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Forest Knolls and its’ SF Overlook Development

Posted on May 8, 2012 by Erika Burke

SF Overlook Development, LLC have completed their environmental review with pending planning approval to build a proposed 34 units on the hillside below Crestmont Dr. in San Franciscos’ Forest Knolls neighborhood.

Crestmont Preservation is an organized group of home owners and community members with the common cause of preserving the quiet and peaceful enjoyment that is their right as homeowners.  Their primary concern is the additional 340 person trips, (136-170 car trips…based upon round trips per person for average of 5 residents per 2-3 bedroom unit per day), moving through this quiet, residential neighborhood of narrow, hilly streets along with the increased density this large development will bring to the end of this cul-de-sac, already the city’s longest.

SF Overlook states their 34 unit project is 44% less units than the max allowed by zoning.  The mix of units are two and three bedroom family townhomes and one 11 unit building.  This project will improve hillside stability through water management, new retaining walls and drainage improvements.  They propose to add 51 off-street covered parking spaces and will apply for up to 68 parking spaces Continue reading →

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Luxury South Beach Loft-1 Block from San Franciscos’ Waterfront

Posted on May 2, 2012 by Erika Burke

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Currently available is loft #130, 1535 Square Feet of cool modern living featuring two, 17 ft. windows spanning 2 levels. The unique entry level includes a tasteful modern kitchen with sub-zero fridge, room for dining before your floor to ceiling windows,  and a half bath, wrapped up in sleek steel, concrete and iron design elements, highlighted by inset and spot lighting.

“The surprise is the mezzanine and 2nd loft level Grande En Suite Master Bedroom”

Continue reading →

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San Francisco South Beach Luxury Living at 200 Brannan #130

Posted on April 24, 2012 by Erika Burke

Last week I blogged about a gorgeous penthouse #506 offering for $1,250,000. at 200 Brannan in San Francisco’s South Beach waterfront neighborhood, which is still available.  Today, a beautiful 1535 SF 2 story loft in this luxury Condo Building has come to market.

This 2 level loft, #130, includes a second full bath on the main level and a large master suite on the upper level.  The mezzanine is large enough for a home office or family room. This is a plushly decorated secure full service building with door man, 24 hour security, included garage parking for 1 independant and exercise facilities plus recreation room for private parties.  Offered for $1,049,000.

One block from the Waterfront and near 2nd Street Cafes and boutiques.

Everything about 200 Brannan is luxurious and the perfect fit for the discerning full service condominium seeker. Please phone for your appointment to view this home.

Erika Burke – Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Vanguard Properties, erika@erikaburkesf.com 415.321.7076 www.liveinluxurysf.com

For more about 200 Brannan please review my prior post http://erikaburkesf.com/?p=2004

 Listed by Eric Turner, McGuire Real Estate

 

 

 

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New to Market! Nob Hill Condo Hot spot-Available Now! Cathedral & Bridge Views!

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Erika Burke

A new San Francisco real estate market offering today is 1201 California St. #507 near Pine Street atop Nob Hill,  is a wonderfully priced condo opportunity for 1 Bedroom and 1 bath in an exclusive neighborhood with Views of Grace Cathedral and the Golden Gate Bridge. Blocks from Union Square, the theatre and financial Districts, the location is superb.

You are greeted by the door man in this elevator building. The kitchen features a beautiful marble countertop, laundry is available in the building. The bath includes French doors and finishes in keeping with the period. Enjoy views from the Living Room and Bedroom, carpet and slate flooring. New Homeowners will meet with board approval. Included is 1 indpendant parking space.

The building was made famous by Dashiell Hammets’ Maltese Falcon.  Built in 1926, it features ornate architectural details as San Francisco’s treasured Cathedral Apartments.  The building offers a Charming Roof Deck to take in the City’s most outstanding views.  Offered for $475,000. Shown only by appointment, please call to arrange your  showing and for further information.   

Erika Burke – Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Vanguard Properties, erika@erikaburkesf.com 415.321.7076 www.liveinluxurysf.com

Listed by Paige Dew-Ewing, BHG Mason McDuffie Real Estate
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Facts about the San Francisco Real Estate Market-Right Now!

