New Listings | Week ending 12/23

867 40th Ave., San Francisco | $980,000
MLS#364374
| Multi-Family | Map
Outer Richmond
Gorgeous bright and airy remodeled two units! Upper unit consists: 3 bedrooms and 1 1/4 bath. Remodeled granite kitchen and baths, refinished hardwood floors, spacious living room with fireplace, formal dining room, new double pane windows. Lower Unit: th more.
Christina Chung
DRE# 00716773

1321 45th, San Francisco | $968,000
MLS#364382
| Multi-Family | Map
Outer Sunset
Clean 4 unit building. Featuring 2 units of 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 2 units of 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom units. 5 car parking, ocean views from top unit, common laundry room and storage. Conveniently located 2 blocks from Golden Gate Park and close to tr more.
Kaz Sera
DRE# 01057719

Upcoming Open Homes

OPEN: 12/27/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
275 Claremont Blvd., San Francisco | $950,000
MLS#363826
4 bedroom, 2 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
West Portal
Period detailing & HRDW floor abound in this charming light filled home within steps from the vibrant West Portal.Formal lvng rm w/FRPL & built-in bookcases,lrg dn rm w/spectacular built in buffet, cozy breakfast room, & sunny kitch all on main lvl.Also o more.
Betty Taisch
DRE# 01227574

OPEN: 12/27/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
99 Escondido Ave., San Francisco | $899,000
MLS#364112
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Pine Lake Park
Start 2010 in your New Home! ~ Beautiful 3-level fully detached corner home in Pine Lake Park. Main level offers large Formal LR w/wood fireplace, Formal DR, bright eat-in Kitchen w/pantry, & Powder Rm w/vanity. Upstairs is a large Master Suite, Full Bath more.
Melinda Lee
DRE# 01344377

OPEN: 12/27/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
256 Glenview Dr., San Francisco | $845,500
MLS#360622
3 bedroom, 2 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Midtown Terrace
Back on the market! NO fault of the property!Spacious view home. Extensive So. views-SF Bay to Ocean can be enjoyed from the kitch,deck,& LVR/DNR. W/w carpets cover HDWD FL in the LVR/DNR. Lovely FRPL graces the LVR. All 3 bed & 2 recently remod baths are more.
Betty Taisch
DRE# 01227574

OPEN: 12/27/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
1057 Valencia St., San Francisco | $825,000
MLS#363224
4 bedroom, 2 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Inner Mission
Price reduced. This is a spacious grand 1880 painted lady Victorian with its high ceilings and wood floors in many rooms. It is on Valencia’s finest block by 22nd Street and Hill Street in historic Liberty Hill District. Kitchen features eat-in area. Grea more.
John Kaufman
DRE# 0180567

Foster Weeks publishes a weekly mortgage report which is updated every Monday morning. How is this affecting the San Francisco real estate market? Read our weekly and monthly market reports. Here’s what Mr. Weeks says about last week’s activity:

“ALL GOOD THINGS MUST COME TO AN END…” Or so the popular saying goes. And last week, the Fed reiterated once again that their Mortgage Backed Security (MBS) purchase program…the program that has helped keep home loan rates low for much of the last year…will end on March 31, 2010 as previously stated. Here’s the lowdown on what this means, and all the latest news impacting home loan rates and the markets.

Last Wednesday during their regularly scheduled meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee, the Federal Reserve kept the Fed Funds Rate unchanged. But history has shown that when the Fed has left rates too low for an extended period of time, there is a price to be paid, via higher inflation. Yet if the accommodation is removed too early, it can derail an already fragile recovery. The Fed continues to walk this tightrope, trying to get it “just right.”

Along with this decision, the Fed emphasized and reminded that their MBS purchase program will still end on their already revised deadline date of March 31, 2010. Why is this significant? Let’s look at the numbers from last week to get an idea. The Fed purchased $16B in MBS in the latest week bringing the year-to-date total to $1.087T. This means there is $163B left to purchase before March 31, which in turn means the Fed will purchase about $11.5B on average each week through the end of the buying program. This is less than half of what the Fed was buying regularly throughout 2009 and a 1/3 less than what the Fed has been buying in recent weeks.

So why does this point to higher rates around the corner? When there is lots of supply and diminishing demand, the price of that item will subsequently go down – it’s Economics 101. So, when Bond prices start to decrease from the diminishing demand of the Fed’s purchases, home loan rates will naturally be likely to increase. Give me a call if you want to see how you can benefit from the current low rate environment…before it becomes too late.

In other news, there was mixed inflation data last week, as the Producer Price Index (which measures wholesale inflation) came in significantly higher than expected. However, the Consumer Price Index was reported in line with expectations, signaling that inflation remains low – at least for now. Inflation will ultimately creep back into the economy – and as the arch-enemy of Bonds and MBS – will also contribute to rising interest rates.

