SFnewsletter Week ending August 12, 2005

****JohnColins at 90 Natoma, www.johncolins.com.   Happy hour M-F, 5-8pm; $2beers, $3wells and a buck off everything else.   Starting in August they will have a full music program, including DJs.   Go check 'em out!****

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Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.   I hope you enjoy this newsletter and find its information useful.   To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.   If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.   For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

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Market Update:
Last week was a lesson in Spanish, Ole Chip!   This week, I have to comment on the numerous emails I get asking, "When do you think the market will change?"   I've said it before, and I'll say it again.  I have no idea.   All I can do is tell it how it is.   See my Maximum Overbid (TM) for a good example of what is still going on.

$$___
Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
I'm sending you the link to my 25th Street fixer.   Why?   Because it has a good story.   It is still not sold, and that would usually lead one to believe that the market is turning.  Not the case.   When we originally put this beast on the market (for lot value) I was in Maui soaking up some sun and sipping cocktails watching Niko, Sofia, and Curren play in the sand.   The day my colleague put this property on Broker Tour, he received an offer, then another, and another, and another...until 8 offers trickled in.  My colleague got the property into contract WAY above asking price, and he put a second offer at the same price into back-up position.   All I had to do was come home from vacation and collect a check to pay for my trip.   Not so.   Long story short...I'm at the airport waiting for my bags and the first offer fell apart.   The next day after my car broke down, the back-up offer fell apart.   Two hours after that fell apart and the property was again listed as "Active" in MLS, we received two new offers and were again in contract above asking price.   That deal was shaky, so we kicked those buyers out, didn't panic and put the place back on the market (Active), and decided to market it all over again.  We stuck firm to an offer date, which was 8/10, we received 8 offers, and we're now "pending".   Translation...in all we've received 18 offers.  The offer we accepted yesterday had no contingencies, so we are set to close escrow in 14 days.   Knock on wood.   Don't you wish I could disclose the price?   Not yet.

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
$599,000.   What does that get you in Redding, CA?   Not too bad .  Notice the lot dimensions...333.87x652.51...that is 217,853 square feet.   My fixer lot in Noe is about 3100 square feet.

!!!____
SFhotspots:
"By the way, tried a great new Thai restaurant around the corner from John Colins (which I stopped in at last night around 9 p.m.).   The place is called, Osha at 149 2nd St. T. 415 278-9991.   Food, atmosphere all good.  Only a few months old - they have another location on 19th & Valencia."  L.F.

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Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.
-El Dunno writes, "One of my all time favorite things to do as a an evil-Red state inhabiting, GW Bush voting kind of thug is to come home from work open a quality macro-brew (Budweiser), and watch the exploding ..."
----El Dunno's comments after this point are a bit controversial.   If you want to hear the rest, send me an email, and I'll gladly send the un-edited version your way.   El Dunno, I knew you would come up with something if I called you out!  You see, I welcome all feedback.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
No report next week.   I'll be camping, and Lord help me if there is internet access there.

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 07/29/05-08/11/05: link SOLD 07/15/05-07/28/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending August 5, 2005

****JohnColins at 90 Natoma, www.johncolins.com.   Happy hour M-F, 5-8pm; $2beers, $3wells and a buck off everything else.   Starting in August they will have a full music program, including DJs.   Go check 'em out!****

_____
Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.   I hope you enjoy this newsletter and find its information useful.   To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.   If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.   For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
Same old mierda!

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Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
I think I may have done one of these before, but a reader (thanks Amy) reminded me to do it again.   We're going UNDER this week.   There aren't many, but they do exist.   This property at 758 Clayton is actually really nice.   If I had time right now, I'd find out the scoop, but I'll just have to rely on MLS.   Three bedroom, 1.25 bath (keep quiet Dimi!!!), one parking space, roughly 1330 square feet, 84 days on the market, originally asking $1,079,000, price reduced to $925,000 in April, finally sold in July for $880,800.   I have to honestly say, whoever bought this should be very happy.   Getting something under asking is almost unheard of.

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
No comparison this week, because the comments section is kinda long.

!!!____
SFhotspots:
Send me your suggestions!   I've been out of the loop lately.

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Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.
-Yung writes, "I've been hearing a lot of rumbling about Oak Park in Sacramento.   This was a booming town in the early 1900's...but was later hit hard by the Depression and WWII.   By the late 60's, there were deteriorating housing and commercial property, empty lots and abandoned buildings.   I've heard that there is an Oak Park Renaissance, with a lot of money and assistance being pumped into the neighboorhood.  Have you heard or know anything about this?"
-----Yung, I don't know anything about this.   Maybe someone on the distribution list can shed some light on it for all of us.   If you can help Yung out, send an email to yungx@hotmail.com, and cc me.
-Paul writes, "I'm curious about your reaction to today's (7/29) irresistibly alarming story in the SF Chronicle:  "Home value declines seen as more likely".   If current news cycles remain true to form, perhaps we'll see a contradictory opinion published tomorrow.  Or the next day.  But in the meantime, the study by PMI seems to have grabbed the latest local spotlight - for whatever it's worth these days.  From where I sit, a pivotal question is this:  Given the popularity of "objective" studies and surveys as tools to capture news media attention, is this simply a timely way for the PR folks at PMI to nab brand visibility and marketing support for their mortgage insurance business, or does it represent a reliable forecast of things to come?  Do you have an opinion?"  Paul
-----Paul, Of course I have an opinion, you already got the long version of the reply, but to keep this newsletter short, I'll put the condensed version here.   Basically, the market will change...nobody knows when.  The media love to hype things up and scare Americans into that group think thing we do so well.   Remember 911, Tsunami, Pit Bull attacks, fingers in chili bowls?   And PMI probably did get a bit of PR out of the article. 
Thank you both for your comments/feedback.   There were many replies last week for some reason, sorry I couldn't post all the comments.   Keep them coming though.   El Dunno, where are you? ;-)

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
Save a life, use a blinker, turn signal, indicator, arm out the window...whatever you want to call it.   It's pretty simple.

