SF rental crisis

San Francisco has the highest annual rent increase in the country, up nearly 26% from last September.

Median rent prices

The median rent for a one-bedroom is $3,915 and a two-bedroom clocks in at $4,640.

Vacancy rate

Just 2.6% of San Francisco apartments are vacant.

Shalini Sadda's tip

Flexibility on move-in dates can outweigh a stronger offer elsewhere.

“A move-in date or term length that fits the owner’s plans can outweigh a stronger offer elsewhere”

Brit Bertino's tip

Call property managers directly to prequalify for listings.

“Call the property management companies directly and let them prequalify you”

James Waver's tip

Know what you want and say why it’s the perfect fit.

“This is exactly what we’ve been looking for and this is why i would really appreciate it if i could get in to see the place at the first opportunity”

David Chesnosky's tip

Wait for older listings that may have more flexibility.

“Renters tend to jump on the newest listing but an older one could be a great apartment and the owner may have more flexibility on the move-in date or terms”

Rob Warnock's tip

Rent increases may slow but seasonal peaks could cause more hikes.

“November is typically the slowest month for rentals with december a close second”

What happens next

Renters should act fast to secure leases before January's market revs up.

“By january the market is usually revving up again and every month that comes after is likely to see increases until the fall”