Frequently Asked Questions
Buying or selling in San Francisco comes with unique considerations. Here are answers to the questions clients ask most — designed to give you clarity and confidence every step of the way.
Buying Process
Begin with a financial pre-approval, then partner with a local expert who understands the nuances of San Francisco neighborhoods and market trends. I guide you through every step for a seamless, white-glove experience.
San Francisco remains one of the most competitive markets in the country, with desirable properties often receiving multiple offers. Strategic pricing and insider market access are essential to securing the right home.
Buyers typically budget 2–3% of the purchase price for closing costs, though luxury properties or certain financing options may alter that range.
I craft winning strategies including pre-offer inspections, strong contingencies, and compelling presentation to position you ahead of cash competition.
Yes. Through my private network, I provide access to discreet, off-market listings not found on public search portals.
Areas like Pacific Heights, Noe Valley, and Russian Hill have historically shown strong appreciation due to location, charm, and limited inventory.
Standard closings take 21–30 days, but cash purchases can close in as little as 7 days with proper preparation.
General home, pest, and sewer line inspections are common, with additional evaluations for older or historic homes.
Luxury properties often start at $5M+, with ultra-luxury estates exceeding $20M, depending on location, architecture, and amenities.
Selling Process
Spring and early fall typically see peak activity, but with the right strategy, high-end homes sell year-round.
I combine high-end photography, cinematic video tours, targeted digital campaigns, and discreet outreach to qualified buyers.
Pricing strategically, presenting flawlessly, and marketing to the right audience — locally and globally.
Yes. I specialize in private showings and targeted marketing to protect your privacy while attracting serious buyers
From staging to luxury lifestyle curation, I manage every detail to ensure your property stands out in the marketplace.
Well-priced, well-presented homes can receive offers within weeks; luxury properties may require more time to match the right buyer.
Absolutely. I leverage competitive bids to secure the best terms while maintaining discretion.
Comprehensive property prep, custom marketing, elite staging, negotiation expertise, and seamless transaction management.
Typically 5–7% of the sale price, including agent commissions, transfer taxes, and escrow fees.
Yes, I work closely with attorneys and financial advisors to ensure a smooth, compliant sale.
Investors
It allows investors to defer capital gains taxes by reinvesting proceeds into a like-kind property within IRS deadlines.
Yes. Strategic investments in designated areas can offer significant tax incentives.
With limited land and global demand, San Francisco remains a prime market for both cash flow and appreciation.
Multi-unit buildings, mixed-use properties, and well-located condos offer strong long- term returns.
Yes, with proper legal and tax planning, international buyers can invest successfully.
Yields vary by property type and location, typically 3–5% annually, with strong upside in desirable areas.
Yes, I have access to discreet listings through private networks.
San Francisco has strict tenant protections; investors should work with experts to ensure compliance.
Rent control affects cash flow and tenant turnover, but strategic property selection can offset limitations.
Absolutely. I provide detailed cash flow, appreciation, and tax benefit projections.
Relocation
I offer personalized neighborhood tours, rental-to-purchase strategies, and exclusive off-market property access.
Pacific Heights, Presidio Heights, and Noe Valley offer charm, convenience, and strong resale value.
Yes, I handle all logistics from short-term housing to long-term property acquisition.
Yes. I provide virtual tours, video inspections, and secure transaction management.
Through concierge-style service, I handle everything from utilities to movers.
Yes. I help clients identify neighborhoods with strong public or private school
options.
Absolutely. I maintain connections with premium rental providers.
Yes, including discreet, high-end leasing for executives and VIPs.
I have a vetted network of movers, designers, contractors, and more.
I introduce clients to local communities, events, and private clubs to ensure a smooth integration.
San Francisco TIC & Condo Terminology
A TIC is shared ownership of a property, where each owner has exclusive rights to a specific unit and shared ownership of the building.
Condos offer individual ownership of a unit plus shared common areas, while TICs share the entire property with a usage agreement.
Yes, but they require specialized lenders and fractional loans.
TICs can offer better value but may come with higher financing hurdles and resale limitations.
Monthly fees cover building maintenance, insurance, and amenities; amounts vary by property.
Yes, under specific city guidelines, though the process can be lengthy.
They typically have a co-ownership agreement instead of a traditional HOA
Generally condos, due to broader financing availability and buyer demand.
Yes, many offer resort-style amenities, concierge services, and stunning views.
Rentals are subject to the ownership agreement or HOA rules, so it’s important to review before purchasing.
New Construction
New construction offers modern design, energy efficiency, smart home technology, and minimal maintenance. Buyers also benefit from customization options and brand-new warranties.
With new builds, you often purchase directly from the developer, which may involve longer timelines, staged payments, and design selections. Negotiation focuses more on upgrades and incentives than on price reductions.
Yes. Many San Francisco and Bay Area developers offer design centers where you can select finishes, fixtures, and floor plans to suit your lifestyle.
Property taxes are typically calculated on the purchase price, and some buyers may benefit from deductions related to mortgage interest and energy-efficient improvements.
Most builders provide a one-year workmanship warranty and a longer structural warranty, offering peace of mind for major systems and structural integrity.
Timelines can range from 6 to 18 months depending on permitting, customization, and construction phases. Urban infill projects may take longer due to city regulations.
Absolutely. New builds often attract premium rents and lower maintenance costs, making them attractive to investors in San Francisco’s competitive rental market.
Even with brand-new homes, professional inspections at key phases—foundation, framing, and final walk-through—are essential to ensure quality and compliance.
Yes. Many banks and credit unions offer construction-to-permanent loans or builder incentives such as closing cost credits and rate buy-downs.
Hotspots include Mission Bay, Dogpatch, SOMA, Russian Hill, Pacific Heights, Cow Hollow, Mission District and Yerba Buena in San Francisco, as well as Oakland’s waterfront, Walnut Creek, and Silicon Valley for suburban luxury builds.