Posted on April 20, 2012 by Erika Burke

As Reported by the San Francisco Association of Realtors (SFAR), April Market Focus Report.
Reporting on Single Family Home and Condominium Sales in San Francisco and the state of our current market plus future projections. Low Inventory, rising prices, lots of buyers, high end is moving. Sellers should feel confident to list during this opportune Seller’s Market.

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As Inventory Remains Low and Unchanged,
San Francisco Homes Sell Even Faster
Just as last month, many new home sellers continue to have confidence that the market is on an upswing and that housing prices will soon accelerate. As a result, the vast majority of them have decided to hold off on listing their properties for sale, keeping the city’s inventory low. Making matters worse, the flow of distressed properties from the banks has lessened, making it more difficult for buyers to find properties even though interest rates have remained low. The congruence of all these economic factors occurring at the same time is resulting in the current seller’s market, where sellers have more leveraging power over buyers who are competing against a limited pool of properties.

Single-Family Home Sales

While the city’s inventory of single-family homes for sale dropped by 29.4 percent compared to March 2011, it did not exceed February’s level this year. Still, despite the low inventory, the number of homes under contract continued to improve by as much as 19.9 percent compared to this time last year, while the number of homes sold fell by only a slight margin of 2.8 percent.

For homes that were priced below $700,000, the months of supply inventory fell by 65 percent to one month. For higher-priced homes between $700,000 and $1.2 million, the months of supply inventory fell by 56.1 percent to also one month. It comes as no surprise that a number of real estate web sites currently rank San Francisco high among the nation of cities where homes sell the fastest.

One region of the city which continues to experience healthy sales activity is the area in the mid-western part of town, known as Twin Peaks West. Since March 2011, the number of homes under contract here has risen by 14.7 percent. Twin Peaks West has a total of 16 neighborhoods, with Mt. Davidson, the highest natural point in San Francisco, at its center. With its elegantly landscaped streets and a variety of architectural styles, including Craftsman bungalows, Mediterranean, and Mid-century, homes here are very desirable. The median price for a home in Twin Peaks West is about $837,500.

Continue reading →

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State of the National Real Estate Market from NAR (Nat’l. Assoc. of Realtors)

Posted on April 20, 2012 by Erika Burke

March Existing-Home Sales Saw Decline, Lower Inventory, Stabilizing Prices

Daily Real Estate News | Thursday, April 19, 2012

Existing-home sales dipped in March, but continued to outpace last year’s levels. At the same time, inventory tightened and home prices showed further signs of stabilizing, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.

Total existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, declined 2.6 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.48 million in March from an upwardly revised 4.60 million in February, but are 5.2 percent above the 4.26 million-unit pace in March 2011.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the recovery is in the process of settling into a higher level of home sales.  “The recovery is happening though not at a breakout pace, but we have seen nine consecutive months of year-over-year sales increases,” he said.  “Existing-home sales are moving up and down in a fairly narrow range that is well above the level of activity during the first half of last year.  With job growth, low interest rates, bargain home prices and an improving economy, the pent-up demand is coming to market and we expect housing to be notably better this year.” Continue reading →

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Sleek lifestyle at 200 Brannan #506 – Luxury Bay Living in San Francisco’s South Beach.

Posted on April 16, 2012 by Erika Burke

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Today I had the pleasure of viewing a luxury Penthouse at 200 Brannan in the exclusive South Beach neighborhood, steps from the Embarcadero, near the Ferry Building, South Parks’ 2nd St. restaurants and boutique’s, Giants Stadium, only steps from San Franciscos’ quintessential bay views and numerous outdoor activities. Close to the Bay Bridge, 101 and 280 and public transportation.

200 Brannan is one sleek, beautifully kept, luxury condominium building of 191 homes.

As an experienced luxury Realtor, I am the appointed representive for 200 Brannan through our Vanguard Properties website and will keep you informed of the latest offerings.  I will arrange your private showing or provide accurate comparables and comparisons for your home sale at 200 Brannan.

