Archive for the ‘Condos’ Category

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Downtown Dallas Condos: What

Friday, January 15th, 2010

If you want a sure bet, head to downtown Dallas and check out the exceptional real estate found there. The downtown Dallas condo market has certainly seen better days (and let’s face, who hasn’t?), but it is still one of the most sought-after areas for exceptional condominium residences in Dallas.

Downtown Dallas condos have it all, from location and sights to business opportunities and plenty of entertainment; so it’s no wonder that some of the hottest condos in Dallas can be found in the downtown area:

  • Bryan Street Station – As one of the newest developments to grace the downtown Dallas condo market, Bryan Street Station is an affordable community with fabulous views of the downtown Dallas skyline. These one and two-bedroom condominium homes, which are reasonably priced from the mid $120,000s, enjoy plenty of amenities and features, including: a gated parking garage; 10-foot ceilings and large, open floor plans; home security systems; natural hardwood floors; spacious, walk-in closets; and GE appliances. Twenty-nine luxury lofts are found at Bryan Street Station, each one with a gourmet kitchen, soaring, oak ceilings and antique brick walls.
  • Buzz Lofts – The Buzz Lofts are the epitome of all that is hip and cool about downtown Dallas condos. These 48 residences features beautiful loft designs, dynamic architectural qualities and modern conveniences, as well as exceptional downtown Dallas skyline views. Some of the features found throughout the Buzz Lofts include: sleek interiors; IKEA fixtures; bamboo floors; and a water reclamation system for irrigation.
  • SoCo Lofts – Urban contemporary design is alive and well at SoCo Lofts. The beautiful design, cutting-edge architecture and unmatched Dallas views can be found at SoCo Lofts, along with great amenities, such as a parking garage, a rooftop swimming pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center. SoCo Lofts feature affordably priced homes with one, two, three or four bedrooms, all of which enjoy a superb location in the heart of downtown Dallas.
  • South Ervay Lofts – The one and two-bedroom lofts of South Ervay Lofts are beautifully renovated with only the most luxurious amenities and interiors. From the concrete countertops and gourmet kitchens to the open floor plans and the stainless steel appliances, no detail has been left unattended at South Ervay Lofts. Some of the features of the condo residences of South Ervay Lofts include: birch cabinetry, master bedroom retreats, oversized slate showers and hardwood floors.

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The Tower Residences at the Ritz-Carlton Unveil Designer Showcase Home

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009

To get a really good idea of the opulence that awaits you at the Tower Residences of the Ritz-Carlton you must be able to envision what a home may look like if it were furnished.

Problem solved.

The first designer-furnished showcase home has been recently unveiled at the Tower Residences at the Ritz-Carlton, thereby providing brokers, real estate professionals and potential homeowners with the opportunity to view the luxury of this magnificent condominium building and its equally impressive residences.

The showcase home of the Tower Residences features interior design and furnishings by Robb & Stucky Interiors of Dallas and Plano. The interior of the showcase home includes two bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen and a study. The home is equipped with a terrace, high-end appliances and premium finishes.

About the Tower Residences

The Tower Residences which, along with the hotel, have become Uptown Dallas’ pride and joy, have recently been completed. Located along Pearl Street, these condominium residences are a testament to the upscale living found in Uptown Dallas condos.

The Tower Residences boast 95 condominium homes, all of which feature sweeping views, upscale amenities and superb services, consist of one, two and three-bedroom homes.

There are currently just 30 condominium homes remaining at the Tower Residences, thereby adding to the overall success of this condominium building. The first phase of the project, which was completed in 2007, sold out quickly, as well.

Building and Resident Amenities Abound

Just some of the amenities afforded to the residents of the Tower Residences include private grounds, private gardens, a swimming pool, a whirlpool and an outdoor fireplace. A private wine tasting room, a wine cellar, a private dining room with a fully equipped catering kitchen, and underground parking are also granted to the residents of this prestigious address.

Residents also have full access to the fabulous amenities and services of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, via an exclusive, pedestrian skyway.

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Downtown Dallas Condo HOA Fees: What you Need to Know

Wednesday, December 2nd, 2009

If you are considering a move into one of the fabulous Downtown Dallas condos, you will likely encounter HOA fees. Your HOA fees are perhaps just as important as the sales price of your condo, so it is imperative to have a full understanding of what they are and what they entail.

What are HOA fees?

Homeowners Association fees, better known as HOA fees, are fees that are collected from homeowners of a condominium complex. These fees may be collected on a monthly, weekly or annual basis, depending on the downtown Dallas condo in which you reside.

What do HOA fees cover?

