The Bay Insider

Today on Bay Insider, we are continuing our neighborhood guide series where we talk about the history, lifestyle, and real estate of the Cole Valley neighborhood in San Francisco. In this episode, we step into Cole Valley, one of San Francisco’s most captivating neighborhoods. We are going to tell you the hidden secrets of Cole Valley in conversation with a 20 year resident of the area, Zach Wiley. From its early days as farmland to the lively, close-knit community it is today. We’ll explore hidden treasures like Tank Hill, Sutro Forest, and the cozy business district, plus local favorites like Zazie, La Boulangerie, and the ever-welcoming Cole Valley Tavern. Whether you’re a San Francisco native or just curious about this gem of a neighborhood, this episode is your window into Cole Valley’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant community spirit.To see the full list, visit thebayinsider.comCole Valley PhotosCole Valley at Turn of 20th CenturyFriends of the Urban ForestTank HillSutro ForestVenuesKezar StadiumLocal BusinessesAcro SportsBacon BaconBambino’s RistoranteBeit RimaBlue Barn Cole ValleyCole HardwareCole Valley TavernCrepes on ColeFinnegans WakeLa Boulangerie de San FranciscoLive Fit GymLuke’s LocalThe Ice Cream BarInoVinoKamekyoSay CheeseThe Sword and RoseWoods Cole ValleyZazieFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

In this episode of The Bay Insider, we’re taking you into the heart of Glen Park, San Francisco—a neighborhood with a rich history. We’re joined by Hilary Schiraldi, President of the Glen Park Association, who shares some amazing stories about what makes Glen Park so special. From its early days as “Little Switzerland” to the lively, close-knit community it is now, Glen Park is truly one of a kind. Hilary dives into the local treasures, like the famous Glen Canyon and its hiking trails, the area’s one-of-a-kind businesses, and the strong sense of community that holds it all together. You’ll also hear about hidden gems like the old Glen Canyon dynamite factory, the creative buzz at the Art Rock event, and the incredible “Gumtree Girls” who helped protect Glen Park from freeway expansion. If you love learning about San Francisco’s neighborhoods, their unique histories, and vibrant local culture, you won’t want to miss this episode!History Glen CanyonRancho San MiguelMorro CastleElectric Car Line Spring Water RecordsGumtree Girls Giant Powder Company Glen Canyon Parks and Rec CenterParks and Arts Walter Haas Park Amatista StairsTrail from Walter Haas to Billy Goat Hill Glen Park Greenway Burnside Stairs - finally moving forward! Glen Park LibraryColette CrutcherAileen BarrAmos Goldbaum Josue Rojas Cameron MobergHalloween in San FranciscoOhlone WayPenny LaneTo see the full list, visit thebayinsider.comGUEST: Hilary Schiraldi - President of Glen Park Association, Business and Social Sciences Librarian at UC Berkeley, 15 year resident of Glen Park. And - Fun Fact, Hilary is also known as The Power Lifting Librarian and she can deadlift 300lbs! Visit the Glen Park Association website at www.glenparkassociation.orgFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

