In today's market, single-family homes in San Francisco are going under contract in a median of just 12 days, with condos moving in about three weeks. That means the homes on your list this Saturday could be gone before next weekend rolls around. Here is how to make the most of your time at every showing.
Before You Go
Get pre-approved, not just pre-qualified. In a market moving this fast, a pre-approval letter in hand is what lets you make a real offer the same day you fall in love with a place. Pre-qualification alone will slow you down when it matters most.
Make a short list, not a long one. Trying to see ten homes in one day means you will remember none of them clearly. Pick your top three to five and give each one real time.
Bring a tape measure and take photos of everything. Furniture placement, doorway widths, and closet depth are easy to forget once you have seen three other houses that same afternoon.
While You're There
Ask about days on market and any price changes. A home that has sat for a few weeks in this environment may have a story worth knowing, or it may simply be overpriced and open to negotiation.
Look past the staging. Check water pressure, open closets, look under sinks, and pay attention to how rooms actually connect. Staging is designed to distract from the details that matter.
Ask when disclosures were last updated. In a market moving this fast, having current, complete disclosure paperwork ready to go tells you a seller is serious and organized.
Talk to the listing agent, briefly. A few honest questions about interest level and expected timeline can tell you a lot about how competitive a specific home will be.
After the Showing
Decide the same day if you can. Homes you love in this market do not usually wait for a second visit next weekend. If something is right, be ready to move on it quickly.
Know your ceiling before you need it. Decide in advance how far you are willing to go on price so you are not making that decision under pressure during a multiple-offer situation.
Loop in your agent immediately. The homes worth acting on deserve a same-day conversation, not a Monday morning follow-up.
The Bottom Line
This is not a market for casual weekend browsing without a plan. A little preparation before you head out the door can be the difference between touring a home you love and actually getting the keys to it.
