Step into San Francisco’s rich architectural history with these four captivating homes, each offering a blend of vintage charm and modern potential. From the 1906 Excelsior Cottage with its succulent garden and expansive attic to a beautifully updated 1914 Edwardian flat with stunning city views, these homes invite creative vision and timeless character. Whether you’re looking for a cozy 1916 bungalow or a spacious Victorian home, these properties provide the perfect canvas for transforming historic gems into personalized sanctuaries.

1. 1916 Vintage Bungalow Cottage in San Francisco

Built-in 1916, this turn-of-the-century A-Frame bungalow cottage embodies San Francisco’s storybook charm. The 600 sq ft home sits on a standard 25 × 100 ft (≈2,500 sq ft) lot and is listed at $524,999. Featuring original stucco-and-wood construction, one bedroom, one bathroom, a partial basement, and skylight windows, it retains period character while inviting modern updates. Ideal for a buyer seeking a quaint historic home with development potential under San Francisco’s DBI guidelines.

Where is San Francisco?

San Francisco is located at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula in Northern California, USA. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, it lies about 50 miles north of San Jose and 380 miles north of Los Angeles. Founded in 1776 and transformed by the 1849 Gold Rush, the city is renowned for its rolling hills, iconic Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, historic cable cars, and vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown and the Mission District.

Bedroom

A cozy bedroom painted in a soft lavender tone, illuminated by daylight streaming through a large curtained window. A twin bed dressed in black-and-white striped linens sits against the left wall, accented by plush pillows and a decorative volleyball. Beside it, a wooden nightstand holds a modern lamp and a round clock. Adjacent, a light-wood desk with an integrated paper-roll holder and a potted plant provides a bright workspace, paired with a gray rolling chair and beige carpeting underfoot.

Basement

A utilitarian partial basement with painted cinder-block walls, a low ceiling, and exposed utility lines. A single overhead bulb casts muted light across the concrete floor, now covered in dark wall-to-wall carpeting. Stored here is a folded rebound trampoline leaning against the right wall alongside exercise equipment, a green plastic storage bin, a small white metal cabinet, and assorted cardboard boxes. This versatile area offers functional storage space and promises opportunities for future organization or a home gym conversion.

Living Room

An inviting living area features off-white walls bathed in natural light from a large side window adjacent to the TV. A flat-screen television rests atop a mid-century wooden dresser, flanked by leafy potted houseplants that add fresh greenery. In front, a plush white sofa with decorative cushions faces a round white coffee table atop a geometric-patterned rug. To the right, an open wooden shelving unit displays books, framed photos, ceramics, and small plants, creating a warm, eclectic ambiance.

Closet

A compact walk-in closet painted bright white featuring open wooden shelving units loaded with neatly folded clothes, boots, shoes, and woven wicker baskets. At the far end, a vintage oak dresser rests under a small curtained window that softly diffuses daylight across the space. A single metal clothing rod accommodates hanging garments on natural wood hangers, while assorted storage boxes and a shoe rack line the floor. This efficient layout creates a practical dressing area with ample organization.

Dining Area

An open-plan dining space seamlessly adjoins the living room, centered by a rectangular wooden table draped in a pastel floral tablecloth and surrounded by four upholstered plaid chairs. Behind, a white leather sofa backs onto a mid-century wooden media console set under dual curtained windows. To the right, a glass-front china cabinet displays dishware, glassware, and collectibles. Potted plants on corner shelves and decorative trays on surfaces lend a cozy, lived-in feel under a brass chandelier with soft overhead lighting.

Source: RE/MAX Advisors via Zillow

2. 1900 Victorian Home in San Francisco

Built-in 1900, this updated Victorian-era tenancy-in-common unit in Hayes Valley showcases classic architectural detailing within a three-unit building. Priced at $575,000, the 670 sq ft home sits on a 2,375 sq ft lot and offers two bedrooms and one bathroom. Recent renovations include fresh paint and new flooring throughout, a spacious living room overlooking a tiled front porch, an independent gated entrance, in-garage laundry hookups, and two dedicated storage spaces. Walk Score and Transit Score are both 99.

Where is San Francisco?

San Francisco is situated at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula in Northern California, United States. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and San Francisco Bay to the east, it lies approximately fifty miles north of San Jose and about ninety miles south of Sacramento. Founded in 1776 and transformed by the 1849 Gold Rush, the city is celebrated for the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, diverse neighbourhoods, renowned universities, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Playground

This aerial view captures a vibrant neighbourhood park featuring a fenced children’s playground set beside a half-court basketball area. The playground’s sand-filled play surface supports slides, climbers, swings, and seating benches for caregivers. Towering palm and native trees surround the playground, casting dappled shade across nearby concrete walkways. Rows of colourful Victorian-style homes form the backdrop. The park provides a safe, communal oasis for families and visitors, combining recreational amenities with urban greenery and neighbourhood charm.