In this episode of The Bay Insider, we take you on a journey through the vibrant Inner Sunset neighborhood with longtime resident Marilyn. We highlight the area's rich history and community, featuring iconic landmarks like UCSF, Golden Gate Park, and the Japanese Tea Garden. You'll hear about local events like the Fall Equinox Festival, Summer Solstice Festival, and Flower Piano at the Botanical Gardens. Discover the thriving farmers' market, flea market, and the neighborhood's exciting food scene, from cozy cafés to Burmese delicacies. Whether you're interested in real estate opportunities, art walks, or family-friendly activities, this episode is full of insider knowledge on what makes Inner Sunset a beloved San Francisco neighborhood for both residents and visitors.Some major sites and events discussed in today’s episode.Artspan SFBouquets to ArtCalifornia Academy of SciencesConservatory of Flowers DeYoung MuseumDowntown First Thursdays Fall Equinox FestivalFlower PianoInner Sunset Flea Market Japanese Tea GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden Sunset Night MarketLocal BusinessesGreen Apple Books HeartsFoundHunt and Gather Koi FitnessThe Magic Shop On the RunSan FranpsychoSeismic WaterworksRestaurantsArizmendiBahn Mi Crunch The BeaneryThe Crepevine Dumpling Park Easy Breezy    EbisuFireside Bar FiorellaTo see the full list, visit thebayinsider.comFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Join us as we give you a quick rundown on the 10 real estate districts of San Francisco. Learn about the neighborhoods in each of these districts-from the busy Marina neighborhood to newer construction in Mission Bay, and West Portal and Forest Hill's quieter residential areas. Whether you're seeking to buy a house, or just curious about the unique real estate landscape of San Francisco, this episode will give you a great lay of the land.You can access our data file here: The 10 SF Real Estate Districts Episode Youtube Link: The 10 SF Real Estate Districts Video Follow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

On this episode of The Bay Insider, we bring you our Q3 2024 Market Update, breaking down some key stats and trends. We break down transaction volume between single-family homes and condos; compare year-over-year data; and drill down into metrics, including median home prices, price per square foot, and days on market.Want to know how high interest rates are affecting the market? We discuss those higher rates, along with cash deals, and how they are affecting the real estate market in San Francisco..You can access our data file here: Q3 2024 Market Update DataEpisode Youtube Link: Q3 2024 Market Update Youtube Video Follow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

