙ Listing: 2901 Broadway (7/7.5) - $48,000,000 [MLS] [Virtual Tour]
∙ Your Chance To Slip Inside 2901 Broadway [SocketSite]
∙ Rumor Has It: Four Offers On The 2007 Decorator Showcase Home? [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)

February 28, 2008

From The Future To The Past (Tense): 2021 Webster Cuts Again

From “seller relocating” in October, to “seller relocated” today, the list price for 2021 Webster was just reduced another $150,000 (its third cut).

And while it’s now listed at a "drastic" $796,000 (29.5%) under its original asking price of seven months ago, do keep in mind that it’s still priced at $404,000 (17.6%) over what the now relocated seller paid just five months prior to that.

As we wrote in late 2006 (prior to its last sale): “It’s not the ideal block (a lack of single family homes/residential), but the house is stunning and it honestly doesn’t feel narrow in the slightest.” And we're still fans of the ceilings.

UPDATE (5/20): 2021 Webster closed escrow on 5/20/08 with a reported contract price of $2,425,000 (30.6% under orignial asking, but 5.7% over what was paid 16 months prior).

∙ Listing: 2021 Webster (4/3.5) – $2,699,000 [MLS]
∙ RealRecentReductions: You’ve Seen These Before (Will You Again?) [SocketSite]
∙ As Far As We Can Tell, Not Much Has Changed (Other Than The Price) [SocketSite]
∙ Mass Appeal (2021 Webster) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)

February 20, 2008

Only Eight Five Six Left At The Palms (555 4th Street)

Six months ago the sales office at The Palms (555 4th Street) was advertising “Only 8 Left!” and 3.875% financing. Two months later five new condos magically appeared on the MLS. And since then, four more units (#705, #814, #833, and #907), 2.875% financing (no details on the terms), and a few reductions (from $39,200 to $56,200) have come to be as well (along wih the words “BUILDER CLOSEOUT!!”).

∙ Apparently Only Eight Condos Left At The Palms (555 4th Street) [SocketSite]
∙ The Palms Finds More Inventory And A Resale Hits The Market [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (12) | (email story)

February 15, 2008

Okay, So The Fifth Time Wasn’t A Charm But Perhaps The Sixth…

Having just recorded its sixth price reduction, the resale list price for 41 Federal #42 has dropped from $939,000 to $869,000 to $850,000 to $830,000 to $813,400 to $797,150 to $781,200 over the course of the past eleven months. It’s now listed at $68,800 (8.1%) under the reduced price that was last being asked by the developer fourteen (14) months ago. And it had better sell soon because we’re running out of images to accompany the updates.

∙ Listing: 41 Federal #42 (1/1.5) - $781,200 [MLS]
∙ Seller Motivated Drastic Price Reduction Penthouse Unit [SocketSite]
∙ And Now We’re Back Below Where We Started [SocketSite]
∙ Going Once, Going Twice…Going Five Times At Shore|Line: 41 Federal [SocketSite]
∙ Savings At Shoreline (41 Federal) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (13) | (email story)

February 11, 2008

Another Apple Is Ripening On The Tree In District Nine: 701 Minna #19

Three months ago we received the following note from a plugged-in reader:

I used to live at [701 Minna #19]. In April 06 I had it listed for $930k and ended up selling for $890k, thinking I made a good choice. Though at the current asking (already been lowered from $1195k to $1095k), it would give the owner about $200k appreciation for only spending maybe $2 to $3k for the motorized sunshade/skylight, maybe the paint job cost an arm and a leg.

And while our reader might have been second guessing himself in November, a tip we received yesterday might put his mind at ease (and some others' not):

Check this one out - first listed early Nov. for $1,195,000 then dropped to $1,095,000, then dropped to $899,000 for a few days and now available for $700,000. Purchased in 2006 for $889,000. It's loaded with loans (check out Property Shark) and sits in the glutted cookie cutter loft ghetto. Looks like a desperate short sale.

