The San Francisco Condo Loft » San Francisco Lifestyle

South of Market: San Francisco’s High Rise Hot Spot

Anthony Longo — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:46:00 +0000

Many of my clients have been asking me, ‘what’s the deal with the SoMa?‘ A burgeoning neighborhood just off the Bay Bridge, “South of Market” has peaked the interest of the masses and is quickly shooting to the top of every buyers list. So whether you are a 1st time home buyer, investor, or a curious local, sit back and hear what I’ve been telling my clients about San Francisco’s latest hot spot. From Industrial Warehouses to Silicon Valley Getaways Back in the nineties the SoMa was your typical industrial neighborhood filled with warehouses and auto body shops. Despite its central location, sunny weather and access to the Bay Bridge, SoMa was desolate and lacked the energetic population necessary to provide a hustle bustle atmosphere like that of Mission Dolores, the Castro or Russian Hill. Warehouse conversions swept through the SoMa which laid the foundations for upscale residential infill, luxury high rise development, retail corridors and numerous civic amenities like parks and museums. The standard nature of warehouse architecture as large scale, vaulted and open gave way to the trendy exposed brick and timber lofts emblematic of the neighborhood. These modernized, bright and voluminous spaces attracted creatives and tech industry gurus from Silicon Valley who were looking for a change. Another form of conversion can be found in popular historic buildings such as the famous Pac Bell building located on 140 New Montgomery Street or one of San Francisco’s National Historic Landmarks known as the Stage House Lofts on 10th Street, which have all been completely updated and modernized, yet still embrace an old world charm that makes San Francisco’s architecture so timeless. Luxury high rise development followed with the ensuing rise in property values as more people flocked to buy a condo in some of the tallest buildings the SoMa has to offer. These include One Rincon Hill, 300 Spear Street, Blu, and Millennium Tower which boast valet parking, spas, private decks and 360 views of the bay. Coupled with fantastic restaurants, museums and shopping all within a 5 minute walk, you can bet these properties don’t stay on the market for long. SoMa is an investment during a recession? San Francisco isn’t having a problem with creating jobs, as a matter of fact Venture Capitalists have poured a little over $6 Billion dollars into the SoMa and it’s sub areas (Mission Bay & South Beach). We have the on going success of major software, bio-tech, and technology companies which include: Twitter, Wired, Adobe, CNET, Yelp, Zynga plus many others. Currently, San Francisco is working on the Transbay Terminal to be completed in 2013. This is a multifaceted connector that will transform the corner of First and Mission Streets into a multi-modal hub on a regional scale for Silicon Valley commuters, shoppers, and students, desiring easy access to the South Bay’s Caltrain service. What’s next? With all that said the last ten years have proven to be explosive for the SoMa and it’s sub areas. The next ten years will only create more demand that will inevitably raise values in the SoMa, Mission Bay, and South Beach areas. As a result, the market will exceed the financial comfort zone for most. History has taught us when one area becomes untouchable the new influx of people will consider the more affordable neighboring areas. These two pockets are creating a light buzz and are known by a few as the “Dog Patch” and “Media Gultch”. We’ll take a further look into these low-key spots in a couple weeks …

From Industrial Warehouses to Silicon Valley Getaways
Back in the nineties the SoMa was your typical industrial neighborhood filled with warehouses and auto body shops. Despite its central location, sunny weather and access to the Bay Bridge, SoMa was desolate and lacked the energetic population necessary to provide a hustle bustle atmosphere like that of Mission Dolores, the Castro or Russian Hill.

Warehouse conversions swept through the SoMa which laid the foundations for upscale residential infill, luxury high rise development, retail corridors and numerous civic amenities like parks and museums. The standard nature of warehouse architecture as large scale, vaulted and open gave way to the trendy exposed brick and timber lofts emblematic of the neighborhood. These modernized, bright and voluminous spaces attracted creatives and tech industry gurus from Silicon Valley who were looking for a change. Another form of conversion can be found in popular historic buildings such as the famous Pac Bell building located on 140 New Montgomery Street or one of San Francisco’s National Historic Landmarks known as the Stage House Lofts on 10th Street, which have all been completely updated and modernized, yet still embrace an old world charm that makes San Francisco’s architecture so timeless.

Luxury high rise development followed with the ensuing rise in property values as more people flocked to buy a condo in some of the tallest buildings the SoMa has to offer. These include One Rincon Hill, 300 Spear Street, Blu, and Millennium Tower which boast valet parking, spas, private decks and 360 views of the bay. Coupled with fantastic restaurants, museums and shopping all within a 5 minute walk, you can bet these properties don’t stay on the market for long.

SoMa is an investment during a recession?
San Francisco isn’t having a problem with creating jobs, as a matter of fact Venture Capitalists have poured a little over $6 Billion dollars into the SoMa and it’s sub areas (Mission Bay & South Beach). We have the on going success of major software, bio-tech, and technology companies which include: Twitter, Wired, Adobe, CNET, Yelp, Zynga plus many others.

Currently, San Francisco is working on the Transbay Terminal to be completed in 2013. This is a multifaceted connector that will transform the corner of First and Mission Streets into a multi-modal hub on a regional scale for Silicon Valley commuters, shoppers, and students, desiring easy access to the South Bay’s Caltrain service.

What’s next?
With all that said the last ten years have proven to be explosive for the SoMa and it’s sub areas. The next ten years will only create more demand that will inevitably raise values in the SoMa, Mission Bay, and South Beach areas. As a result, the market will exceed the financial comfort zone for most. History has taught us when one area becomes untouchable the new influx of people will consider the more affordable neighboring areas. These two pockets are creating a light buzz and are known by a few as the “Dog Patch” and “Media Gultch”. We’ll take a further look into these low-key spots in a couple weeks …

BART Broadening to Bernal, Ocean Beach?