I view every home with the idea in mind of who the buyer might be, and ask, “Would I live there myself”? I can give a definite “Yes”, to the current offering of penthouse Unit 506 and easily picture a sophisticated couple, business bachelor or bachelorette, design or art world professional, luxury pied-a-terre seeker, or a young urban dweller making this prestigious offering their home.

Greeted at the door by the engaging door man, Roberto, one immediately feels secure and that they are entering an exclusive, service oriented, 5 star living experience, from the atrium entry, to the exquisitely chosen neutral palette on the walls of the quiet, plushly carpeted hallways. Dotting those walls are custom art and photographs that are finished with sophisticated lighting; which guide you past the serene green bamboo ground floor courtyard and on to the multiple elevators that bring you closest to your home.

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Continue reading →

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Richmond District Beauty

Posted on March 26, 2012 by Erika Burke

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The Scoop on the Americas Cup – What’s Happening #LiveinLuxurySF Blog

Posted on March 22, 2012 by Erika Burke

As a member of The San Francisco Luxury Marketing Council, I attended a presentation of “America’s Cup – Everything you need to know”, Hosted by Al Nucifora at The City Club at 155 Sansome tonite. Presenter, Napa Valley Vintners’ Association served an array of Napa Boutique Wines and and was introduced as the Official Wine of the America’s Cup. Napa wines will exclusively be served at the events. In Napa Valley, 95% of vineyards are family owned, 80% produce 10,000 cases and less. There are 45 acres of planted vineyards which is only 9% of the county. They will be partnering to offer promotion for visitors to visit Napa during their Bay Area holiday.

The America’s Cup is a series of regatta’s held in top venues around the world, sailing the AC45′s, the fastest catamarans with cutting edge wing sail technology. The marketing message is that this event is “Innovative and Revolutionary”. They have 28 Broadcast Partners, have recieved 5.8 million UTube Views and expect 370K spectators to take in the World Series of Racing. www.uTube.com/AmericasCup

Time to make your home a short term rental or if you are ready to sell, prepare in time for the quickly approaching race dates!

Pier 39 will be host to the America’s Cup Village and the Finish Line where you can get up close and personal with sailor and take in bands at theAmphitheater.                                  Piers 27/29 Will be home to the International Broadcast and Media Center to coordinate and support more than 1,000 journalists.

Continue reading →

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Outstanding Sea Cliff must see luxury home

Posted on March 17, 2012 by Erika Burke

This is a “Luxe Fave” of mine that  just came to market… an amazingly majestic Spanish Meditaranean home at 738 El Camino Del Mar Ave. at 30th Street in Seacliff; San Franciscos’ exclusive neighborhood of mansions that take in sweeping views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge.   

Originally built in 1927 and remodeled in 2009 by designer Ken Fulk, the finishes are in one word, beautiful and is in keeping with the style of home with a fresh up to date elegance and beauty.  The home has spacious open feeling of largesse for 3 Bedrooms and 3.5 Baths including a view Master Suite, media room, gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, plus front and rear landscaped gardens and 2 garage parking. The living room features the views as well.  There is a 2 car garage!!

Offered for $6,995,000 Contact me to arrange a private showing 415.321.7076

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My San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Orientation

Posted on March 15, 2012 by Erika Burke

When I was in the advertising business I attended Chamber of Commerce Sundowner’s.  They were monthly cocktail mixers for networking with other business owners.  Today I went to an orientation meeting for the Chamber of Commerce in San Francisco, along with 30 or so other business owners and execs who were introduced to how the Chamber can help promote our business and how they work to improve San Francisco’s business community and support job development. 

The meeting was held in spacious conference room of the Chamber on the 12th floor in the Lusk Building at 235 Montgomery Street in the financial district.  Attendees included Zipcar, two professional business consultant Coach’s, a construction manager looking for job connections, the LGBT friendly paper-The Bay Area Reporter,  The San Francisco Business Times, Orange-Events Photographers, a social media marketing expert from Fanpage Direct, a financial planner and A52 signs among about 25 more local business owners and entrepeneurs.

Some attendees had been in business for just a few months, others new to San Francisco and all looking for support from the local business community. one group, www.PrepareUsToday.com is a disaster Preparedness company providing readymade packages for sale along with a lifetime refill program to individuals and business.  I’m a huge proponent of hyperlocal marketing.  Getting to know who provides our services and goods on a personal level.  These are the people that drive our economy and community development. 

