The internet is an excellent tool for learning about San Francisco and its many neighbourhoods.
'So much information is available on the internet. Buyers that come to San Francisco understand the market. They've done their research,' said Patrick Barber, senior vice-president at Sotheby's International Realty.
Finding a savvy real estate agent for counsel is another essential. Malcolm Kaufman, a realtor with McGuire Real Estate and founder of PulseFactors.com, a website about condo living in San Francisco that goes online in May, said: 'While it's important to do your own due diligence, a good agent can help you to understand the opportunities and avoid making major mistakes.'
Mr Kaufman offered a tip for residential property investors. 'Even if the unit you're buying or selling is identical to one in the same building that sold for X amount a few months ago, don't go by that as the definitive price. A better guide is checking the prices of all comparable units on the market.'
Sellers in San Francisco are responsible for paying agent commissions, not buyers. Agent commissions typically range from 4 to 6 per cent. 'The better agents usually have higher commissions, but they also get the higher prices,' Mr Kaufman said.
When buying in districts where many condominium buildings are going up, be sure to ask whether your view or the amount of natural light enjoyed by your unit will be affected by a future building.
