San Francisco has always been a market of contrasts—historic Victorians beside modern high-rises, neighborhoods that feel like intimate enclaves just minutes from downtown. In 2025, that contrast has taken on new weight in the housing market itself, as single-family homes and condos chart two very different courses.
Single-Family Homes: Holding Their Ground
Despite broader headlines of softening prices nationally, San Francisco’s single-family homes remain resilient. Limited inventory and the enduring appeal of a private residence—often with outdoor space and neighborhood charm—have helped this segment hold steady. For families or buyers seeking long-term stability, single-family homes continue to command strong attention, particularly in neighborhoods like Noe Valley, Pacific Heights, and the Sunset.
Condos: A Market of Patience and Potential
By contrast, condos are moving at a slower pace. Higher interest rates, an increase in listings, and lifestyle preferences leaning toward more space have created a softer environment for this segment. Units in downtown towers and SoMa lofts, once highly competitive, now spend longer on the market and often see price adjustments before attracting offers. For savvy buyers, this represents opportunity: the chance to negotiate more favorable terms in an iconic city.
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, clarity is key. Those seeking single-family homes should still be prepared for competition, particularly at well-priced listings. Condo buyers, however, have room to take a more strategic approach—exploring options, negotiating concessions, and timing their purchase thoughtfully.
For sellers, the story is about differentiation. Single-family homes require strong positioning to maximize value, while condo owners must go further—staging, pricing, and marketing creatively to ensure their property shines in a crowded landscape.
Navigating the Split with Confidence
San Francisco’s split market is not a sign of weakness, but of evolution. The city’s dynamism means that opportunities exist on both sides of the market—if you know how to navigate them. Whether you’re a buyer seeking lifestyle and long-term value or a seller aiming to capture today’s demand, a tailored strategy makes all the difference.
As always, the key is understanding not just the numbers, but the story behind them. And in San Francisco, the story is one of resilience, reinvention, and possibility.