We were able to meet and greet after and network.  Continue reading →

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Frankly Chic Brick and Timber Clock Tower Loft

Posted on March 15, 2012 by Erika Burke

I had a suprise treat today during my Tuesday property tour. I viewed a rarely available 1733 SF Brick and Timber loft in the coveted Clock Tower Building in San Francisco’s South Beach (SOMA) neighborhood. This home is perfect for an artist, a couple who entertains, a tech exec or an expressive bachelor or bachelorette. This is a home in which to live your glory days, even if that means a fabulous San Francisco pied-a-terre now that the kids are in college.

The building itself features broad expanses of metal and wood and each homes door has a metal lighted sculptural feature that adds to the hip, arty, modern feel. The interior courtyard is charmingly landscaped with ferns and vines covering the interior walls. There are elevators from the entrance and to the Tower, where #454 is located.

This private loft bedroom sits a few steps above the expansive living area that is framed at the far end by two enormous windows that span the width and overlook a charming vintage building landscape. The quality of lite is exquisite and the exposed brick, stunning hardwood floors and vaulting exposed beam ceiling make this a New York Style loft.

Continue reading →

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The Millenium-San Francisco Luxury Resort Highrise Living

Posted on March 9, 2012 by Erika Burke

Yesterday, I toured San Franciscos’ Luxury Tower, The Millenium with  my colleague, Uche Nchekwube, M.B.A., Realtor at Vangaurd Properties.  We were greeted by the valet as we drove up and met by  the buildings’ concierge who escorted us to our private showing appointment.We had the luxury of viewing the gorgeous homes currently offered for sale.

Our showings consisted of a visit to the City View residences, loft like urban dwellings with seamless finishes like marble bath and kitchen, soaking tub, sleek cabinetry, picture windows, and urban views! Very modern, streamlined and sophisticted. The hallways are quiet, plush and serene. Then we were escorted to model homes at the ‘Residences’, 1 and 2 bedroom homes on the lower floors and the slightly larger, Grand Resdiences with stupdendous views, on the upper floors. They have numerous floor plans to choose from, for each Residence group. We saw Floor Plans A, C and F, each featuring something specical, an extra walk-in closet, a guest room/office, a den, more square footage, a commanding view, a new and different lay out! It’s easy to see why the most exclusive buyers are making the Millenium their home. It’s fresh, clean, beautifully designed and luxurious. Everything has been thought of for you in terms of surroundings, service and comfort.

There are enormous views available of the City and the bay and our colorful urban landscape. In our busy lives, the Milleniums’ Owners’ level offers the relaxation, socialization and comfort that one would book a resort stay for. Spanning the entire lower level, you will find a temperature controlled wine storage locker, a wine tasting room shaped like a wine barrell, an owners lounge with the latest magazines & periodicals with a fireplace, private dining room, and a snack/coffee bar. If that’s not enough you can take advantage of the movie theater, the indoor swimming pool, the private spa rooms and lounge by the enormous fireplace on the outdoor terrace. Wanting to exercise, there is a workout room, pilates studio and fully equipped gym, plus a play room for the kids. The concierge on this level can arrange any private party or event in any room on this level for you.

At every turn The Millenium offers an air of luxury and sophistication that is evident from the moment of entry. These homes demonstrate the  exclusivity that is sure to appeal to the most discerning city dwellers and home owners. Allow me to fill you in on some of the features and benefits of these homes and schedule your private showing. Reach out at 415.321.7076 to view at your convenience.

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Compound in the Heart of San Francisco-Preview in NOPA. Act Quickly for first look.

Posted on March 1, 2012 by Erika Burke

Today I previewed a compound Oasis in the heart of San Francisco on Divisadero. I was frankly flabbergasted at the amazing modern meets Storybook Victorian home that was behind the ornate well cared for visage.  Not on the market presently, though it will be any moment now, so I’m giving you the first glimpse. 