And speaking of "others," we'll note that the list price on 701 Minna #3 (about 600 square feet smaller than #19) was recently reduced from $664,900 to $629,900 (the listing still notes: “Seller wants this off the books for jan. Fax any offer today.”).

∙ Listing: 701 Minna #19 (2/2.5) 1,781 sqft – $700,000 [Prudential via Pacific Union]
∙ Listing: 701 Minna #3 (1/1.5) 1,173 sqft – $629,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (38) | (email story)

February 1, 2008

A Folsom Rausch Lofts Short Sale (Assuming 3.3% Appreciation)

After just under two months on the market, the list price for 1150 Folsom #1 has been reduced $97,000 (9.8%) and the listing now notes: “Subject to lenders approval of short sale.” Keep in mind, however, that a sale at the reduced asking price of $895,000 would still represent annual appreciation of 3.3% over the past couple of years (purchased for $829,000 in October of 2005). And yes, you can figure it out.

∙ Listing: 1150 Folsom #1 (2/2.5) - $895,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)

January 30, 2008

We Have A Motivated Seller! (But Still Seeking A Motivated Buyer!)

While the sinks in this single-family home on Caselli Avenue (65) weren’t all that warmly received two months ago (at least in terms of practicality), the overall house, location and price reduction ($295,001 or 12.9%) were. Or as “movingback” commented at the time, “this is a great house - should sell now that the price has been adjusted.”

And while it hasn’t yet sold, the price has been reduced another $300,999 ($200,999 three weeks ago and then by $100,000 yesterday). And yes, the seller remains "motivated!"

∙ Listing: 65 Caselli Avenue (3/4) - $1,699,000 [MLS]
∙ And Sometimes It’s Simply The Sinks (65 Caselli Avenue) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (23) | (email story)

January 28, 2008

An Investor/Contractor (And Perhaps Attorney) “Special” In Bernal

638 Banks in Bernal Heights changed hands in September of 2005 for $780,000 and then again August of 2006 for $658,744 (likely a sale to the bank). And after a month on the market at $549,000, the list price has been reduced $100,000 (now asking $449,000).

Do keep in mind that according to the listing it’s an “investor/contractor special” and there’s a “non permitted garage conversion.” And while not mentioned in listing (at least to the public), there’s a protected tenant as well. Now about those "comps" back in 2005...

∙ Listing: 638 Banks (2/1) - $449,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 8:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (14) | (email story)

January 24, 2008

32 Carson Returns To The Market Having Shed A Little Winter Weight

A listing for 32 Carson has returned to the MLS having shed a little winter weight ($15,000 on top of the previous $50,000 reduction) and a few months on the market.

Considering the views, location, and income unit generating $1,800 a month, we’re guessing the renovation (which some will love and some will hate) and “easy street parking” (a.k.a. no garage) might be two of the property specfic things keeping buyers at bay.

To quote the quote over the stove, “If life gives you limes, make margaritas.” (And then don't forget to invite us over.)

∙ Listing: 32 Carson (2/2) - $1,3250,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (17) | (email story)

January 23, 2008

Back On The Market (But Not The MLS) In Bernal Heights: 330 Banks

On the market without finding a buyer at $649,000 last fall, 330 Banks is back on the market (but not the MLS) with a list price of $599,000.

Included in the sale are approved plans to add an additional “art studio” and half-bath on first floor. And while it’s usually “showings by appointment only,” it will be open this Sunday (1/27) for just one half-hour (from 2:00 to 2:30) if you want to take a peek.

Keep in mind that this single-family Bernal Heights home was purchased two and one-half years ago for $700,000 (on 6/8/2005). And yes, the sale at $700,000 was likely used as a local comp a couple of years ago. And so on. And so forth.

∙ Listing: 330 Banks (1/1) - $599,000 [330banksstreet.com]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)

Homes On Esprit Park (888 Minnesota): A Two Joins The Ones

Last week we wrote, “No word, however, on any movement (either in terms of sales or reductions) for the two and three bedroom units [at Homes on Esprit Park].”

