What Features to Include When Building a Luxury Home in San Francisco
As someone who has been immersed in the San Francisco real estate market for over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of touring and listing thousands of homes. Along the way, I’ve not only gained expertise in selling luxury properties but have also become a trusted consultant for developers who seek my advice on what features truly set luxury homes apart from the rest.
Today, I’d like to answer two key questions I often get asked: What features are essential when building a luxury home, and what should sellers prioritize before putting their homes on the market?
Features to Include in a Luxury Home
There’s a common misconception that luxury real estate is just about size—think more bedrooms, more bathrooms, more square footage. While that’s part of the equation, it’s far from the whole story. A true luxury home needs to have features that make it exceptional, both in design and functionality.
First and foremost: the layout. It’s crucial that the home feels thoughtful and intuitive in its design. I often work with developers to ensure that the layout isn’t just beautiful but also practical for daily living. Some of my non-negotiables include:
All bedrooms on one floor. No one wants to run up and down stairs all day.
Multiple laundry areas. In larger homes, a second or even third laundry room, perhaps one near the primary suite and another near the family room, can be a huge convenience.
Spaces like a gym, wine cellar, and an extra TV room with a bar are must-haves in today’s market. Having these amenities all in one section of the home allows for a seamless flow and caters to the luxurious lifestyle buyers expect.
Of course, no modern luxury home is complete without state-of-the-art technology. Buyers want Ring cameras, integrated ceiling speakers, radiant heated floors, and electric shades with dimmable lighting at the push of a button. These elements don’t just add convenience—they elevate the living experience and show that no detail has been overlooked.
And speaking of details, let's talk about the WOW factors. In any luxury home, you need more than one. I tell developers this all the time: it's not just about having one feature that makes a buyer's jaw drop, but a series of them.
Views are a huge selling point in San Francisco. Whether it’s a sweeping panorama of the Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, or downtown, a stunning view can make a home unforgettable.
Outdoor spaces—like an amazing backyard or a rooftop deck with cityscape views—are highly desirable, especially in a city where outdoor space is a luxury in itself.
Unique design features. Custom, one-of-a-kind elements, from cabinetry to light fixtures, are what set luxury homes apart. I always advise developers to steer clear of anything that looks like it was ordered from a big box store. Luxury homes should feel bespoke, with every material and finish chosen for its quality and uniqueness.
And lastly, it’s all in the construction details. One of the quickest ways to detract from a luxury home is poor craftsmanship. I always notice—and so will discerning buyers—if there are paint drips, gaps in the floorboards, or other signs that the finishing touches weren’t executed to perfection. In the world of luxury real estate, every inch of the home should exude excellence.
Prepping Your Home for Sale: A Seller’s Checklist
Now, let’s shift gears. Sellers, this part is for you. You’ve invested in your home, and now it’s time to maximize your return. But you’d be surprised at how many high-end homes I’ve toured where simple cosmetic issues turned buyers off almost immediately.
Let me share a quick story. A while back, I was showing a $3.5 million home to some clients. It was a stunning property in many ways—except for one glaring issue. The yellow-toned wood floors, straight out of the early 2000s, were so distracting that my clients couldn’t focus on anything else. It’s an easy fix, yes, but not all buyers want to take on that kind of project, and some can’t look past these things.
So, here’s the first thing sellers need to do: update the floors. If they’re scratched or scuffed, refinish them. If they’re outdated, replace them. The investment is worth it, and it will prevent buyers from walking away due to something as simple as flooring.
The second non-negotiable is paint. I always recommend a fresh coat of paint throughout the entire house before putting it on the market. I can’t stress this enough. Even if you think the current paint is fine, a fresh coat will instantly brighten the home and make it feel new again.
Lastly, let’s talk about staging. I’ve seen far too many sellers insist on keeping their old furniture, thinking buyers will look past it. Trust me, they won’t. Proper staging can make all the difference. A beautifully staged home feels aspirational—it allows potential buyers to envision their future lives there. It’s about making your home appealing to everyone who walks through the door, not just a select few.
As a seller, you must put in the effort to make your home as desirable as possible. Don’t skimp on investing in updates, because in the luxury market, these details matter.
In San Francisco’s competitive real estate landscape, luxury is all about the experience. Whether you’re building from the ground up or preparing to list, remember: it’s the thoughtful touches and attention to detail that will truly make your property stand out.
Have any questions about luxury real estate? Feel free to reach out! I’m here to help you navigate this exciting market.
