michael ackerman

A resident of San Francisco and longtime homeowner/investor, Michael grew up in the Bay Area with the belief that there is no better investment than the roof over your head.

As a successful businessman who started his career in downtown San Francisco in the late 1970’s, he created a niche for himself through his passion of managing projects, business systems, and events at the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. After 15 years, Michael retreated to his ranch in Sonoma County to care for his terminally ill life partner. This catalytic change from city to country—from office career to full-time caregiver—exemplifies his skills in adaptation: making the best of life’s toughest challenges.

Volunteerism is an important part of Michael’s life. It drove him to redouble his efforts to support the organizations that aided him during his time as caregiver. As treasurer for the HIV Complementary Therapy Center, he gained recognition and acceptance within the Sonoma County AIDS network. During his tenure, he succeeded in opening a satellite support center in Monte Rio, creating a reserve operating fund, and writing grants to support the organization’s efforts.

Realizing that change has its constants, Michael took his life-long passion for real estate and turned it into a career in San Francisco. His familiarity with the City and Bay Area, his own investments and personal contacts, coupled with his organizational and caregiving skills, melded together to provide exceptionally diligent service for his clients.

In the 1990’s Michael met Josh Bottfeld through a mutual interest in real estate. Their strengths and weaknesses complemented each other, and they created a partnership through which their clients benefited from the best of their strengths and had the support of a team approach to real estate. Josh eventually left to manage three real estate offices in San Diego, and Oliver Burgelman was promoted to partner.