Location: Potrero Hill, San Francisco, San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA (High on Potrero Hill in the Heart of San Francisco) View Map
Accommodations: House, 2 Bedrooms + Convertible bed(s), 2 Baths (Sleeps 4-6)
Keywords: Large, 3-Story House (2,200 sq. ft.)
This spacious, three-story, architect-designed and elegantly-furnished house is my private home when I am not traveling. It sits high on the north slope of Potrero Hill in the heart of San Francisco and is the perfect short-term residence for professionals, corporate executives, or vacationers.
There are sweeping views of downtown San Francisco and the Bay from the living room, kitchen, both bedrooms, and from the balconies off the living room & master bedroom (I was standing on the master bedroom balcony when I took the photo to the left). The living room has a dramatic marble fireplace, an award-winning staircase, antique Japanese furniture, original art & sculpture, a Steinway grand piano, a high-end stereo sound system, and a soaring cathedral ceiling with sunlight streaming through the two double French doors, the huge skylight, and the many windows.
The master bedroom suite, a private sanctuary that occupies the entire third floor, has a "window wall" framing a magnificent view of downtown San Francisco and the Bay Bridge (see photo), a sitting area with its own fireplace, antique Japanese tansu chests, a balcony, separate dressing room, Japanese-inspired bath, and a private redwood deck that floats among the bamboo and Japanese maples in the rear garden. There is also cable TV, offering many free premium movie channels, and a DVD.
The second bedroom is smaller but equally elegant with a queen bed, cable TV, and its own large bathroom. There is also a leather couch in the living room which opens into a comfortable queen-size sofa bed.
A guest computer with broadband Internet access is provided, and there is broadband WiFi throughout the house.
As you have probably already gathered, I am rather fond of my home, but my opinion is shared by others. Previous guests have said "it is like staying in a miniature museum", "an architectural gem!", "one of the most beautiful houses I have ever seen", "incredibly peaceful, a wonderful place to relax". A real estate professional who stayed for two weeks said, in his review on one web site, "I have rented many houses in various locations throughout the years. Bill's house was the best ever."
While I appreciate the compliments, the point is that this home is more than just a place to store your suitcase while you are visiting San Francisco. It will be part of the experience itself. If you or a member of your family plays the piano, there is a Steinway grand in the living room. If you are a history buff or armchair explorer, you will find one of California's finest private collections of books on Alaska and Russian America. If you are more into literature, there is an extensive collection of books by and about Mark Twain. If you appreciate art, the walls are covered with original works by contemporary artists, none of whom are particularly famous -- yet -- but all of whom are extremely talented and, I am fortunate to say, personal friends of mine. Scattered throughout the house you will discover Eskimo and Native American art and artifacts, sculpture, antique Japanese tansu chests, Persian carpets, a high-end music system, and many other treats.
Located high on Potrero Hill, My house offers incredible views of San Francisco's famous skyline and is just minutes to downtown, Moscone Center, Union Square and the SF Giants' ballpark. You can reach any other part of the City (Fisherman's Wharf, Golden Gate Park, the Golden Gate Bridge, etc.) in 20 minutes or less. San Francisco Airport is 15 minutes away, Oakland and Berkeley are 30 minutes away, Stanford University and Silicon Valley are 30-45 minutes away, Sausalito, Tiburon, and Mill Valley are 30 minutes away. Napa Valley and the wine country are just an hour away, Carmel and Monterey are 2 hours away, Lake Tahoe and Yosemite National Park are 4 hours away. A car is useful, but public transportation is available just one block away.
Potrero Hill enjoys the sunniest and warmest weather in San Francisco, and this safe, quiet, upscale neighborhood is a delight. Several of San Francisco's best restaurants are within walking distance, including French, Italian, Chinese, Thai, Middle Eastern, and one of the best pizzeria's in town. Farley's, whose motto is 'friends don't let friends drink Starbucks', is a classic 1950s coffee shop that draws customers from all over the city. If you like beer, the Anchor Steam Brewery tasting room is four blocks down the hill. Finally, one of the best features of my neighborhood is that it is one of the very few places in San Francisco where there is never have a parking problem for you or your guests! Parking spaces abound and no permit is required.
To make certain that your stay is trouble-free, my house manager lives in a small cottage at the rear of the garden and is ready to assist you as necessary.