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 07/22/05-08/04/05: link SOLD 07/08/05-07/21/05: link

SFnewsletter(TM) Week ending July 29, 2005

****JohnColins at 90 Natoma, www.johncolins.com.   Happy hour M-F, 5-8pm; $2beers, $3wells and a buck off everything else.   Starting in August they will have a full music program, including DJs.   Go check 'em out!****

_____
Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.   I hope you enjoy this newsletter and find its information useful.   To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.   If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.   For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
Same old song and dance.   There is a great article by Kenneth Fisher of Forbes magazine.   It is called Bubblenomics.   You can view his article at www.forbes.com/fisher, but you'll have to sign up and create an account to actually read it.   I am not allowed to copy it.   It's worth a read, and the account on Forbes.com is free.

$$___
Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
1859 Green in Pacific Heights.   Two bedroom, one bath condo with one parking space.  Yes it was nice.   1300 square feet, asking $895,000 sold for only $1,200,000.  If MLS is correct, it spent a staggering two days on the market.   You sense my sarcasm?

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
Forget about what you get for that price, let's knock off about $1,000,000 and see what you can get in Salt Lake City, Utah.   All these homes come with a stack of Bibles on your door-step. http://www.wfrmls.com/clients/   The username is: alexclark@gmail.com, password is: rental 2 (notice there is a space before 2!).   I'm looking for a rental there.   Happy house hunting!

!!!____
SFhotspots:
I have searched and searched, but can't find a better chicken salad sandwich than at DelMonte Deli in Potrero Hill.   On the corner of 17th and Utah.  I've been going there for about 5 years, and it is always top notch, if it's not sold out.   Order it toasted on a french roll.

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Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
I don't usually do this (showcase my listings), but if you're looking for a fixer, I have a great one listed...4322 25th Street in Noe.   Call me for details.

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 07/15/05-07/28/05: link SOLD 07/01/05-07/14/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending July 22, 2005

********

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Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.   I hope you enjoy this newsletter and find its information useful.   To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.   If you choose to opt-out, I'd appreciate if you tell me your reasoning why, so I might be able to improve the newsletter.   If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.   For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
You'd think that since I was out of town the market would slow down, right?   When I go away on vacation, everything is supposed to shut down.   Not true.  I already knew this before, but I was reminded again how insignificant I really am in the grand scheme of things.   I put a house on the market the day after I left town.   The day it hit the market we received eight offers...literally within hours.   Think the market cares that I went out of town?   No way.   And the market hasn't slowed one bit.

$$___
Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
51 28th Street in Noe Valley.  Two bedroom, one bath, two car parking...asking $799,000 sold for $1,100,000.   Uhhhhhhh....What?!  

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
Since I just got back from Maui, and did a bit of research while I was there, I thought you'd be pleased to know that San Francisco is not the only crazy Real Estate market.   Look what you get for $1.1MM at the condos where we stayed.   This complex is pretty much ideal Hawaii.   The grounds are lush with tropical plants like banana trees, mango trees, avocado trees, lime trees, and of course palm trees.   The beach down the path is perfect white sand.  The water was 84 degrees and crystal clear.   There were three pools, and the geckos ate all the mosquitos.   It was pretty much ideal, but if you want to buy one, you're gonna have to pay...a lot!

!!!____
SFhotspots:
John Colins, www.johncolins.com, 90 Natoma.   Great bar.   Cool atmosphere.   Great bartenders.

???____
Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
Da' Feta Mo' Betta!

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 07/08/05-07/21/05: link SOLD 06/24/05-07/07/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending June 24, 2005

****SFnewsletter(TM) is a work in progress.  I'm always changing content based on reader feedback.   I welcome ideas, suggestions, complaints, concerns, stories, etc.   There is lots of cool stuff to come.  And please...don't bet the farm off my predictions.****

_____
Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.   To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.  If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.  For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
Is there a bubble?  Darn good question, and I don't have the answer.  Just think about if you believed everything the news is telling you.   You'd have sand bags on your front door because a tsunami is on the way, after all, there were a couple quakes last week.  That must mean the "big one" is around the corner too.  Watch out when you're running to higher ground because a pit bull is going to be chomping at your heels, if you don't get kidnapped by a Utah hill billy first.   And if those don't get you, a terrorist certainly will, and he'll do it by stealing your credit card info in order to plant a bomb in your back yard or poison in your DoubleTallNonFatVentiMochaccinoExtraHotNoFoamTwoSplendas Starbucks coffee.   I don't like to speculate.   I tell it how it is.   The market is still "Hot, Hotter, Hottest!"

$$___
Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
3035 25th. Avenue.   Four Bedroom, three bath, two parking, approximately 1470 square feet, asking $879,000 sold for $1,287,888.   I would have bought it at $1,287,887 but the extra buck put me out of the game.  Seventeen days on the market.  It's Madness!

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
I know Boise, Idaho is a good place to invest right now, so let's see what the difference between asking and selling price on the Overbid Property gets you there.  For just a few more dollars, $409,500, you can have this three bedroom, two and one half bath, 3140 square foot home on a tree lined street, and it comes with your own water balloon launcher to hit the cars slowly passing by on the lazy summer afternoons.

!!!____
SFhotspots:
-"Another reader and I tried the deep dish at Little Star Pizza on Divisadero at Fulton, and I have to say it was damn good."   Thanks for the tip Jay!
-This week Bud says, "Enrico's on Broadway at night, live music, tons of atmosphere, beautiful people, some very good dancers mixing it up amongst the tables, feels like "La Dolce Vita", really feels like a Roman Caffe from the 1950's--food is pretty good too.  The family took me there for Father's Day - felt like a vacation, especially since it was a balmy night and I was sipping a Mojito!!"  Yes Chip, there are other establishments on Broadway.   ;-)

???____
Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
If there are only four people in a race, two of them don't put any effort out, if you win, do you really win?