Patio

Accessible through a sliding glass door, this narrow private patio is enclosed by cedar-shingle siding and features pale pink tile flooring. A black metal fire escape zigzags overhead, while two modern wire chairs and a small round table create an intimate seating nook. Potted succulents and greenery soften the urban feel against weathered wood walls. A green-painted divided-lite door leads back inside, inviting sunlight and fresh air into this cozy outdoor retreat tucked between neighbouring structures.

Living Room

This stylish living room is painted in soft off-white tones and features simulated wood flooring underfoot. A glass-top coffee table with a metal frame sits atop a patterned area rug, surrounded by a grey two-seater sofa and matching accent chair. Decorative throw pillows in coral and neutral hues enliven the seating arrangement. A sliding glass door opens to the private patio, while wall art and potted plants infuse warmth. Recessed lighting and floor lamps create a bright, inviting ambience.

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Bedroom

This light-filled bedroom features soft grey walls, clean white trim, and hardwood-style flooring. A queen-size bed with a pale lavender comforter and coordinating pillows rests beneath a pair of windows that bring in natural light. Opposite, mirrored closet doors flank a recessed nook offering built-in storage. A chrome bedside table with a cylindrical lamp and a potted fiddle-leaf fig plant adds warmth and personality. The overall atmosphere is serene, inviting, and ideal for restful repose.

Kitchen

This compact kitchen features crisp white cabinetry above and below tiled countertops, accented with polished chrome hardware. A stainless steel gas range with integrated hood sits beside a matching refrigerator, offering modern convenience. Under a bright ceiling-mounted fluorescent panel, the pale gray walls reflect ample light across the laminate wood flooring. A piece of equestrian-themed artwork adorns the left wall, adding subtle character. The kitchen opens directly into the living area, facilitating fluid interaction and efficient meal preparation.

Source: Philip Chan DRE via Zillow

3. 1906 Cottage Home in San Francisco

Built-in 1906, this charming single-family cottage in San Francisco’s Excelsior District evokes early 20th-century appeal with its steeply pitched gable roof, raised entry porch, and wood-clad facade painted in warm taupe hues. The home sits on a 2,500 sq ft lot and offers 750 sq ft of living space, two bedrooms, one bathroom, and an attached one-car garage. Priced at $740,000, it features original hardwood floors, established succulents in the backyard, and an expansive attic ready for future expansion.

Where is San Francisco?

San Francisco is located at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula in Northern California, United States. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, it lies about fifty miles north of San Jose and roughly ninety miles south of Sacramento. Established in 1776 and transformed by the 1849 Gold Rush, the city is celebrated for landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, its iconic cable cars, and vibrant cultural neighbourhoods like Chinatown and the Mission.

Bedroom

This warm, inviting bedroom features soft mustard-yellow walls and rich hardwood flooring beneath a queen-size bed dressed in a vibrant teal and floral-patterned comforter. A coordinating teal upholstered armchair with a matching ottoman sits beside a tall wooden dresser with carved accents. A single wide window with wood blinds bathes the space in natural light, highlighting the white-painted crown moulding and simple ceiling fixture. The room’s relaxed atmosphere blends vintage charm with cozy, lived-in comfort.

Study

A bright study nook anchored by a three-panel bay window that floods the room with natural light. Golden-hued walls complement the dark wood desk, which holds framed artwork, a desk lamp, and small potted plants. A cushioned armchair and matching ottoman in brown fabric offer a cozy reading spot beside the desk. Hardwood flooring extends underfoot, while white crown molding and recessed shelving display books and decorative items, creating a warm, inspiring workspace.

Outbuilding

This charming rear outbuilding features weathered clapboard siding painted in a muted sand tone and is capped by a simple gable roof. A single-pane window sits to the left of a central wood door fitted with a doggie flap. A small metal awning above the entrance shelters a gray-tiled floor patio furnished with a modern wire-frame lounge chair and potted greenery. The space offers flexible potential as a studio, storage area, or creative retreat in the serene backyard.

Kitchen

The bright kitchen offers a functional layout with oak cabinetry lining one wall above and below white tile countertops. A freestanding white gas range with an oven and a coordinating refrigerator provide modern appliances. Natural light filters through a window above the sink, illuminating the glossy brown linoleum floor. A raised breakfast bar opens to the adjacent living area, creating a sense of openness. Neutral walls and crown moulding frame the space, combining vintage warmth with daily practicality.

Bathroom

A cozy bathroom painted in a cheerful sky-blue hue envelops a traditional alcove tub-and-shower combo finished in white. Matching white grab bars and a chrome showerhead ensure both style and functionality. The vanity features an integrated turquoise sink atop a white cabinet, accompanied by a large mirror and open shelving for toiletries. Vintage patterned vinyl flooring adds character underfoot. A small frosted window above the tub bathes the space in soft, natural light, enhancing the uplifting atmosphere.

