Unveiling Potrero Hill, Bernal Heights, SOMA and the rest of District 9 in San Francisco
San Francisco is divided into 10 districts.
Each district has multiple neighborhoods within its borders.
During the rest of the year we will cover each district, we are starting with district 9 and all its neighborhoods primarily because I am preparing a listing to bring to market in Potrero Hill.
Reminder, this is a real estate podcast, not a political podcast so we are going to talk specifically about the real estate in these districts.
So d9 is made up of
Bernal heights
Inner mission
Mission bay
Potrero hill
South of market
Yerba buena
South beach
Central waterfront or dog patch
Treasure island
Let's talk about each neighborhood
1 Bernal Heights
Borders:
Mission Street, San Jose Avenue, Randall st, Guerrero Street and Alemany
Some neighborhoods are known for its condos, and some are knows as the suburbs and family areas of San Francisco. Bernal Heights is a single family home suburb style
It's got that cozy, village vibe with colorful houses, local shops, and killer views of the city.
Houses in Bernal Heights started popping up back in the late 19th century, around the late 1800s to early 1900s. Back then, they were mostly cozy cottages and Victorian-style homes. Over the years, more houses were built, giving the neighborhood its eclectic mix of architectural styles you see today. From colorful Victorians to sleek modern pads
Some places that I love
Of course Cortland Ave.
Black jet bakery
I do my grocery shopping mostly at Goodlife on Cortland.
I love getting coffee at Pinhole
Holy water is a cozy and loungey bar
Third Cousin is a nice restaurant with great food
It has some amazing views of the city and the bay.
It also has some very tight streets that should be one ways but are not
2 big parks to note
Bernal heights hill
And holy park
2023 sales
134 Single family homes sold
Most expensive SFH $4,600,000, least expensive $715,000
19 Condos
Most expensive $1,604,900, least expensive $750,000
2. Inner Mission is the artsy heart of the Mission District closer to Potrero Hill than Dolores Park.
You have lifers, a huge Mexican culture, and recent newcomers and new condos to the area. Lots of cute and trendy cafes with old cool Mexican food spots mixed in. My fave is San Jaliscos on south Van Ness and 20th st.
Borders: Cesar Chavez, 14th st, south Van ness, Potrero ave
Some of my favorite spots:
Penny Roma on 20th and Florida
Heirloom cafe on 21st and Folsom
Flour and Water on 21th and Harrison
Rainbow grocery on 13th and Folsom
Sidewalk Juices on 24th and Folsom
Super vibrant and super colorful streets with lots of murals, lots of duplexes, condos, and some single family homes.
2023 sales
28 single family homes, most expensive $4,300,000 least expensive $785,000
In recent years developers have bought old buildings and transformed them into beautiful homes. I have sold a few.
81 condos, most expensive $2,500,000, least expensive is a BMR at $352 ,000
Below market rate units are unites that qualified individuals can buy through a program at the mayor's office. More info below.
26 TICS most expensive $2,150,000 least $599,000
20 2-4 unit buildings
Below market rate facts, this is a program through the mayor's office, you must qualify and apply. Learn more at sf.gov
Affordable Housing: BMR units are part of the city's efforts to provide affordable housing options for low to moderate-income residents. These units are priced below market rates, making them more accessible to folks who might otherwise struggle to afford housing in the city.
Income Limits: To qualify for a BMR unit, you typically need to meet certain income requirements set by the city. These limits vary depending on the size of your household and are adjusted annually.
Lottery System: Demand for BMR units is usually high, so the city uses a lottery system to allocate them fairly. Prospective tenants or buyers apply for available units, and then winners are selected through a random lottery process.
Resale Restrictions: If you buy a BMR unit, there are often restrictions on resale. This means you can't sell the unit at market rate prices, ensuring that it remains affordable for future buyers.
3. Mission bay. This is a newer area.
Borders: King Street (giants stadium, cal train), Third Street (chase center, the plant cafe, muni) it's Mariposa Street, Fourth Street.
Its all about modern there because there has been tons of development in the last years such as all the new condos on 3rd, Chase Center, Spark social the food truck park, super cute areas and parks.
Here are 5 facts about Mission Bay
Transformation Zone: Mission Bay used to be industrial land and railroad yards until the late 20th century when it underwent a massive redevelopment project, transforming it into the vibrant neighborhood it is today.
Biotech Hub: It's not just about living and playing—Mission Bay is also a major center for biotechnology and life sciences research. You'll find top-notch research institutions like UCSF and cutting-edge biotech companies setting up shop here.
Parks Galore: Mission Bay boasts some awesome green spaces, including the beautiful Mission Creek Park and the waterfront promenade along the Bay. Perfect for jogging, picnicking, or just soaking in the views.
Waterfront Living: With its prime location along the waterfront, Mission Bay offers sleek modern apartments and condos with stunning views of the Bay Bridge and the skyline. It's urban living at its finest!
Sports Hub: It's home to Oracle Park, where the San Francisco Giants play ball! Catching a game here is a must-do for any sports fan.