Housing Starts for November were in line with estimates and, as you can see in the chart below, the housing sector seems to have stabilized after bottoming out at 458,000 Housing Starts in April.

Read the entire article and see the graphs here.

- Foster Weeks

Happy Holidays and a Look Ahead

Welcome to our final edition of Weekly Market Watch for the year. What a ride 2009 has been. It will be interesting to look back at this edition of Weekly Market Watch a year from now to see how things have changed. Will we be out of the woods then? Will these tough economic times be a thing of the past? I believe 2010 will provide many opportunities for buyers and sellers of Bay Area real estate, and as Realtors, we can be assured of being very busy if we remain focused.

I know most of us are out finishing our holiday shopping and getting into full holiday swing so I’ll keep my last Weekly Market Watch of the year short and sweet. I came across a really good article in BusinessWeek this week and it had some very interesting images and graphics that I think help effectively tell the story of today’s market.

Following are excerpts from the BusinessWeek article entitled “A Housing Recovery Could Solidify.”

“Residential real estate prices have increased by about 5%, adjusted for inflation, since the end of the first quarter. As the inventory of existing homes for sale shrinks, a housing recovery could solidify. Sales have increased sharply in some of the hardest-hit states.

In Most of America, Home Prices Creep Up – A Lost Decade

Although home prices have been rising since March, after adjusting for inflation they are only at levels first reached in 2001.

Fewer New-Home Sales

Existing homes now make up about 93% of all sales, vs. a long-term historical average of about 85%.

Signs of Life in the Sunbelt—and Elsewhere

Four states—Nevada, Arizona, Florida, and California—have seen double-digit increases in sales volumes for existing homes since the end of 2008.”

So what does this mean and more importantly, the question of the day from so many of you is, what’s next? Well here’s what I think. While we probably are not out of the woods yet, housing is showing signs of stability, markets are showing signs of rational behavior and everyone is starting to understand the fundamental problems that brought us here. I think the combination of those have us on the right path. Are we going to suddenly see double digit appreciation in 2010? Probably not. But I think we are on a good, sustainable path that should give us some modest growth in the coming year, largely in the most sought after affordable and mid-level markets. In terms of the luxury market, I think only time will tell. It was the last to feel the downturn and in all likelihood it will be the last to recover. Knowing this, it is important to point out that there are always pockets that are the exception. Real estate is local and there are always going to be those sought after neighborhoods, those one-of-a-kind properties that just demand something different. With that said, I am pleased to say that just within the past three weeks, our local CB offices have closed an impressive number of transactions in the high end – over 15 properties closed in the $3M -$6M range, from Mill Valley in the north to San Jose in the south – plus two properties, each over $12M in Woodside and Atherton. Our inventory for desirable high end properties is surprisingly low, and it’s hard to predict what the New Year will bring. What I can assure you is that over the next year I’ll be watching the market closely and will keep you abreast of changes as they happen.

And with that said, let’s take a look at this week in real estate:

• East Bay–Berkeley reports buyers are out there and open homes are well attended. A good percentage of buyers want to buy before the end of the year and many are all cash at all price points. Castro Valley reports there are lots and lots of cash buyers. At least one in three of all offers we are receiving are cash buyers, which is amazing, since we are talking about offers in the middle price ranges in addition to the entry level markets. We have definitely slowed down as Christmas approaches, yet listings are still trickling in and we continue to show properties even as we approach the holidays. Danville reports we are definitely in the holiday slow down, although we had 2 sales in the million dollar range this week. Livermore reports an interesting trend: Since January 1. 2009 through November 2009 the inventory of active detached homes in Livermore has decreased by 52% while the average sale price has remained stable. In looking at November 2008 to November 2009, the average sales price is up almost 4% in Livermore. In Livermore, we are still seeing a lot of multiple offers due to the lack of inventory and an abundance of buyers. Bottom line, we need more listings! Orinda reports that inventory is down due to the holidays. Buyers are still out there and prices on remaining inventory remain stable.
• Monterey County–Market seems to continue to be active– more so than usual for the end of the year. Amazing number of offers still being written, at amazingly low prices that we thought we’d never see again. Last week we closed on a property at $100,000 and also five properties between 1.2 and 2.1 million.
• North Bay–Greenbrae reports lots of activity this month in the $1.5-$2.5 million range. Agents who are looking ahead to 2010 are working with serious buyers and serious sellers. While deals may not be pretty next year we are expecting a increase in number of sales. Northern Marin reports we are still experiencing multiple offers in the entry level price range of 250,000 to 450,000. We had five offers on a million dollar home as well. Inventory is lower than usual for December. Banks continue to slow down transactions with unusual conditions to fund loans. Sebastopol reports the market is very quiet! Agents are writing lots of offers on limited inventory. Cash remains king and we are seeing more multiple cash offers. Santa Rosa reports open house attendance is now very low, but those who show up are serious. Open escrows are up just a bit as last minute shoppers close out the year.
• Peninsula–Half Moon Bay reports we have experienced a real slow down this December in sales activity, listing activity and open house attendance. Menlo Park El Camino reports we had eight offers on a listing that was $899 in Menlo Park Open houses were not bad and Agents seemed to think that the buyers’ general state of mind regarding buying was positive. Little of the old comments ‘Prices are going to go down more’ and more of “We think Q1 is the right time to buy.” The only stall will be fear generated by more and more political discussion of the massive US debt. Palo Alto Downtown reports as anticipated, the holiday season has started – meaning inventory is low. Although a bit surprising, we have had a percentage of properties that have sold from $2M and up. So those buyers are still out there. Certainly the entry level market, if you have inventory, is very, very strong – anything below $1.4M/$1.5M in Palo Alto is extremely strong.
• San Francisco–Lombard reports a very slow start to December, but no consistency in traffic. We had two people through one house, 80 through another; a solo-offer deal well under asking to 13 offers on an entry fixer, well over. Some Agents working hard through the holidays, others withdrawing listings until 2nd week of January. Market Street reports that we are not seeing many multiple offers being received these last couple of weeks. Activity has slowed down at open houses and broker’s tour. We still have several buyers with cash that are looking for a home to call their own by year’s end but inventory has slowed down with the coming holiday season. Noriega reports the market is very slow, but still a lot of activities on the entry level. One REO listing in Daly City had over 120 people in a two hour span during open house. Same property received multiple offers, with several over asking, all cash. Van Ness reports that it closed 18 deals from 12/9-12/15.
• Santa Cruz County–Typical seasonal slow down with the holidays right around the corner. Agent activity including open house activity is minimal at this point in the year with many leaving town for the holidays. Inventory is down about 30% from last year at this time. REOs in south county (Watsonville) are continuing to draw multiple offers with many cash buyers – it is driving prices up slightly. Prices are about the same as they were a year ago overall, except in the high end where it seems to continue to drop.
• Silicon Valley–Cupertino reports it is remarkably busy for this time of year! Los Altos reports the market is still active. Buyers are coming to open houses and looking for the right opportunity. Multiple offers of 13 on one $500K fixer, and five offers on a modest $1.2M property with “potential.” San Jose Almaden reports a seasonal slow down but more than ever agents are working through the holidays. San Jose Willow Glen reports it has slowed down quite a bit due to the holiday season. Saratoga reports there seems to be a sudden increase in listing activity. I think that many agents are listing properties to prepare them to onto the market in early 2010. Although the previews market is slow a number of my agents are working on sizable transactions and I’m hopeful this area will open a bit in 2010.

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all of you the very best of the Holiday season. I also want to add my thanks and congratulations to all who made our Food Bank drive for local Food Banks a huge success. Final numbers will be complete early next week, but I know that we beat our goal of $10,000 – so with the Coldwell Banker match, we will be giving more than $20,000 to your local Food Banks. Thanks again – you have shown that you are not only great professionals, but caring and compassionate as well.

- Rick Turley

Upcoming Open Homes

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
1183 Filbert St., San Francisco | $1,699,000
MLS#362606
| Multi-Family | Map
Russian Hill
Classic Units. Bright & spacious upper unit is 3 bedroom, 1 bath flat with a flexible floorplan. This unit features a remodeled kitchen, formal dining room – lots of natural light, Contemporary bath, and office space (sunroom). The lower unit is a large a more.
Brendon Kearney
DRE# 01350213

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
4362 23rd St., San Francisco | $1,595,000
MLS#360944
3 bedroom, 3.5 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Noe Valley
REDUCED~Take a 2nd Look! Exquisite top-floor Victorian condo.+3,100 sq. ft. of living space, 3 bedroom, 3 bath multi-level condominium has the feel of a single family home. An entertainer’s dream, this home features a double parlor, Formal dining room, Go more.
Brendon Kearney
DRE# 01350213

OPEN: 12/20/2009 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
845 Montgomery St., Unit C, San Francisco | $995,000
MLS#362026
2 bedroom, 2 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Financial District
Stunning Condo w/brick facade in Historic Jackson Square area of Financial Dist & No. Beach. Gem of a nghbrhd, feat. many local amenities, cafes, restaurants, Muni, Bart, major bus lines close by. This 2/2 unit features a Mstr Ste w/blcny, accessed thru f more.
Jim Laufenberg
DRE# 01201131

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
1013 Cabrillo St., San Francisco | $679,000
MLS#363294
2 bedroom, 1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Inner Richmond
Conveniently located near GG Park and trans, this newly-converted condo is a classic 1915 Edwardian flat in a 2-unit building w/low HOA dues. The 2BR/1BA/1PK flat has been restored w/an eye toward maintaining abundant period details including decorative f more.
Loida Sorensen
DRE# 1300820