And today we note, the list price on 888 Minnesota #S322 (two bedroom/two bath) has been reduced $52,000 (4.7%).

∙ Homes On Esprit Park: The Foreshadowing Comes To Fruition [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 888 Minnesota #S322 (2/2) - $1,053,450 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | (email story)

January 21, 2008

The Backside, View, And Rather Big "Right Pricing" Up On Miguel

After a little over two months on the market, the list price on 73 Miguel has been lowered $420,000 (12.7%). No word on what’s happening with number 71 next door (which was originally listed for $2,995,000 or $300,000 less than number 73).

And if nothing else, we’re using this as an excuse to finally run a photo of the house’s backside (and the view through all that great glass).

UPDATE (1/24): The list price on 71 Miguel has been reduced $346,000 (now listed at $2,649,000).

∙ Listing: 73 Miguel (4/3.5) - $2,875,000 [MLS] [71-73miguel.com]
∙ A Peek Inside (And Prices For) The Modern Duo On Miguel [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | (email story)

January 16, 2008

Seriously Seeking Rejected Offers (To Save Someone Else The Effort)

It’s a single-family home in Bernal, its list price has been reduced from $950,000 to $889,000, and it's now advertising “All Offers Will Be Considered Seriously.”

Obviously “considered” isn’t the same thing as “accepted.” So if you’ve taken the time to make an offer that wasn’t “considered seriously enough,” perhaps you’d be so kind as to share (and save someone else some wasted effort).

∙ Listing: 247 Gates (2/2) - $889,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 12:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)

Bank Owned And Back On The Market In Bayview: 1570 Underwood

Purchased for $825,000 in September of 2006, it appears that the bank bought 1570 Underwood Avenue for $697,471 in August of 2007. And while the home was back on the market for two weeks at $779,700, the list price has now been cut to $445,000 (plus "the bank will credit $10,000 towards closing costs and [pay] a $3,000 bonus to [the] selling agent”).

And while it’s entirely possible that this was simply a sale to someone who couldn’t actually afford the payments in the first place, what happens to those who can afford their payments and relied on this sale as a friendly neighborhood “comp” not too long ago?

UPDATE: And the inside scoop from the plugged-in Realtor:

Yes it sold for $825,000 in September 2006. 100% financing. Had other inflated comps at the time to support the appraisal. Buyers probably could not afford it and were put into a loan product that was too good to be true. It went into foreclosure, the lender for the 2nd lost everything, the 1st lender took back the property for the value of their original loan plus legal costs and lost interest..and property taxes that will be collected through escrow on the sale. I saw the house and actually live about 5 blocks away. It is beaten up and shows very poorly. The bank needs to dump it to get the nonperforming asset off of its books. Thus the $435K asking price. My guess is that it will sell for around $400,000. But as a long-term buy and hold, it is THE time to buy. Things will come around, part of the economic cycles. But it very well could go lower in the shorter term. Impossible to time the bottom of any market.

[UPDATE (2/26): 1570 Underwood Avenue closed escrow on 2/22/08 with a reported contract price of $445,000 (not including the $10,000 credit towards closing costs).

∙ Listing: 1570 Underwood Avenue (3/2) - $445,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)

January 15, 2008

Homes On Esprit Park: The Foreshadowing Comes To Fruition

Two months ago we noticed (and plugged you in to) a subtle change on the Homes on Esprit Park website: The "Anticipated Price Range" for 1 bedroom/1.5 bath homes was changed to start from the “Low $600,000’s” versus the original “Upper $600,000’s.” And at the time, we also called your attention to the introduction of “price guarantees” against future price reductions.

And while the Esprit Park website continues to read from the “Low $600,000’s,” it could technically be changed again to read from the "High High $500,000’s” as the list price for 888 Minnesota #S102 was reduced again late last week, this time from $626,240 to $594,928 (a reduction of 5.0%). And the list price for 888 Minnesota #S115 was also reduced from $635,420 to $603,649 (a 5.0% cut as well).

