A curated set of tools I use with clients to explain San Francisco real estate — how neighborhoods are defined, how schools are assigned, and how the city’s housing stock has evolved.
Includes MLS-based maps, SFUSD resources, financing tools, and references on architecture and local planting that are especially useful when evaluating older homes.
- SFAR Detailed Map (How Realtors view the city)
The official MLS map showing how San Francisco neighborhoods are divided and analyzed by agents when pricing and searching. - Basic SFAR District & Neighborhood Map
A simplified version of the MLS map that makes it easier to understand how districts and neighborhoods relate to each other. - Easy to Read Neighborhood Map
A visually intuitive map for getting oriented to San Francisco’s neighborhoods at a glance. - How Much House Can I Afford?
A mortgage calculator to help estimate monthly payments and purchase price ranges based on your finances. - Down Payment Assistance Resources
Current programs and grants that may help eligible buyers reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a home in San Francisco. - SFUSD Attendance Area Map
The official school boundary map used to determine SFUSD attendance areas. - SFUSD Attendance Area Lookup by Address
A tool to look up school assignments for a specific address — helpful when evaluating potential homes. - Researching PreK-12 Schools
Resources I often share with families who want to understand school options, enrollment processes, and timelines in San Francisco. - Plant Lists for Gardening
Practical plant lists suited to San Francisco’s climate, microclimates, and typical yard conditions. - Native Plant Recommendations
Guidance on native and drought-tolerant plants commonly used in local gardens and sidewalk spaces. - Timeline of San Francisco Architectural Styles
An overview of the architectural styles found across the city, helpful for understanding a home’s era, structure, and quirks. - Want a sidewalk garden?
Information on what’s allowed, encouraged, and required when planting or maintaining sidewalk gardens in San Francisco.