Posts Tagged ‘Condos’

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High Rise Condos in Houston, Texas

Wednesday, March 23rd, 2011

Houston high rise condos appeal to a wide range of buyers and renters alike; people who prefer an urban lifestyle and the proximity to work and play, retirees, young professionals, those who have tired of the constant chores and upkeep of a single-family home, etc.

Additionally, condo amenities offer considerable appeal; secured parking, security systems, swimming pools and workout rooms, card rooms and libraries, entertainment facilities and meeting rooms, luxurious grounds and impressive lobbies in many cases.

Large balconies, panoramic views, state-of-the art appliances, marble and granite countertops, well-designed floor plans and much more are to be found in many upscale condo developments as well.

Houston boasts many outstanding examples of luxury high rise condos, although, for the more budget restricted, older, lower-priced condos can be found as well.

Houston High Rise Condo Choices

The newest and first high rise condo scheduled for an opening in Houston in 2010 is the nearly completed Highland Tower, a luxury high rise located on Bancroft Lane between San Felipe and Westheimer, nearby to the Highland Village Shopping Center. The target date for the first move-in is April.

The Cosmopolitan Condos have the added attraction of proximity to the popular Galleria Mall, a prestigious uptown location, and access to the city’s high fashion district.

The Bristol, another Galleria District luxury high rise in a highly desirable neighborhood, offers a wide choice of condominium homes ranging in price from $300,000 to $500,000, and two level penthouses costing from $800,000 to a million-and-a-half.

Commerce Towers located at 914 Main, is a luxury hi-rise with an ideal location, right on Main Street Square and the downtown tunnel. Over 400 shops, entertainment, the theatre district, and the Metro Light Rail add all the amenities anyone could ask for, and you have the ultimate in a luxury high rise condo.

So, if urban living suits your lifestyle, a Houston high rise condo may be just what you’re looking for.

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Why it’s Good to be A Downtown Houston Condo Owner

Friday, March 4th, 2011

Downtown Houston is  a hot spot for fantastic condos, as many Houston residents are looking for the ultimate in superb, high-rise living and only the best in terms of location.

The downtown Houston condo market is made up of many types of condo living, including low-rise, high-rise and loft homes, and the prices are quite varied as to attract a variety of buyers. But what the downtown Houston condo market has in common is that all of the residences here enjoy a fantastic proximity to Houston’s thriving business sectors and international business.

Sure, life is good if you live and work in downtown Houston, but what about your time off work? Well, for downtown Houston residents, play time is loads of fun, too. If you are looking to purchasing in the downtown Houston condo market, you must check out the many sites and attractions here that draw millions of visitors every year!

  • Downtown Aquarium – Houston’s Downtown Aquarium is home to a myriad of amazing sea creatures. From the Sunken Temple exhibit, where you can view the ancient Mayan culture, to Shark Voyage, where you can get a glimpse of the ocean’s most fierce predators, this aquarium also features outdoor attractions, such as the 100-foot Diving Bell Ferris Wheel and the Dancing Fountains.
  • Houston Zoo – Of course, a day of leisure in Houston could not be complete without a trip to the Houston Zoo. Covering nearly 55 acres, the Houston Zoo is home to more than 500 species of animals. Some of the great sites to see while at the Houston Zoo include the Tropical Bird House, the Wildlife Carousel and a rate American Alligator names Blanco.
  • Market Square Historic District – Commonly thought of as by Houstonians as the heartbeat of downtown Houston, Market Square features 19th century architecture and a decidedly old-world style feeling. Take the time to visit the many quaint bistros and restaurants and head to Spy, the fantastic dance club popular among the young professionals. Don’t leave Market Square without a relaxing stroll in the park, either!
  • Museum of Fine Arts – If you’re looking for an afternoon of culture, then you must visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston. With more than 45,000 works of art over 300,000 square feet of space, the Museum of Fine Arts is the fifth largest museum in the country.