No word, however, on any movement (either in terms of sales or reductions) for the two and three bedroom units. Or whether of not the offering of price guarantees will be extended (originally for condos placed into contract through December 15, 2007).

∙ A Price Guarantee From (And Proof Of Price Reductions At) Esprit Park [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 888 Minnesota Street #S102 (1/1.5) - $594,928 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 888 Minnesota Street #S115 (1/1.5) - $603,649 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 5:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (20) | (email story)

January 14, 2008

Reductions And Returns At The Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market)

Eight months after advertising “sold out” (at least with regard to the original 52 condos), just over 20% of the Ritz-Carlton Residences (690 Market) are officially back on the market. And at least seven of those original fifty-two are currently available through the sales office (which would suggest a contract fall out rate of at least 13%).

Of the twelve listings, three are for one-bedrooms: #1605 which is a resale and asking $1,497,000; #1705 which is a resale and asking only $2,000 more; and #1805 which is being offered directly from the sales office, but for $2,000 less ($1,495,000).

And while a price reduction on a resale unit is one thing (the list price on #2104 was just reduced by $252,000 (6.7%) after two months on the market), it’s another when the reductions are on units being offered through the sales office itself (the list price for #1103 has been reduced by $104,000 (4.5%) since hitting the MLS five months ago).

∙ The Ritz-Carlton Adds Five More Private Residences (Now 57) [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1605 (1/1.5) - $1,497,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1705 (1/1.5) - $1,499,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1805 (1/1.5) - $1,495,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #1103 (2/2.5) - $2,195,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 690 Market #2104 (3/3) - $3,498,000 [Sotheby’s] [MLS]
∙ Four More Listings! (And At Least One Reduction At The Ritz) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (56) | (email story)

Mission Valencia (3184 Mission): Priced From $599,000 $585,000

While first priced at $659,000 as part of “Valencia Triangle” in June of 2006, and then at $599,000 when when the building re-released as “Mission Valencia” this past November, the list price for 3184 Mission Street #302 was just reduced $14,000 (now "Priced from $585,000"). At the same time, the list price for #401 (which represents the upper end of the twenty condos in the building) was reduced from $799,000 to $749,000.

∙ Take Two For Valencia Triangle Mission Valencia (3184 Mission) [SocketSite]
∙ Valencia Triangle (3184 Mission) [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 3184 Mission Street #302 (2/2) - $585,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 3184 Mission Street #401 (2/2) - $749,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)

January 11, 2008

Figure Out How To Fix The Façade And You’ll Probably Fare Quite Well

Compared to 2045 Quesada, it’s really not that bad. But then again, that’s not saying too much (or a design benchmark to which we would aspire). And perhaps that’s part of the reason the list price for 2550 Greenwich was just dropped $550,000 (15.7%).

And while we’re still trying to decipher the listing, it does appear that in addition to the three bedroom two and one-half bath main home (with elevator), the list price includes a guest cottage of 2,068 square feet as well (not to mention five parking spaces).

Figure out how to fix the façade and you’ll probably fare quite well (and garner the gratitude of more than one neighbor on the block).

UPDATE (2/22): 2550 Greenwich closed escrow on 2/21/08 with a reported contract price of $2,850,000.

∙ Listing: 2550 Greenwich (3/2.5) - $2,950,000 [MLS]
∙ At Least It Has The Requisite Bay Windows, Right? [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (21) | (email story)

January 7, 2008

If You’re Going To Live At The Summit, You Might As Well Live Large

What once was a two-bedroom is now a one-bedroom at The Summit (999 Green #1204).

And while the listing (which was recently reduced by $55,000) includes two proposed floor plan alterations for reclaiming the second bedroom (although at least one appears to omit a requisite closet), we’ll also note that #1205 is on the market as well.