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 06/10/05-06/23/05: link SOLD 05/27/05-06/09/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending June 17, 2005

****SFnewsletter(TM) is a work in progress.  I'm always changing content based on reader feedback.   I welcome ideas, suggestions, complaints, concerns, stories, etc.   There is lots of cool stuff to come.  And please...don't bet the farm off my predictions.****

_____
Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.   To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.  If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.  For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
Sorry the newsletter is late coming out today.  I've been putting out fires.   No Justin, not kitchen fires, appraisal fires.   Just when you think it can't be done and $1100 per square foot seems out of reach, all the planets align and voila!   The value is there.

$$___
Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
846-850 Union.   A four unit building in Russian Hill.  Asking $1,995,000 sold for $2,835,000.   Just when you thought you could get a bargain by buying a four unit building.   Hmmm.   The market just keeps coming up with surprise after surprise.

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
You know the saying..."Go BIG, or go home."   Well that is what we're doing here.   For only $283,975 more from the purchase of that 4-unit building in Russian Hill (really pennies on the dollar), you could have this 20 bedroom Castle in the French country.

!!!____
SFhotspots:
-A tip from a reader:  Jafon likes Little Star Pizza on Divisadero at Fulton.   "Amazing butter crusted deep dish."

???____
Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  I randomly post reader feedback here.  Don't worry, you'll be anonymous.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
The world will soon come to an end. Coors Light billboards are all over town with surfer chicks holding surf boards. Last time I checked Coors got muscled out by Budweiser for Official beer of NASCAR and there ain't no Ocean in the Rockies.

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 06/03/05-06/17/05: link SOLD 05/20/05-06/02/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending June 10, 2005

****SFnewsletter(TM) is a work in progress.  I'm always changing content based on reader feedback.   I welcome ideas, suggestions, complaints, concerns, stories, etc.   There is lots of cool stuff to come.  And please...don't bet the farm off my predictions.****

_____
Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.  To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.  If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.  For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
In this frenzied market, what is your best way to determine what price you should make as an offer?  My answer, there isn't a good way.   Going off of square footage is only going to make you shake your head and wonder, "How could I possibly be paying $900 square foot for this place?"   Trying to factor in the most recent sales in the area is a gamble too, because the house down the street may have sold for $800,000 with one offer 3 months ago, and the house identical to it, next door, may have sold three days ago for $1,200,000 with 15 offers.   My suggestion, go with your gut.   If you think a place is worth what you want to offer, and you can afford it, then that is what you should offer.

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Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
I didn't even look at the reports this week for this.   I'm going off of a reader tip.   Thanks Eisar!   A higher overbid may exist, but this is pretty amazing.   The address: 869 Alvarado. The Size: 3 bed; 2 bath; 3 car parking; 1920 square feet. The asking price: $679,000. The selling price: $1,500,000.   There is a saying for this.   One man's trash is another man's treasure.  Or something like that.

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
Last week we saw what $75,000 gets you in Lincoln Nebraska, how about $1.5MM?   I kid you not, I couldn't find one property above $1MM in Lincoln.   I searched high and low all over the internet.   How about $679,000 (the asking price on the overbid) in Rome .........Georgia.

!!!____
SFhotspots:
-A tip from a reader:   "Roti Indian Bistro.  53 West Portal Avenue.  415-665-7684.   The owners have a sister restaurant in Burlingame.   Great food, reasonable prices and very nice ambiance for a 'neighborhood' spot!"   Thanks Robert.
-Another reader tip:   "On Thursday June 23rd, a cool and very popular Brazilian reggae band will play at the Mezzanine in SF.   You can check Mezzanine's website or www.riopoint.com.   The opening band is a fun local Brazilian band called "Nobody from Ipanema".   It costs $35 in advance.   It should be fun!!"   Thanks Tricia.

???____
Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  I randomly post reader feedback here.  Don't worry, you'll be anonymous.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
Rain, rain go away, come again in December.

Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report:
link SOLD 05/27/05-06/10/05:
link SOLD 05/13/05-05/26/05:
link

SFnewsletter Week ending June 3, 2005

****SFnewsletter(TM) is a work in progress.  I'm always changing content based on reader feedback.   I welcome ideas, suggestions, complaints, concerns, stories, etc.   There is lots of cool stuff to come.  And please...don't bet the farm off my predictions.**** _____
Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.  To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.  If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.  For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.* $____
Market Update:
Like Ozomatli says on their new album "Street Signs" at the end of track 9 leading to 10, "It's about to get HOT, HOTTER, HOTTEST..."  (You can hear sample songs by clicking the link, but to hear the epic quote you'll have to buy it.)  All the nay sayers have been predicting rising interest rates and the end of this market.   Well...guess what?  Rates dipped again.  Uh-oh.  There goes the neighborhood. $$___
Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
Every time I run these searches I think I'm going to be numb to the result.  Not the case.   Here's a house on Diamond in Eureka Valley, two bed, two bath, one car parking, around 1578 square feet, asking $799,000 sold for $1,200,000.   Not such a shock considering the market we're in.   Here's the kicker...If MLS is correct, it sold in 1996 for $75,000.   Something tells me that could just be the loan amount, but either way, it's INSANE!!! $$$___
Comparison Shopping:
I know you're thinking, "Don't go there Alex.   Don't make me see what is out there for $75,000.   There can't be anything."   Sorry, I had to do it.   But you got to go deep in the heartland.   I'll put some San Francisco marketing twist on it for you..."Built in 1910 this quaint 1037 square foot home boasts three bedrooms, one bath, hardwood floors, formal dining room, laundry room, parking for many cars, tons of outdoor space, and your own private deck to share hors d'oeuvres with your guests, or to simply enjoy the serenity of the outdoors."   It can't be that bad in Lincoln, Nebraska. !!!____
SFhotspots:
I'm going outside the city for this one, because it was just so good.   Speisekammer Restaurant in Alameda.   A truly authentic and delicious Bavarian Restaurant.   If you've been to Suppenkuche here in the city and liked it, you'll love this place.   And they have a great outdoor patio for the hot summer nights and drinking cold German beers.   Take the ferry over, get wasted, and float home. ???____
Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  I randomly post reader feedback here.  Don't worry, you'll be anonymous.  Chances are good that you are not the only person thinking it. $$$$___
My Thoughts:
I took a field trip to America last weekend.   I'm glad to be back home.
Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