Remember: the Houston condo market is a great place to start your home search! What other place can provide you with business opportunities and loads of recreational activities?

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The Condos of Houston’s Galleria Area

Monday, January 31st, 2011

Houston’s Inner Loop is the place to be. Cosmopolitan, chic, trendy; the list goes on about life here. Uptown area condos are superb in terms of amenities, services and, of course, location. It is quite common to see young, urban professionals vying for Uptown area condos, but you may be surprised to learn that many other types of Houstonians have also abandoned suburban living for the excitement of the city. From empty nesters to small families, there is a wide variety of people that call Uptown area condos home.

One of the most highly sought-after areas in the Inner Loop is, without a doubt, the Galleria area. This is the place where towering buildings meet lovely surroundings and an ideal proximity to the city’s best opportunities and excitement. It is also where some of the best Uptown condos can be found. Here are our favorites:

  • The Cosmopolitan – The Cosmopolitan is where elegant architecture meets outstanding amenities and services. From the raised infinity swimming pool to the world-class spa, the resident amenities at the Cosmopolitan are nothing short of superb. Combine the amenities with spacious homes boasting sweeping views of Uptown Houston, and you have a truly spectacular place to call home in Houston’s Inner Loop.
  • 2400 McCue Condos – What’s not to love about 2400 McCue Condos? This fabulous condominium community is just steps from Memorial Park, thereby making this community feel more like a tucked-away suburban retreat than an urban condo. The lush, tropical feeling of these condos doesn’t end with the park, either, as there are palms, plants and relaxing fountains throughout, as well as plenty of amenities, including a resort-style swimming pool, tanning pools and sundecks, complete with grills, lounge chairs and wireless Internet access.
  • Alexan Lofts – The Alexan Lofts are a nice example of Uptown area condos, as they take the history of the historic building, including the architecture and build upon it, thereby offering residents a beautiful mix of old and new. Located along the picturesque banks of the Buffalo Bayou, the Alexan Lofts boast some of the finest interior features, including: 16-foot ceilings, original brick walks, original wood floors and amazing wood beams that were harvested from 100-year-old Heartwood Pines.

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Feeling at Home in Smaller Spaces

Friday, September 24th, 2010

Condos in the Inner Loop can be quite fabulous. From incredible views and location to superb amenities and features, the Houston Inner Loop has plenty to offer in terms of condos.

If you are one of the many Houstonians making the switch from a home to a Houston Inner Loop condo, you may be worried about making do in a smaller space. However, don’t let smaller spaces stress you out! There are many ways to make your Houston Inner Loop condo feel warm and welcoming in no time!

  1. A move to a Houston Inner Loop condo from a home may prove tricky, particularly if you have accumulated a lot of “stuff” over the years. So, the first thing you will need to do is conquer your clutter. Begin by going through your belonging well ahead of your move so that you can start throwing away or donating items that you no longer need or want. If you are an empty nester flying the coop, this may also be the time to pass down certain items to your children, as they will likely be starting their lives. This is also a great time to have a yard sale!
  2. Before moving, get measurements of the rooms of your new Houston Inner Loop condo so that you can be sure that your current furniture will fit into your new space. Think about the scale of the furniture you currently have, as well as the size of the space into which it will go; then you can decide whether to keep it or sell/donate it.
  3. Think about your new spaces, and plan accordingly. For example, is a dining room really necessary, or can you turn it into a home office. You may want to think outside the box when it comes to designing your new living space in your Houston Inner Loop condo, as the same rules may not apply to condo living.
  4. Keep what you love and get rid of the rest. Think of your move to your fabulous Inner Loop condo as a rebirth, of sorts, and keep only those items that you really love. Everything else can be sold, discarded or donated. Make your Houston Inner Loop condo all about the things you love and the things that make you happy!

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Bucking the Trend: Highland Park’s Newest Condo Tower takes Shape

Thursday, April 22nd, 2010

Whoever says construction is at a standstill in Houston hasn’t seen the Highland Tower.