In this episode of The Bay Insider, we dive deep into the vibrant and storied Haight-Ashbury district of San Francisco. Amanda Martin chats with a longtime local, Tino, who shares personal anecdotes and the rich history of the neighborhood—from its beginnings as farmland to its transformation during the iconic Summer of Love. Learn about legendary landmarks like Golden Gate Park, the evolution of Haight Street’s businesses, and the famous counterculture figures who left their mark, including the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin.We also explore unique architectural gems, local hotspots like Amoeba Music, and legacy establishments such as Gus's Haight Street Market. Whether you’re a history buff or looking for tips on where to explore, this episode covers the essence of Haight-Ashbury, its cultural significance, and why it remains a must-visit destination in San Francisco today.History Links:Free Walking ToursThe ChutesArchitecture in San Francisco by James DixonA History of Haight Ashbury by FoundSFJimi Hendrix never lived in the Haight Ashbury“The Diggers”Rock & BowlAub Zam Zam (now known as Zam Zam)- Additional Article from Punch Drink 2015Haight Ashbury History on WikiKezar StadiumBusinesses:Legacy businesses on Haight St.*Pipe Dreams*Piedmont Boutique*Mendels*For the City (FTC)*The Booksmith*Amoeba MusicWasteland Decades of FashionBuffalo ExchangeCal SurplusGus’s Haight St. MarketWhole FoodsSpecial GuestTino Belasco- LinkedIn Profile- Natural State SandwichesNames with * are legacy businessesFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Joining us today on The Bay Insider is Arlo Zoerner from Cross Country Mortgage, one of the best lenders in the Bay Area for mortgages. We will guide you through navigating the often murky waters of home financing. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or a more savvy real estate investor, today's episode promises to deliver helpful information.We deal with a variety of subjects that can help you stand ahead in a competitive market for real estate:Chapters:Three Levels of Pre-Approvals - 8:50 : Learn about pre-qualification, pre-approval, and fully underwritten pre-approval and why having the strongest approval can give you a competitive edge when submitting offers.Gift Money - 18:05 : Learn the key rules on using gift money from relatives, along with the documentation you'll need to provide.How to Create a Competitive Offer - 24:48 : How to make your financed offer as competitive as possible in competition with an all-cash offer.Buy Before You Sell - 30:32 : Discover options for bridge loans, home equity lines of credit, and other creative financing strategies that allow you to buy your new house before selling the house you have.First-Time Home Buyer Programs - 37:11 : This is an overview of existing state and local programs, grants, and other forms of assistance designed to help first-time homebuyers.Investor Loans and Cash Flow Loans - 40:18 : Learn about these types of financing available for real estate investors.401K Loans - 46:12 : Understand how you can tap into your 401K as a source of down payment and savings accounts without penalty, and its effects on your ability to qualify for loan approval.Seller Financing - 48:13 : Seller financing is  more common when interest rates are high. Find out how buyers and sellers can be mutually rewarded with this type of financing.Interest Rates - 51:08 : Stay on top of where interest rates are going and what that means for your bottom line.What Not to Do When You're in Contract - 55:42 : Once you're in escrow, large purchases or even switching jobs can kill a deal. Here are the important "don'ts" to avoid when closing the sale.RSUs or Restricted Stock Units - 58:59 : In a tech-driven market like San Francisco, RSUs can constitute a significant percentage of a homebuyer's income. We will discuss how lenders view RSUs and what documentation you need to use them effectively in your loan approval.Guest Contact Information:Arlo Zoernercrosscountrymortgage.com/Arlo-Zoerner/925-289-9770Follow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Today on The Bay Insider, we are continuing our neighborhood guide series where we talk about the history, lifestyle, and real estate of the Central Richmond neighborhood in San Francisco.On this episode, we take a deeper dive into Central Richmond, know its deep history, diverse culture, and unparalleled access to nature. Discover how this neighborhood went from sand dunes into a vibrant, varied community with amazing bakeries, inexpensive foreign food and attractive local shops. Whether you’re a foodie exploring Geary Boulevard or you love exploring the outdoors through Golden Gate Park and Baker Beach, this neighborhood is where you can experience life with the perfect combination of urban flavor and abundant nature.We'll also talk about real estate, including why Central Richmond is a hotspot for new home buyers due to its affordable properties when compared to other San Francisco areas, and touch on some of the public schools in the area and buzzing local events like Outside Lands and Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. With good public transportation options and possible future development plans, this neighborhood is becoming one of the best places to live in San Francisco.Tune in for an insider's look at Central Richmond, a neighborhood that brings together rich culture, community warmth, and scenic beauty. Perfect for residents, visitors, and anyone interested in San Francisco real estate and lifestyle!Follow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Today on Bay Insider, we are continuing our neighborhood guide series where we talk about the history, lifestyle, and real estate of the West Portal neighborhood in San Francisco. In this episode, we talk about our homebase West Portal. The development of the twin peak tunnel has led to the beginning of this wonderful residential area with a blend of hip new restaurants and old San Francisco favorites. It is one of the best transportation hubs in the city. It also has a very strong community who come together in good times and bad times. A recent article on 7x7 discusses how West Portal has recently become the coolest neighborhood. You can find the article here. Local businesses we have mentionedBarbCoBallast CoffeeBinu BonuBookshop West PortalBullsheadBursaBurrito LocoCaliburEasy BreezyElena’s Mexican RestaurantFranco’s Latin TableGeorge’s Donut and MerrimentGoat Hill PizzaGoodwill Little Original JoesMcCarthy’s Irish BarNoe Valley BakeryPapenhausen HardwarePeet’s CoffeePhilosopher's ClubPilates StoryPure BarreTrattoria da VittorioRHAXSF SirenShaw’s CandySherwood Cocktail and Lounge SpiazzoSquat and GobbleSubmarine CenterToast EateryUnwine’dEventsFinding WaldoWest Portal Wine WalkWest Portal HalloweenSchoolsLowell High SchoolSan Francisco Waldorf High SchoolSt. Brendan Parish SchoolGet the full list at thebayinsider.comFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsideAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Today on The Bay Insider, we are having another discussion about the NAR settlement as we approach the August 17th, 2024 implementation date.In this episode, we will discuss the two main changes that are going to take place and their potential implications to buyers and sellers. The link below provides info related to the lawsuit, settlement, and proposed changes. National Association of Realtors FAQFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Today on Bay Insider, we are continuing our neighborhood guide series where we talk about the history, lifestyle, and real estate of the Outer Richmond neighborhood in San Francisco. In this episode, we had a special visitor, Captain Jack, who grew up in the Outer Richmond area. Captain Jack told us his childhood stories about Sutro Bath, Playland, China Beach, and Golden Gate Park. Through his tales, we got a glimpse of what life was like in Outer Richmond seven or eight decades ago. Local businesses we have mentionedAndytown Coffee RoastersBalboa TheatreBeach ChaletCliff HouseIt’s-It Ice CreamMr. Bahn MiPacific CafePurple KowPlacesArchery RangeBison PaddockChina BeachGolden Gate Angling & Casting Club Golden Gate Park Golf CourseGolden Gate Park Polo FieldLands EndLegion of HonorLincoln Park Golf CourseMile Rock BeachMusée MécaniqueOcean BeachSutro BathsSutro Heights Park SchoolsGeorge Washington High SchoolLafayette Elementary SchoolPresidio Middle SchoolSF Pacific Academy EventsSF Turkey TrotFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