OPEN: 12/20/2009 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
1254 Rhode Island St., Unit 14, San Francisco | $539,000
MLS#363832
3 bedroom, 2 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Potrero Hill
Beautifully updated tranquil condo in sunny Potrero Hill. Town-home style, handicap accessible, with secure covered pkg. Nicely remodeled: new flooring, 2 updated bathrooms, new double-paned windows, freshly painted throughout, and new fixtures. Quiet sid more.
Renee Gonsalves
DRE# 01365295

OPEN: 12/20/2009 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
500 Bryant St., Unit 104, San Francisco | $480,000
MLS#358976
2 bedroom, 2.5 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
South Of Market
Approved Short Sale! Back On Market, No Fault of Property! Come see this 3 level, 2 bedroom, 2.5 bathrooms, w/1 car parking and roof top deck. Unit details Granite counter tops both in Bathrooms and Kitchen, white appliances in kitchen, with cement floor more.
Randall Romero
DRE# 01348720

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
1608 Kirkwood St., San Francisco | $399,000
MLS#364431
2 bedroom, 1 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Bayview
West of 3rd Street bungalow, 1/2 block from T Muni Line 2bd 1ba SFH with deck, yard and studio in back of yard. Stainless and granite kitchen, Double pane windows ceramic tile and laminate flooring, laundry room etc. more.
Al Rodriguez
DRE# 01196585

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
63 Prospect, San Francisco | $369,000
MLS#352930
1 bedroom, 1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Bernal Heights
Beautiful finishes in this bright TIC with high ceilings, Fridgidaire Stainless appliances in the kitchen, built in microwave, granite countertop. Bamboo floors throughout, tasteful stone bathroom, views of twin peaks. 16.76%TIC in 61-69 Prospect an exis more.
Susan Ferry
DRE#

New Listings | Week ending 12/18

1608 Kirkwood St., San Francisco | $399,000
MLS#364431
2 bedroom, 1 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Bayview
West of 3rd Street bungalow, 1/2 block from T Muni Line 2bd 1ba SFH with deck, yard and studio in back of yard. Stainless and granite kitchen, Double pane windows ceramic tile and laminate flooring, laundry room etc. more.
Al Rodriguez
DRE# 01196585

New Listings | Week ending 12/19

1117 SANCHEZ AV, Burlingame | $785,000
MLS#80957501
3 bedroom, 3 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Burlingame Terrace-Easton Additi
Charming Mediterranean home totally remodeled 4 years ago. Formal living and dining rooms. Cathedral ceilings. Hardwood floors. Kitchen with granite counters, recessed lights and stainless steel appliances. Remodeled bathroom with steam shower. Double pan more.
Kirk Leong
DRE#

151 Alice B. Toklas Pl., Unit 605, San Francisco | $639,900
MLS#364335
1 bedroom, 1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Van NessCivic Center
Bank owned REO (not a short sale). Excellent condo buying opportunity. This New York style loft overlooks Van Ness Avenue in the Civic Center corridor with very close proximity to everything that downtown San Francisco has to offer. Priced for a quick s more.
Anthony Daniels
DRE# 01468889

955 Vienna St., San Francisco | $525,000
MLS#364333
2 bedroom, 1 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Excelsior
Bank owned REO (not a short sale). Excellent home buying opportunity. This spacious fully detached home with bonus rooms & more down is located in the sabroso Excelsior district with close proximity to restaurants, shopping, parks, public transit, freewa more.
Anthony Daniels
DRE# 01468889

Price Updates | Week ending 12/19

896 Hillside Blvd., Daly City | $830,000
MLS#363778
4 bedroom, 2.5 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Original Daly City
2009 Brand New 3 Story Detached Home. 4 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Huge living w/ fireplace and dining room combo. Kitchen w/ stainless steel appliances. Recessed lighting throughout. Luxury master suite has a walk-out balcony. Master bathroom with Jacuzzi more.
Nancy Jen
DRE# 01041366

Upcoming Open Homes

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM
866 Capp St., San Francisco | $949,000
MLS#364132
| Multi-Family | Map
Inner Mission
OPEN Sunday 2:30- 4:30 PM Contingent Sale Contract – Subject to 72 Hour Release Clause. Complete Disclosure Package Available upon request! 3 Full Floor Flats. Great potential and lots of possibilities for investor or owner/occupant. Top unit is a 3br/1 more.
Nick Johnson
DRE# 01419663