Billed as “Houston’s only luxury condominium high-rise under construction at the beginning on 2010,” the Highland Tower is surely the bright spot amidst the doom and gloom of the new construction market in Houston.

If 2010 is anything like 2009 in terms of new construction, it looks as if Highland Tower will be able to lay claim to the title of “the newest condo tower in Houston” for some time. In other words, there isn’t exactly a rush to bring more Houston high-rise luxury condos to fruition until the market rebounds.

Highland Tower is expected to open its doors to its first residents in April. According to the developer, Highland Tower has sold 35 percent of its 96 condominium homes, despite the challenge of the recession. Most of the buyers seem to be empty nesters and relocating professionals.

In addition to simply purchasing condo units, many of the buyers appear to be spending more money to customize their Highland Park’s homes. One-bedroom condominium homes start at $298,000.

Pelican Builders broke ground on Highland Tower back in July 2008; the developer notes that if the project were to start even six months later that the recession would have ended it. To put it into perspective, Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy on September 15, 2008, and essentially started the downward spiral felt throughout the national economy during 2009.

Highland Tower will feature top-notch homes set within a full-service building. From expansive rooms to spacious floor plans, Highland Tower will offer Houstonians upscale living in the heart of Houston. Some of the features and amenities that will be afforded to the residents of Highland Tower include:

  • Floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Corner units with wrap-around Houston views
  • 17,000-square-foot rooftop terrace with a putting green and a swimming pool
  • Gourmet kitchens with stainless steel Bosch appliances and designer cabinetry
  • Master bathrooms with soaking tubs
  • Ideal proximity to Highland Village, the Galleria and Central Market

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The Fantastic inner Loop Condos: What to Expect

Wednesday, March 24th, 2010

There is a great array of Inner Loop condos for sale at any given time. From the Medical Center and Uptown to downtown and River Oaks, finding a fabulous condo may be just about the easiest thing you’ve done in a long time. Perhaps the only tricky part is narrowing down all of your choices regarding Inner Loop condos for sale!

houston condos

To give you an idea of where you can begin your search for Inner Loop condos, consider the fantastic neighborhoods that comprise Houston’s Inner Loop and some of the fabulous condos that can be found there:

Medical Center

The Medical Center gets its name from the Texas Medical Center, of course, and surely got its start because of the thousands of employees that work at the Medical Center and searched for a place to live. As a result of the growth of the Medical Center, the Medical Center community has become a highly sought after community in Houston in which to live.

Take, for example, the beautiful Serento condominiums, which feature everything from recessed lighting and crown molding to hardwood floors and ten-foot ceilings. This beautiful condo building enjoys the prime, Medical Center location, along with such building amenities as a common terrace and a fitness center.

Uptown

Uptown Houston is home to some of the finest shopping centers and trendiest restaurants, along with some of the best Inner Loop condos for sale.

One of the finest examples of Uptown condos is the Chateau on Briar Hollow, a small building consisting of just 24 residences. Tucked away in a secluded cul-de-sac setting, the Chateau on Briar Hollow features such fine amenities as: private balconies, 10-foot ceilings, controlled access entry and assigned garage parking.

River Oaks

The premier location in Houston, for many, is River Oaks. It is also one of the most affluent areas of the city. A great example of the upscale living found here is the Piedmont at River Oaks. This mid-rise condominium building features: expansive windows, granite countertops, hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and crown molding.

Memorial Park

Anyone in search of Inner Loop condos for sale will certainly include Memorial Park in their search. And within Memorial Park is the Monaco. With fabulous views and a fantastic location, the Monaco ensures that location is essential. The Monaco is also located near River Oaks and Memorial Park.

The Heights

Historic homes and meandering streets are the hallmarks of the Heights, as is its upscale condo living. One of the newest condominium developments in the Heights is the Viewpoint Condominium, which is currently in pre-development stages. The idea location will offer fabulous views of the downtown Houston skyline.