Joe Kukura — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:18:24 +0000

A location within a few blocks of a BART station has been a coveted feature among San Francisco house shoppers for nearly four decades. That feature may soon extend to San Francisco homes in Bernal Heights and Ocean Beach in the Outer Richmond. As the popular rapid transit system contemplates its 2012 plans, BART finds itself in a more flush cash position than in recent years. BART’s revenue had been negatively affected by the economic downturn. The commuter rail system has rebounded strongly, though, and the San Francisco Chronicle reports that BART is contemplating San Francisco expansion plans involving stations in Bernal Heights and possibly Ocean Beach. “Over the past few years, we’ve just been trying to keep our heads above water,” Carter Mau, Executive Manager of BART Budget and Planning, told the Chronicle. “Now that we’ve recovered a bit, it’s time to start looking at our future.” That future might include some convenient new transit perks for owners of homes in Bernal Heights and homes in the Outer Richmond. The proposed Bernal Heights and Ocean Beach BART stations are unrelated expansion proposals, and neither is contingent upon the other. A betting individual might be more inclined to wager on the proposed Bernal Heights station becoming a reality. The theoretical Bernal Heights BART station could be built in to the current BART line, between the 24th Street Mission Station and the Balboa Park Station. The proposed “infill station” — a station built in to the already-existing rail line — would be located at Mission and 30th Street. The BART-to-Ocean-Beach proposal, called “BART to the Beach”, would be a far larger and more time-consuming infrastructure enhancement. If enacted, this plan would build BART stations beneath Geary Boulevard, through The Richmond District, with the line ending at scenic Ocean Beach. “I’ve always said you could get to downtown San Francisco quicker from Richmond city than from the Richmond District”, BART Director James Fang told the SF Examiner. Fang projects the proposed Ocean Beach line would take seven to eight years to complete. Additional proposals for new BART stops outside San Francisco include stations in Oakland’s Jack London Square, Livermore, Brentwood, and Crockett.

A location within a few blocks of a BART station has been a coveted feature among San Francisco house shoppers for nearly four decades.

That feature may soon extend to San Francisco homes in Bernal Heights and Ocean Beach in the Outer Richmond.

As the popular rapid transit system contemplates its 2012 plans, BART finds itself in a more flush cash position than in recent years. BART’s revenue had been negatively affected by the economic downturn. The commuter rail system has rebounded strongly, though, and the San Francisco Chronicle reports that BART is contemplating San Francisco expansion plans involving stations in Bernal Heights and possibly Ocean Beach.

“Over the past few years, we’ve just been trying to keep our heads above water,” Carter Mau, Executive Manager of BART Budget and Planning, told the Chronicle. “Now that we’ve recovered a bit, it’s time to start looking at our future.”

That future might include some convenient new transit perks for owners of homes in Bernal Heights and homes in the Outer Richmond.

The proposed Bernal Heights and Ocean Beach BART stations are unrelated expansion proposals, and neither is contingent upon the other. A betting individual might be more inclined to wager on the proposed Bernal Heights station becoming a reality.

The theoretical Bernal Heights BART station could be built in to the current BART line, between the 24th Street Mission Station and the Balboa Park Station. The proposed “infill station” — a station built in to the already-existing rail line — would be located at Mission and 30th Street.

The BART-to-Ocean-Beach proposal, called “BART to the Beach”, would be a far larger and more time-consuming infrastructure enhancement. If enacted, this plan would build BART stations beneath Geary Boulevard, through The Richmond District, with the line ending at scenic Ocean Beach.

“I’ve always said you could get to downtown San Francisco quicker from Richmond city than from the Richmond District”, BART Director James Fang told the SF Examiner. Fang projects the proposed Ocean Beach line would take seven to eight years to complete.

Additional proposals for new BART stops outside San Francisco include stations in Oakland’s Jack London Square, Livermore, Brentwood, and Crockett.

Seeking Refinement

Greg Hansen — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:13:33 +0000

Let’s suppose that you are in the market for a condo in San Francisco, where refinement is at the top of your list, then the Millennium Tower Condominiums are going to fulfill every expectation you could possibly have. Superbly located at the corner of Mission and Beale, which is the border between the SOMA and the Financial District, you will find easy access from here to the Bay Bridge, which is only four blocks away. You will also be only a five minute walk or so from the Ferry Building, where you’ll find a wide selection of high end stores, from artisan cheeses, to speciality meats, and of course the finest bread. If you’re in need of first class fruits and vegetable, then you will be pleased to find that one of the most renowned Farmers’ Markets in the country is held in front of the Ferry Building three days a week. Getting back to The Millennium Tower… it is divided into three categories. The first is the City Residences, which are located in the 11 story mid-rise that sits adjacent to the tower. One of the stand out features here is a focal media wall, that allows you to put your own creativity to use, designing a living space that reflects your taste. Next on the list is the Residences which occupy the 3rd through 25th floor. These units feature floor to ceiling windows and a state of the art curtain-wall window system. Further up the tower, you will find the Grand Residences, which occupy the 26th through 60th floors. If you’re looking for the top of the line in everything you see, from the decor to the view, you needn’t look any further. These residences are like finding the Emerald City at the end of The Yellow Brick Road. The Millennium Tower also offers first class amenities for its residents, including movie nights, in its own screening room, stand up comedy shows, wine tastings, and fireside chats with guest celebrities, such as Joe Montana (one of their star residents) discussing the NFL’s opening night! All of these events give residents a chance to meet with their neighbors and enjoy the sophistication and elegance that makes the Millennium Tower a truly unique and special place to call home. If you were waiting for the new millennium to get started, you’re a little late. If you’re waiting for the next one, you can vie to be the tower’s eldest resident. Whatever your goals, contact CondoDomain and we’ll help you realize them.