Forget trying to reclaim that second bedroom, if you’re going to live large at The Summit, why not buy both condos and figure out a way to make them one? And at the very least, might we suggest investigating alternate fire rated glass solutions for the dining room?

It’s a crime to taint that view. (Or should we say it feels almost criminal...)

∙ Listing: 999 Green #1204 (1/2) - $2,195,000 [999Green1204.com] [MLS]
∙ Listing: 999 Green #1205 (1/1) - $1,275,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 1:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (8) | (email story)

Thirteen More "Anecdotes" Of Distressed Listings In Districts 8 And 9

From a plugged-in Damion Matthews at LiveInSF:

I did just do some research last night on Short Sale and REO listings in districts 8 and 9 – there’s quite a bit. Not as much as in other parts of the state, of course, but more than we’ve seen in those neighborhoods before. I found 13 listings, and 8 of them are lofts. They’re all under $1 million.

Included in the mix is 950 Harrison Street #202 which is 1,120 square feet, has been on the market for two months, and is currently listed for $575,000 (“sold last year for $699,000”). And #S2303 at The Metropolitan (355 1st Street) which is now bank owned, 691 square feet, and listed at $519,000 $599,000 (see UPDATE below).

And no, neither of those two "anomalies" we noted last week (246 2nd Street #1302 and 41 Federal #42) are included in Damion’s thirteen. Nor are any of these in District 10.

UPDATE: Since publishing this story this morning the list price on 355 1st #S2303 has in fact been raised from $519,000 to $599,000. Sorry about that folks.

∙ Distress Deals [LiveInSF]
∙ Listing: 950 Harrison Street #202 (1/1.5) - $575,000 [MLS]
∙ Listing: 355 1st Street #S2303 (1/1) - $519,000 $599,000 [MLS]
∙ One Part Bank And One Part New Building, But Any Parts New Market? [SocketSite]
∙ Going Once, Going Twice…Going Five Times At Shore|Line: 41 Federal [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (26) | (email story)

January 4, 2008

One Part Bank And One Part New Building, But Any Parts New Market?

It was a little over a month ago that the listing for the bank owned 246 2nd Street #1302 was touting “By far, the best value in soma!” and “Priced $80K Below Last Sales Comp in Building!” And while it’s still advertising “the best value in soma!”, the price has been reduced $42,000 (5%) and it’s now “Priced $120K Below Last Sales Comp in Building!” That’s not likely to be a neighbor(hood) pleaser.

And while that’s the current view from the condo above, plugged-in people know what's happening in the market (and can plan accordingly): “When I first saw the listing I assumed that the owner saw the proposed building at 222 Second Street (see virtual view from 555 Mission posted here last week) and decided to sell before the "commanding view of downtown" became a commanding view of some dude's office.”

∙ Listing: 246 2nd Street #1302 (2/2) 1,049 sqft - $802,900 [246-2nd.com]
∙ Something Tells Us That “By Far” Wasn’t By Accident [SocketSite]
∙ The Things You Can See From Those Virtual Views (222 2nd Street) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (29) | (email story)

Going Once, Going Twice…Going Five Times At Shore|Line: 41 Federal

We didn’t bother to mention it when the list price on "penthouse" unit #42 at Shore|Line (41 Federal) was dropped from $830,000 to $813,400 this past November. But along with its fifth price reduction yesterday (from $813,400 to $797,150), comes another mention today.

To recap, over the course of the past ten months the list price for this modern condo “in the heart of South Beach” has dropped from $939,000 to $869,000 to $850,000 to $830,000 to $813,400 to $797,150. And apparently it ended up being owned by the bank (REO) along the way.

And once again, while asking 15.1% less than ten months ago might simply speak to a change in expectations, it’s the fact that it’s now listed at $52,850 (6.2%) under what was last being asked by the developer fourteen (14) months ago that just might speak to a change in the market.

