New listings

The Days on Market Trap

Posted on Patrick Lowell

Sellers, I hate to break it to you, but you don’t ultimately decide what your home is worth. The market does (if you let it). Days on market is the scoreboard that proves it.

So what exactly is days on market (DOM)? It’s simply the number of days your property has been actively listed for sale. Here’s what many sellers don’t realize: that number follows your listing around the internet. It’s displayed on MLS and most real estate websites while your home is active, and it often remains part of the property’s listing history long after it’s taken off the market or sold. Whether you’re selling a home in San Francisco or in Healdsburg, buyers and their agents definitely take note of days on market.

Every day that your home sits unsold beyond those critical first few weeks can chip away at your negotiating power. Buyers and their agents begin to wonder what’s wrong with the property and how they can leverage the higher DOM to get a better deal.

Once a listing starts to age, you’re no longer competing solely on your home’s merits. You’re competing against its history and the expectation that a price reduction may be coming.

This is where an experienced listing agent earns their fee. My job isn’t to tell you what you want to hear. It’s to read the market, whether that’s the fast pace of San Francisco or the more seasonal rhythm of Sonoma Wine Country, and help you arrive at a price that encourages strong buyer interest from day one.

A smart seller doesn’t fight the market. They let the market bring the price.

I know that can feel uncomfortable. But here’s something many sellers don’t realize: depending on the terms of your listing agreement, you’re typically under no obligation to accept any offer at any price.

Pricing strategically isn’t about settling. It’s about creating competition and giving the market the opportunity to speak to you. That’s how homes often sell faster, with stronger terms and, in many cases, for a higher price.

If you’re thinking about selling in San Francisco or Sonoma Wine Country, I’d be happy to talk through the strategy that makes the most sense for your home.

How to find the best deals on houses and condos

Posted on Patrick Lowell

I am often asked how to find the best deals when buying a home or condo in San Francisco, Marin, and Sonoma Counties. Here are a few solid tips that I’ve learned in my 22 years in the local real estate market:

  1. Many properties are off-market and not advertised to the public but a great local agent should be able to identify some for you.
  2. Focus on properties that have been on the market for more than 60 days. These are the ones that are more likely to sell at a discount.
  3. Look at homes that have had price reductions. Drops in pricing can indicate that a seller is eager and may be open to negotiating.
  4. Identify properties that have been on and off the market recently but remain unsold. This is often a sign of an eager or unrealistic seller who may be open to negotiating.
  5. Ugly homes can be the great deals since many buyers cannot see the potential or do not want to do any work on the place after purchasing. A fresh coat of paint and some new appliances can often transform a place.
  6. Any home with a “black eye” can be a great deal. A house with a funky floorplan or a house located on a busy street will not appeal to many buyers which means that you can possibly score a deal if you’re open-minded.
  7. Most importantly, hire an experienced local agent to scour the inventory for you.

If you are thinking about buying, I’m happy to help. Reach out to me anytime.

(updated April 2025)

2 new condo listings in the Mission District

Posted on Patrick Lowell

I have two great condo listings coming up soon in the Mission District. Here is some info on each, let me know if you’d like more details before they go on the market:100_2186

2889 24th Street #6 is a bright two bedroom two bath condo facing the quiet side of the building. Built in 2006, this intimate building sits in the heart of the Mission within walking distance to BART, shopping, restaurants and more.  Approximately 935 square feet of living space per the condo map. This sweet condo offers upscale appliances, a contemporary open kitchen, gas fireplace, garage parking, in-unit laundry and a large shared patio. This one is not to be missed. List price is $875,000

2208 Mission St #405 is an awesome three bedroom two bath condo at the corner of 18th & Mission. Located just steps to some of the finest restaurants and coffee shops plus BART and tech shuttles are within a few blocks. The building was built in 2009 and includes a locally-owned grocery store and an upscale coffee shop. Approximately 1173 square feet of living space per tax records. This condo boasts a huge central great-room concept for living/dining/entertaining and it includes a private balcony, shared laundry, garage parking, common area roof deck, and one of the most walkable locations in the city. List price is $975,000