Can Historic Buildings Save San Francisco's Rental Market?

In the 19th and 20th centuries, original buildings in American cities were staples in communities. In modern times, it is an unfortunate reality that historic buildings are often left uninhabited, unsafe, and unusable. When left in this condition, surrounding neighborhoods suffer the consequences. The results are increases in crime, deterring of urban development, and the slowing of economic growth. Mosser Companies has set out to improve this common problem in California’s major metropolitan areas of Los Angeles, Oakland, and San Francisco.

Mosser Companies restores older buildings using several tactics. Mosser’s preservation of buildings’ stunning original touches come with state-of-the-art technological features like keyless entry systems, high-speed Wi-Fi, and video security. Environmentally sustainable additions save money and add years of life onto the building. The new environmental advantages of 1751 Market Street include energy efficient appliances and lighting, bike storage, and sustainable waste disposal. While implementing these additions into their properties, Mosser partners with local organizations to improve the social quality of the neighborhoods, from donating to important issues to allowing employees paid time off to volunteer.

Mosser’s work has improved neighborhoods and quality of life in struggling urban environments. A prime example of Mosser’s recent work is the building at 1751 Market Street in San Francisco. Built in 1909, three years after the deadly earthquake and subsequent fire that destroyed much of the city, this building has withstood the many economic ups and downs of the 20th century. Today, 1751 Market Street is a beautifully renovated, affordable apartment building in a prime location. Its original architectural features include large bay windows and high ceilings alongside the most up-to-date modern amenities.

1751 Market Street is at the meeting point of two up and coming San Francisco neighborhoods: Mid-Market and Hayes Valley. For more than a century, these two neighborhoods have experienced ups and downs of their times, dealing with crime, homelessness, and economic slumps. Thanks to efforts like Mosser Companies to restore and repurpose unused historic properties, the two neighborhoods have grown into staples of San Francisco culture, art, shopping, and dining. They are each within walking distance of 1751 Market Street, as are several public transit options.

The Mid-Market and Hayes Valley neighborhoods are now among the most in-demand locations for startups to plant their roots. Twitter is a prime example of a company who opened their headquarters in the heart of Mid-Market, helping take the neighborhood from isolated and struggling to a shining staple of the innovation of Silicon Valley. As this increased the need for affordable living options nearby, Mosser’s renovation of 1751 Market Street is a welcome addition for young professionals.

When development companies and businesses work together, the possibilities are seemingly endless. Mosser’s work on 1751 Market Street has decreased crime and homelessness, provided more economic opportunities, and overall increased quality of life in this urban environment and its surrounding areas. Improvements like these inspire a city’s residents to create new memories in historic spaces and invest in the future of the place they call home.