New York Astor Place Loft Style Condominiums

Marketed on their online website as a limited collection of museum quality architectural loft residences, the New York Astor Place condominium apartments and loft style homes are designed by world renowned Gwathmey Siegal and Associates Architects LLC. A living sculpture on Lafayette Street, the Astor Place New York real estate properties and condos are now selling.

A world class NYC real estate development team of the Astor Place Lofts includes The Related Companies L.P. who are the largest and most innovative real estate developers in the United States. The Astor Place New York City apartment condominiums and properties will be designed and architected by Gwathmey Siegal & Associates in combination with world renowned Ismael Leyva Architects. The New York Astor Place residential tower loft residences and condo homes are located at 445 Lafayette Street in NYC 10003 within the Manhattan neighborhood of the Central Village district. The luxury high-rise tower residences lofts at Astor Place New York apartment homes and condos was built and completed in the year 2005 and consists of twenty one stories of residential condo properties mixed in with commercial retail space. There are only thirty nine loft style condominiums at Astor Place New York condo towers.

About the Astor Place Loft Apartments in NYC.

Located within Manhattan New York, the loft residences at Astor Place properties are within walking distance to all local amenities and community features, as well as local landmarks, entertainment, dining, shopping, recreational and outdoor activities. Whatever you would like to see, do and experience, you can at the New York loft apartments at Astor Place condominium tower. The amazing views from the 455 Lafayette Street New York loft style residences at Astor Place provides some of the most phenomenal views and panoramas of the night skyline from any pre-construction real estate project development in New York City. Unobstructed and never ending views out to the water, bridges, condominium towers and business districts can be seen in all directions from the Astor Place New York loft apartments. For the Gwathmey interview, you can visit the NYC Astor Place web site located at astorplacenyc.com/index_flash.html and by clicking on the appropriate link from the main navigation. In addition, for the latest press news releases and updates to this condominium tower at Astor Place loft residences in New York City, please visit their online marketing web site for the details and downloadable PDF news updates.

Unique Astor Place loft floorplans and design layouts are standard in every condominium suite

The New York real estate market is saturated with cookie-cutter condo layouts and residence features, but at the new Astor Place loft style residence apartments, you can expect the unexpected in terms of layout features and finishes in these incredible New York real estate properties. Residence A floor plans at the NYC Astor Place loft apartments includes two thousand two hundred and forty eight square feet (or 208.84 sqm) or indoor living space with undulating floor to ceiling glass walls/windows as well as a open loft kitchen. Residence loft A at NYC Astor Place condominium suites also have a gallery, master suite with double walk in closets, an amazing master bathroom and second bedroom with an ensuite bath. There is a third bedroom plus media room that can be converted into a work office space in addition to a guest bathroom and shower and these condominium apartment homes are located on floors four through sixteen at the New York City Astor Place loft tower. In addition, Residence B floorplan layouts at the Astor Place NYC loft residences features smaller loft apartments at sixteen hundred and eighty one square footage or 156.17 square meters in size. There is a great room and media room in addition to two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Loft Residence B at Astor Place NY properties also has a washer and dryer as well as an open loft style kitchen. The Astor Place New York loft residence tower also features Residence Floor Plan C on floors 4 – 12 which is 1449 sq ft or one hundred and thirty four approximate square metres in size. There two bed and two bath condominium units at the New York Astor Place loft apartments will have open style kitchens, a gallery and a great room as well. Residence B floor plan layouts on floors 14 – 16 at the Astor Place residence apartment lofts in New York City’s real estate market will have three thousand one hundred and seventy four square footage, a huge great room, gallery, media room, as well as three beds and three bathrooms. The Astor Place penthouse loft residences are uniquely designed for each home buyer and will have double sided fireplaces, entertainment rooms, three hundred and sixty degree sweeping views of Manhattan as well as reception galleries.

Contact information for the New York real estate properties at Astor Place Lofts

For more information, you can contact the Astor Place real estate development sales team at astorplacenyc.com/index_flash.html and getting to their online enquiry form. The custom interior design is done by Charles Gwathmey and the exclusive marketing and sales is handled by Related Residential Sales LLC. You can contact the New York Astor Place sales team at 212-473-4445 or astorplace@related.com. In addition to spacious interiors, the Astor Place loft residences and apartments at this mix-use mid-rise tower in New York real estate properties will feature ceiling heights between 9’6” to eleven feet and all residence loft condominiums will have at least two and possibly three exposures from glass window walls. Individual heating control and air conditioning is provided all year around at the NYC Astor Place loft condos as well as high speed internet connections and laundry facilities in suite. The Astor Place New York loft style residences will also have maple wood strip flooring and all the pre-wiring you expect.

Using your home equity as leverage

Part 2 of the ‘Take Control: How Home Equity puts you in the driver’s seat’ article from the December issues of the Australian Property Investor magazine written by Monique Wakelin.

Many Australians and North Americans have something of a mental block when it comes to using the home equity in their own home as leverage to buy real estate investment property. They feel a little jittery about perceived risks to their primary source of security and shelter.