2023 sales
0 single family homes
64 condos most expensive $2,568,000 to BMR units around $300,000
0 TICS
0 2-4 unit buildings
4. Potrero Hill
Borders: 16th Street, it's the 280 Freeway, to the south, you've got Cesar Chavez Street, and, it's Pennsylvania Avenue
There are some amazing places like Plow, Chez Maman, Goat Hill pizza, my nail salon with is la Petite Nails, Farleys, Hazels, Whole Foods.
Facts about Potrero Hill
Views for Days: Potrero Hill offers some of the most jaw-dropping views of the city skyline, the Bay, and beyond.
Historic Roots: This neighborhood has a rich history, dating back to the Gold Rush era. It was once home to working-class families and industrial sites but has since evolved into a vibrant residential area with a mix of old and new.
Arts and Culture: Potrero Hill is bursting with creative energy. You'll find art galleries, studios, and murals scattered throughout the neighborhood, adding to its unique charm.
Community Spirit: Potrero Hill has a strong sense of community, with neighborhood festivals, farmers' markets, and community gardens bringing residents together.
Dog-Friendly Haven: With its hilly terrain and plenty of green spaces, Potrero Hill is a paradise for pups and their owners. You'll often see locals out and about with their furry friends, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
Schools in Potrero Hill
Daniel Webster Elementary School: A beloved public elementary school known for its strong academic programs and supportive community atmosphere.
Live Oak School: A private elementary and middle school committed to progressive education and fostering creativity and critical thinking skills in students.
Starr King Elementary School: Another fantastic public elementary school in Potrero Hill, offering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
San Francisco Community School: A small, independent K-8 school focused on personalized learning and social-emotional development.
This is another area where its like San Francisco suburbs. Lots of single family homes here with condos and duplexes
2023 sales
27 single family homes, most expensive $7,675,000 least expensive $815,000
Lots of remodeling happening here.
54 condos; most expensive $2,800,000 least BMRs around $300,000
3 TICS most expensive $915,000 least expensive $650,000
14 2-4 unit buildings, most expensive $2,625,000 (this happens to be one that i sold. It legally was a duplex and totally lived like one but could also be for 1 family) least expensive $1,230,000
Some more facts about bmr units for developers and builders.
Inclusionary Housing Program: San Francisco's Inclusionary Housing Program requires certain new residential developments to include a percentage of affordable units. Developers can either build a percentage of BMR units within their project or contribute to the city's affordable housing fund.
Percentage Requirements: The exact percentage of BMR units required varies depending on factors like the size and location of the development. Typically, it ranges from 12% to 20% of the total number of units.
5. South of market
Borders: Mission st, Howard st, King st and 4th st.
Some facts about SoMa
Industrial Roots: SoMa has a gritty industrial past, with warehouses and factories dominating the landscape. It was a hub for manufacturing and shipping in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Tech Hub: Today, SoMa is synonymous with tech innovation. It's home to tech giants like Salesforce, Twitter, and Uber, as well as countless startups and incubators. The neighborhood buzzes with entrepreneurial energy!
Arts Scene: SoMa is a mecca for arts and culture. You'll find galleries, theaters, and performance spaces showcasing everything from contemporary art to avant-garde theater. The renowned SFMOMA is also located here.
Nightlife Hotspot: The neighborhood boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and music venues catering to every taste. Whether you're into craft cocktails or underground raves, you'll find it here.
Mixed-Use Development: SoMa is undergoing a major transformation, with old warehouses being converted into sleek lofts, office spaces, and retail establishments. It's a dynamic blend of old and new, with historic buildings standing alongside modern high-rises.
Cultural Diversity: SoMa is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in San Francisco, with residents from all walks of life and backgrounds. You'll find a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and cuisines here, making it a truly global community.
4 museums
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA): Located on Third Street, SFMOMA is one of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in the United States. It features a vast collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more.
Cartoon Art Museum: This museum celebrates the art of cartoons, comic strips, and animation. Located on Mission Street, it's a must-visit for comic book enthusiasts and animation fans.
Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD): MoAD, located on Mission Street, showcases the history, art, and culture of people of African descent worldwide. It features rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and events.
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA): While not strictly a museum, YBCA on Mission Street is a multidisciplinary arts center that hosts exhibitions, performances, film screenings, and community events focused on contemporary art and culture.
Lets not forget Sales Force park!
Some not so fancy realities are that this neighborhood is littered with homeless activity, drug addicted and dirty streets. Especially the mid market areas like 5th-9th street and mission. This is the reality here.
2023 sales
2 single family homes, most expensive $1,925,000 least expensive $1,215,000
111 condos. Most expensive $1,400,000 to BMRs
1 TIC $847.82
6 2-4 unit buildings. Most expensive $1,650,000, least expensive $550,000
Remember, tenants rights. Severely discounted if there are tenants.
6. Yerba Buena
Yerba Buena is a small, almost sub district in SoMa, it has a park by the same name which is beautiful, a whole shopping center with a movie theatre and a Target.
Some facts about Yerba Buena
Cultural Hub: Yerba Buena is known for its cultural institutions, including the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts (YBCA), the Contemporary Jewish Museum, and the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD). These venues host exhibitions, performances, and events that celebrate art, culture, and diversity.