New on Market Report: link SOLD 05/20/05-06/02/05: link SOLD 05/06/05-05/19/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending May 27, 2005

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Welcome:
Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list.  To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below.  If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me.  For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.*

$____
Market Update:
Just when you think things couldn't get any better for San Franciscans cashing in and moving onwards and outwards, they do.  Maybe it has something to do with our location. (In case you didn't know, you can put your cursor over the Google map and click and drag literally all the way across the country.)   Notice anything?  We are surrounded by water on three sides.   There is nowhere to build, but up, and the City isn't allowing that in most parts of town, so now what?  It certainly isn't the weather that brings people here.  San Francisco's average temperature hovers around 62 degrees fahrenheit, maybe less (this factors in all months), and it's always windy.  But some people love that.  Compare our map with that of NYC.  They are surrounded by water on four sides.  So what did New York do?  They built up, and prices followed.  I guess it helps not to have the next "BIG ONE" waiting in the wind when you want taller buildings.  Now look at Phoenix.  Surrounded by land on all sides, they have tons of area to expand outward, so prices remain relatively low, until the builders catch up with demand and keep the market in check. So until the 8.0 quake hits California and Phoenix Beach has the best barrel this side of the Mississippi, don't count on prices to go anywhere but up in San Francisco. 

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Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**:
How is this for marketing...?  "This is not a cute or cosmetic fixer upper.  This small house needs serious help.  No inspection reports due to condition."   Ridgewood Avenue in Westwood Highlands.   Two bed, 1 bath, 888 square feet, asking $410,000 sold for $703,000.  What can I say.   I'm seriously speechless. Here's a link to the property description.

$$$___
Comparison Shopping:
Sticking with our water theme (can you tell I haven't surfed in a while) let's jump on over the pond, shall we?  At today's exchange rate $700,000 USD equals roughly L382,000 British Pounds.  Pickins are pretty slim over there too, but at least it doesn't "need serious help".

!!!____
SFhotspots:
If you have children under 8 years old, and need some cool clothing and gear for them, check out Beleza at 1947 Union Street. They have some pretty cool stuff. Tell them Alex sent you.

???____
Questions&Comments:
If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com.  You're probably not the only one thinking it.

$$$$___
My Thoughts:
Where's D, Wardo?
Happy Aloha Friday!

alex

Dear Friends: I didn't have time to do all the html. _____ Welcome: Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.* $____ Market Update: When is the madness going to stop? I mean really. Continuing with my brief mention of buying outside of the city if you can't afford to buy here, I can tell you I have done well in Phoenix. I also did well in Reno. I know many people who are doing well in Salt Lake City. Some are doing well in Florida (many different areas). Las Vegas...depends on your price range. There is also Boise and many parts of the central valley like Sacramento, Woodland, Fresno, Stockton, Manteca. The list goes on and on. Seriously. If you're going to ride this wave and you can't buy here, buy somewhere else. And if you want to sell your place and get out of here, there is no better time than now. Take your $1,000,000 you make here and buy a mansion in Kansas. It's very "centrally located". $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: Noe Valley getting in the mix again. The little two unit that could. Located at 1059 Church Street, the building is around 2600 square feet, asking $950,000 sold for $1,300,000. OMYGOD! Here's a link to the property description: http://www.sfarmls.com/scripts/mgrqispi.dll?APPNAME=Sanfrancisco&PRGNAME=MLSLogin&ARGUMENTS=-ASE,-AA,-A,-N873315 $$$___ Comparison Shopping: Check this out. For less than the difference between asking and selling price on the Overbid property ($350,000), you could have a four bedroom, three bath, three story home, with a tennis court, koi pond, double sized lot, two waterfalls, AND! they reduced the price $20,000. No overbidding here. Maybe just give Shorty a call, and he'll hook you up. The only catch...you have to move to Wichita, Kansas. Have a look: http://realtor.com/Prop/1045447600 !!!____ SFhotspots: -Here's a list of great upcoming art shows brought to you by your friends at SF's Receiver Gallery (www.receivergallery.com). They hope to see you there! -Brooklyn based artist, John Copeland, exhibits at Juice Design (www.juicedesign.com), Saturday, May 21. Cowboys and Angels (www.capsule9.com) hosts an artshow for Shawn Barber, Friday June 3. The much anticipated Canceled Flight (www.receivergallery.com) opens Saturday, June 4. Get some! Know of something new, or exciting going on in the city? Send it to me, I'll post it here. ???____ Questions&Comments: -Kris in Florida wrote: "I just don't get how expensive it can be [in SF]. Interesting thought; the Cow Hollow cottage at $2800/ sq ft [last week's overbid]. Imagine, that is roughly seven ounces of Gold ($400/ oz.) with just under 1/2 pound /per foot and 1000 sq. feet, that's like 500 lbs of gold!!!! Think of 2 wheelbarrows of Bling = one cottage?" Kris, you make Snoop Dogg proud. -Ryan in San Francisco wrote: "That's a good point that real estate right now is trendy. It seems like we're at that age or point in our lives when everyone we know is buying or considering buying real estate. It really comes down to personal timing and level of comfort. I feel like there's a peer pressure going on that is driving me to buy something soon." You're absolutely correct Ryan. Just like everything in America, it's all about the next trend. -Aimee in San Francisco wrote: "Seems like you may have missed an Overbid of the Week … check out 321 Duncan that was priced at $579,000 and seems to have sold for $928,000 … is that right?" Yes Aimee, that is right, but that property was only 32% over asking, whereas the Overbid I showed was a whopping 86% over. Good eye though. ;-) If you have something to say, send it to sfnewsletter@gmail.com. You're probably not the only one thinking it. $$$$___ My Thoughts: Who wants a gmail account? I have a million (well maybe only 150) invitations to give. Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: http://aclark.grassroots.com/webshare/document.jhtml?id=8161&file=newonmay20sfarrpt1450.pdf SOLD 05/06/05-05/19/05: http://aclark.grassroots.com/webshare/document.jhtml?id=8162&file=soldmay6may19sfarrpt1518.pdf SOLD 04/22/05-05/05/05: http://aclark.grassroots.com/webshare/document.jhtml?id=8163&file=soldapr22may5sfarrpt1544.pdf

