A nice hotel, yet a bit overpriced
Looking for a nice hotel for a quick stay in San Fran, we chose the Whitcomb, based on the look, location and semi-decent price. There is nothing wrong with the hotel itself. People writing negative reviews must expect a 100 year old building to still look brand new, but it doesn't. The rooms are small, but nice and clean, and the halls and rooms are quiet. The hotel is in a less than desirable neighborhood, but by no means in the ghetto or in a really scummy part of town. It is right near BART/Muni for quick transportation to downtown, and back to the airport. There is also a wonderful restaurant across the street called Sam's that serves arguably the best breakfast in the Bay Area. 
The staff at the front desk were mostly rude and didn't seem to want to lift a finger to help at all. The rest of the staff, however, is much nicer, and eager to help. There are few amenities, but that is to be expected from a hotel like this. Everything worked just fine in the room, but I felt the price was pretty steep for such little to offer. 
Overall, I would recommend this hotel for someone making a quick trip to SF, not a week-long venture.