Sitting on a double lot gives it the feeling of being a compound. It’s garden setting and sophistication make it an oasis.  The main home on 2 levels have 3 beds and 2.5 baths, with a master suite with an additional office.   An elegant spaciousness is made by the open vistas of this fabulous entertainment home.  Throughout is the notable gleaming walnut radiant heat hardwood floors, marble fireplaces, ornate pillars, exposed brick and beams, stained glass, high cielings with modern touches and high end finishes. There is a deluxe sound system.

The chef’s kitchen features stainless counters and all of the extras you would expect including a sleek breakfast bar that seats a crowd. The master marble bath has a free standing soaking tub with outdoor deck access to lounge on 1 of the private decks after your bath. One bath features vintagelike beadboard and bath furniture and even of course, there is a modern powder room.  All well thought out and impressive, providing class, elegance with modern touches and conveniences.  This is truly a San Francisco home at its’ finest and most impressive.  Did I mention the turret room…it’s round of course. Continue reading →

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San Franciscos’ One Hawthorne, a Luxury Highrise in the Middle of the Action – Affordable and Stylish

Posted on February 29, 2012 by Erika Burke

One HawthorneWorld-Class View from a Junior 1 Bedroom

Downtown San Francisco is host to many new and newish high rise luxury buildings offering homeownership opportunities to the most discerning urban dwellers.  Experience life with all of the amenities, like exercise rooms, valets, roof top gardens with outstanding world-class views and some buildings include concierge service.

Tonite I attended an invitational cocktail fete hosted by the sales team of One Hawthorne.  Catty-corner to our new Vangaurd Office at 199 New Montgomery.  One Hawthorne’s sales office is at the corner of Hawthorne and Howard with the building entrance around the corner on the quiet Hawthorne Street, not a thoroughfare, a calm street in the midst of the action.

Our Hosts, Sales TeamJessica Keenan & Carrie Barrett, with their wonderful caterer!

Greeted by the sales team who offered wine and beautifully prepared nibbles,  I was given the inside scoop on the upcoming offerings in this building.  Sales have picked up, are brisk with available homes moving quickly.

Sold in phases, the first phase has only 8 units left before the anticipated release of the upper floors 21 to 25 in the next several months.  As the floors go up, so does the pricing. Jessica gave us the grand tour of the sleek, modern, impressive models of a junior one bedroom, the perfect pied a terre, a 1 bedroom at 800+ Square Feet and the 2 bedroom/2bath of over 1200 Square Feet.  Continue reading →

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Academy Awards 2012 Quick Review

Posted on February 27, 2012 by Erika Burke

Billy Crystal was impeccable tonite as presenter of the 84th Academy Awards. This is one red carpet and awards show I make sure to watch! This year, Nine Films were nominated for Best Picture.

Billy’s opening number delivered and some of his one liners hit home! I think it’s true, a lot of the actors are smaller and shorter than we realize, though they surely look good on the big screen. The French do have cause for celebration winning the Academy’s Best Actors and Best Film awards, though my French friends DO exhibit joy, contrary to Billy’s contrary joking!

Missing from the audience were Jack Nicholson, though I did see Tony Bennett. The camera as usual loves Brad and Angelina plus this years “most panned to”, George Clooney and Stacey Keibler, so beautifully dressed in a gold Marchesa gown. Tina Fey surprised us in an elegant eggplant colored gown with peplum and delivered her funny lines as presenter having me laugh out loud as usual.

Octavia Spencer won the Best Supporting Actress for “The Help” and was so grateful in her teary heartfelt acceptance speech. 20120227-094038.jpg

It was humbling and well deserved though I say, “Don’t miss the book”, as with most films it captures nuance the film doesn’t convey. My pick for Best supporting actress was Jessica Chastain from the same film. I hadn’t realized it was her when watching the film until the credits rolled. She is one to watch.

Continue reading →

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Pinterest – The newest Social Networking Platform!

Posted on February 23, 2012 by Erika Burke

Attending a webinar this morning on Pinterest, which is the fastest growing social networking site.  I’m learning that it’s all about the topics and how creative you can be in naming your topic.  You can put links back to your Blog and site which is key.