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
954 Broadway, San Francisco | $849,000
MLS#361541
2 bedroom, 2 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Nob Hill
Reduced!!! Nob Hill gorgeous remodeled 2 BR, 2BA. Spacious Combo Living & Dining room with view of Bay bridge, Coit Tower, Transamerica. New open kitchen, laundry room. Addition apprx.350sqft deed storage in the basement was convert to 1BR, 1BA used as of more.
David Huynh
DRE# 00863876

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
162 Lake Vista Ave., Daly City | $748,800
MLS#364198
4 bedroom, 1 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Westlake #1/Olympic
Fully detached Tri Level Spacious and well maintained home in desirable Olympic Section, approx 1790 sq ft, 4 large bedrooms, refinished hardwood floors in formal living and dining rooms, fireplace, freshly painted, conveniently located to Bart, 280, 101, more.
Kathy Rainsford
DRE# 00518269

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
151 Alice B. Toklas Pl., Unit 605, San Francisco | $639,900
MLS#364335
1 bedroom, 1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Van NessCivic Center
Bank owned REO (not a short sale). Excellent condo buying opportunity. This New York style loft overlooks Van Ness Avenue in the Civic Center corridor with very close proximity to everything that downtown San Francisco has to offer. Priced for a quick s more.
Anthony Daniels
DRE# 01468889

OPEN: 12/20/2009 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
564 San Jose Ave., San Francisco | $599,000
MLS#361797
2 bedroom, 2 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Inner Mission
Renovated 2 bedroom 2 bath lower unit of a 2-unit flat. Brand new kitcken and bathrooms. Separate water and utility meters. 1 car parking. Best location to all conveniences. Close to Saint Luke Hospital. Seller may consider carry the first loan. Seller re more.
Nancy Lee
DRE# 00599826

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
955 Vienna St., San Francisco | $525,000
MLS#364333
2 bedroom, 1 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Excelsior
Bank owned REO (not a short sale). Excellent home buying opportunity. This spacious fully detached home with bonus rooms & more down is located in the sabroso Excelsior district with close proximity to restaurants, shopping, parks, public transit, freewa more.
Anthony Daniels
DRE# 01468889

Open Houses for the weekend of December 19-20

473 Pennsylvania, $1,198,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Potrero Hill 4br/2ba Open flr plan. Deck, yd, stor, pk & vus! TRI/CB Angelo Cosentino 415-298-9171.
Angelo Cosentino 415-298-9171

1407 Montgomery #1, $579,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Reduced! Fantastic 1 bedroom with outdoor patio and bay views! A+ Telegraph Hill location!
Monica Pauli 902-9502
www.sfproperties.com

2222 Bay, $2,195,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Marina – Huge Price Reduction!
Exquisite remodeled Spanish Mediterranean home in prime location! 3bd/3BA gorgeous gourmet kit, formal living room & dining room, family rm, lower lvl master suite that opens to private back yard. 2 car garage
Nina Hatvany 710-6462
www.ninahatvany.com

1407 Montgomery #2, $699,000
Open Sun 2:00-4:00PM
Telegraph Hill – 1st open! 1000 sq ft+ spacious VIEW 1 bedroom CONDO! Bay and Bridge views! High ceilings! Walk out terrace!
Monica Pauli 415-902-9502
www.monicaslist.com

2980 Privet Dr., $4,800,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Elegant estate on one of the best view lots with huge useable yard. Designer remodel with pano bay views from SF to South Bay. 5BR/4BA, library, media rm & guest suite.
Shaban Shakoori 518-9269
www.residentialsf.com

2106 Jackson #8 $2,850,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
GREAT NEW PRICE – READY TO SELL! Ultimate contemp PENTHOUSE condo (8th fl), glorious views & rooftop area – a real wow! 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, wine room, parking. Awaits your personal touch!
Laurie Nierenberg 710-6900
www.isellsfhomes.com

63 20th Ave., $2,795,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Elegant, spacious 4bd/3.5ba home. LR w/frpl, FDR, updated kit w/bkft room. Fam room. Au pair/guest qrtrs. SW deck & garden. 2+pkg.
Sandra Bagnatori 518-4865
Scott Brittain 385-6657
www.63-20thAve.com

333 Grant, $399, 000 – $550,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
#604 – $555,000. Modern luxury condo. Designer touches, 1BD/1BA, landmark building.
#408 – $399,000. Studio condo. Modern finishes; classic bldg.
John Kirkpatrick 412-0559
www.johnkirkpatrick.com

817 Union, $775,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Russian Hill – Price Adjustment for Fast Sale! Completely remodeled condo 2BR plus Den – LR w/frpl- Chef’s eat-in kitchen, w/d 1 PK
Fabio Giuntarelli 229-1309

3835 Scott St. #206, $675,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Remodeled 1 bed / 1 bath condo in great Marina location. Open floor plan & parking!
Ron Abta 415-595-7661.
www.RonAbta.com