One of the reasons why it is so important to do your homework regarding the HOA fees for the condominium building in which you want to reside is because they can cover a wide variety of expenses. Typically, however, HOA fees cover the master insurance, the exterior and interior maintenance, landscaping, water, sewage, and refuse costs.

They may also pay for amenities and services of the downtown Dallas condo building in which you live, including a swimming pool, a party room, valet service, concierge service, and a fitness center, just to name a few.

How are HOA fees determined?

HOA fees are generally determined by the building’s board or directors and often re-evaluated on a yearly basis.

How are HOA fees paid?

HOA fees are generally paid through your mortgage payments, thereby making the process of tending to these payments hassle-free.

Do HOA fees cover large repairs on the building?

Generally not. You may also be expected to pay for “special assessments” when unexpected communal expenses arise. This may include replacing the roof, for example.

Paying for HOA fees may have a large impact on your overall housing budget, so it is important to understand what you will be paying in HOA fees every month, and to also be aware that these fees can increase – often significantly – during the time you are residing in the home.

HOA fees can range anywhere from a couple hundred dollars to more than $500 per month, depending on the downtown Dallas condo building, so keep these fees in mind when you are shopping for your next condominium home.

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Professional Living at its Finest in Oak Lawn

Wednesday, November 4th, 2009

Oak Lawn is a popular destination for many Dallas professionals that desire convenient, maintenance-free living. It is because of this that many condos, apartments, townhomes and duplexes can be found throughout Oak Lawn.

There are plenty of newer, high-rise condos available in Oak Lawn, particularly along the Uptown section, near McKinney Avenue and Turtle Creek Boulevard. In addition, there is a nice variety of older, single-family homes in Oak Lawn.

Oak Lawn, in addition to being highly desired among Dallas professionals, is also known for its eclectic entertainment scene, with many bars and nightclubs attracting visitors to this hip and trendy area of Dallas. In addition, Oak Lawn also features Love Field, which has been the epicenter of the gay community in Dallas for well over 35 years.

The commute in and out of Oak Lawn to the city is quite effortless, enabling residents to get into town in just a few minutes. A convenient location to the Dallas North Tollway also makes it a breeze to get to points further north.

A High Quality of Life is Offered Here

In a recent survey of the most walkable neighborhoods in Dallas, Oak Lawn came in at an impressive second place. In addition, the cost of living in Oak Lawn is considerably less than other areas of the city, yet it is located closer to downtown Dallas than many of the other, pricier neighborhoods.

Oak Lawn is also overseen by the Oak Lawn Committee, the area’s neighborhood association. Members of this organization all have a common goal of advancing the Oak Lawn community and addressing neighborhood issues.

Oak Lawn also boasts its share of beautiful, historic buildings, including the famous Warwick Melrose Hotel, which was built in 1924 and now serves as a four-start, historic hotel.

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Construction Finally Comes to an End at the Ritz-Carlton Residences

Friday, October 16th, 2009

The two-year Uptown project of the Tower Residences at the Ritz-Carlton has finally come to an end.

This project, which marks one of the last, major condominium projects taking place in the Uptown District of Dallas, features a 23-story tower, which is located adjacent to the luxurious Ritz-Carlton Hotel.

The only other condo tower yet to be finished in Dallas’ Uptown district is the Stoneleigh Hotel residential tower, which was put on hold in 2008 and has since gone into bankruptcy.

The project, which was overseen by the design firm of A.M. Stern Architects LLP, was also the mastermind of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel design. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel opened up in 2007. The developer of the project is Crescent Real Estate Equities Limited Partnership.

This luxury high-rise building features 95 residences, two-thirds of which have already been reserved by anxious buyers looking to get in on the luxury that is the Ritz-Carlton.

Luxury Meets Urban Sophistication

The Residences of the Ritz-Carlton certainly have a lot to live up to, considering the sheer opulence of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, but the developers, along with many residents, certainly aren’t too concerned.

Located in the heart of Uptown Dallas, the residents of this extraordinary address will enjoy incredible comfort, convenience and only the finest of services. From its beautifully appointed interiors to its unsurpassed amenities and services, the Residences at the Ritz-Carlton live up the reputation of the Ritz-Carlton Hotel – and then some.

Just some of the amenities afforded to the residents of the Residences at the Ritz-Carlton include:

  • 12,000-square-foot signature spa
  • Resort-style, outdoor swimming pool
  • State-of-the-art fitness center
  • Daily housekeeping, laundry, dry cleaning and room service
  • Full-service concierge team
  • Private entrances, elevators and parking
  • Prime location near some of the finest restaurants and shops of the Uptown district

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Hip, Loft Living at the Canton Street Lofts

Friday, October 9th, 2009

The location doesn’t get any better than this.