Getting back to The Millennium Tower… it is divided into three categories. The first is the City Residences, which are located in the 11 story mid-rise that sits adjacent to the tower. One of the stand out features here is a focal media wall, that allows you to put your own creativity to use, designing a living space that reflects your taste. Next on the list is the Residences which occupy the 3rd through 25th floor. These units feature floor to ceiling windows and a state of the art curtain-wall window system.

Further up the tower, you will find the Grand Residences, which occupy the 26th through 60th floors. If you’re looking for the top of the line in everything you see, from the decor to the view, you needn’t look any further. These residences are like finding the Emerald City at the end of The Yellow Brick Road.

The Millennium Tower also offers first class amenities for its residents, including movie nights, in its own screening room, stand up comedy shows, wine tastings, and fireside chats with guest celebrities, such as Joe Montana (one of their star residents) discussing the NFL’s opening night! All of these events give residents a chance to meet with their neighbors and enjoy the sophistication and elegance that makes the Millennium Tower a truly unique and special place to call home. If you were waiting for the new millennium to get started, you’re a little late. If you’re waiting for the next one, you can vie to be the tower’s eldest resident. Whatever your goals, contact CondoDomain and we’ll help you realize them.

Taking Spuds for a Walk in Soma

Greg Hansen — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:32:45 +0000

Are you a dog owner, interested in buying a condo in the SOMA, but unsure if there are any open spaces where you can let them run free? Here are three good dog runs, all of which will be very convenient to any part of the SOMA you decide to buy a condo in. The first is South Beach Park, which is tucked just north of AT&T Park, along the Embarcadero. It’s probably one of the most scenic dog runs in the country, with its views of the South Beach Harbor and the Bay Bridge. You will find it to be a nice wide open space, where your canine companion will find enough land to run free in any direction. Next up is the China Basin Park, located right along the water front across from the south end of AT&T Park. Here you will find a nice long stretch of green grass, where your dog can run back and forth to its heart’s content. Mission Bay Park is another long expanse of grass, that dogs are sure to love, as this one has hills they can run up and down. This park is only one block west of the China Basin Park. If you’re looking to take a nice leisurely walk with your dog after work, or on the weekend, the Embarcadero is probably the longest you will find in San Francisco – stretching from AT&T Park all the way up to Fisherman’s Wharf. What’s great about it is that you won’t wait to cross any sidewalks, as the entire length is uninterrupted by intersections. So if you own a dog, and are planning to buy a condo in the SOMA, please rest assured, there are plenty of dog parks/runs that both you and your canine friend will love. CondoDomain.com

Next up is the China Basin Park, located right along the water front across from the south end of AT&T Park. Here you will find a nice long stretch of green grass, where your dog can run back and forth to its heart’s content. Mission Bay Park is another long expanse of grass, that dogs are sure to love, as this one has hills they can run up and down. This park is only one block west of the China Basin Park.

If you’re looking to take a nice leisurely walk with your dog after work, or on the weekend, the Embarcadero is probably the longest you will find in San Francisco – stretching from AT&T Park all the way up to Fisherman’s Wharf. What’s great about it is that you won’t wait to cross any sidewalks, as the entire length is uninterrupted by intersections. So if you own a dog, and are planning to buy a condo in the SOMA, please rest assured, there are plenty of dog parks/runs that both you and your canine friend will love.

CondoDomain.com

South San Francisco, City Living with Suburban Perks

Bonnie Best — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 13:53:36 +0000

There is no doubt that San Francisco is an awesome city to live in. With some of the best condo and loft living in the country San Francisco is a bastion of the urban professional. But, unbeknownst to many San Francisco is also a great place to buy a house. What follows is a list of great homes in the South San Francisco area that all would make ideal places to live for anyone looking for city living with a little elbow room. [idx-listings city="South San Francisco" minprice="500000" maxprice="2000000" propertytypes="1059,1064,1060" orderby="DateAdded" orderdir="DESC"] Image Credits: panoramio.com

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Image Credits: panoramio.com

SoMa and Blu: an Amazing Building in an Amazing Neighborhood

Anthony Longo — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 22:30:45 +0000

SoMa, located (as the acronym implies) south of Market Street and just north of San Francisco Bay, is the rapidly growing neighborhood that is the cultural epicenter of modern day San Francisco. A stand out chic neighborhood in a city known for chic neighborhoods, SoMa is home to innovative companies, contemporary museums, luxury condos and some of the best restaurants in the Bay Area. One of the premier buildings in SoMa is Blu. Blu is an ultra modern development that offers luxury living in the form of condos and tri-level penthouses. Apartment amenities include marble bathrooms, a private solarium, floor to ceiling windows, granite kitchen counters, stainless steel kitchen appliances and more. Truly, Blu offers some of the most luxurious living in San Francisco. If you are interested in moving to the fabulous SoMa neighborhood, and have an eye to purchase a magnificent condo or penthouse, make sure to check out Blu. Feel free to use the box on the right to ask a rock star real estate agent anything you want to know about Blu, SoMa or any other of San Francisco’s awesome neighborhoods. [gallery] Photos Credits: Wiki Media, Blu San Francisco

One of the premier buildings in SoMa is Blu. Blu is an ultra modern development that offers luxury living in the form of condos and tri-level penthouses. Apartment amenities include marble bathrooms, a private solarium, floor to ceiling windows, granite kitchen counters, stainless steel kitchen appliances and more.

Truly, Blu offers some of the most luxurious living in San Francisco. If you are interested in moving to the fabulous SoMa neighborhood, and have an eye to purchase a magnificent condo or penthouse, make sure to check out Blu. Feel free to use the box on the right to ask a rock star real estate agent anything you want to know about Blu, SoMa or any other of San Francisco’s awesome neighborhoods.