In my humble opinion, this is the best accommodation value in San Francisco. So why stay in a pricey San Francisco hotel or sterile corporate apartment when my house offers twice as much for half the price? Deal directly with the owner, not an agent or property manager. This is one of the best accommodation values in San Francisco! When you compare my rates with a hotel, remember to add both the 14% San Francisco hotel tax and the 8.5% sales tax to the rate quoted by the hotel. Many San Francisco visitors are shocked by their final bill. My rates include all taxes.
NOTE: Maximum of six persons. Minimum stay of three days. Please check my availability calendar before making an inquiry. Because I travel so much, email is my preferred method of contact.
LAST MINUTE DISCOUNT: Reservations made within one month of arrival date are eligible for a "last minute" discount.
See Availability Calendar for available dates...
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer
- Dryer
- Linens Provided
- Off Street Parking : Unlike the rest of San Francisco, there is always plenty of parking in my neighborhood.
- Wood Fireplace (2)
- Beds
- Queen Bed (2)
- Convertible Bed
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV : Lots of premium movie channels, including digital-on-demand.
- DVD
- CD Player (2)
- Stereo System
- Music Library : Many CDs of every music genre. Particularly large collection of classical and musicals.
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : The kitchen was totally remodeled in June, 2008, and now boasts stunning Japanese tansu cabinetry and all new appliances, including a high-end gas stove. It contains just about every appliance, utensil, pot and pan a good cook could ask for as well as basic supplies such as paper towels, dishwashing soap, cleaning supplies, etc.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : I love to cook, so my kitchen is equipped with everything a talented chef might need.
- Refrigerator
- Dishwasher
- Microwave
- Ice Maker
- Outdoor Features
- Deck/Patio
- Balcony (3)
- View/Location
- Monument View : Panoramic views of downtown San Francisco, the San Francisco Bay, and the East Bay hills.
- Communications
- Telephone (2)
- Free Long Distance : free calls to anywhere in the U.S.
- Computer
- Broadband Internet : the fastest cable internet service that Comcast offers
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : wireless N - the latest and fastest
- Other Amenities
- Elegantly furnished with original art & antiques, Steinway grand piano, Persian carpets, 2 fireplaces (living room & master bedroom), spacious master bedroom with panoramic view of downtown San Francisco, Large library of San Francisco guide books.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters : Eight years old
- Smoking Not Allowed : Absolutely forbidden!
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Biking
- Health/Beauty Spa
- Antiquing
- Live Theatre
- Zoo/Wildlife Park
- Restaurants
- Hiking
- Fitness Center/Gym
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- The infinite variety of activities available in and around San Francisco defies description. If you can imagine it you can probably do it in our great city.
Rate Details (In US Dollars)
Jan 04-Apr 30: $235/nt | $1400/wk (1-2 guests) | $265/nt .. $1590/wk (3-4 guests)
May 01-Oct 31: $260/nt | $1560/wk (1-2 guests) | $290/nt .. $1740/wk (3-4 guests)
Nov 01-Dec 21: $235/nt | $1400/wk (1-2 guests) | $265/nt .. $1590/wk (3-4 guests)
Dec 22-Jan 03: $295/nt | $1770/wk (1-2 guests) | $315/nt .. $1890/wk (3-4 guests)
"Last Minute" discount for reservations made within 28 days of arrival date.
No Pets & No Smoking in house. Minimum age for children is 8 years old.
Cleaning Fee: $150/per stay plus $100/week for stays of more than one week
Minimum 3 nights. Maximum of 6 guests. Deposit required to confirm reservation.
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
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Credit Cards Accepted:
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Map & Owner's Profile
Owner's Map of Potrero Hill
I am an entrepreneur, venture capitalist and consultant who has spent more than 25 years in Silicon Valley. I have started several companies of my own and worked with dozens of other embryonic technology ventures providing concept validation, strategic analysis and planning, interim management, mentoring, and investment capital.
Property Photos
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- View of San Francisco Skyline from the Master Bedroom - San Francisco, CA - California Vacation Lodging Rentals
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- Living Room - San Francisco, CA - California Vacation Lodging Rentals
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- Staircase to the Master Bedroom - San Francisco, CA - California Vacation Lodging Rentals
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- Steinway Grand Piano in the Living Room
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- Dining Room
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- Dining Room
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- Dining Room
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- Kitchen (totally remodeled July, 2008)
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- Kitchen (totally remodeled July, 2008)
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- Master Bedroom - Sleeping Area
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- Master Bedroom - Entertainment Area
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- Japanese-Style Master Bathroom
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- Deck off the Master Bedroon Overlooking the Japanese Garden
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- Second Bedroom
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- Second Bathroom (totally remodeled August, 2008)
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- Second Bathroom (totally remodeled August, 2008)
Traveler Reviews (34)
Real home/real neighborhood--the CITY right there!