SFnewsletter Week ending May 13, 2005

Dear Friends: _____ Welcome: Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPS) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.* $____ Market Update: This week, yet again, the market is still very, very good. Which brings me to a concern one of my readers had. If you haven't bought yet, have you missed the boat? "Missing the boat" implies that you're trying to get somewhere. If we're talking about real estate, where are you trying to go? Is building equity and selling for a higher price than you paid really going somewhere? It's just money. Can you get this by investing in property outside of San Francisco? Or is it the time spent ON the boat that you are missing? It's not a trick question. There is a way to have both. Don't stress about it. Think outside of the box. Real Estate is very trendy at the moment. Find your own style, and take your own boat. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: Can I get a LOT please!? Ahhhh. You gotta love it. I don't even know if I'd like to describe the "cottage". Actually, I don't. Essentially, we have a lot in Cow Hollow asking $1,500,000 and selling for $2,800,000. Here's a link to the property description: link $$$___ Comparison Shopping: The difference between asking and selling price on the Overbid property is $1.3MM. If my calculations are correct (I've been known to be wrong.), the SF lot is about 5900 square feet. To give you an idea in order to compare, it would take roughly 7 of these lots to make one acre. So why not take that $1.3MM and buy 25 acres in Kennebunkport, Maine? They'll even throw in a remodeled 15 room Colonial Farmhouse. Just tell them I sent you, and save me some lobster. Have a look: link. !!!____ SFhotspots: "Fields of Vacuous Verities" by Chris Pew opens at Receiver Gallery on May 14th. Merging the dynamic, and often polar worlds of science and art, local Oakland artist Chris Pew will exhibit his latest work, "Fields of Vacuous Verities", at Receiver Gallery (8th Avenue / Irving) in San Francisco on Saturday, May 14, from 7 — 10 PM. For more info, please go to www.receivergallery.com. Thanks Jay!! If you know of a good NEW restaurant, bar, club, show, shop, etc. let me know, and I'll announce it to the world. $$$$___ My Thoughts: It's all how you look at it. Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: report SOLD 04/29/05-05/13/05: report SOLD 04/15/05-04/28/05: report +For future reference, the only content that changes weekly is the Advertisement on the top of the page, the Market Update, SFhotspots, the Maximum Overbid of the Week(TM), Comparison Shopping, My Thoughts, and the Reports. So next time you get this newsletter, you can skip the Welcome, and the legal junk below, and get right to the good stuff.+ __

SFnewsletter Week ending May 6, 2005

Dear Friends: ****If you'd like to advertise here, send me an email.**** _____ Welcome: Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. For RECENT SALES/LISTING ACTIVITY (COMPARABLES) CLICK ON THE "NEW ON MARKET" AND "SOLD" REPORTS BELOW.* $____ Market Update: SURPRISE! This week the market is still very, very good. Here is some food for thought. According to Inc. Magazine, San Francisco is rated as the #188th "Best Place for Doing Business in America". We were beat out by pretty much every little po-dunk town in America, and even Los Angeles beat us. Manchester, New Hampshire came in at #21, and they only do business nine months out of the year, because when summer rolls around it's all about sitting on the porch and having a cocktail. Even if the po-dunk towns didn't hurt, getting beat by L.A. is embarrassing! Here is the real shocker. Reno, Nevada, my place of birth (Yeah, I know.) is rated #1. Come again? Reno is Inc. Magazine's number one best place to do Business in America. I need a cocktail. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: West Portal is getting in the game. A nice three bedroom, two and a quarter bath, two car parking house on Ulloa. (One reader asked, "What is a quarter bath? A urinal in the garage?") A bit of humor always helps. Asking price was $828,000, sold for $1,201,330. What's better is that in 2001 it sold for $762,200. Not bad. Here's a link to the property description: Link $$$___ Comparison Shopping: Do I dare even look at what $1.2MM gets you in Reno, the #1 place to do business in America? Here are a couple choices that you could probably get UNDER asking price. Bargain !!!____ SFhotspots: I'm negotiating with a couple local magazines/newspapers to bring me content for this section. Until then, if you know of a good NEW restaurant, bar, club, show, shop, etc. let me know, and I'll announce it to the world. $$$$___ My Thoughts: If you're thinking about investment property, you might pick up an Inc. Magazine and go down the list to find your next place to purchase. Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: Report SOLD 04/22/05-05/05/05: Report SOLD 04/08/05-04/21/05: Report +For future reference, the only content that changes weekly is the Advertisement on the top of the page, the Market Update, SFhotspots, the Maximum Overbid of the Week(TM), Comparison Shopping, My Thoughts, and the Reports. So next time you get this newsletter, you can skip the Welcome, and the legal junk below, and get right to the good stuff.+