Photos Credits: Wiki Media, Blu San Francisco

200 SQ/FT, No Beds, No Baths and certainly No View: $125k

Anthony Longo — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:55:31 +0000

You have have seen this article posted in the WSJ today, but boy its a good one and a serious reality checker. Focused on the INSANE prices for parking spaces in urban metros like Boston, NYC and San Francisco – this a trend we don’t see slowing down anytime soon. Helen and Bob Alkon paid $1.3 million for their condominium in downtown Boston two years ago. And while some apartments in the building have slipped in value since then, one of the Alkons’ investments has paid off: The parking spot they purchased for $100,000 today sells for $125,000. “I’m glad I bought when I did,” says Ms. Alkon, a retired office manager. In some downtowns across the country, a scarcity of parking has driven demand into the stratosphere—even in places where home prices are declining. In some buildings, parking costs are nearly on par, on a per-square-foot basis, with the apartments themselves. Parking comes at a premium in places where crowded conditions and urban revitalization efforts have fueled demand. Residential buildings typically allocate one or fewer parking spots per unit. While these are sold only to residents, some parking spaces on lower floors are leased to non-residents as well. Building more parking garages isn’t necessarily an option. In Manhattan’s business core, for example, constructing a public garage requires a special permit that is expensive and time-consuming to obtain. Separately, city planning officials may lower minimum parking requirements at residential buildings that have good access to mass transit, exacerbating the squeeze. Continue on WSJ So what’s your top price for a slab of concrete? I priced it out on Lowes Concrete Calculator (20′ x 10′ @ 2 inches thick) we are looking about 40 bags @ $3.46/bag $138 bucks. :)

Helen and Bob Alkon paid $1.3 million for their condominium in downtown Boston two years ago. And while some apartments in the building have slipped in value since then, one of the Alkons’ investments has paid off: The parking spot they purchased for $100,000 today sells for $125,000.

“I’m glad I bought when I did,” says Ms. Alkon, a retired office manager.

In some downtowns across the country, a scarcity of parking has driven demand into the stratosphere—even in places where home prices are declining. In some buildings, parking costs are nearly on par, on a per-square-foot basis, with the apartments themselves.

Parking comes at a premium in places where crowded conditions and urban revitalization efforts have fueled demand. Residential buildings typically allocate one or fewer parking spots per unit. While these are sold only to residents, some parking spaces on lower floors are leased to non-residents as well.

Building more parking garages isn’t necessarily an option. In Manhattan’s business core, for example, constructing a public garage requires a special permit that is expensive and time-consuming to obtain. Separately, city planning officials may lower minimum parking requirements at residential buildings that have good access to mass transit, exacerbating the squeeze.

Continue on WSJ

So what’s your top price for a slab of concrete? I priced it out on Lowes Concrete Calculator (20′ x 10′ @ 2 inches thick) we are looking about 40 bags @ $3.46/bag $138 bucks. :)

Urban Luxury on Brannan Street!

Bonnie Best — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 15:04:54 +0000

photo via Vanguardsf.com Today we’re traveling over to Brannan street to explore a 9 story mixed use residential luxury condominium building, 200 Brannan. This lavish San Francisco building of beauty, completed in December of 2004, was designed by MBH architects and built by Lennar Corp, it went on to be a 2006 Gold Nugget award finalist for the best loft project. It holds much sophistication in addition to a collection of 191 loft style condominiums which were created by combining existing concrete warehouses, an old century salami factory, and several new pieces of construction. Of the 191 units, 13 of them are penthouse units and 79 of them create the dynamic glass walls that encompass the central courtyard. photo via mbh.com Taking up residence at 200 Brannan makes urban living in San Francisco a breeze, as it sits in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood which is centrally located. This is an opportunity to move into one of San Francisco’s most exciting and fastest growing neighborhoods, which has been said to have become “the epicenter of the City on the Bay’s condominium boom”, according to afirerealestate.com. With this address you can count 2 children parks, the South Beach Yacht Club, the South Beach Marina, AT&T Park and The Embarcadero waterfront as well as the regions biggest job centers, SOMA, the Financial District, and Mission Bay, as your neighbors. Not to mention easy accessibility to the Bay Bridge, the 280 freeway, and Caltrains. A few of the building amenities include quality fixtures and finishes, a fitness center, 24 hour security, a concierge service, on site property management, and a central garden among many other things. There are currently 6 units on the market at 200 Brannan, they are as follows: * Unit #146: $1,175,000 – 2bed 2bath – 1613 sq ft. * Unit #205: $949,00 – 2bed 2bath – 1500 sq ft. * Unit #310: $975,000 – 2bed 2bath – 1525 sq ft. * Unit #412: $949,00 – 2bed 2bath – 1517 sq ft. * Unit #422: $1,565,000 – 2bed 2bath – 2030 sq ft. * Unit #502: $1,199,00 – 2bed 2bath- sq ft not listed photos via highrises.com & sfarmls.com This is urban luxury done the right way! And we’re not done just yet, below we’ve listed a couple of nearby establishments that are well worth checking out. Weather you live in the area or not, it’s great to call these spots your neighbors and/or your favorite places to hang out. photo via sanfranciscosentinel.com Aliotos: This fine dining establishment is the oldest restaurant on the warf and one of the most delicious. Located at 8 Fishermans Warf with a neon sign that is considered the San Francisco trademark and a menu that offers a grand selection of rich Italian seafood. Owned and operated by the family of Joesph Aliotos, the 36th mayor of the city of San Francisco, and noted for the Dungeness crab and courteous staff that make you feel like one of the family, Aliotos should be on every great San Franciscians to-do or must-do-again list! aliotos.com photo via planetware.com The Embarcadero Waterfront: This is an area that truly captures the essence of the city. During regular business hours Monday- Sunday you’re able to find anything from people juggling, to tons of food options, vendors selling various items, to that much needed peace of mind people often discover while strolling along the waterfront watching the sailboats on the Bay. It’s also the ideal location to view an auburn sunrise against the bay bridge before the city really begins to bustle. embarcaderocenter.com *Quick tip! Be sure to bring a camera whenever you visit the waterfront: you’re sure to stumble upon more then a few memorable moments. They fill the air down there! photo via madnessletters.com MoMo’s: Located directly across from the Giant’s home, AT&T park, MoMo’s is one of the prime go-to-places for before-gamers and after-workers. Though Momo’s embodies a swank and upscale environment, it is casual dining with a sing song name. It’s ideal for adults from all walks of life looking for a great American meal! Also ideal for mid-morning to early afternoon Sunday brunch. sfmomos.com photo via sf.eater.com Ciao Bella Gelato: Located in the Ferry Building, Ciao Bella Gelato is the only place in San Francisco to go to for 4 star Award winning gelato and sorbet! This is a retail chain which originally began in New York and has had it’s brand featured on the Oprah show. They offer an array of unique gelato and sorbet flavors to die for such as their blood orange sorbet and their key lime graham gelato. If you’ve never been, you’ve never lived and you must pay them a visit soon. Sample any flavor you’d like, grab a couple of scoops, and find a cozy spot in the Ferry Building to take a load off! ciaobellagelato.com How do you feel about the up and coming area of South Beach? Let us know below! For more information on the property listed above and other San Francisco luxury properties please visit sf.condodomain.com or call 877.852.6636 to speak with a representative.