∙ Listing: 41 Federal #42 (1/1.5) - $797,150 [MLS]
∙ And Now We’re Back Below Where We Started [SocketSite]
∙ And Now We’re Back Where We Started At (41 Federal) [SocketSite]
∙ Seller Motivated Drastic Price Reduction Penthouse Unit [SocketSite]
∙ Savings At Shoreline (41 Federal) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (81) | (email story)

December 28, 2007

Another Chance To Get In Good With The Neighbors?

Purchased three years ago for $658,000 (with a variable rate first mortgage of $526,400 and a fixed rate second mortgage of $131,600), 689 Brunswick has been on the market for 71 days and is currently listed for $699,000 (having been reduced from $714,417 two weeks ago and $704,407 the week after that). A sale at asking would represent annual appreciation of 2.0% over the past three years.

According to the listing the house is being used as an "unofficial" boarding house "but the owner, who lives there, will turn it over vacant" (perhaps another chance to get in good with the neighbors). And yes, "may require lender's approval of a short payoff."

And as an aside, we can't help but imagine how the addition of just a tiny bit of grass might enhance the curb appeal of the home (and would welcome any others' Photoshopping handiwork with open arms):

UPDATE: Okay, so we have to admit we were thinking more along the lines of photochopping the landscaping or façade to improve the curb appeal (and greenness of the home), but then again it is Friday:

"In preservationist-happy SF, houses with history hold extra appeal. A historic photo and a bit of history (possibly the one-time love nest for Mayor Schmitz) add a bit of dash to this otherwise Caspar Milquestoastesque dwelling."

∙ Listing: 689 Brunswick (3/1) - $699,996 [MLS] [Map]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (34) | (email story)

December 18, 2007

San Francisco Idea House Update: Open Into January And A Reduction

As a plugged-in reader noted last week, Sunset’s San Francisco Idea House webpage has been updated to read:

The San Francisco Idea House will be open from 11/30/2007 through 1/27/2008 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 9am-4pm. PLEASE NOTE THE HOUSE WILL BE CLOSED THE WEEKEND OF 12/21 and 12/28 due to the holidays. After the holidays we will resume our open schedule the weekend of 1/4/2008.

And if you were interested in 1303 Alabama but didn't think it was worth more than a million, we’ll note that it was just reduced $94,000 (or 8.6%) and is now listed (along with some new interior photos) at $995,000.

∙ Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House Officially Opens Its Doors [SocketSite]
∙ Sunset’s 2007 San Francisco Idea House: A Few Facts [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 1303 Alabama (2/2.5) -$995,000 (TIC) [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (5) | (email story)

December 10, 2007

The Potrero (451 Kansas): Now From Under $400,000 (Just Barely)

It was over a year ago that The Potrero (451 Kansas) began advertising “New homes in old San Francisco from the low $400,000s.” But this weekend (and roughly two months after we noted at least one official price reduction) the prices on a “new release” of studios slipped below $400,000 (okay, so $399,000). And two-bedrooms are now starting "under $700,000" (yes, $699,000).

∙ The Potrero (451 Kansas): From The Low $400,000s [SocketSite]
∙ A Few More Small (But Interesting) Reductions In New Developments [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2) | (email story)

December 5, 2007

Another Apples To Apples Comp In The Making (In The Marina)

The list price for 3324 Octavia #4 was reduced for the second time yesterday and the sellers of the “[f]abulous one bedroom condo located in the highly desirable marina district” are now asking $749,000 (which is $50,000 less than the original list price of 48 days ago).

And yes, $749,000 is $1,000 less than what the sellers paid for the condo three and one-half years ago (7/16/2004).

∙ Listing: 3324 Octavia Street #4 (1/1) - $749,000 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (43) | (email story)

December 3, 2007

Do You Think They Thought They Paid Too Much For It At The Time?

As both readers and tipsters alike note, the list price on 1580 Masonic has once again been reduced (this time by $400,000 or 11.8%). And it’s now listed for $704,000 (19.0%) below its original asking price and $505,000 (14.4%) less than what the sellers paid twenty (20) months ago ($3,500,000).