Guest: Diane
(Salinas, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/11/10
Review Submitted: 01/25/11
My sons and I have been frequent visitors to San Francisco for many years. We have stayed in every neighborhood and every type of lodging imaginable. The Potrero Hill home took our stays in the City to a new level and it will be difficult to go back to hotels now that we've found our "home" in SF. We felt immediately comfortable and loved the view, the kitchen, the "zen" master . . . and the fact that you can park a car right in front!! Thank you... we'll be back! There were so many things we liked. The easy access, nice neighborhood, beautiful view, parking, comfortable living space, awe-inspiring art & book collection, the piano, attentive guest relations, and on and on...did I mention the parking?! Goat Hill Pizza may serve the best pizza there is and the friendly service makes dinner there an all around great neighborhood experience. Also, you have the best Whole Foods I've ever visited!
Owner response:Many thanks, Diane. I am particularly pleased to receive such a great review from someone who has visited San Francisco so many times. Now that you have found your "home" in the city by the bay, please come back again soon!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, families with teenagers, age 55+, girls getaway.
Potrero Hill House, San Francisco, CA
Guest: Ella J.
Date of Stay: 06/14/11
Review Submitted: 12/19/11
Your house is exquisite; the views from the kitchen and the master bedroom are awesome; the house offered privacy for all of us; we thoroughly enjoyed cooking our meals in the beautiful kitchen. The house was the perfect "size" for 6 people. We loved the city, it was easy to drive to points of interest and we would return right now if we could. We enjoyed the nearby restaurants which we could walk to, we appreciated the availability of parking on the street, and the fact that your house offered us a feeling of "being home," after our busy days of touring, etc. The neighborhood was very quiet. Can't think of anything we didn't like. The house was exactly as it was advertised, clean and set up for our stay. The brochures, maps and info on nearby restaurants were very helpful. We recommend visiting the Muir Woods park - truly nature's cathedral.
Recommended for:
"The Hill"
Guest: Valerie E.
Date of Stay: 10/07/11
Review Submitted: 12/05/11
"The Hill" is simply a wonderful place to stay, a delightfuly quiet refuge and retreat from the city which is just minutes away. We especially enjoyed lunch at Sunflower and Papitos, shopping at The Good Life Grocery and perusing the excellent selection of books at Christopher's. Passing from the street through the wrought iron gate is like stepping into another world, a haven filled with all the comforts one could desire, plants, books, art, and a piano. One could settle into the top floor with its sense of space, unique bath, expansive views, and comfortable bed and wish never to leave! Among the many books by and about Mark Twain and Alaska I found a charming little novel called The Alaskan by James Curwood, impossible to set down. I recommend it!
Recommended for:
Great location
Guest: Ava
(Jackson, CA)
Date of Stay: 08/31/11
Review Submitted: 09/13/11
House was great. All the decorations made us feel as though we were staying with a sophisticated erudite relative. We were surprised how quickly we could access all areas of San Francisco. We walked up and down all the Potrero hills - whew - and to a couple of the local restaurants. Parking was great - incredible for SF. Loved the master shower. Everyone in our family had to experience it. We enjoyed Goat Hill Pizza, Bloom's a basic and inexpensive bar with a cordial bartender, and the Mediterranean restaurant. Rode bikes from SF across Golden Gate to tiburon and took ferry back - another whew but really fun. Owner did everything possible for travelers' comfort. House was quiet enough to sleep with windows open. Great place.
Owner response:Thanks for the nice compliments. It is always a pleasure to share my house with appreciative guests.
Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing, age 55+, girls getaway.
Great house, great location
Guest: Peter
(Utrecht, Netherlands)
Date of Stay: 07/23/11
Review Submitted: 08/16/11
Stayed here for two glorious weeks. House exceeded our expectations. We loved the Potrero location: the climate (yes - we had sunny weather, even when the rest of the city was covered in clouds), the shops and restaurants on 18th and Conn, the easy going small town atmosphere with easy parking with the rest of the city within easy reach. We loved the house itself: the garden-like shower, the views from the bedroom, the space provided, even though the house has a very personal and "close" feel to it. And we loved Bill's meticulous attention to detail, from the smoothly provided services (cleaning, garbage, watering the plants) to the X-page "user manual" we found on the living room table. We will definitely return here if we come again to SF -- recommended!