photo via Vanguardsf.com

Today we’re traveling over to Brannan street to explore a 9 story mixed use residential luxury condominium building, 200 Brannan. This lavish San Francisco building of beauty, completed in December of 2004, was designed by MBH architects and built by Lennar Corp, it went on to be a 2006 Gold Nugget award finalist for the best loft project. It holds much sophistication in addition to a collection of 191 loft style condominiums which were created by combining existing concrete warehouses, an old century salami factory, and several new pieces of construction. Of the 191 units, 13 of them are penthouse units and 79 of them create the dynamic glass walls that encompass the central courtyard.

photo via mbh.com

Taking up residence at 200 Brannan makes urban living in San Francisco a breeze, as it sits in San Francisco’s South Beach neighborhood which is centrally located. This is an opportunity to move into one of San Francisco’s most exciting and fastest growing neighborhoods, which has been said to have become “the epicenter of the City on the Bay’s condominium boom”, according to afirerealestate.com. With this address you can count 2 children parks, the South Beach Yacht Club, the South Beach Marina, AT&T Park and The Embarcadero waterfront as well as the regions biggest job centers, SOMA, the Financial District, and Mission Bay, as your neighbors. Not to mention easy accessibility to the Bay Bridge, the 280 freeway, and Caltrains.

A few of the building amenities include quality fixtures and finishes, a fitness center, 24 hour security, a concierge service, on site property management, and a central garden among many other things. There are currently 6 units on the market at 200 Brannan, they are as follows:

* Unit #146: $1,175,000 – 2bed 2bath – 1613 sq ft.
* Unit #205: $949,00 – 2bed 2bath – 1500 sq ft.
* Unit #310: $975,000 – 2bed 2bath – 1525 sq ft.
* Unit #412: $949,00 – 2bed 2bath – 1517 sq ft.
* Unit #422: $1,565,000 – 2bed 2bath – 2030 sq ft.
* Unit #502: $1,199,00 – 2bed 2bath- sq ft not listed

photos via highrises.com & sfarmls.com

This is urban luxury done the right way! And we’re not done just yet, below we’ve listed a couple of nearby establishments that are well worth checking out. Weather you live in the area or not, it’s great to call these spots your neighbors and/or your favorite places to hang out.

: photo via sanfranciscosentinel.com

Aliotos: This fine dining establishment is the oldest restaurant on the warf and one of the most delicious. Located at 8 Fishermans Warf with a neon sign that is considered the San Francisco trademark and a menu that offers a grand selection of rich Italian seafood. Owned and operated by the family of Joesph Aliotos, the 36th mayor of the city of San Francisco, and noted for the Dungeness crab and courteous staff that make you feel like one of the family, Aliotos should be on every great San Franciscians to-do or must-do-again list! aliotos.com

: photo via planetware.com

The Embarcadero Waterfront: This is an area that truly captures the essence of the city. During regular business hours Monday- Sunday you’re able to find anything from people juggling, to tons of food options, vendors selling various items, to that much needed peace of mind people often discover while strolling along the waterfront watching the sailboats on the Bay. It’s also the ideal location to view an auburn sunrise against the bay bridge before the city really begins to bustle. embarcaderocenter.com *Quick tip! Be sure to bring a camera whenever you visit the waterfront: you’re sure to stumble upon more then a few memorable moments. They fill the air down there!

: photo via madnessletters.com

MoMo’s: Located directly across from the Giant’s home, AT&T park, MoMo’s is one of the prime go-to-places for before-gamers and after-workers. Though Momo’s embodies a swank and upscale environment, it is casual dining with a sing song name. It’s ideal for adults from all walks of life looking for a great American meal! Also ideal for mid-morning to early afternoon Sunday brunch. sfmomos.com

: photo via sf.eater.com

Ciao Bella Gelato: Located in the Ferry Building, Ciao Bella Gelato is the only place in San Francisco to go to for 4 star Award winning gelato and sorbet! This is a retail chain which originally began in New York and has had it’s brand featured on the Oprah show. They offer an array of unique gelato and sorbet flavors to die for such as their blood orange sorbet and their key lime graham gelato. If you’ve never been, you’ve never lived and you must pay them a visit soon. Sample any flavor you’d like, grab a couple of scoops, and find a cozy spot in the Ferry Building to take a load off! ciaobellagelato.com

How do you feel about the up and coming area of South Beach? Let us know below!

For more information on the property listed above and other San Francisco luxury properties please visit sf.condodomain.com or call 877.852.6636 to speak with a representative.

Ghirardelli: San Francisco Squares!

