Finding a New Home

In the summer of 1994, Valerie Sobel-Twain found herself back in the Bay Area after completing her college education. The city she returned to was both familiar and transformed, marked significantly by the recent passing of her father. As she temporarily resided with her mother, Valerie recognized a pressing need for her independence.

The Search for Housing

During a time before the massive influence of the internet on housing searches, Valerie turned to traditional methods: exploring bulletin boards and visiting rental agencies. After a dedicated search, she discovered a promising listing: a rent-controlled three-bedroom apartment in the Noe Valley neighborhood, available for $1,250 monthly—with annual rent increases limited to just 1 percent, adjusted for the cost of living. This decision allowed her to share the space for a modest $375 per month.

“It seemed reasonable, so I reached out,” she said, later realizing that her potential roommates were connections from her time at Vassar.

A Community Emerges

This shared history among the roommates played a pivotal role in securing the housing arrangement. Once settled in, Valerie could not have imagined the profound impact the apartment would have on her life. As time passed, her original housemates transitioned to different life paths, yet Valerie remained. Following their departures, she was surprised to discover that her landlord added her name to the lease.

“I got locked in — forever,” she said with a laugh, reflecting on the unexpected permanence of her situation.

A Life Well-Lived

Fast forward to the present day, Valerie’s life in this Noe Valley apartment is marked by significant milestones—30 years of memories, 13 different roommates, two marriages (one of which included the loss of her husband at home), and raising a child. Through all these changes, the apartment has remained a constant in her life.