When it comes to spending roughly $800,000 in San Francisco, you have many options. Today’s choice has a lot to do with location—as always—but also has much to do with overall finishes, space and urban vs more suburban feel.
First up is 190 Taraval, in Forest Hill:
190 Taraval was recently in contract, but just landed back on the market due to the buyers’ financing challenges. The 2BR/1BA Spanish Mediterranean home has about 1545 square feet and has been in the same family for 40 years. This is code for “needs updating,” which is definitely the case for the kitchen and bathroom. The lower level also has a family room and wet bar (a feature that may be outdated on its own). There’s two-car parking and a large garage, and the location is excellent because you’re in walking distance of the West Portal retail area. Taraval is a little busy, but certainly not unworkable. List price: $799,000.
In the other corner is 3236 17th Street #3:
3236 17th Street #3 is perfect for those buyers looking for a spacious, top-floor condo in the heart of the Mission. This unit technically has one bedroom, but there’s another room that would totally work as a second bedroom (in fact, it’s staged as one). You get two bathrooms, a chef’s kitchen, hardwood floors, a terrace and in-unit laundry. One-car parking and deeded storage are included, and HOA dues are $200 per month. For downtown or East Bay commuters, BART is one block away. You’re also in proximity to all the neighborhood restaurants, cafes, shops and bars. Listed at $799,000, this unit last sold for $830,000 in 2008.
So which home would you rather have?