Bonnie Best — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 21:45:51 +0000

San Francisco is racked with many glorious neighborhoods that hold historical significance. There are four squares in the city of San Francisco that each possess their own character, style, and story. Those squares are Union Square, Jackson Square, Alamo Square, and Ghirardelli Square. Today we’ll be traveling over to Ghirardelli Square and divulging portions of its past as well as getting in touch with its present state! (photo via Ghirardellisq.com) Ghirardelli Square, located in the Fisherman’s wharf area of San Francisco (900 N. Point St. Sf, Ca 94109), is today a landmark location with a portion of the area being registered on the National Register of Historic Places as Pioneer Woolen Mills and D. Ghirardelli Company. In 1849 Domingo Ghirardelli relocated from Italy to San Francisco during the Gold Rush Era to make his fortune as a chocolatier. He made the realization that the miners in the field were in need of something grand to spend their hard earned gold dust on. He capitalized on this opportunity by keeping his local shop fully stocked with a generous selection of chocolate treats. He proved himself right and found himself extremely successful. In 1893 he went on to purchase an entire San Francisco city block for the purpose of creating the headquarters for the Ghirardelli Chocolate company. However, in the early 1960′s the Ghirardelli company was bought by the Golden Macaroni Company which moved its headquarters to San Leandro, CA and sold the square to San Francisco natives William Roth and his mother in 1962. The Roths went on to hire architects and converge the square, and its historic brick structures, into the beloved restaurant and retail plaza that it stands as today. This was the first major adaptive re-use project in the United States. As of today Ghirardelli Square stands as a favorite of San Francisco natives and tourist alike, with its upscale shopping, fine dining, wine bars, spas, live entertainment, and more! Below we take a look at a few of the majestic businesses and events that have found a home within the Ghirardelli Square! (photo via wikipedia.com) We’ll begin with the Fairmont Heritage Place. This isn’t so much a business as it is for businessmen, those that spend a portion of their time in San Francisco and a portion of their lives elsewhere. The Fairmont Heritage Place, located inside the walls of the world renowned Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, is a part of the Fairmont exclusive collection of private residence clubs which are located in some of the worlds most celebrated locations. The Fairmont offers fractional home ownership which allows it’s buyers to posses a second home that is graciously staffed by the Fairmont’s dedicated owner services team. These homes are available for a minimum of 35 days per year with 1/10th deeded fractional ownership. This is a rare chance to own an additional home within one of the city’s most famous national historic landmarks. To learn more about the Fairmont Heritage place please visit: fairmontatghirardelli.com (photo via: fractionalpropertyguide.com) Next we have Kara’s Cupcakes, an artisan bakery that emphasizes the use of organic products. Voted best cupcake in San Francisco. Kara’s Cupcakes bakes their products fresh throughout the duration of the business day and ensures that each is sold within hours of baking. They are also a community of activists who donate all unsold cupcakes to local charitable organizations. With a menu that offers gluten free sweet vanilla, chocolate velvet, and coconut cupcakes, as well as S’mores and milk chocolate ganache, Kara’s cupcakes is sure to satisfy even the sweetest sweet tooth. For more information please visit: Karascupcakes.com or phone 415.351.CAKE (photo via fairmontatghirardelli.com) Moving along to the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shoppe, the original Ghirardelli ice cream and chocolate manufactory. Here you are given the opportunity to view the original chocolate manufactory equipment, sample famous chocolate squares, and fill up on hot fudge sundaes! There is also a chocolate cafe in addition to Ghirardelli on the go which sales pre packed Ghirardelli gifts to go! For more information please visit: Ghirardelli.com or phone 415.474.3938 (travels.com) Next we have Crown and Crumpet, an astounding England style tea salon and antique shop located right here in San Francisco. Here you are afforded the luxury of hosting your very own high tea party or simply stopping in on a casual day for tea and other libations as well as several delectable treats and a unique english antique shopping experience. For more information please visit: Crownandcrumpet.com or phone 415.771.4252 (photo via fairmontatghirardelli.com) Next in line we have, Cellar 360, a premium winery, wine bar, and restaurant that provides SF residents with the wine country lifestyle right here in the center of the city. Cellar 360 offers an entire array of premium wines, wine focused foods, winery events, and more! For more information please visit Cellar360.com or phone 415.440.0772 We now travel over to an old time favorite, Lori’s Diner, which offers a great 50′s fashion American Diner atmosphere with a classic diner menu complete with Malts and ice cream sodas to accompany it. For more information please visit: lorisdiner.com or phone 415.409.1950 We’ll end there on the business side of the Square and briefly move along to information about some of the great events that take place here. There are as follows: The Chocolate Festival: Held September 11-12 ideal for chocolate lovers of all ages. You’ll be granted the oppurtunity to indulge in chocolate treats, sip wine (if you’re 21+), part-take in family activites, and soak up the sweet energy. There’s also Fleet Weekend October 8-11. Ghirardelli Square has been known to provide the best view for the Blue Angels air show and their is also a great deal of live music and other forms of entertainment provided. You’re also always invited to come out and get into the Christmas spirit during the holidays at which time Ghirardelli Square host their famous, Tree Lighting ceremony, which provides live entertainment for the entire family throughout the entire day! This square in its entirety is a divinely magical place that is surely not to be missed. For more information on Ghirardelli Square and all of the events and businesses listed above please visit Ghirardellisq.com. Let us know how you feel about Ghirardelli Square below and for information on luxury properties nearby please visit sf.condodomain.com or phone 877.852.6636 to speak with a CondoDomain Representative!

