I’m wondering if people are offering over asking for rentals…
I offered extra on a place in South Bay and still didn't get it (this was years ago). I assume someone else outbid me.
I'm currently in Oakland where some new buildings went up downtown. The first one I viewed was terrible. There were no windows to outside (a tiny one was viewing a stairwell). I got lucky on the next one. It was just over a year old and someone had just moved out of one of the best spots. I snatched it quickly. Good luck! I'm sure SF is a greater challenge.