Here's an example of a positive in our market: some neighborhoods, such as Burlingame's Burlingables abutting Washington Park, are always in demand and typically experience limited inventory--still a formula for strong sales even in 2009. The prime Peninsula, with its San Francisco proximity and world class employers, is fortunate to always have ready and able buyers around with their eyes open. Coaxing them onto the playing field has been the challenge this year. But attractive pricing in prime neighborhoods such as Burlingables can still yield fast, strong sales. 608 Burlingame Avenue (pictured) is a recent example. While perhaps this home could have achieved an even higher sales price in the peak 2005/2006 markets, it just closed over its asking price with only 10 days on market. This approx. 1,862 sq. ft. 3 beds/1.5 bath home was listed for $1,049,000 in June and has now closed at $1,130,000. A charming courtyard entry, savvy remodeling, and open floorplan sealed the deal...just 5 minutes walk into downtown. Elswhere in this Burlingables neighborhood, 316 Channing Road just sold with 8 days on the market. This was an uncommon value that needed some elbow grease, but did offer a gracious 1,590 sq. ft. 3/2 layout with great potential.

455 Marin Drive (previously reported on BurlingameBlog.com) recently received mutliple offers when it was listed for $200,000 below its sale value of 2005. This 3 bed/2 bath of approx. 1450 sq. ft. previously sold for $1,200,000 in the blistering spring of 05 when it was listed at $999,000. This year, it was listed for $999,000 and was able to attract multiple offers. No word yet on the final sales price, but I will report back on it.