Several approaches work in San Francisco. Bridge financing lets you access equity from your current home before it sells. Some lenders offer buy-before-sell programs that account for your equity upfront. Others write non-contingent offers and plan to sell after closing, which works when the carrying costs are manageable and the numbers are solid.
The right approach depends on your equity position, risk tolerance, and the type of property you own. I help clients compare options so they move into their next home without feeling rushed on the sale of the old one.