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, families with teenagers, sightseeing, age 55+.
A great place to stay in San Francisco
Guest: Mike
(Toronto)
Date of Stay: 01/03/11
Review Submitted: 05/08/11
My wife is a pianist and we needed a place with a grand piano so that she should get ready for her performances in the Bay Area. This house was perfect. The living room is atrium-like and rises for two stories, so that there was a great acoustic. Just as the owner said, the Steinway grand was in great condition. In fact, everything there was in great condition. When I saw the pictures on-line for this house, I thought it could not really be this good, but it was even better than the pictures. The house is filled with books, art, and artefacts from the owner's travels around the world. It was wonderful just to be there and soak in the atmosphere. The views of the city, the Bay Bridge, and the East Bay are another bonus, and once again, the pictures on-line do not do justice to just how great the views are. We rented a car for our stay, and the parking was absolutely no problem, unlike most everywhere else in SF. We had friends and family constantly over for dinner, so that we could show off this house. When we ate out, we had to walk no further than a couple of blocks to find a series of excellent restaurants. Our favorites were Pera, a Turkish-Greek restaurant, and Sunflower, a Vietnese restaurant, both on 18th St.
Recommended for:
lovely house
Guest: Karen
(Ann Arbor, MI, Usa)
Date of Stay: 03/23/11
Review Submitted: 05/07/11
Staying at the Potrero Hill house was perfect for us. It was a lovely place, fit all our needs, and we enjoyed the unusual space and decor. Having a grand piano was a plus. It was good to be able to easily park and have a car in the city and the neighborhood has many good restaurants and cafes. The house was perfect for my sister and myself and our husbands. Having between us, three adult children that live in San Francisco, we had lots of fun dinners together at the house and everyone was comfortable. Recommendations: We loved the restaurants, many of which we walked to. Sally's for breakfast, Goat Hill Pizza, Piccino Cafe, Serpentine. We walked all over the Mission, explored the Russian River, Sonoma, and Napa. etc etc. And the Farmers Market on Saturday morning. The list is endless.
Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing, age 55+, girls getaway.
Perfect house!
Guest: kss
(Dallas,Tx)
Date of Stay: 12/12/09
Review Submitted: 01/05/11
The house was the highlight of our trip. We were able to relax in such a great place to spend our time, when we were not exploring the city. Traffic and parking were a pain in the city -- but not at the house! We especially liked the decorating, artwork, and your other special things that made our stay at the house very enjoyable. I can't think of anything we didn't like about the house. Your very detailed instructions were great. We loved Muir Woods and the Steinhart Aquarium. Scoma's was a great place to eat. Goat Hill Pizza was wonderful and fun. Thank you for sharing your home with us.
Recommended for:Romantic getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing, age 55+, girls getaway.
Potrero Perfection in San Fran
Guest: Hey Cisco - Let's Went
(Orlando, FL)
Date of Stay: 10/07/10
Review Submitted: 10/18/10
I highly recommend this home to SF visitors. It is beautifully decorated and very comfortable. The view of the SF skyline, especially from the master bedroom, is wonderful. Others may tell you that it is "too far away" from the main tourist sites. Not so. Easy walk to public transportation, which is part of the charm of the city. Plus, being where it is, It was private and quiet, very much appreciated after being in the bustling city. Our experience in SF was better than expected and the weather was perfect the whole time (Oct 2010). Great home in a great city!
Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, adventure seekers, sightseeing, age 55+.
Brief stay in Potrero Hill, SF
Guest: Aussie visitors
(Melbourne, Australia)
Date of Stay: 09/26/10
Review Submitted: 10/05/10
The house is quirky and interesting, with plenty of space for the 2 of us. The property matched the advertised description. The kitchen is fully equipped and we used it to good effect. The master bedroom bed was comfortable but the pillows were thin and flat, which is not suitable for us. The sheets and pillow cases were clean but not crisp. Needs a woman's touch! Otherwise the house was clean and well maintained. We had a car and also used public transport to travel to the city. Drivng and public transport are relatively easy and bus stops are close to the house. Would happily recommend this property to friends.
Owner response:I am pleased that you enjoyed your stay. I have anti-allergen pillows, which are typically thin, and orthopedists agree that thin pillows are healthier to sleep on. However, I do provide four pillows for those who want to stack up. I am not sure what makes sheets "crisp" but I prefer -- and I think most guests prefer -- "soft" sheets which is why I ask my housekeeper not to use starch on the sheets.
Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing, age 55+.
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #4975
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