Living Room

This spacious living room features golden-yellow walls and warm oak flooring that extends into an open hallway. A plush blue sofa faces a wall-mounted flat-screen television above a black media console. A dark wooden desk and vintage wooden chair occupy one corner, beneath framed artwork and floating shelves displaying books and collectibles. Three recessed ceiling lights and a flush-mount fixture provide even illumination. Adjacent decorative area rugs and potted greenery enhance the cozy, lived-in ambience for both relaxation and entertainment.

Source: Primavera Realty via Zillow

4. 1914 Edwardian Flat in San Francisco

Built in 1914, this top-floor Edwardian flat resides in a three-unit TIC building on Dolores. Priced at $699,000, the 710 sq ft residence occupies a 2,200 sq ft lot and showcases period charm with its stucco facade, decorative cast-iron gate, and classic multi-light windows. Recent upgrades include new double-pane windows (2022), ductless heating and air conditioning (2024), and custom closet shelving. HOA fees cover water, trash, PG&E, common-area cleaning, and building insurance.

Where is San Francisco?

San Francisco is located at the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula in Northern California, United States. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and San Francisco Bay to the east, it lies roughly fifty miles north of San Jose and about ninety miles south of Sacramento. Founded in 1776 and transformed by the 1849 Gold Rush, the city is celebrated for the Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, diverse neighborhoods, world-class dining, and cultural landmarks.

Bathroom

This beautifully updated bathroom features a classic clawfoot tub set against crisp white walls with mint-green wainscoting. A polished marble-topped vanity with an inset sink and vintage brass faucet sits beneath a wall-mounted mirror and soffit lighting with globe bulbs. Large ceramic floor tiles in neutral taupe extend underfoot. A single sash window framed in white trim allows morning light to filter in, enhancing the serene, spa-like atmosphere. Thoughtful touches include a brass towel bar and artwork accents.

Bedroom

This sunlit bedroom features crisp white walls, gleaming hardwood floors, and dual sash windows overlooking the neighborhood skyline. The queen-size bed wears a striped white-and-gold comforter accented with patterned throw pillows. To the right, a dark wood dresser with modern brass hardware stands beside built-in French doors leading back into the living area. Overhead, a faceted pendant light casts a warm glow. Carefully placed potted plants and framed art complete the serene boutique-hotel ambiance.

Kitchen

The sleek galley kitchen features crisp white cabinetry with black hardware and luxurious granite countertops wrapping around two walls. A stainless steel gas range with a hood and matching dishwasher offers modern convenience. Under-cabinet lighting illuminates the workspace and the deep stainless sink beneath a large picture window. Warm oak floors run underneath, tying into the open-plan living area. The kitchen’s clean lines, neutral palette, and premium finishes create a bright, functional environment ideal for urban entertaining.

City View

From this top-floor vantage point, the city’s dynamic skyline unfolds beneath a clear blue sky. In the foreground, pastel-toned rooftops lend historic character, while mid-distance high-rises and the iconic Salesforce Tower rise prominently. The panoramic vista extends to distant hills, showcasing San Francisco’s unique blend of Victorian architecture and modern skyscrapers. This view floods adjacent living spaces with natural light, offering a daily spectacle of urban vitality and changing weather patterns, perfect for both entertaining and contemplative moments.

Dining Area

The bright dining nook features a round glass-top table surrounded by four charcoal-gray upholstered chairs set before two large sash windows. Crisp white walls and matching trim amplify natural light, while a sleek console table with sculptural table lamps adds visual interest. The chair rail and original crown molding reflect classic period detailing. Positioned between the living area and bedroom entrance, this intimate breakfast spot combines city views with refined style, inviting quiet morning meals or casual gatherings.

Living Room

The stylish living room is anchored by a contemporary gray sofa and matching armchair facing a sleek black-and-brass coffee table set atop a neutral geometric rug. Bold abstract artwork in yellow and black hues adorns a crisp white wall behind the sofa. A six-light pendant chandelier illuminates the space, while a black media cabinet and open pass-through bar stools delineate the adjacent kitchen. Three bay windows drench the room in the sunshine and reveal sweeping city views.

Living Area

This expansive living area features an open-plan layout combining seating, dining, and kitchen spaces beneath high ceilings. Light oak flooring flows uninterrupted between plush gray sofas, a glass-top dining table, and a stainless steel-accented kitchen bar with three upholstered stools. Three large bay windows frame panoramic city vistas and flood the room with daylight. Crisp white walls, original molding, and contemporary light fixtures create a bright, cohesive atmosphere perfect for entertaining or relaxing.

Source: Vanguard Properties via Zillow