Green Spaces: Despite being in the middle of the city, Yerba Buena has some lovely green spaces where you can relax and unwind. Yerba Buena Gardens is a beautiful urban park with landscaped gardens, public art installations, and a children's playground.
Shopping and Dining: The district is home to a variety of shops, boutiques, and restaurants, offering everything from high-end fashion to casual dining. You'll find plenty of options for shopping, dining, and entertainment along Mission Street, Howard Street, and nearby areas.
Convention Center: Yerba Buena is also home to the Moscone Center, San Francisco's primary convention and exhibition center. It hosts a wide range of events, conferences, and trade shows throughout the year, attracting visitors from around the world. Like
2023 sales
0 single family homes,
57 condos. most expensive $7,750,000 to BMR’s
0 TICs and 2-4 unit buildings
7. South Beach and the East Cut.
The East Cut is a local effort to unite the Rincon Hill, Folsom Street, and Transbay areas
Borders: Mission St all the way to the Embarcadero 3rd St and King St.
This areas is very cool, first of all its right on Embarcadero.
Some facts and attractions
Ferry building and beautiful walk along the Embarcadero, you have EPIC steakhouse, Waterfront Car, the Cupids Span which is a sculpture right on the Embarcadero, its right on the waterfront with the bay bridge view
Luxurious high rises with amazing views.
Oracle Park: Home to the San Francisco Giants baseball team, Oracle Park is a major attraction in South Beach. Catching a game here is a quintessential San Francisco experience!
Cultural Attractions: South Beach is home to several cultural institutions, including the Exploratorium, a hands-on science museum, and the Contemporary Jewish Museum, which showcases contemporary art and Jewish culture.
Dining and Entertainment
The new 1 Hotel which I love, right across from the Ferry Building
Shack15
Such a vibe to walk in that area
2023 sales
0 homes
172 condos, most expensive $6,100,000 to BMRs
0 tics and 2-4 unit buildings
8. Dog patch
Streets borders: Third Street, 22nd Street, Marin Street, Indiana Street:
Facts
Industrial Roots: Dogpatch has a rich industrial history, with warehouses and factories dating back to the 19th century. It was once a bustling hub for shipbuilding and manufacturing, and remnants of its industrial past can still be seen today.
Arts and Culture:
Diverse Dining Scene:
Some restaurants
-Restoration Hardware. The Palm court they call it, such a vibe. The roof has amazing views.
-Mission Rock which is super cute and water front
-Piccino: Minnesota and 22nd
Quirky Shops and Boutiques: The neighborhood is dotted with unique shops and boutiques selling everything from handmade crafts to vintage clothing. It's a great place to shop for one-of-a-kind treasures and support local artisans.
Dog-Friendly Vibes. Crane Cove park, I love to walk there. Its right next to Restoration Hardware and Wooly Pig.
Galleries
Minnesota Street Project: This contemporary art complex houses several galleries, studios, and exhibition spaces, showcasing a diverse range of contemporary art. It's a hub for both established and emerging artists and hosts regular exhibitions and events.
SFMOMA Artists Gallery: Located within the Minnesota Street Project, this gallery features works by Bay Area artists affiliated with the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA). It offers a curated selection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and more.
Marion and Rose's Workshop: While not strictly an art gallery, Marion and Rose's Workshop is a boutique and gallery space that showcases the work of local artists and artisans. It offers a curated selection of handmade goods, home decor, and gifts.
Electric Works: This contemporary art gallery specializes in prints, multiples, and works on paper by local and international artists. It features a rotating selection of exhibitions and also offers printmaking workshops and events.
2023 sales
0 single family homes
39 condos most expensive $1,521.13 to BMRs
0 tics
1 duplex $1,471,750
10. Treasure island
To be honest I have not explored Treasure Island much. And until just recently there was not much on there except a flea market.
Some facts
Island Location: Treasure Island is located in the San Francisco Bay, situated between San Francisco and Oakland. It's connected to Yerba Buena Island by a causeway and is accessible via the Bay Bridge.
Military History: Originally built for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition, Treasure Island later served as a naval base during World War II. Many of the island's historic buildings and structures from this era still stand today.
Scenic Views: Treasure Island offers stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the surrounding Bay Area. It's a popular spot for photography, picnics, and outdoor recreation.
Art Installations: The island is also known for its public art installations and cultural events. The Treasure Island Art Studios showcase the work of local artists, and events like the Treasure Island Flea Market attract visitors from across the Bay Area.
Development Plans: In recent years, Treasure Island has undergone significant redevelopment efforts aimed at transforming it into a mixed-use community with housing, parks, shops, and restaurants. The development aims to create a sustainable and vibrant urban neighborhood while preserving the island's unique history and character.
The Treasure Island/Yerba Buena Island Development Project is creating a new San Francisco neighborhood, including homes offered at below-market rates, multiple public transportation connections, extensive parks and open space, public art, hotels, restaurants and more.
Learn more at sf.gov
2023 sales
3 sales all of last year
All condos
Most expensive $2,220,000 least expensive $1,218,274
