Lisa Knudsen

Appreciation can be tracked by looking at what sold in these areas, taking statistics from the MLS and looking at market trends in these neighborhoods. I can provide you specifically these values/statistics for each neighborhood, please let me know, providing you are not already working with a real estate agent.
--Lisa - Mon Mar 3 2008, 14:44

There will always be some sort of opposition when change takes place, and new development alters the makeup of the neighborhood, a matter of perspective. Just look at the Rincon Towers, and the differences of opinion from the public, locals and otherwise.

Best to really see the units, compare other buildings, and understand the neighborhood(s). Identifying your real estate wants & needs will guide you in the right direction. As an experienced realtor, I have the tools and resources to guide you. Please let me know if I can be of assistance if you are not working with a realtor.

San Francisco has seen a recent surge in new development/construction -- downtown condos, South of Market, South Beach/Rincon Hill, and the list goes on. There are many positive reasons to own SF real estate, and if this is to be your primary property, even better. Good luck! -- Lisa - Mon Mar 3 2008, 14:40

I am with Prudential California Realty/Fine Homes Intl, and am based in SF with Prudential office in Sausalito. Please let me know if you would like to meet at our Prudential Sausalito office later this week. Together with my real estate partner, we have worked with other developers/investors, and we can easily assist you in targeting land that shows value and potential. Additionally important, is that through our combined efforts and expertise, we will also help guide you in understanding specific city ordinances and regulations. Have property in Sausaltio that is not on the MLS, and owner considering selling --Sausalito hills.

Please email me your website and contact information, and what other land you have developed. I like to know my client, and best identify your needs. The more information, the better. Thank you.

--Please let me know when you would like to meet. Coffee and lunch on Prudential! Site/Sight-seeing, too!- Lisa - Mon Mar 3 2008, 14:13

The real estate forcast-- The best way to answer this question is to look at the history of real esate sales. The Bay Area shows a 5-year pattern with property value. RIght now, with the subprime mess occurring, it will take some time to understand where we are headed.

Investors will say, it only makes sense to buy real estate in a bad market, the values are there. If this is to be your primary residence, then there is really no bad time to buy --property value will always go up, it's just a matter of time; and if this 5-year principal holds true, then buy and hold on to your property for a longer period of time.

Best to consult with an experienced agent, and have this agent show you the neighborhods that you are considering: look at the statistics, comparables, and really monitor the sales. It makes sense to understand the lending process, what's required, your mortgage payment, and that interest rates are incredibly low. There are incentives to be a home-owner vs renter. Check with your CPA about this, and talk to several lenders about first-time buyers programs. Title company offer discounts to seniors and first-time buyers with closing costs. Keep saving for your down payment! Timing is everything.

Please feel free to conact me anytime if you'd like more information on this subject, like to see real estate statisitics, pattern, check out homes in the area...Good luck! --Lisa - Mon Mar 3 2008, 13:55

Dan, The real estate market since August 2007 has changed dramatically due to the subprime/lending turmoil. What this means to you is that there there are major values to be found, it is indeed a buyer's market. San Francisco (West Portal, Noe Valley, Parkside, Lakeside), the Peninsula (Burlingame, San Mateo, Foster City, San Carlos) and Marin (Mill Valley, Corte Madera, Sausalito, San Rafael) offer a lifestyle ideal to raising a family based on attractive real estate, good-to-excellent school systems, and relatively convenient commute and transportation.

I suggest exploring the area by coming to visit San Francisco. Most important, it would be wise to get Pre-Approved with a solid lender before you set your sights on buying out here. Knowing your "purchasing power" and your budget are extremely important, and will help narrow your search. You might also consider renting first to become familiar with a neighborhood. Check out these internet real estate sites to see properties/neighborhoods and statistics/home values: SFARMLS, Realtor.com, Dataquick.com, Yahoo and Google.

I am an experienced agent with Prudential and my office is based in SF. I have worked with many families who have moved to the Bay Area and have rented or purchased in the city and outside areas. Prudential has an excellent relocation program and many resources to assist with your moving. Please check out my site: www.agentlisa.net and give me a call or send an email, should you need further guidence and have questions.

Lisa

Lisa Knudsen
Lisa + Associates
PRUDENTIAL CALIFORNIA REALTY
415-515-6132
www.agentlisa.net
email: agentlisa.knudsen@gmail.com - Mon Feb 11 2008, 12:43

The Bay Area real estate market is very pricey, but as a realtor with Prudential in SF/Peninsula, seeing more and more selling carrying finance. Your best bet is condo, since lower end of price scale. Please feel free to call or email me if you have any real estate questions. I can give you names of lenders, best to be PreApproved so that you know your "Buying Power" as this will help narrow your search.

Lisa Knudsen
Lisa + Associates
PRUDENTIAL CALIFORNIA REALTY
415-515-6132
www.agentlisa.net
email: agentlisa.knudsen@gmail.com - Mon Feb 4 2008, 20:29