∙ Could “Priced Right” In Ashbury Heights Be Less Than What Was Paid? [SocketSite]
∙ Listing: 1580 Masonic (3/2.5 and 1/1) - $2,995,000 [1580masonic.com]
∙ Sometimes It’s Simply The Small Things: 1580 Masonic [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (32) | (email story)

November 28, 2007

And Sometimes It’s Simply The Sinks (65 Caselli Avenue)

It’s hard to tell if the quick price reduction ($295,001 or 12.9% after twenty days on the market) has more to do with marketing or the “motivated seller!” Regardless, it’s actually the bathroom sinks that first caught our attention. Now if only we could figure out where to keep our toothbrushes and toothpaste (without messing up the aesthetic).

∙ Listing: 65 Caselli Avenue (3/4) - $1,999,999 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 7:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (15) | (email story)

November 27, 2007

Could “Priced Right” In Ashbury Heights Be Less Than What Was Paid?

A plugged-in tipster notes another price reduction on the listing for 1580 Masonic (this time by $200,000 or 5.6%). And while the price reduction might not be all that telling (in and of itself), and perhaps it simply wasn’t “priced right” to begin with (as some like to say), our tipster also notes that this nicely finished Ashbury Heights home is now listed for $105,000 less than what the sellers paid for it in March of 2006 ($3,500,000).

And no, asking price and selling price aren't the same thing. But we will keep you posted (and plugged-in).

∙ Listing: 1580 Masonic (3/2.5 and 1/1) - $3,395,000 [1580masonic.com] [Alain Pinel]
∙ Three Good Sized Homes, Neighborhoods, And (Mostly) Reductions [SocketSite]
∙ Sometimes It’s Simply The Small Things: 1580 Masonic [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 4:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (72) | (email story)

November 26, 2007

Since It’s Family, Might We Suggest An Early Holiday Present?

The list price on 2104 24th Street was reduced $105,000 in August, $100,000 in September, and $20,500 in November (now listed at 20.5% below the original asking). And considering the “[a]gent is related to owner,” we can only imagine the delicate conversation around the dinning room table this past Thanksgiving.

And while the interior sounds quite nice (“Renovated kitchen, teak floors and fireplace in living room…Mexican tile in kitchen and bath…2nd fireplace in front large bedroom, [and] hardwood floors.”), the lack of pictures in the listing leaves us only guessing (rather than actually inquiring).

And it also leaves us wondering if an early holiday present (in the form of a new camera) might be in order. After all, it is family (and it is Cyber Monday).

∙ Listing: 2104 24th Street (3/1.5) - $874,500 [MLS]

Posted by socketadmin at 10:19 AM | Permalink | Comments (19) | (email story)

The Cost Of Failing To Accurately Manage (Market?) Expectations

It was almost two months ago that we noted the ceiling of 723 Bay Street (with which we were quite enamored along with the master bath and patio).

And while we didn’t point out the $155,000 (7.2%) price reduction last month, we are pointing out the additional $220,000 (11.0%) price reduction that occurred last week. And the situation (which might make it an opportunity, and also serve as a warning, for a truly plugged-in person): “…must sell…owner in escrow on another property….”

∙ Listing: 723 Bay Street (2/1.5 and 1/1) - $1,775,000 [MLS]
∙ What Can We Say, We’re Suckers For A Nice Ceiling (723 Bay) [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)

November 16, 2007

A Price Guarantee From (And Proof Of Price Reductions At) Esprit Park

While the Homes on Esprit Park website was originally advertising 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath homes from the “Upper $600,000’s,” we note that it now reads from the “Low $600,000’s.” And in fact, according to a sales office email forwarded from a plugged-in tipster, they are now starting “around $626,000.”

And while we were going to call it foreshadowing (prior to noticing that “upper” to “lower” change), the Homes on Esprit Park sales office is now offering price guarantees (against future price reductions):

The team at Homes on Esprit Park and Build, Inc. want to ensure our future homeowners their investment in our wonderful community is secure and represents very good value in today’s dynamic marketplace. To bring you that confidence, through December 15th of this year, any home placed in contract will come with a price guarantee that assures you of the value of your investment near the close of escrow on your home.