Comfortably situated in the downtown business district, near the Dallas Farmer’s Market, the Canton Street Lofts affords its residents the opportunity to park the car and walk nearly anywhere. In other words, downtown Dallas is at your disposal.

Formerly the Olive & Meyers Building, the Canton Streets Lofts once served as a manufacturing plant. However, it was transformed into the hip Canton Street Lofts, where the surroundings are so cool that it has been used to shoot several movies, commercials and documentaries. It holds the distinction of being a Dallas historic landmark.

Canton Street Lofts Amenities

The Canton Street Lofts, in addition to offering super-chic surroundings, is also well known for its four-star amenities, including a front-desk concierge, underground parking, secure building access, a state-of-the-art fitness center and a rooftop swimming pool and Jacuzzi. In addition, a jogging trail loops around the rooftop to provide residents with the coolest morning workout around.

Outstanding Residence Amenities

The spacious, open floor plans of the Canton Street Lofts provide easy living options, while the expansive windows throughout the main living areas flood the homes with plenty of natural light. Each loft residence can be configured to suit the owner’s needs, thereby allowing for the ultimate in design freedom and flexibility.

Homes in the Canton Street Lofts include one-bedroom, one-bathroom homes, and two-bedroom, two-bathroom homes, all of which range from 1,446 to 2,552 square feet and cost between $149,000 and $422,900.

The luxury, the prime location and the superb amenities all make the Canton Street Lofts a popular choice for residents of downtown Dallas. This downtown Dallas condo building easily reflects the upscale living often found throughout many of the condominium residences of downtown Dallas.

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The Luxurious Lifestyle of Victory Park

Monday, September 14th, 2009

As far as master-planned communities go, Victory Park sets the bar dramatically high.

Located in the heart of Dallas, and strategically located near Uptown, Downtown, Turtle Creek and the Arts District, Victory Park has been ingeniously designed for maximum exposure to all key districts of Dallas. It also enjoys a close proximity to the American Airlines Center, the Dallas Convention Center, the Dallas Market Center and the picturesque Katy Trail.

There are loads of reasons to fall in love with Victory Park, including its decadent variety of high-end restaurants and shops, but perhaps the biggest reason for the success of Victory Park lies with its outstanding residences:

  • The W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences – Originally completed in 2006, the W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences was the first of its kind in Dallas. In addition to being one of Dallas’ premier landmarks, the 33-story W Dallas Victory Hotel and Residences boasts superb hotel accommodations and equally superb condominium residences. Just some of the outstanding services and amenities afforded to the residents of the W include a state-of-the-art fitness center, a zero-edge infinity pool and unbelievable views of the Dallas skyline.
  • The House – The House is a 28-story high-rise that exemplifies the high-end living found in Victory Park. A collaborative effort between world-renowned architects and designers, the House boasts such fine amenities as soaring ceilings, expansive terraces, gourmet kitchens and intelligently designed interiors.
  • The Terrace -This seven-story mid-rise features beautifully equipped and designed condominium residences, as well as impressive green spaces, rooftop decks and expansive verandas.
  • Vista Apartments -Ultra-modern styling and design are featured in the seven-story Vista Apartments, which feature leased apartments with an upscale, condominium feel.
  • Cirque – High-end rental apartments are found at Cirque, a 28-story high-rise which boasts outstanding aesthetics and richly appointed amenities.

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Where is the Downtown Condo High-Rise Market Heading?

Tuesday, September 8th, 2009

Here is the problem: condominium sales in Dallas are down about 30 percent for 2009, while sales of single-family homes in Dallas are down about 20 percent.

Why the difference? Well, it lies within the fact that most downtown condos tend to be pricey -very pricey.

Tougher Financial Standards Spell Trouble

For example, the majority of downtown Dallas condos (at least 85 percent) are well above $417,000, which makes them fall into the “jumbo loan” category. And, as many of us know, jumbo loans can’t be financed through government-sponsored mortgage programs.

Tougher financial standards mean that many buyers are turning to detached homes over condominium homes. So instead of the larger down payments and higher credit scores needed to purchase a pricey downtown condo, buyers are considering other options.

A Bright Spot Lies Ahead

Here’s the bright side: now is a fantastic time to purchase a downtown Dallas high-rise!

In fact, the surplus of downtown Dallas condos means that builders and sellers are offering loads of fantastic incentives for buyers. In fact, the state of the real estate market means that now is the time to consider purchasing a high-rise condominium property in Deep Ellum, Turtle Creek, Uptown and Downtown.