Pic from a Bora Bora Pinboard

Their method of reaching out is through pinboards that house photos of your choosing that you can caption and therefore form an outline of whatever it is you have to say or are promoting.  Since it is so easy these days to take pics and upload them right away -this should be an easy fit for most of us. 

It’s a little addicting to browse their pinboards and entertaining as there are endless categories. Continue reading →

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World-Class Luxury Home Shopping in San Francisco

Posted on February 23, 2012 by Erika Burke

Surrounding Union Square are some of the Cities best offerings for those looking for that exclusive luxury home vase, work of art, custom upholstered furniture or unique, one of a kind accessory to add to your homes elegance?  San Francisco hosts a myriad of luxury home stores for you to fulfill your decorating itch. 

Try Gumps, a harbinger of elegance and sophistication,  at 135 Post St. in San Francisco.  ‘Ohh and ahh’ through their beautifully dressed retail store.  Contact their concierge to host your private event, cocktail reception or dinner, bridal event or arrange a private seminar with one of their designers or artists. 

Nearby find Neiman Marcus at 150 Stockton Street, now showing Spring Home Trends like their “Global Perspective, New Preppy, Nouveau Cottage, Coastal Charm and the traditional Country Estates”.  Designer’s like Lily Pulitzer, Calvin Klein Home, Mac-Kenzie Childs, and Jonathan Adler contribute to the homes collections.  For Baccarat and Lalique, this is your destination. 

This Friday you can catch Barton Perrerias’ Sunglass Trunk show at another luxe shopping “go to”, at Barney’s New York’s San Francisco store at 77 O’Farrell Street at 11am. Barney’s sets itself appart with  its’ selection of sophisticated urban decor, tech and travel, desk, gourmet and even the dog department.

Continue reading →

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February Issue of Market Focus Report Released

Posted on February 23, 2012 by Erika Burke

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Pockets of Movement in the San Francisco Housing Market, Despite Lessening Inventory

The nice spring-like weather we have been experiencing has had some positive effects on the home buying public, as it has brought more buyers into the market. And with interest rates continuing to stand at a 60-year low, this has made homes more affordable and led to a wave of refinances that has increased disposable income for property owners. But despite these encouraging trends, the city’s inventory has tightened.

Single-Family Homes

As inventory levels dropped in January by 32.9 percent, compared to January 2011, the number of homes under contract rose by 8.7 percent. But the low inventory seemed to also contribute to fewer completed sales, which is fairly normal market behavior for this time of year.

For homes that were priced below $700,000, the months of supply inventory fell by 47.3 percent to 1.6 months. For higher priced homes between $700,000 and $1.2 million, the months of supply inventory fell by 38.9 percent to 2.4 months. These short time frames continue to indicate a seller’s market, where sellers have more leveraging power over buyers who are competing against a limited pool of properties.
Continue reading →

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Housing Starts, Builder Confidence on the Upswing

Posted on February 22, 2012 by Erika Burke

With new construction on the rise and the current affordability of homes for the median income earner, consumer confidence is returning to the real estate market.

National Housing starts rose 1.5 percent in January to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 699,000 from the revised December estimate of 689,000, and they were 9.9 percent above the January 2011 rate of 636,000, according to the latest figures released by the U.S. Commerce Department. Housing starts for single-family homes fell 1 percent in January to 508,000, down from 513,000 in December.

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Permits for new construction edged 0.7 percent higher to 676,000 in January from the revised December rate of 671,000, and they were 19 percent higher than the January 2011 estimate of 568,000.

Continue reading →

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San Franciscos’ Americas Cup Yacht Race

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Erika Burke

San Francisco has been positioning itself for the America’s Cup race to be held here, with the hope that it brings scores of visitors to make this a tour de force event a cash cow for our economy. The City has been negotiating a deal to fix old worn out piers in exchange for development rights. The question is the draw of the event and whether it will deliver as the City expects.

Over the next 2 years, 58 days of racing will take place. The City would benefit by the influx of attendees’ to restaurants and hotels. Slow fundraising has been a concern for county supervisors who know that $52m is earmarked to spend on prepping for the event.

Analysis of the anticipated 8,800 jobs creation, and $1.4Billion in revenue were made from other America’s cup events held worldwide. As of now, only 3 of the 9 expected teams have signed on for the 2013 finals.

