By Punctuate
These days, paying $3,000 for a one-bedroom apartment anywhere in San Francisco is increasingly hard to rationalize. Yes, living in the city absolutely has its perks, but between the large rents, small living spaces, and the amount of congestion, it’s no wonder that Oakland has become the go-to destination for San Francisco residents who want more bang for their buck.
Though the process of moving is among the most anxiety-producing experiences ever, you’ll never have to do it again after purchasing your own home. Plus, you can go furniture shopping and finally work on all those DIY crafts that have been on your list. There are a handful of reasons why you should start packing a box right now and get your arse over to Oakland.
While we’re always complaining about the price of housing in the city, it really is terrible and gets no better, especially if you’re thinking about buying a home here. The average price of owning a home in the city hovers past a million dollars, while in the East Bay it’s around $565,000. Though that price is rising, the housing market in the East Bay has gone up by only 13.2%, while it rose 18.8% in San Francisco and 38.2% in the South Bay. Are you listing your apartment on Craigslist as we speak? I thought so.
Besides, if you move you’ll get to live in a more open environment, something everyone in the city craves, which explains why we flock to Dolores Park in hordes every weekend. But in Oakland, you can find your way to Lake Temescal or Lake Merritt — no big deal, it’s just two parks by a lake (!). You may not have the Truffle Guy in your life anymore, but I’m sure you’ll live.
And it’s not like it’s the boonies out in the East Bay. There are just as many coffee shops and restaurants to explore, and even better — shorter lines. While everything is a little spread out, it’s about time you gave into your new year’s resolution and started walking around more. Plus, if you buy a home in Adams Point, Rockridge, Uptown or Downtown Oakland, you still get to complain about BART every day, just like a seasoned commuter. After all, it’s what we do best.
You can have your pick of the crop of great places to own in Oakland. Give up your San Francisco life and head over across the Bay where you’ll be reminded of what open space feels like. Be the trendsetter in your group and watch the rest follow like a flock of birds.
Need help finding your new place? Red Oak Realty provided the numbers in this post so you know they know their stuff. Let their team help you find the home of your dreams, or heck, maybe even better!
Photos courtesy of Red Oak Realty