Let’s face it: downtown living is unsurpassed, as it affords residents the ability to work and play in one place. Downtown Dallas is still a popular choice among young, Dallas professionals; however, many other types of buyers, including families and empty nesters, are discovering that there are great deals to be had and even greater amenities and features to be had, in one of Dallas’ outstanding high-rises.

Although the condominium high-rises in Dallas, like the Metropolitan, the Museum Tower, and One Arts Plaza, are the cr

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The House: Why These Luxury Residences aren

Friday, August 28th, 2009

A lousy economy, a tough housing market, and the Victory Park problems are all wreaking havoc on the luxury condominium residences of the House.

Let’s start off by saying that the House is simply outstanding. In terms of luxury surroundings and upscale services and amenities, it is unsurpassed.

The Magnificence of the House

Rising 28 stories into the Dallas skyline, The House features one, two and three-bedroom condominium residences priced from $399,900.

The architecture and exterior designs, which were designed Elkus Manfredi, are a lesson in perfection, while the stunning interiors, designed by Philippe Starck and Yoo, speak of exquisite taste and design sense.

Just some of the residence finishes found throughout the House include limestone bathrooms, gleaming, hardwood floors, high-end appliance packages, soaring ceilings and breathtaking views of the Dallas skyline.

Perhaps the only thing that surpasses the outstanding residences of the House are the outstanding services and amenities.

Just some of the services and amenities afforded to the residents of the House include: a 130-foot lap pool; a dog park; a fitness center, complete with Italian-designed fitness equipment; a conference room; and a guest suite.

The location of the House seems to be nearly perfect, as well, as it is comfortably situated smack dab in the middle of Victory Park, near the American Airlines Center, the W Hotel and Condominiums and the House of Blues.

Victory Park and its Flaws

But perhaps it is the Victory Park location that has hurt the sale of the House.

Victory Park, hailed by some as Dallas’ best achievement, is a sprawling, 75-acre community that was originally the brainchild of Ross Perot. He envisioned upscale dining and shopping, and equally upscale residences.

Victory Park’s location was also masterfully designed, as it is ideally located near all, major areas of Dallas, including the Arts District, Turtle Creek, Uptown and, of course, downtown Dallas.

However, it seems that Victory Park in all its splendor has turned many potential residents and visitors away with its almost too high-end offerings.

The result is that many of the marvelous residences of Victory Park, including the House, are not filling up quite as quickly as expected.

The developers of Victory Park seem to have taken note of this flaw in its design, and have subsequently begun bringing more economical venues here.

As the developers begin to realize the importance of more popular retailers and restaurants, Victory Park will soon become the premier destination for Dallas residents, thereby helping the overall success of the House.

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The View from Above: High-Rise Condo Developers set Their Sights on the Luxury Purchaser

Tuesday, June 16th, 2009

Although industry analysts predicted a year of slow growth for residential construction, there are still quite a few developers providing luxury residences to high-end buyers in Fort Worth.

Fort Worth skyline by austrini.
photo by austrini

Two of these developments are the Villa de Leon condos in Trinity Bluff and the 31 Throckmorton condo residences in Sundance Square. Both of these high-rise condo developments further solidify the position of the luxury purchaser in Fort Worth.

Villa de Leon

The Villa de Leon luxury condominium residences are a fine example of luxury living in Fort Worth. Priced from $786,000, these 23 private residences evoke a sense of seclusion and privacy in a dynamic, urban setting.

Boasting a stunning, old-world architecture, reminiscent of the first settlement along the Trinity, Villa de Leon boasts a fantastic location near Forth Worth’s beautiful city parks, downtown Fort Worth, Sundance Square and Forth Worth’s art district. In addition, the DFW airport is located close by, making these residences ideal for busy Fort Worth professionals.

Just some of the features of Villa de Leon include: open, expansive entertaining spaces; gourmet kitchens with Viking appliances; spa bathrooms; and private terraces with sweeping views of the Trinity River and downtown Fort Worth.

The amenities of Villa de Leon are particularly exclusive, as they cater specifically to their high-end residents. Amenities include: a resort-style swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center; underground, access-controlled parking; and high-speed elevators.

1301 Throckmorton

Set to open this summer, the residences of the Omni Fort Worth Hotel, known as 1301 Throckmorton, will boast an impossibly high standard for the most demanding of buyers.

These luxury condos will boast three design finish packages, high-end appliances, expansive, interior spaces and beautiful, sweeping views of downtown Forth Worth.

Best of all, residents of 1301 Throckmorton will enjoy all of the superb amenities that the hotel guests of the Omni have come to appreciate, including a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service spa and a fully equipped business center.

Private resident amenities will include: a private swimming pool; a private garden terrace; a fitness center; in-room dining; housekeeping; 24-hour concierge service and valet parking.

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