2077 Jackson #205, $569,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Price Reduced! Prime Pac. Hgts. Beautifully remodeled 1bd w/parking – must see!
Janis Stone 866-224-8024
www.SFResidence.com

550 Davis #13, $1,795,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Fab twnhm Park, City, Coit tower vus, sunny 3bd/2.5 ba, den, patio, fplc, pkg. pets ok.
Janis Stone 866-224-8024
www.SFResidence.com

2 Fallon Place #46, $899,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Vu 2 lvl condo! 2bd/2ba,2pkg! Fab remod kit, crnr unit w/bay windows, tennis crt, great loc!
Monica Pauli 902-9502
www.monicaslist.com

3150 Jackson St., $2,995,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Rare Opportunity. Classic and grand home in need of renovation. Approx. 5500 square feet. Beautiful living room, double parlor, dining room with box beamed ceilings. Lovely details incl. 5 fireplaces. 6 bedrooms, plus 2 offices and sunroom. 3 full baths. Pentroom with deck and GG Bridge view. Walk out garden. Garage for one car.
Patricia Lawton 415-309-7836
www.LawtonSF.com

1100 Union, $2,695,000-$2,150,000
Sun 2:00-4:00 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
#300 – Call 290-6058. Beaut. remodeled view half fl. co-op in elegant bldg. 2 BR/ 2.5 BA, study, terrace, in-unit lndry, 24 hr Drmn, 1 car pkg w/ valet.
Malin Giddings 531-5033
Max Armour 290-6058
www.sfproperties.com
#401 – REDUCED! Lg NE crnr half flr coop. 3br/3.5ba. Fml Liv & dining rm. Fab Bay/Bridge vus. Drmn bldg.
Susan McBride 609-7222
www.1100Union.com

2319 Washington, $2,495,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
REDUCED! Renovated Rousseau home with 4 bedrooms plus guest suite, plus office, 3 luxurious baths, living room, dining room, family room & chef’s kitchen with dramatic skylight, roof garden & terraces, storage & 2 car prkng- near Fillmore St, Alta Plaza Park.
Patricia Lawton 309-7836
www.lawtonsf.com

3570 Washington, $5,600,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
Grand hm w/GG vus. 4 lvls, grdn, 6+BD/3.5BA, fam rm, media rm, ofc. presidioviewhome.com
Susan McBride 609-7222
www.presidioviewhome.com

3571 Pierce St., $985,000
Open Sat 1:00-3:00PM/Sun 2:00-4:00PM
2BD + Sunroom. Marina condominium. Lower unit, parking, outdoor space. Must See – 1st Offering!
Tim Farrell 846-2602
Monica Pauli 902-9502

421A 14th St., $599,000
Open Sun 2:00 – 4:00PM
Charming 2 Bd/2 Ba condo w/ hardwood floors, fireplace, gorgeous original molding and detailing.
Mary Lace 229-1357
www.MaryLace.com

San Francisco Chronicle - Home values in the Bay Area and nation continue to sink, but they’re no longer plummeting, according to a real estate report.

Los Angeles Times – The U.S. Dept. of the Treasury recently announced the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program (HAFA), which provides instructions for lenders and servicers participating in the Making Home Affordable Program and Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP). The purpose of HAFA is to create an alternative to foreclosures for homeowners unable to successfully modify their troubled mortgage under HAMP, and to streamline the short-sale process.

MAKING SENSE OF THE STORY FOR CONSUMERS

• A short sale is when the lender agrees to accept less than the amount owed on the mortgage instead of foreclosing. Many homeowners and REALTORS® have expressed their frustrations in the short-sale process, criticizing lenders for the amount of time it takes to process and approve a short sale. The CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® listened to members’ concerns, worked with other industry groups, and responded by helping to create provisions to streamline the short-sale process.
• The HAFA program simplifies and encourages short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure. It will permit pre-approved short sale terms before a property is listed; release borrowers from future liability for the debt; provide financial incentives to borrowers, servicers, and investors; and prevent servicers from attempting to reduce real estate commissions established in the listing agreement as a condition for short sale approval.
• Under terms of the program, the borrower and/or listing broker have three business days to submit an executed purchase offer and related documents to the servicer on a short sale, and the servicer has 10 business days to respond to an executed purchase offer.
• The servicer also will determine the minimum net proceeds for a short sale. If an offer presented to the servicer by the borrower or listing broker meets the net proceeds requirement, then the servicer must accept it.
• The program currently is available only for non-Fannie Mae- or Freddie Mac-owned loans up to $729,750 and is scheduled to take effect April 5, 2010. However, C.A.R. expects that many lenders will choose to implement it before the deadline.