When you purchase a home in our community, we will assign one or more similar properties in the project to your purchase contract. Should any of those assigned homes reduce in price or be sold at a lesser price than originally listed, we will reduce the price of your home as well by the same percentage amount prior to your close of escrow. No questions asked.

We understand that in uncertain markets, even exceptional communities like Homes on Esprit Park need to address the investment concerns of their clientele, and with this price guarantee we hope to do so for you. With our model units expecting to be delivered at the beginning of the year, a rebound in the lending market (already underway) and much greater progress on construction, we anticipate vibrant activity and sales in the new year. That’s why this offer is extended only through the pre-holiday season and only to our registered customers.

And no, we don’t know if the price guarantee applies to those who are already in contract (or whether or not we should have filed this one under "trends").

∙ Sales Office For Esprit Park (888 Minnesota) Opens Tomorrow (10/5) [SocketSite]
∙ Homes on Esprit Park: Pricing [espritpark.com]

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November 9, 2007

Citrino (566 South Van Ness): Two Bedrooms Now From $599,000

A tipster forwards the latest from the sales office at Citrino now advertising two-bedrooms from $599,000 (including two years of pre-paid HOA dues and parking) and one-bedrooms from $449,000.

As you might recall, it was two months ago that Citrino was advertising two-bedroom homes “starting at $675,000” and one-bedrooms “starting at $475,000.” And prior to that it was simply “in the $500’s - $700’s.”

∙ Reductions (And A New Release) At Citrino (566 South Van Ness) [SocketSite]
∙ New San Francisco Condo Developments: Citrino & The Lambourne [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 2:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (18) | (email story)

November 5, 2007

An Opportunity To Try Before You Buy In The Making? (338 Holladay)

While the list price on 338 Holladay has once again been reduced (this time by $50,000 or 5.6%), a tipster notes that it’s now being offered for rent as well ($4,000 a month). And if you're tempted to buy, but not entirely sold, perhaps a lease option might be in order.

And once again, it’s now officially (in terms of MLS statistics) 30 days on the market (despite first being listed for $1,279,000 fifteen months ago). And if it sells for $850,000, it will be yet another example of a property selling for "over asking!"

∙ Listing: 338 Holladay (2+/3) - $849,000 [338holladay.com]
∙ $4000 / 3br - Fabulous, New Eco-friendly, 3 Level…“Green Home” [Craigslist]

Posted by socketadmin at 3:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (4) | (email story)

October 31, 2007

Those Aren’t “Reductions," They’re “Flex Purchase Incentives”

Two months ago the sales office at 170 Off Third was “excited to offer a 5.625% interest rate on all remaining two-bedroom residences!” Today they are offering “a $15,000 Flex Purchase Incentive on all two- and two-plus residences sold through year end” which can be used on “a wide array of interior upgrade options, HOA credits or closing costs.”

Remember buyers/neighbors, they’re “Flex Purchase Incentives” (and not “Reductions”).

∙ A Few New Incentives For Both Buyers And Brokers In San Francisco [SocketSite]

Posted by socketadmin at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (37) | (email story)

October 24, 2007

300 Sea Cliff: $3,900,000 Reduction (After An $8,000,000 Renovation)

57 months (no not days) after first hitting the market for $23,500,000, and nine months after undergoing an $8,000,000 renovation (and subsequently raising its asking price by $2,400,000), the list price on the Captain's House (300 Sea Cliff) has been reduced by $3,900,000 and it’s now listed for $22,000,000. And yes, we liked the brick better as well.

∙ Listing: 300 Sea Cliff Avenue (5/5.5) - $22,000,000 [Sotheby's] [MLS]
∙ Top Five San Francisco Trophy Homes [SocketSite]
∙ The $8,000,000 Man Renovation [SocketSite]
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