San Francisco condo market update - Marin real estate new homes

Downtown San Francisco condos are facing slower demand, softer pricing, and longer days on market, while Marin developments are moving steadily, often appealing to buyers looking for more space, newer construction, and suburban amenities. The contrast highlights how shifting buyer preferences are reshaping the Bay Area real estate market.

Downtown San Francisco Condos: Market Headwinds

Slower Demand: Buyer traffic for downtown high-rise condos has thinned compared to pre-pandemic years. Many buyers remain cautious about committing to city-center living due to remote work flexibility, safety perceptions, and slower retail recovery.
Pricing Pressure: Sellers often face price reductions to generate activity. Units are sitting longer, and competitive pricing is crucial.
Opportunities for Buyers: On the flip side, buyers who still want to live in downtown SF can find relative bargains compared to single-family homes in the city’s westside or in Marin. Lower interest in condos has created room for negotiation.

Marin Developments: Steady Momentum

Appeal of New Construction: In Marin, new developments — whether single-family homes or small condo projects — attract buyers looking for modern layouts, energy efficiency, and less maintenance.
Lifestyle Draw: With excellent schools, open space, and suburban character, Marin continues to appeal to buyers relocating from San Francisco.
Limited Supply: Developments tend to be small-scale and sell steadily, since Marin has strict growth controls and less large-scale building. This limited inventory helps keep values stable even when the broader market wobbles.

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The Bay Area Buyer Shift

The split between SF condos and Marin developments reflects a broader shift:

Urban-to-suburban migration continues, with many buyers choosing Marin for more space and lifestyle perks.
City condos are affordable compared to single-family homes, but competition has thinned. For patient buyers, that can mean value opportunities.
Developments in Marin rarely linger, showing that demand for new and well-located housing remains resilient.

✅ Bottom Line: Downtown SF condos are experiencing slower demand and price softening, while Marin developments are steady and competitive due to limited supply and strong lifestyle appeal. For buyers, this means potential bargains in the city, and quick moves needed for new homes in Marin. For sellers, it underscores the importance of pricing and positioning strategy tailored to each market.