San Francisco Open Houses

Downtown

1001 Pine Street #608
San Francisco
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$318,000
Condo
0bd/1ba
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Light and bright studio with sleeping alcove feels like a junior 1 bedroom! Bamboo floors, sleek designer finishes, new windows, concrete wall accents, custom closet system, storage, low HOA dues, garden/neighborhood outlooks. Pine Terrace- Walk to Financial district, Union Square, Nob Hill, Chinatown, Russian Hill, groceries, theatres, nightlife. Location! Location! Location! Short sale….a real deal!
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Debi Green: 415.901.2784

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Nob Hill

1001 Pine St. #312
San Francisco
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$349,000
Condo
0bd/1ba
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PRICE REDUCED! Enter this jewel box studio condo with deeded one car parking and feel right at home! Eastern exposure creates light and bright living space with downtown city lights views in this cozy urban home. The efficient floor plan has plenty of storage with a large walk-in closet and two additional closets, plus a deeded storage area. The remodeled chef’s kitchen has a mini-SubZero refrigerator tucked into a wall of custom cabinetry that includes a pass through breakfast bar/eating area. The bathroom reflects space and light with mirrored walls and newly tiled surfaces. Crown moldings on walls and doors along with custom window draperies enhance the luxury feeling of this unique home. All the amenities of a larger home have been scaled down to studio living! Location Location Location!!!
Unit is also available on lock box, or viewings by appointment.
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Debi Green: 415.901.2784

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South Beach

346 1st Street #101
San Francisco
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$549,000
Loft
1bd/1.5ba
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Bi-level loft in historic conversion. 1+ bed, 1.75 bathrooms, 1 car deeded parking & three storage spaces, gas kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters, concrete, bamboo & carpet floors.
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Adam Gavzer: 415.901.2766

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South Of Market

1160 Mission St #1407
San Francisco
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$645,000
Condo
2bd/2ba
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The only listed 2BD/2BA unit at SOMA Grand remaining in this price point. Gorgeous city and water views from this bright, southwest, corner facing unit. Beautifully upgraded. The amenities are those of an upscale hotel. Concierge by Joie De Vivre, spa, meditation and fitness center, Sky deck with everything. Access to all of SOMA.
Open Saturday 12/19, 12-4pm; Sunday 12/20, 12-4pm
Agent contact
Amanda Holcombe: 415.420.0641

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South Of Market

199 New Montgomery#1001
San Francisco
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$774,900
Condo
2bd/2ba
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Light-filled, 2bed, 2 bath corner unit with sparkling city and Bay Bridge views – An open state-of-the-art kitchen. Brazilian cherry hardwood floors, 1 car garage, 24 hour building security, shared roof deck with sweeping City views & shared BBQ facilities.
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Roxana Melgarejo: 415.901.2778 | Rita Villavicencio-Schmid: 415.901.2767 x

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South Of Market

551 Natoma Street #2
San Francisco
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$799,000
Loft
2bd/2.5ba
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Quiet, rear, tri-level, live/work condo in intimate 2-unit building. 2bedrm (1 enclosed)/ 2bath (1 is large spa bath)/1 car parking + storage and 2 decks(both off of bedrms). Designer touches thru-out, move-in ready. Vaulted ceilings, central local, NO HOA dues. 1764 sq.ft.(appx). Walking score of 97! This is a must see and immediate area is in the midst of a city redevelopment/ beautification plan.
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Stasi Martin: 415.901.2765

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South Of Market

551 Natoma Street #1
San Francisco
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$815,000
Loft
2bd/2.5ba
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This voluminous 1913 sq ft (appx) tri-level, live/work condo is in a 2-unit building and offers drama and a central location without HOA dues. Built in 2000 it features:1 car pkg, 2 shared decks, 2 bedrooms/2.5baths (one is a master spa bath), hardwood floors on 2 levels and new carpet on the loft level, chef’s kitchen, gas fireplace & more. Downtown views from the top floor. Ample natural light, and flexible floorplan. Central SF locale in the midst of a city-redevelopment plan. EZ access to public transit, fwys, Bay Bridge, Sony Metreon, Bloomingdales & more. $815k (fantastic deal at $426/sqft.)
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Stasi Martin: 415.901.2765

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South Beach

650 2nd Street #204
San Francisco
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$985,000
Loft
1bd/1.5ba
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Single level historic live/work loft conversion in the heart of South Beach. Large open plan bedroom, 1 full bathroom and 1 half bathroom. Open plan kitchen with stainless steel appliances, concrete columns, high ceilings, southern exposure windows, a large common area roof deck with gas BBQ and great views. 1 car deeded parking with storage cage. Central location near CalTrain, AT&T Ballpark, SFMoma, Yerba Buena Gardens and many fine-dining establishments.
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Adam Gavzer: 415.901.2766

