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fter debuting on the market last month for the first time in over six decades, a Presidio Heights residence—lacking parking and a primary suite—closed at $4.4 million, roughly 50 % above its $3 million asking price. The four‑bedroom, 2.5‑bath home at 116 Cherry St. attracted 100 showings, 16 written offers, and two bidding rounds before selling, according to co‑listings Alexander Lurie and David Cohen of City Real Estate. “It was the talk of the town,” Lurie remarked, noting the rarity of a property under $5 million in that area.
The turn‑of‑the‑century house, once owned by the sellers’ grandparents, underwent a $100,000 renovation just before listing. The overhaul—spanning kitchen countertops, new flooring, refinishing, painting, landscaping, and staging—required roughly 200 hours of work and added an estimated $1 million in value. Lurie said the home might have sold for only $3 million if left untouched, as many buyers are deterred by the prospect of future renovations.
During the pre‑listing update, the kitchen received new countertops and flooring. Specialists evaluated the feasibility of adding parking; the front door sits about 10 feet above street level. A two‑car garage without interior access would cost around $400,000, while a full lower‑level expansion with a four‑car garage would be about $650,000.
Some prospective buyers considered converting a small office on the bedroom level into a bathroom and walk‑in closet to create a primary suite, but the winning bidders plan to move in as is. Monica Pauli of Compass highlighted the sale as evidence of Presidio Heights’ high demand and low inventory, especially for homes priced below $4.5 million.
Designed by Willis J. Polk—known for Filoli, the Flood Mansion, and the Beach Chalet—the house boasts classic features such as four fireplaces and a library with a wood‑beam ceiling. Despite initial skepticism that a property without parking could not exceed $4 million, the final sale surpassed that threshold, underscoring the enduring appeal of a modernized yet character‑rich San Francisco home.