In today’s episode, we give you an overview of San Francisco’s real estate market over the last ten years (2014 through mid 2024). We touch on the number of closings throughout the years and how COVID and interest rate have caused dramatic ups and downs. We discuss two segments of the market - single family homes and condos/tenants in commons (TICs) and how these two segments have behaved very differently in the 10 year period in terms appreciation rate and key market indicators such as Days on Market, Price per Square Foot, and Percentage of Price Received. We briefly explain how the San Francisco market is unique and different from the majority of the markets that tend to be far more homogenous.The data we have collected is from San Francisco MLS (SFAR). You can access our data file here. Market TrendWe also touched on the interest rate. You can find the graph we shared here. Federal Reserve Bank St. LouisTo know more about TICs, visit andysirkin.comFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Today on The Bay Insider, we are discussing the NAR (National Association of Realtors) settlement and its implications. This is the first of the series as we approach the August 17th, 2024 implementation date.In this episode, we will walk you through the timeline and background of the Sitzer-Burnett v. NAR case. We will discuss the settlement and its potential implications to the real estate industry from our perspective. There are so many questions remaining and we will provide you another update in a couple of months. The link below provides info related to the lawsuit, settlement, and proposed changes. National Association of Realtors FAQFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group

Welcome to the first episode of The Bay Insider! Join Amanda and Ying as they kick off their Neighborhood series, diving into the history, lifestyle, and real estate of Noe Valley with Pam Gill, Amanda's mother, who has lived in Noe Valley for 58 years!HistoryJose de Jesus Noe John Meirs Horner Dan’s Auto Horner’s Addition Rancho San MiguelGreat Potato Famine - IrelandDan’s Gas Station Noe Valley Ministry - Nina Zimpel Youkelson Noe Valley Voice ARCHITECTUREParks & ActivitiesNoe Valley Town Square Noe Valley Town Square Toilet Noe Courts Douglass Park Upper Noe Rec Center and Park Slow Sanchez Street Kite Hill Amos Goldbaum Murals Noe Valley Murals Noe Valley Library  ShopsPhilz Coffee Maxwell’s Pet Bar Noe Cafe Lola’s Art Gallery SkinSpirit Wink SF When Modern Was RestaurantsFirefly Hamano Sushi Saru Sushi Todo El Dia Novy Hi-Way Eric’s Alice’s Uma Casa La Ciccia ; New ownership Haystack Pizza Get the full list at thebayinsider.comFollow us on our socials to stay in the loopInstagram: @thebayinsiderFacebook: thebayinsiderAmanda Martin | Lic #01386284 Ying He | Lic #01964556 BarbCo Real Estate Group