What $285,000 Buys You in San Francisco: A Rare 355-Square-Foot Studio With an Eat-In Kitchen

If you are overwhelmed by the sky-high costs of renting in San Francisco and looking for an affordable residence, an adorable 355-square-foot studio just hit the market in the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood for just $285,000.

Located in a historic 12-unit Edwardian building built in 1911, the "exceptionally well laid out" abode was designed to make "smart use of every square foot."

An affordably priced residence like this one is a rare find in this market, unless it's a BMR (below market rate) unit, which this one is not, according to listing agent Nicole Kay of City Real Estate.

"We see two to three of these a year," Kay says. "It's an opportunity, especially with rents continuing to go up."

The interior features an eat-in kitchen and a sunny, cozy sleeping area with a reading nook and a bay window that would be a nice spot for morning coffee.

"It appeals to a lot of people and would be good for someone who never thought they could own a home," she notes. "The buyer could also be parents who are fed up with trying to find a rental for their college student. It would also be good for a young tech buyer or someone from San Jose who needs a crash pad."

The seller purchased the unit for $280,000 in 2022 and has freshened it up over the years.

Other highlights include high ceilings, crown moldings, hardwood floors in the hallway, tile in the kitchen and bath, and new carpeting in the bedroom.

Kay believes the next owner will likely use it as a primary residence.

"I think it will be an owner-occupier since there is so much demand in the purchasing department, but they may rent it out in the future," she noted.

The modern kitchen has stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, and room for dining.

A $446 monthly association fee provides residents access to a community room with a pool/ping-pong table and wet bar, a shared patio, laundry facilities, and bike storage.

With convenient access to Salesforce Park, restaurants, shopping, and cultural destinations, the residence would be an ideal first home, pied-à-terre, or rental property, which is how the sellers have used it in the past.