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South Of Market

551 Natoma Street
San Francisco
Google map
$1,550,000
Multi-Family
0bd/0ba
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Huge 2-unit building with 2 separate legal condos. Building was used as the FINE Design Group’s office (which has now out-grown the space and opened a 2nd office in Portland). Attached garage, with parking for 2 cars + storage. Zoned live/work. Units can be joined together. Each is a tri-level in excellent condition with beautiful finishes. Move-in ready. Some downtown views, hardwood floors, new carpet, bright with cathedral ceilings. 2 large shared decks, 4 bedrooms, 4 full/ 2 half baths, 2 chef’s kitchens. Walk score of 97!! Easy access to freeway, BART, and MUNI.
Open Sunday 12/20, 2-4pm
Agent contact
Stasi Martin: 415.901.2765

Upcoming Open Homes

OPEN: 12/20/2009 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
140 32nd Ave., San Francisco | $1,795,000
MLS#358054
3 bedroom, 3 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Sea Cliff
Big Price Reduction! A terrific Sea Cliff value. Five houses from El Camino Del Mar. 4 floors. Elevator. 3 bedrooms and 2 baths on the second floor. Multi-purpose room, bath and SPA overlooking a private landscaped patio, on the lower level. 3rd floor fa more.
Susan Buckley
DRE# 00696702

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
726 27th Ave., San Francisco | $1,295,000
MLS#362620
| Multi-Family | Map
Central Richmond
PRICE REDUCED!!!This building has been lovingly restored with extensive structural upgrades. Compare to what is also on the market. Each unit has two bedrooms, split bath, state of the art remodeled kitchens and baths. New back stairs, 4 car garage, new h more.
Peggy Maccarron
DRE# 00785180

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
1555 43rd Ave., San Francisco | $708,000
MLS#364235
2 bedroom, 1 bath | Single Family Residence | Map
Outer Sunset
Oourt confmed Trust sale. Sold ASIS w/no further responsability/liability implied or expressed whatsoever.Sealed bids w/signed disclosures opened 10am Thursday Jan 14 @E.Der law office 90 New Montgomery St#905 SF Ca 94105. Big undvlpd w/hi ceiling bsmnt. more.
Marco Martinelli
DRE# 00879933

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
601 Van Ness Ave., Unit 351, San Francisco | $549,000
MLS#351501
2 bedroom, 2 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Van NessCivic Center
Opera Plaza-2BR on one level-No Stairs! Recent upgrades incl laminate floors, granite kitchen counters, stainless stove, microwave, dishwasher, bathroom vanities, painting. Very large master bedroom. Lots of closets. South-facing unit for great natural li more.
Judie Wertheimer
DRE# 00855991

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
8 Admiral Dr., Unit #A229, Emeryville | $499,000
MLS#361458
2 bedroom, 2 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Emeryville
North WATER LAGOON VIEW, broad walk, and Berkeley. Laminate floor through out granite kitchen counters with stainless steel appliances. Custom made kitchen & bathrooms cabinet & lighting. Modern brush nickel shower door/glass & shower heads.Custom importe more.
Marina Tsang
DRE# 00855658

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
601 Van Ness Ave., Unit 623, San Francisco | $389,500
MLS#363970
1 bedroom, 1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Van NessCivic Center
Great unit overlooking courtyard with lovely views So. and West Towards Twin Peaks. Not facing the street, so less traffic noise. Spacious living area with separated dining area. Large walk-in closet and other good closet space. Pool, spa, gym, racquetb more.
Judie Wertheimer
DRE# 00855991

OPEN: 12/20/2009 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
2130 Leavenworth St., Unit 2, San Francisco | $389,000
MLS#363500
1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Russian Hill
Russian Hill Studio + Bonus Room Condo. One of the best locations in SF! North Beach Restaurants, Aquatic Park, Hyde and Polk Street shops makes this pied-a-terre or first time home buyer a must have for living the San Francisco dream. This junior 1 more.
Paul Otto
DRE# 01359286

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
601 Van Ness Ave., Unit 1131, San Francisco | $365,000
MLS#359355
1 bedroom, 1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Van NessCivic Center
Opera Plaza Gem-Top floor Jr 1 with stunning views North, Northeast towards Nob Hill and Downtown, Northwest overlooking the open park space. Fireplace, private balcony, some nice bathroom upgrades, extraordinary closet space with storage built-ins. 24/H more.
Judie Wertheimer
DRE# 00855991

OPEN: 12/20/2009 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
601 Van Ness Ave., Unit 628, San Francisco | $309,000
MLS#361659
1 bath | Condo / Townhome | Map
Van NessCivic Center
Delightful studio facing east-nice outlook over courtyard with Nob Hill views. Built-in wallbed & storage cabinets. Lots of closets. Private Balcony. Opera Plaza amenities-pool, spa, gym, racquetball, saunas, clubroom, 24/hr security, concierge services, more.
Judie Wertheimer
DRE# 00855991