theFrontSteps – San Francisco

Real Estate, Insight, Statistics, Gossip, & News…With a Twist and Some Flavor

Entries for the ‘Ask Us’ Category

When San Francisco Shakes, People Search For Bedrock And Landfill

Check out the top search terms for theFrontSteps since this second Berkeley quake hit about one hour ago. It appears there is a bit of concern out there given the recent one on top of the other quakes over there near Berkeley. I believe this is the post y’all are looking for: San Francisco Neighborhoods [...]

Ask: I Want To Rent A Home Built On “Those Stilt Kind Of Things”…

This is one for the community: I love your blog. I just moved here from NYC a week ago and it’s been an invaluable resource. I just found a rental that I love, [removed]. Gorgeous views, built in 1939 or so. Problem is, a friend from SF pointed out that it’s a “downhill home.” (I’d [...]

Ask Us: Death “On” Property Or Not? Should You Disclose?

This just came to me by way of email. Hypothetical question. Assume a house burned down and a firefighter died a few days later from his injuries. Same for a contractor falling from the roof or any other work related accident on the property. What are the consequences regarding the disclosures of a subsequent sale? [...]

About That $8000 Tax Credit, What If I Foreclose Before 3 Years Occupancy?

Remember that fun little $8000 tax credit the government was handing out to boost our economy? Well, what if you can’t stay in your home long enough to avoid paying it back? If you were a first time homeowner in California, and received the $8,000 credit. To keep from having to pay it back, one [...]

Ask Us: My Property’s Value Decreased, How Can I Lower My Property Taxes?

I’ve been asked (variations of) this question countless times: I am pretty sure the value of my home has reduced however the property taxes have not reduced. Can you help me with this process and if so what is your typical fee for this service. My home is in San Francisco. My reply: Hello, Thank [...]

Can I Buy A Sub $400,000 Home In San Francisco? Suprisingly…Yes!

Where readers ask, and we (the community) try to answer… I found your blog while researching San Francisco. My husband and I presently live in Texas, but want to move to San Francisco. We have two dogs (bulldog, and Labradoodle). We would love to have a fireplace, great view, outside balcony, and a place for [...]

Sutro Tower “Radiation” & “Not On MLS” Opportunity On Palo Alto Ave

Being a Realtor here at Zephyr Real Estate, we are constantly hit up with questions from colleagues trying to find answers for their clients. (Funny how we’re expected to know everything and have all the answers outside of what a quick Google, Yahoo!, or Bing search might turn up for you (just sayin’)). Since we [...]

Ask Us/Poll: Should I Put Music “On” A Property Website

We just got this question moments ago and a link to a couple different sites…all the same really, just playing different cheezy music. The question: I’m signing up a listing for a new property you’ll want to take a look at. The photos turned out great, and the property is awesome! My question is do [...]

Ask Us: To Remodel The Bathroom, Or Not

Where readers ask, and we (the community) try to answer: Hi Alex, A friend turned me on to your sfnewsletter, which is first rate, as is theFrontSteps. I eagerly await the upcoming pocketlistings.net. I could use your help. There could possibly be a listing in it for you. My dilemma is whether to put my [...]

Ask Us: Type Of License Needed To Be A Property Manager In California?

Where readers ask, and we (the community) try to answer: To folks reading this blog: In California, do you need a real estate broker’s license in order to be property manager? Or just a real estate agent’s license? Or no license needed? Thanks. David David, As far as we know, and you’ll want to consult [...]