SFnewsletter Week ending April 29, 2005

Dear Friends: ****Buy your next home with no money down. Listen to a free recorded message with information about this option by calling 1-888-207-9619 ext. 9001. Brought to you by Laurette Foggini at Pinnacle Bancorp.**** _____ Welcome: Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: This section is getting more and more difficult for me to come up with something interesting to say. I prefer not to bore you with averages, interest rate speculation, crystal ball sales predictions, and so on. So until the market takes a turn for the worse, I'm really going to limit what I say here, or possibly get rid of this section altogether. This week the market is still very, very good. !!!____ HOT in SF: This is a new section as of this week. I'm negotiating with a couple local magazines/newspapers to bring me content for this section. Until then, if you know of a good NEW restaurant, bar, club, show, shop, etc. let me know, and I'll announce it to the world in this section. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: The winner this week is a house on Hale Street in Portola. Two Bed, one bath, one car parking. Roughly 1350 square feet. Asking $425,000 sold for $660,000. The owners certainly said a few "hale" Mary's on that one. You have to love the description...and my corny joke: link $$$___ Comparision Shopping: We truly are insane here in San Francisco. This one is a reality check. It's amazing that we don't all take our equity we've built up here and run. Run to the hills. Run to the country. Just run!!!! This is what $650,000 (yes $10,000 less) gets you in Charlotte North Carolina: link $$$$___ My Thoughts: If you need to find me this weekend, try looking here: link Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: report SOLD 04/15/05-04/28/05: report SOLD 04/01/05-04/15/05: report

SFnewsletter Week ending April 22, 2005

Dear Friends: ****Are you looking to purchase or refinance residential property? Want great rates, expert advice and quick turnaround? John Ward, at TD Financial, partners with a variety of lenders to meet your individual needs. Call him today for more information and a free evaluation. (415) 292-2602.**** _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: This market is bringing back memories of one of my most dreaded classes at UCSB, Economics 101. Something about the Theory of Supply and Demand? Is the market going to turn? Who knows. I certainly do not. What I do know is that as long as properties are receiving upwards of 40 offers, there is way more demand than there is supply. However, sellers shouldn't get cocky, because that many offers is largely a part of under-pricing. And as I said last week, buyers shouldn't get scared away from writing offers, because you may just be the only one that DIDN'T get scared away and you can go home to a nice piece of San Francisco real estate. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: It's funny. When I'm going through the overbids I'm thinking, "15% over, that could be it...oh 22% over, maybe that is it...nope there's 35% over, that's got to be the one...oh wait, there's 42% over, that's it for sure...nope! Are you kidding me!!?" The lucky overbid this week is 49% over asking. The house is on Church Street in Noe Valley. A 1938 square foot, three bedroom, one and a quarter (don't forget that quarter) bath, with two car parking. Asking $855,000 sold for $1,275,000!!! Here's a link to the property description. $$$___ Comparison Shopping: All you Cypress Hill and Snoop Dogg fans out there will appreciate that the price between asking and selling on the Overbid home was $420,000. What does that buy you in Jamaica? Well, $420,000 USD is equal to roughly 25,623,929 Jamaican Dollars, and I found this house for you with 5 acres and fruit trees. $$$$___ My Thoughts: Tried a great new restaurant last night, Tamal. Tamal is located on the corner of 12th. and Howard. They serve "Mexican Tapas". Really, really good food. Wear warm clothing though, because the only bad thing about the restaurant is that it was a bit drafty. Happy Aloha Friday! alex +For future reference, the only content that changes weekly is the Advertisement on the top of the page, the Market Update, the Maximum Overbid of the Week(TM), Comparison Shopping, and My Thoughts. So next time you get this newsletter, you can skip the Welcome, and the legal junk below, and get right to the good stuff.+ New on Market Report: report SOLD 04/08/05-04/21/05: report SOLD 03/25/05-04/07/05: report

SFnewsletter Week ending April 8, 2005

Dear Friends: _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: The market in San Francisco continues to shine. The Sun on the other hand is having a hard time with that. Well, this is San Francisco, and things happen differently here. It's no wonder the market is doing its own thing. Check out this link regarding Home Financing from CNN Money.com. Thanks Ryan for the link! $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: Bernal, Bernal, Bernal. Lots of activity in Bernal Heights. Clearly THE hottest spot in the city. Check out this DUMP! Two bedrooms, one bath, one car parking, asking $438,000 sold for $657,000...cash! Make sure when you check out the description you click on the "additional pictures" link on the description page. It's truly remarkable, but on the other hand the developer is going to make a ton of money when they flip it, if the market keeps going where it is. Time to move to San Francisco, Pete! Here's a link to the property description: $$$___ Comparison Shopping: I decided to make San Francisco buyers feel a bit better than usual, and searched for something in New York City. I found a couple things under $450,000, but I liked this co-op the best. (Call me if you'd like an explanation as to what a co-op is.) I especially like the terrace which is the "fourth room for most of the year". Seven hundred square feet, tons of "discounts", and low HOAs of $1,021. Makes San Francisco look like a bargain! $$$$___ My Thoughts: Wondering where that place in NY is? Check out Google's new Maps: Show me the map! Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: Report SOLD 03/25/05-04/07/05: Report SOLD 03/11/05-03/24/05: Report