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Why it Pays to Purchase a Downtown Houston Condo

Friday, March 12th, 2010

houston condosJust a few decades ago an interesting trend took place; families began moving from the city to the suburbs. They began searching for quiet streets and small neighborhoods and, more importantly, affordable housing.

However, jump to 2010 and the movement appears to be shifting once again. Now it seems that many Houstonians now prefer the ultimate convenience of living in the city. And what better way to live in the city than in one of downtown Houston’s condos?

There are many reasons why so many Houstonians are flocking back to the city; here are just a few of them:

  • Rebirth and Revitalization – The city of Houston has never looked so good, and that certainly goes for downtown Houston. The many neighborhoods which comprise the downtown Houston area have seen great improvements over the last, few years, from neglected properties to some of the best real estate in Houston. Take a look at downtown Houston condos and you will quickly see that living in downtown Houston is reserved for only those homebuyers with the most discriminating of tastes.
  • High Property Values – Let’s face it: it’s simply more expensive to live in downtown Houston. However, as many condos owners can attest, the property values are only increasing, thereby setting you up for a nice return on your investment if your purchase downtown Houston condos.
  • Great Real Estate Options – The many different living options in downtown Houston provide buyers with many choices. From lofts and apartments to townhomes and superb high-rise condominium living, there is certainly no shortage of real estate in downtown Houston.
  • Practicality – For business professionals, there is simply no better location than downtown Houston. Many of the downtown Houston condos cater to busy professionals, and therefore offer a plethora of outstanding amenities and services. Plus, reaching your office in a matter of minutes simply can’t be beat.
  • Entertainment Choices – From trendy restaurants to high-end boutiques, there is something for everyone of downtown Houston. The entertainment choices are varied and exciting, and cultural activities and nightlife are unsurpassed.

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Luxurious Condo Living at the Bellaire

Wednesday, February 3rd, 2010

Premier Houston condominium living is alive and well and can be found at the exclusive Bellaire. Featuring just 27 private condominium residences, each boasting three levels of living amidst a beautiful, Mediterranean design concept, the Bellaire is a fine example of upscale, condominium living in Houston.

The Mediterranean-inspired architecture, along with beautiful, sweeping views of Houston, can be found throughout all of the condominium homes of the Bellaire. The exterior landscaping further adds to the exclusive, serene lifestyle of the Bellaire, as it features sidewalks and landscaped courtyards that include a controlled access entry.

All of the homes of the Bellaire are accessed via two, glass elevators that overlook the landscaped courtyards. All of the residents of the Bellaire enjoy controlled access parking and assigned parking spaces. All homes feature engineered soundproofing systems to ensure the ultimate in peace and serenity.

The interior amenities found throughout the homes of the Bellaire include:

  • Open living spaces
  • Double crown molding and custom baseboards throughout all living spaces
  • Dual-pane windows and two-inch window blinds
  • Hardwood flooring in the living room, dining room and foyer
  • Ten to 12-foot ceilings
  • Eight-foot entry doors
  • Spacious, walk-in closets
  • Pre-wired for cable/satellite television and high-speed Internet
  • Wireless Internet available

Kitchen Features and Amenities

All of the homes of the Bellaire feature gourmet kitchens, which feature such exceptional amenities as: GE stainless steel appliance packages; stained oak or maple cabinetry; granite slab countertops; slate tile floors; undercabinet lighting and large pantries.

Master Bathroom Features and Amenities

The luxurious bathrooms of the Bellaire are also upscale, as they feature master bathrooms with oversized tubs and separate, glass-enclosed showers; two master-bathroom vanities with marble tops; porcelain tile; and antique nickel fixtures.