Ghirardelli Square, located in the Fisherman’s wharf area of San Francisco (900 N. Point St. Sf, Ca 94109), is today a landmark location with a portion of the area being registered on the National Register of Historic Places as Pioneer Woolen Mills and D. Ghirardelli Company. In 1849 Domingo Ghirardelli relocated from Italy to San Francisco during the Gold Rush Era to make his fortune as a chocolatier. He made the realization that the miners in the field were in need of something grand to spend their hard earned gold dust on. He capitalized on this opportunity by keeping his local shop fully stocked with a generous selection of chocolate treats. He proved himself right and found himself extremely successful. In 1893 he went on to purchase an entire San Francisco city block for the purpose of creating the headquarters for the Ghirardelli Chocolate company. However, in the early 1960′s the Ghirardelli company was bought by the Golden Macaroni Company which moved its headquarters to San Leandro, CA and sold the square to San Francisco natives William Roth and his mother in 1962.

The Roths went on to hire architects and converge the square, and its historic brick structures, into the beloved restaurant and retail plaza that it stands as today. This was the first major adaptive re-use project in the United States. As of today Ghirardelli Square stands as a favorite of San Francisco natives and tourist alike, with its upscale shopping, fine dining, wine bars, spas, live entertainment, and more! Below we take a look at a few of the majestic businesses and events that have found a home within the Ghirardelli Square! (photo via wikipedia.com)

We’ll begin with the Fairmont Heritage Place. This isn’t so much a business as it is for businessmen, those that spend a portion of their time in San Francisco and a portion of their lives elsewhere. The Fairmont Heritage Place, located inside the walls of the world renowned Ghirardelli Chocolate Factory, is a part of the Fairmont exclusive collection of private residence clubs which are located in some of the worlds most celebrated locations. The Fairmont offers fractional home ownership which allows it’s buyers to posses a second home that is graciously staffed by the Fairmont’s dedicated owner services team. These homes are available for a minimum of 35 days per year with 1/10th deeded fractional ownership. This is a rare chance to own an additional home within one of the city’s most famous national historic landmarks. To learn more about the Fairmont Heritage place please visit: fairmontatghirardelli.com (photo via: fractionalpropertyguide.com)

Next we have Kara’s Cupcakes, an artisan bakery that emphasizes the use of organic products. Voted best cupcake in San Francisco. Kara’s Cupcakes bakes their products fresh throughout the duration of the business day and ensures that each is sold within hours of baking. They are also a community of activists who donate all unsold cupcakes to local charitable organizations. With a menu that offers gluten free sweet vanilla, chocolate velvet, and coconut cupcakes, as well as S’mores and milk chocolate ganache, Kara’s cupcakes is sure to satisfy even the sweetest sweet tooth. For more information please visit: Karascupcakes.com or phone 415.351.CAKE (photo via fairmontatghirardelli.com)

Moving along to the Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shoppe, the original Ghirardelli ice cream and chocolate manufactory. Here you are given the opportunity to view the original chocolate manufactory equipment, sample famous chocolate squares, and fill up on hot fudge sundaes! There is also a chocolate cafe in addition to Ghirardelli on the go which sales pre packed Ghirardelli gifts to go! For more information please visit: Ghirardelli.com or phone 415.474.3938 (travels.com)

Next we have Crown and Crumpet, an astounding England style tea salon and antique shop located right here in San Francisco. Here you are afforded the luxury of hosting your very own high tea party or simply stopping in on a casual day for tea and other libations as well as several delectable treats and a unique english antique shopping experience. For more information please visit: Crownandcrumpet.com or phone 415.771.4252 (photo via fairmontatghirardelli.com)

Next in line we have, Cellar 360, a premium winery, wine bar, and restaurant that provides SF residents with the wine country lifestyle right here in the center of the city. Cellar 360 offers an entire array of premium wines, wine focused foods, winery events, and more! For more information please visit Cellar360.com or phone 415.440.0772

We now travel over to an old time favorite, Lori’s Diner, which offers a great 50′s fashion American Diner atmosphere with a classic diner menu complete with Malts and ice cream sodas to accompany it. For more information please visit: lorisdiner.com or phone 415.409.1950

We’ll end there on the business side of the Square and briefly move along to information about some of the great events that take place here. There are as follows:

The Chocolate Festival: Held September 11-12 ideal for chocolate lovers of all ages. You’ll be granted the oppurtunity to indulge in chocolate treats, sip wine (if you’re 21+), part-take in family activites, and soak up the sweet energy.

There’s also Fleet Weekend October 8-11. Ghirardelli Square has been known to provide the best view for the Blue Angels air show and their is also a great deal of live music and other forms of entertainment provided.

You’re also always invited to come out and get into the Christmas spirit during the holidays at which time Ghirardelli Square host their famous, Tree Lighting ceremony, which provides live entertainment for the entire family throughout the entire day!

This square in its entirety is a divinely magical place that is surely not to be missed. For more information on Ghirardelli Square and all of the events and businesses listed above please visit Ghirardellisq.com. Let us know how you feel about Ghirardelli Square below and for information on luxury properties nearby please visit sf.condodomain.com or phone 877.852.6636 to speak with a CondoDomain Representative!

SF Beat: Clay St Condos, Empanadas on Valencia & More!

Bonnie Best — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 20:00:36 +0000

