I hate to say it, but I’ve been glued to the tv watching stories about survivors of Katrina. This is going to be a long haul, but they need our help starting now. My company will match 50% of the funds that I raise. If you’d like to donate, please contact me. Starting now, I’m offering to match up to $500 of donations I receive.

Or go directly to:
www.redcross.org at 800.435.7669
www.secondharvest.org at 800.344.8070

As your area nine specialist, I can tell you there’s quite a bit to choose from tomorrow. There’s a nice condo available in one of my favorite locations at 199 Tiffany Ave. #301, open 2-4p. I’m a sucker for lofts and another one in the Mission that caught my eye is 2501 Harrison #9; it has a nice, and unusual, layout!

In keeping with my loft fetish, I’d check out 701 Pennsylvania #101 on Potrero. Again, another nicely designed loft. Of course, I then have to mention a possible “good deal” opportunity at 1643 18th St. Nice building, nice loft and it’s been available too long for the sellers not to be a little negotiable.

Bernal has a number of homes to choose from, and one or two nice TICs. I really liked the building at 306+ Montcalm, but there’s only one unit left.

Now, in Soma and South Beach, there’s always a number of properties to choose from, each a little different from the other. I’m a fan of the new luxury developments. That’s awful, huh?! Why? Ease of living. Sad it doesn’t fit with my values. (or pocket book. Yikes!)

It’s reported that rates are down again. Good news? Bad news? It’s bittersweet. These low rates keep the housing market HOT! More competition, but better loan rates.

Finally, more in line with my values, the Chronicle reported on the value of shopping salvage. There are a number of local salvage sites. Check out www.socketsite.com for a more detailed summary of this earth-friendly way to be patriotic and consume!

Pardon me, but I’m tech challenged. I have the Sunday Open House section in pdf, but don’t know how to load it here. So, I’ll email it to you if you send me a comment.