About the Design and Development Team

The Bellaire is a product of Rain Properties LTD, a real estate partnership between ArchiTECH Design and Development and Dr. David Suchowiecky. ArchiTECH Design and Development has designed and constructed a myriad of residential communities throughout Houston over the past, several years, including Bayou Island Park and Briar Hollow, as well as several custom homes.

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Spotlight on: Highland Tower in Houston’s Galleria Neighborhood

Monday, December 28th, 2009

Houston Condos, Highland Tower

Highland Tower is one of Houston’s newest residential condo buildings. Comfortably situated in the upscale Galleria section of Houston, Highland Tower is located within the 610 Inner Loop, thereby making it a prime residence for Houston professionals. In fact, Highland Tower is marketed to Houston’s young professionals.

Rising 17 stories, Highland Tower boasts 96 condo units, along with a 15th-floor penthouse, which offer a great array of floor plans and designer touches. The condo residences of Highland Tower feature either one, two or three bedrooms, and the square footage ranges from 825 to 2,134.

Condo Features and Amenities

All of the residences of Highland Tower feature many, upscale amenities and features, including floor-to-ceiling glass, sweeping Galleria views, European cabinetry, stainless steel Bosch appliances and exotic natural stone countertop and tile surfaces.

The ceiling heights for the homes of Highland Tower are at least 10 feet (the penthouse unit features 11-foot ceilings); all residences have security systems with keypad entry; all homes are pre-wired for sound systems; and all homes have either oak or cherry hardwood floors. The master bathrooms of the homes all include large bathtubs with stone surrounds, Kohler faucets and marble countertops.

Building Amenities and Features

A fifth-floor terrace is just one of the countless building amenities that are afforded to the residents of Highland Tower. The terrace, which provides lovely views of the Galleria, boasts a gorgeous, infinity-edge swimming pool, along with an outdoor pavilion, a barbeque grill, outdoor fireplaces, and plenty of green space, complete with fountains and paved courtyards.

Other amenities found on the fifth floor include a state-of-the-art fitness center that overlooks the swimming pool; a dining room with a catering kitchen; a private party lounge; and a private massage therapy room. The entrance lobby of Highland Tower is beautifully decorated and appointed with fine furnishings, while the private lounge features beautiful furnishings, a flat-screen television and a large serving island.

Highland Tower also includes a secured entry, a private entry drive, complete with a covered porte-cochere drop-off lane, private parking for guests, and private garage parking for residents.

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A Sluggish Condo Market may mean Great Deals for Downtown Renters

Thursday, October 15th, 2009

One person’s downfall may be another person’s opportunity; at least when it comes to real estate.

Let’s face it: the economy is taking a beating, and the downtown Houston condo market has felt its wrath. Many building owners are now taking to the streets and offering such incentives as free appliances and free parking in exchange for a lease.

Landlords have become increasingly aggressive as of late, likely due to the fact that downtown Houston condos just aren’t flying off the market. And if they can’t get buyers into their properties, they’ll get renters.

As a result, there is an abundance of apartment buildings throughout downtown Houston that are now leasing, as property owners struggle to fill their homes and generate income.

Great deals can be had in even the highest-end properties, where an oversupply is causing more than a bit of a strain on the market.

Houston saw an occupancy rate in its rental properties of just 85.3 as of August, that’s down a percent from a year earlier. Apartment lease prices have also dropped in the last year, from an average of $725 in 2008 to $719 at the end of August.

Many renters are taking full advantage of this market, renting high-end apartments for a fraction of what they would have been rented for just a couple years ago. Many renters are even snagging free rent for signing long-term leases.

For example, the upscale apartment complex of Venue, located in the highly desirable Museum District, is offering a free month’s rent, along with a subsidized rail ridership for the first year.

It is important to note that apartment homes outside of the Loop have not seen large cuts like homes inside the Loop.

As the job market slowed in Houston, with some 80,000 jobs lost between July 2008 and July 2009, city homes were not in high demand, thereby creating a unique opportunity for renters searching for the finest digs for a great deal.

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