Today we’re taking a look around San Francisco, touring various locations in different sections of the city in order to view what’s new, what’s old, and what’s all around fabulous. Our first stop is Nob Hill. Here we are visiting a small but elegant five story, eleven unit residential condominium building that at this time has two available units. 1083 Clay street, designed by Donald Macdonald Architects, is currently the highest wood frame building in San Francisco. It features an exterior finished in Stucco, two top floors with panoramic views, curved bay windows, and a small formal garden. This is opportunity to own a property in one of San Francisco’s most affluent districts also allows you to neighbor with the four most expensive and popular hotels in the city: The Fairmont, Mark Hopkins Intercontinental, The Stanford, and The Huntington. Don’t forget the majestic Grace Cathedral, our copy of France’s Notre Dame, which stands as one of the largest Cathedrals in the entire city that just so happens to be situated right before the magical oasis that is Huntington Park. Don’t miss out! (photos via sfweekly.com and bayareaforsale.com) Our next stop has new doors that have just recently been opened in the Mission District. Let’s give a warm welcome to Manuel Godino’s new simple spanish cuisine hot spot, Venga. Noted for their multi flavored empanada’s Venga is certainly making a small but mighty splash in the Mission District. Not only are they serving small well priced pockets of heaven but also things such as Spanish potato salad which consist of roasted potatoes, carrots, bacon, hardboiled eggs, parsley, peas, and lemon aioli, in addition to serving traditional Argentine desserts. Stop in for a taste today; Venga is located at 443 Valencia St. (photo via vengaempanadas.com) Continuing along our journey, we now find ourselves in Noe Valley. You must love books and/or artsy design in order to appreciate this next place. Press Works On Paper located at 3492 22nd Street at Dolores St, puts a snazzy and unique spin on book buying while presenting items such as hard to find art, graphic design wrapping paper, vintage staplers, tabletop made letter pressed cards, out-of-print and hard to find fashion books, and of course several classic novels, this is truly a place where book worms and fashionista’s unite! Our next stop isn’t just designated to one particular area of the city. SF Chefs, San Francisco’s premier food, wine, and spirits festival presented by Visa Signature is set on Union Square as well as various other venues around the city. It allows attendee’s to mingle with master chefs, mixologist, and winemakers as well as eat, drink, and indulge in a good time all in the name of gourmet dining. The events begin July 9th and carry on until August 7th. (photovia sfchefs2011.com) And our final stop brings us back to the Mission District where housing activists organized and performed a rally to raise awareness and call attention to an abandoned 43 unit Mission District building. The group of 50 some odd activists put on this demonstration with the intent of calling the community to reclaim what they referred to as “a waste of housing” with hopes of reclaiming that vacant property for homeless families and individuals. With the economy still residing on the grounds of uncertainty and the amount of citizens finding themselves unceremoniously put out into the streets due to lack of funds, you can’t at all fault this group for their admirable demonstration. It is our hope that these heart felt efforts didn’t go to waste and the valid point of this entire rally was conveyed well enough to be heard, understood, and tended too by those capable of handling these matters. For more on this story visit sfappeal.com (photo via sfappeal.com) That completes today’s tour around SF. I hope you gained something from it and hope you get out there and explore all that SF has to offer! Want to know what we have to say about a certain issue or neighborhood? Let us know! For more information visit sf.condodomain.com or call 877.852.6636 to speak with a CondoDomain Representative.

Today we’re taking a look around San Francisco, touring various locations in different sections of the city in order to view what’s new, what’s old, and what’s all around fabulous.

Our first stop is Nob Hill. Here we are visiting a small but elegant five story, eleven unit residential condominium building that at this time has two available units. 1083 Clay street, designed by Donald Macdonald Architects, is currently the highest wood frame building in San Francisco. It features an exterior finished in Stucco, two top floors with panoramic views, curved bay windows, and a small formal garden. This is opportunity to own a property in one of San Francisco’s most affluent districts also allows you to neighbor with the four most expensive and popular hotels in the city: The Fairmont, Mark Hopkins Intercontinental, The Stanford, and The Huntington. Don’t forget the majestic Grace Cathedral, our copy of France’s Notre Dame, which stands as one of the largest Cathedrals in the entire city that just so happens to be situated right before the magical oasis that is Huntington Park. Don’t miss out! (photos via sfweekly.com and bayareaforsale.com)

Our next stop has new doors that have just recently been opened in the Mission District. Let’s give a warm welcome to Manuel Godino’s new simple spanish cuisine hot spot, Venga. Noted for their multi flavored empanada’s Venga is certainly making a small but mighty splash in the Mission District. Not only are they serving small well priced pockets of heaven but also things such as Spanish potato salad which consist of roasted potatoes, carrots, bacon, hardboiled eggs, parsley, peas, and lemon aioli, in addition to serving traditional Argentine desserts. Stop in for a taste today; Venga is located at 443 Valencia St. (photo via vengaempanadas.com)

Continuing along our journey, we now find ourselves in Noe Valley. You must love books and/or artsy design in order to appreciate this next place. Press Works On Paper located at 3492 22nd Street at Dolores St, puts a snazzy and unique spin on book buying while presenting items such as hard to find art, graphic design wrapping paper, vintage staplers, tabletop made letter pressed cards, out-of-print and hard to find fashion books, and of course several classic novels, this is truly a place where book worms and fashionista’s unite!

Our next stop isn’t just designated to one particular area of the city. SF Chefs, San Francisco’s premier food, wine, and spirits festival presented by Visa Signature is set on Union Square as well as various other venues around the city. It allows attendee’s to mingle with master chefs, mixologist, and winemakers as well as eat, drink, and indulge in a good time all in the name of gourmet dining. The events begin July 9th and carry on until August 7th. (photovia sfchefs2011.com)

And our final stop brings us back to the Mission District where housing activists organized and performed a rally to raise awareness and call attention to an abandoned 43 unit Mission District building. The group of 50 some odd activists put on this demonstration with the intent of calling the community to reclaim what they referred to as “a waste of housing” with hopes of reclaiming that vacant property for homeless families and individuals. With the economy still residing on the grounds of uncertainty and the amount of citizens finding themselves unceremoniously put out into the streets due to lack of funds, you can’t at all fault this group for their admirable demonstration. It is our hope that these heart felt efforts didn’t go to waste and the valid point of this entire rally was conveyed well enough to be heard, understood, and tended too by those capable of handling these matters. For more on this story visit sfappeal.com (photo via sfappeal.com)

That completes today’s tour around SF. I hope you gained something from it and hope you get out there and explore all that SF has to offer! Want to know what we have to say about a certain issue or neighborhood? Let us know!

For more information visit sf.condodomain.com or call 877.852.6636 to speak with a CondoDomain Representative.