But most people who buy an investment real estate property already have a home an duse the leverage factor because it’s a ready-made “deposit”. This enables the home owner to “re-borrow” part of the equity of the home. These borrowings become a small part of a loan that’s paid back at the applicable rate, along with any other funds borrowed for the investment real estate property.

The basic principle is that home equity is the happy by-product of the initial deposit the owner put in, any principal that has been paid off and any capital gains the home has achieved.

The main benefits of using home equity to buy investment property are:

The Ability To Borrow
Up to 100% of the purchase price of the investment property plus costs. The investment property will remain the primary source of collateral for the lender, as they will generally finance 90 to 95 per cent of the value against that investment real estate property. The notion of “putting the home on the line” doesn’t apply under these circumstances.

There’s No Need To Own
Your home outright or sell it to access enough home equity for an investment real estate purchase. Wise use of this equity can put you into the wealth-creating assets much more quickly than if you wait until you own it outright.

While this strategy increases your mortgage on the home, a wisely chosen investment property will provide enough compounding growth to outstrip the cost of servicing the debt. The golden rule is for the real estate investor to focus on the quality of the asset they’ll own and not merely on what they owe the bank!

Smart investors in real estate and property categorise property borrowings in two ways: as productive debt and non-productive debt. Productive debt is used to purchase real estate assets that will grow in capital value and help contribute to financial independence. Non-productive debt is for consumable items that don’t increase in value or provide income – including cars, holidays and clothes. Non-productive debt attracts higher rates of interest as it’s usually sourced through credit cards or unsecured personal loans.

The residential property investor in real estate is using productive, tax-effective debt to make money through capital growth.

Details about home equity loans and more are found at this condominium resource website for condo owners.

Take Control: How Home Equity puts you in the driver’s seat

Real Estate Capital Growth is the sure-fire route to financial freedom through real estate property writes Monique Wakelin, but it all comes down to choosing the right assets. Part 1 published in the API magazine December 2006 issue.

If a potential real estate investor were to ask what the single most important factor was when selecting residential real estate there could be only one answer – a home property’s potential for excellent long-term capital growth.

The consistent and compounding effect of real estate capital growth is the golden goose because compounding growth produces equity in your real estate assets. It’s the ability to control more and more equity that can produce an income – the key to financial independence. Not only does capital growth, over time, provide the leverage for further investments, whether it be real estate or other, it’s locked away tax-free for as long as you own the property. Understanding the whys and wherefores of home equity and real estate capital growth are crucial if a prospective investor is to achieve the ultimate aim – financial independence through real estate investments.

Many residential property investors take the view that this asset class should be income driven. However, a higher growth property will actually deliver the better income stream over time. It’s more a question of balancing the growth potential and achieving a steady rental income rather than looking for high rental returns at the expense of the growth of the real estate investment property. During the actual years of the investment strategy, the role of rental income is to meet holding costs such as loan repayments, maintenance, insurances, rates and other outgoings.

Choosing high growth property real estate allows the investor to build equity quickly, which means they don’t need to rely on saving for another deposit from after-tax income. Compounding capital growth produces an exponential increase in value over time. If, for example, you buy a $300,000 investment property real estate that increases by an average of 10 per cent a year, then the compounding factor doubles its value every seven years, and you’ll create $1.9 million in equity over 21 years.

There can’t be too much emphasis on the fact that residential real estate property investment is a slow path to financial security and not a “get rich quick” scheme. It must be based on correct asset selection to produce consistent capital growth. But time and again, we see real estate investors making the same basic mistake, hinging on the belief that all property is good real estate property and that it must at some point increase in value. Instead, real estate investors end up with a capital loss or price stagnation and no equity to show for the years of repaying loans and funding maintenance expenses.

Only correct and specific real estate asset selection will ride out any property cycle downturns and even out the returns. Provided you’re at least five to ten years away from retirement, focusing on capital growth of real estate will allow you to accumulate some serious net home equity and built on it relatively quickly.

If we take a specific example of a well-selected property investment bought in 1980 for about $50,000 and look at its current estimated value we start to get the picture. In today’s market real estate, its value would be around $500,000. Back in 1980 that amount of money would have bought a house in the top-drawer areas of most major capital cities.

We know that over the past 26 years a number of major economic, real estate investment and political cycles have transpired and real estate property values have increased strongly in spite of booms and recessions. Anyone can purchase a real estate property that looks like it might perform well but the real aim is to purchase the ones that perform no matter the prevailing market conditions.

At its simplest level, capital growth on a property increases your equity or net worth. In other words, it’s what you actually own rather than what you owe. Good capital growth will increase equity at a faster rate than an individual could achieve simply through loan repayments or by saving cash in after-tax dollars. Top-performing residential investment property doubles in value every seven to ten years and grows in capital value by an average of 5 to 8 per cent a year ahead of prevailing inflation.

The scenario of applying for a bank loan gives us a good snapshot of how home equity in real estate is viewed from a purely financial perspective. Lenders seek security on their home loans and number one on the list is property. The highest loan to value ratio (LVR) is given against real estate property. Lenders will offer up to 100 per cent (or even more) of the purchase price against real estate properties, whereas shares will attract a maximum LVR of 80 per cent if you’re lucky.