SFnewsletter Week ending April 1, 2005

Dear Friends: ****If you need a great hand made Turkish rug or kilim, check out my friend's store, A Woven Expression at 260 Utah Street. Online at www.awovenexpression.com. Ask for Soner!**** _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: The market has taken a turn. Most properties are selling under asking, and overbids are pretty much a thing of the past. Interest rates are climbing through the roof, and we're headed for a big downturn in the market. April Fools!!!!! No changes. The market is still extremely active and the same as it has been for quite some time. A good time to sell if you need to, and a good time to buy while rates are still low. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: 2 Northwood Drive in Westwood Park, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car parking, detached corner home, around 1932 square feet, asking $849,000 sold for 1,326,000!!! How about that?!! Here's a link to the property description: link $$$___ Comparison Shopping: I searched, and I searched, and I searched again to find a house in Costa Rica for $1,326,000 and I came up empty. But for a little bit more than they were asking on this home in San Francisco, you could have this place in Costa Rica: link $$$$___ My Thoughts: Gone Surfin'! Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: report SOLD 03/18/05-04/01/05: report SOLD 03/04/05-03/17/05: report

SFnewsletter Week ending Mar. 3, 2005

Dear Friends: ****Evans Trading Company located at 260 Utah Street in San Francisco in the Design Area is having a 50% off SALE on their teak outdoor furniture. They specialize in Mahogany Indoor Furniture as well as various accessories. Check them out at www.evanstrading.com.**** _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: I think this article just about sums it up: http://www.car.org/index.php?id=MzQ2OTM=. "...median home price jumped 20.1% in January..." On the other side of the equation is this: Consumer Confidence dips in February, http://www.conference-board.org/economics/consumerConfidence.cfm. Is this an indication of things to come? Remember, the San Francisco real estate market is like a micro-climate. Things happen differently here, maybe even a bit backwards. Kind of like the weather. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: 4209 22nd Street in Noe Valley. (Reller! Pay attention!!!) Two bed, one bath, one car parking. Approx. 1197 square feet, 14 days on the market, asking $899,000 sold for $1,250,000!!! That is $1,044 per square foot. Listing it at $899,000 is a bit ridiculous to tell you the truth. Here's a link to the property description: http://www.sfarmls.com/scripts/mgrqispi.dll?APPNAME=Sanfrancisco&PRGNAME=MLSLogin&ARGUMENTS=-ASE,-AA,-A,-N769115 $$$___ Comparison Shopping: What does 1,250,000 Euros get you in Southwest France? Well, let's see...How 'bout this: http://www.real-estate-in-france.com/645gers.htm $$$$___ My Thoughts: If you need to reach me, I'm getting my passport updated. Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: http://aclark.grassroots.com/resources/newonmar3sfarrpt1457.pdf SOLD 02/18/05-03/03/05: http://aclark.grassroots.com/resources/soldfeb18mar3sfarrpt1489.pdf SOLD 02/04/05-02/17/05: http://aclark.grassroots.com/resources/soldfeb4feb17sfarrpt1506.pdf

SFnewsletter Week ending Feb. 25, 2005

****Need a good painter? Primary Painting. Ask for "B". Tell him I sent you. (415) 533-0402.**** _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: When are we going to hit the top? I get asked this question 5 times a day. My answer, "I don't know." There is a home in the Richmond District that I'm not at liberty to say the address. Last year it would have sold for around $800,000. This year, they listed it around that price, they received 26 offers and it is rumored to be in contract somewhere near $1.2MM. Oh, I should add that it is a fixer. So had you bought that house last year, and sold it this year, that would be $400,000 to hide from George W. Do I have to say it? The market is hot. $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: 1200 Gough #9F, in the Van Ness/Civic Center area, one bedroom, one bath, one car parking, 840 square feet, asking $399,000, sold for $560,000, $666/square foot. The place better have REALLY good Feng Shui with that price per square foot. Here's a link to the property description: link $$$___ Comparison Shopping: For $398,000, $1000 less than the asking price of the condo on Gough, you can get this monster home in Charleston, South Carolina. link $$$$___ My Thoughts: Fatz! You movin' to SC? Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: report SOLD 02/11/05-02/24/05: report SOLD 01/28/05-02/10/05: report

SFnewsletter Week ending Feb. 11, 2005

Dear Friends: ****Interested in purchasing, refinancing or building real estate wealth? Call me today for a complimentary in depth evaluation(WOW service, best rates and fast response times). Ed Diaz, your Wealth Building direct lender with over 18 years of finance experience. (415)573-6472.**** _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: Did you see the article in the San Francisco Chronicle yesterday about the housing bubble? Is the market going to pop? Who the heck knows? If someone tells you they know, make sure you don't get directions from them, because they are lost. Everyone likes to predict. Why? So if they are right, they can brag about it. If they are wrong, nobody will remember. Remember what I always say. Unless it is an article specifically about San Francisco, and this article was pretty close, take it with a grain of salt. But the fact is, nobody knows what the San Francisco Real Estate market is going to do. So just go with the flow. Oh...the market is hot. (Yes, John P., I still think it is hot.) $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: I'm going strictly off the numbers today, because I never saw this place. Let me build a little suspense. Here is the description written in MLS, "RH2 lot with 2 vacant units in poor condition. Each unit is one bedroom..." Poor condition?! Better jump on it! 4591-4593 18th Street, in Eureka Valley, asking $749,000 sold for $1,025,000. Here's a link to the property description: $$$___ Comparison Shopping: What can you get for $1,025,000 in Reno, Nevada? Well I found something for $1,029,900. Pretty close. But if you want to buy this house you have to call THE best Realtor in Reno, Irmin Clark 775-825-1178 (lots of home-cooked meals for me for this one, ma!). Here's a link to the description and Virtual Tour: $$$$___ My Thoughts: You know the weather this summer is going to be extra awful, since we are having such a nice winter. Mark Twain should have said, "My warmest summer was a winter in San Francisco." How can you predict a housing bubble in San Francisco, if you can't even predict the weather?! Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: link SOLD 01/28/05-02/10/05: link SOLD 01/14/05-01/27/05: link

