As a former resident of SF, I can say with experience that Shan's place is very convenient (SFO: 1 BART train, 1 MUNI bus, very short walk: 30-40 minutes)(Downtown: very short walk, 1 MUNI train: 30 minutes to Powell Station). It's also clean, comfortable, and quiet, the perfect place to stay for those doing business, or like me, in SF for interviews. I stayed at Shan's twice, happily.
Keep in mind this is on the Pacific side of town; it's not Venice Beach so dress warmly, and enjoy the peace that comes with the fog. Stonestown Galería Mall is across the street (Recommended: authentic Japanese fast-food udon restaurant Marugame)