The America’s Cup organization stands behind its forecast, while some supervisors believe the projection is grossly overestimated. San Francisco has a world renown sailing tradition, multiple yacht clubs, visible weekly Regatta’s on the bay which will have us looking forward to seeing if this event brings the funds, crowds and participation anticipated or is a complicated way to repair a waterfront badly in need of attention….and it looks like, possible development.
www.Americascup.com

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San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition at Fort Mason

Posted on February 18, 2012 by Erika Burke

Today I sipped wine on a dock of the Bay!  The San Francisco Chronicle sponsors the largest American Wine Competition in America, held on Feb. 6th with the VIP reception, which I attended, and public wine tasting that followed, on Feb. 18th in the Festival Pavilion of Fort Mason.  Hic!  While sampling the Best in Class and Gold Medal Winners in the VIP reception this afternoon, an attendee warned me, “You better go down to the tasting floor before the public arrives, as it will be 5000 strong”.  He wasn’t kidding.  So we did.  Sampling wines from multiple AVA’s, (American Viticulture Areas) from Lodi, Sonoma, Russian River, Napa, Glen Ellen, Santa Maria, Petaluma, Temecula, to name a few. Continue reading →

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This is Obama’s kind of Town

Posted on February 17, 2012 by Erika Burke

President Obama has come to town, to visit, raise his campaign profile and to raise funds.  We haven’t heard much from his camp, aside from today’s visit, about his campaign for the next term.  Though I enjoyed Michelle’s’ (yes, we are on a first name basis, at least in my book),  public announcements and TV appearances touting the humanity of our current present, his devotion to family and dog and his character as first and foremost, a man of ethics. She spoke clearly about the sacrifices that wife and children make to stand behind their man in the white house, and having said that – endorses him for another term out of her conviction that he will continue to be the right leader for our country or she and the kids would not be making this sacrifice again!  Continue reading →

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Touring San Francisco Luxury Property

Posted on February 11, 2012 by Erika Burke

Today I took out a client who wanted to tour luxury property in all neighborhoods of the City!  That was a big bill to fill as luxury means something different to each person.  In this case, it was in the form of at least a 3 Bedroom, 3 Bath home of over 1800 SqFt, with a price point of $1m-$2.3m and up.

Luckily that is easily achievable in our town.  Though we are a great city, buyers often note, its’ diverse neighborhoods make it feel like a town.  We began our tour in St. Francis Woods.  Known as District 4, this neighborhood sports detached mansion like homes on larger parcels of property.  I would call this “the country in the middle of the city”.  Some of our oldest and most beautiful Mediterranean and Spanish style homes are in this neighborhood that exudes a charming elegance.  They loved West Portal, the 3 block shopping district at the base of St. Francis woods and its’ boutiques, pubs, cafe’s and art cinema.

Continue reading →

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Take a walk on the wild side

Posted on February 7, 2012 by Erika Burke

There is a special natural fabric of the city that is made by its’ open preserved space.  Golden Gate Park, The Presidio, Fort Funston, Fort Mason, Stern Grove, Mountain Lake Park, and Lands’ End. These spaces provide leisure activity in the form of hiking, walking, biking, picnicking and more. 

Take a approx. 3 mile round trip hike from near the Cliff House and Sutro Baths’ on a bay ridge trail with outstanding views to reach Lands end outlook bordering Sea Cliff neighborhood.  Travel to the base of Presidio to find Crissy field, an old airstrip on the former Army base that serves as a greenbelt for a lengthy bayside trail that leads from the Marina District to the Golden Gate Bridge.  The Presidio itself has multiple hiking trails where you can be among the trees and get away from it all, stretching from Crissy field all the way to Laurel Heights and the Richmond District.

Continue reading →

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San Francisco boot camps are all the rage

Posted on February 3, 2012 by Erika Burke

San Francisco boot camps are all the rage.  I don’t mean the military kind, but rather the sunrise exercise classes taking place outside, in all neighborhoods throughout the City.  Anywhere from 4 large groups of fitness devotees will be taken on a series of high intensity exercises using the environment for props and as a backdrop.  Ever see a group stretching at the big magnolias in Delores Park.  Or doing push-ups against a bike rack?