SFnewsletter Week ending Feb. 4, 2005

Dear Friends: ****Interested in purchasing, refinancing or building real estate wealth? Call me today for a complimentary in depth evaluation(WOW service, best rates and fast response times). Ed Diaz, your Wealth Building direct lender with over 18 years of finance experience. (415)573-6472.**** _____ Hello and welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email me at sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, they must opt-in by emailing me. Most importantly, don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: Hmmm. Let's think about this one. It's easy! The market is HOT! $$___ Maximum Overbid(TM) of the week**: I'm showcasing two today. Different parts of town, and properties in different conditions. You'll see that the price ranges are totally different, but the outcome is the same. WAY over asking. 101-103 Caselli: Eureka Valley, two units, approximately 2230 square feet, $538 per square foot, probate, asking $795,000 sold for $1,200,000. That's $405,000 over. Here's a link to the property description: link 3074-76 Washington: Pacific Heights, 2 units, 3484 square feet, $609 per square foot, in pretty sweet condition and prime location, asking $1,595,000 sold for $2,125,000. Yes that is $530,000 above the asking price. It doesn't matter if the price is starting out at $595,000 or $1,595,000, you're probably going to have to go WAY over. Here's a link to the property description: link $$$___ Comparison Shopping: Let's take that $530,000 and head on over to the east coast...Stowe Vermont, shall we? (You'll get to know your geography.) Let's see what we get there: link And I think you get the lake too. Not bad. $$$$___ My Thoughts: How 'bout the weather!? Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: report SOLD 01/21/05-02/04/05: report SOLD 01/07/05-01/20/05: report

SFnewsletter Week Ending Jan 14, 2005

Dear Friends: ****Visit Squaw Valley USA for the best skiing and boarding in Tahoe. Over 12 feet of new snow, and the forecast is calling for clear skies and mild temperatures. What are you waiting for? It's great up here! www.squaw.com.**** _____ Welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, send them to www.sfnewsletter.com. Don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: A little birdie told me the other day the market is hot and should continue to be so. Another little birdie, who is actually a mortgage broker friend of mine, thinks interest rates are going to decline gradually over the next year. He actually got this information from an economist who has been right on the money for market predictions for the last 25 years (says my friend). It comes down to a he said, she said, so take this with a grain of salt. The fact is...Nobody knows what rates will do, but it is safe to say they aren't going to spike anytime soon. $$___ Maximum overbid(TM) of the week**: 615 Alvarado Street in Noe Valley. 3 bed, 1.5 bath, 2 car parking, roughly 1679 square feet, $780 per square foot, 21 days on the market, asking $995,000 sold for $1,310,000. That's not bad. Here's a link to the property description: http://www.sfarmls.com/scripts/mgrqispi.dll?APPNAME=Sanfrancisco&PRGNAME=MLSLogin&ARGUMENTS=-ASE,-AA,-A,-N703929 Comparison Shopping: Here's what the difference between asking and selling price on this house ($315,000) buys you in Orlando Florida: http://realtor.com/Prop/1042056871 $$$___ My Thoughts: I'm trying to break the reports down for y'all by neighborhood, but the computer just won't let me do it. Soon, I will beat the computer at its own game and get them to you. Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: http://aclark.grassroots.com/resources/soldjan13sfarrpt434.pdf SOLD 12/31/04-1/13/05: http://aclark.grassroots.com/resources/solddec31jan13sfarrpt613.pdf SOLD 12/17/04-12/30/04: http://aclark.grassroots.com/resources/solddec17dec30.pdf

SFnewsletter(TM) Week Ending January 7th, 2005

Dear Friends: ****URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR GREATER LAKE TAHOE AREA...SNOW IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN LATE TONIGHT (THURS) AND CONTINUE THROUGH MONDAY WITH HEAVY SNOW AT TIMES. BY MONDAY AFTERNOON...TOTAL SNOW ACCUMULATIONS OF 3 TO 5 FEET ARE EXPECTED AT LAKE LEVEL...WITH 5 TO 8 FEET ABOVE 7000 FEET. The skiing/boarding at Squaw Valley is going to be epic! I suggest you pay them a visit, www.squaw.com .**** _____ Welcome to the newest members of the list. To opt-out, either email sfnewsletter@gmail.com, or click on the "unsubscribe" button below. If you know anyone who would like to be added to this distribution, send them to www.sfnewsletter.com. Don't forget to click on the "New on Market", and "Sold" reports below. They are what make this newsletter tick.* $____ Market Update: The market is still smokin'. I have heard everything under the sun in regards to what the market is going to do. There are the nay-sayers who are certain it is going to tank. There are the optimists who are certain it is going to continue to go up like it did this past year. Everybody is an expert on interest rates and what effect they will have on our market. And there are the people receiving this newsletter who don't live here shaking their heads wondering why the hell we pay such exorbitant prices for real estate. I would have to say I side with the optimists and we live here because we can. $$___ Maximum overbid(TM) of the week**: 1260 Monterey Blvd. in Monterey Heights...4 bed, 3 bath, 2 car parking, approx. 2800 square feet, asking $1,045,000 sold for $1,600,000. Yes that is $555,000 above the asking price. Or 53% above asking price. No matter how you slice it, it is unreal! Here's a link to the property description: link Comparison Shopping: Here's what $1.6MM buys you in Seattle, Washington: link $$$___ My Thoughts: This is the second time I wrote this newsletter tonight, because I accidentally deleted the first. That makes me happy! I have about 30 Gmail invitations to give. Anybody want one? Happy Aloha Friday! alex New on Market Report: report SOLD 12/24/04-1/6/05: report SOLD 12/10/04-12/23/04: report