Thinking my Yoga routine had qualified me, I decided to join a boot camp recently and I’m embarrassed to report that I made it through the warm-up and not much more.  I realized that I have to ramp up my routine just to join these dedicated athletes. Continue reading →

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San Francisco based Real Estate firm announces their “21 Club” of Top Producers for 2011

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Erika Burke

Today Vanguard Properties, the well-known San Francisco real estate firm headed by Principal James Nunemacher for nearly 30 years, announced the “21 Club” Top Producers of Vanguard Properties for 2011, including Erika Burke.The achievements of these very hard working Realtors and Broker Associates are recognized yearly by the firm, in alphabetical order, are as follows:

Quote start“We are thrilled with all of our agents performance and this past year’s gain in what has been touted as a down national real estate market,” said Mr. Nunemacher.Quote end

The 2011 year end numbers for Vanguard Properties posted close to a 30% gain in sales over 2010. “We are thrilled with all of our agents performance and this past year’s gain in what has been touted as a down national real estate market,” said Mr. Nunemacher.

The firm is looking forward to yet another year of growth with the opening their new sales office in downtown San Francisco located at 199 New Montgomery Street.

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Houseplants are Easy-How To Secret!

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Erika Burke

Houseplants.  We are 7×7 in San Francisco.  That is 7 miles by 7 miles.  Not all of us have outdoor space, though in the City many of us are lucky to have our little slice of land in the back yard.  If you don’t have that, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fabulous greenery that is living, in your very own home.

Here is my best kept secret.  Purchase potting soil and a pot that is a little bigger than the plant you have purchased, drop in a screen to cover the hole in the bottom of the pot (purchased at a garden supply store) and some gravel or old pot shards as a small bottom layer. Ease the plant out of the pot by turn it on its’ side and holding close to the stem(s), drop it into the pot with some soil previously placed in the pot leveling the top of your new plant about 1-2” below the rim.  Surround it with soil and press the plant down, and tamp the soil down lightly.

Continue reading →

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San Francisco Treasures, Our Museums

Posted on January 12, 2012 by Erika Burke

I confess, I’m addicted.  To San Francisco’s’ museums.  It’s true.  If you go to one, watch out, you will become addicted too, in a very good way.  There are dozens to choose from, many centrally located and accessible by public transportation.  Some are housed in architectural treasures, like the Palace of Legion of Honor on the Inner Richmond near Lands End.  Before you even enter you are entranced by the sweeping stair, the lawns and fountains, and the breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge.  They offer changing exhibitions from all corners of the earth, along with their impressive old masters collection.  Last year I took in 2 exhibitions and saw a concert!

Another favorite is MOMA Museum of Modern Art,  www.sfmoma.com.  Continue reading →

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6 San Francisco Restaurants to Watch

Posted on January 10, 2012 by Erika Burke

New restaurants open daily in San Francisco. Because we all love being in the know, let’s take a look at some of the most buzzed about openings slated for the next few months. Here is the dish (pun intended) according to Eater SF:

1) Dixie

Address: 1 Letterman Dr, in the Presidio
The Situation: Chef Joseph Humphrey, who earned Michelin stars atMeadowood and Murray Circle, finally gets his own personal project. He’s taking over the former Pres A Vi to create an un-stuffy restaurant combining elements from California and the South.
Major Players: Chef-owner Joseph Humphrey, designer Michael Brennan, general manager Khalid Lahlou
Projected Opening: Late fall, “with any luck, right around Thanksgiving”
Buzz Factor: 7
Further Reading

2) Wo Hing General Store
Address: 584 Valencia St. (@ 17th)
The Situation: Charles Phan marks his poignant return to the originalSlanted Door space with a new Chinese street food concept named after his father and uncle. Keeping things current are craft cocktails, local wines, and a brand new bar built-out on the ground level.
Major Players: Executive chef-owner Charles Phan, chef de cuisine Michelle Mah, bar manager Brooke Arthur
Projected Opening: Mid October
Buzz Factor: 8
Further Reading Continue reading →

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