Therefore, the higher the rate of capital growth on the home property, the greater the owner’s ability to use the accumulating equity to purchase further income-producing real estate assets. A real estate property that returns low capital growth rates makes the owner much more reliant on having to actively reduce the debt in order to create more equity. This can only be done through extra repayments off the principal mortgage out of after-tax wages or by paying off lump sums when funds become available. Home equity in real estate build-up from properly selected property will outstrip the rate at which most people can find extra dollars regularly from their own pocket.

For more information, please visit the API Magazine website or Urban Living tips and checklists for condominium living here.

San Diego Hard Rock Condo Hotel

Located in the beautiful and vibrant downtown core of San Diego, California, the new Hard Rock Condo Hotel SD is located in the most notable and fun/exciting neighbourhoods called the Gaslamp Quarter district. There, you will find the San Diego Hard Rock Condominium Hotel within a district of entertainment, arts, culture, dining, shopping and more.

It’s hard to believe that the famous Hard Rock Café chain would get into real estate, but in San Diego’s hot market, that is exactly what has happened. The official San Diego real estate development property name of this project is the San Diego Hard Rock Condo Hotel that will be a mixed use condominium residential tower with hotel suites right at the entrance of the Gaslamp Quarter district between 5th and 6th Avenues in addition to Streets L and K. The 5th Rock LLC are the San Diego real estate developers for the Hard Rock Condo Hotel residences and suites and will consist of a development construction property of four hundred and twenty condominiums and hotel rooms in the exciting and beautiful entrance to San Diego’s downtown city core. All 420 condominium hotel rooms at the Hard Rock San Diego will be sold to home buyers and purchasers (as well as some real estate investment people) once it’s official opening is revealed in the summer of the year 2007, which is fast approaching. Not only will the Hard Rock San Diego Condominium Hotel provide luxurious and five star residence apartment condos, but the Hard Rock Condo Hotel suites will be classified as a four diamond hotel in the Gaslamp District of San Diego California. The pre-construction real estate phase is already over, and the Hard Rock Condo Hotel San Diego homes apartments suites have already started in the construction phase of the project.

Learn more about the condominium hotel suites at Hard Rock San Diego CA

The entire real estate property at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego consists of twelve stories and over four hundred condominium residences for sale on the real estate market. In addition to having three hundred of these 420 condo hotel residences sold in the grand opening release just a few months ago, the San Diego Hard Rock Condominium Hotel residences apartments are selling out so quickly that they’ve had to release the remaining apartment homes ahead of schedule. To get onto San Diego’s first branded condo-hotel and hottest lifestyle choice in downtown Gaslamp, join the interest list on line at the marketing website for the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego at hardrockcondos.com. In addition, has owners of condominium homes here at the San Diego Hard Rock condo hotel, you will own prime real estate in the top five most visited cities in the country of the United States in the hottest destination resort hotel condominium accommodations. With the first release of the Hard Rock San Diego Condo Hotel apartment homes sold out in just nine hours, get on the interest list for the new release upcoming.

More information about the Condo Hotel Hard Rock San Diego properties

The real estate development team is not only building a 12 story high-rise residential – hotel condominium building, but this property construction project will also include over forty thousand square feet of banquet and conference space in addition to over twenty five thousand sq footage of retail space on the ground floor. Some of the luxurious amenities onsite at the Hard Rock Hotel Condo in San Diego’s downtown Gaslamp Quarter district include a community pool, a Rande Gerber inspired sky bar that will overlook the amazing community outside as well as over seven thousand square feet of venue space for open concerts and music parties. The Rande Gerber bars are one of the most premier destination hot spots in all of San diego and the Nobu Signature Restaurant will round out some fine dining options at the Hard Rock San Diego condo hotel apartment homes. Run and operated by Robert Todak, the best in the business, you as an owner of a Hard Rock Condo Hotel residence in San Diego will get prime treatment every day and anywhere you go in the property. In addition, the downtown San Diego condominium hotel will also feature secure underground parking spaces of two hundred and eighty stalls in addition to a full fitness and wellness center complete with a serviced spa. Like many other condominium pre-construction projects, the Hard Rock Condo Hotel in San Diego will be a conversion of a historical building called the National City Otay Railroad Depot. Already started, the conversion will go until next summer with the eventual launch in 2007. For more information about the downtown San Diego Hard Rock Condo Hotel residence apartments, please visit their web site at hardrockcondos.com today. The real estate development team is 5th Rock LLC and the Hard Rock San Diego Condominium Hotel architects are Carrier Johnson. For more info and details, you can reach Solana Vista Consulting at 858.259.5591 or the Hard Rock condo hotel sales team at Playground Destination Properties based at 619.578.2600.

Fountain View Condominiums in South Lyon Michigan

The builder for this particular Michigan real estate property development in West Metro is Neumann Homes who have put together a great selection of condominium homes at Fountain View properties.

Located at 1004 Fountain View Court in South Lyon, the Fountain View condo residences and townhomes is a new real estate development that will provide spacious living spaces in the serene, safe and quiet neighbourhood in South Lyon MI near Detroit. Within walking distance to local shopping, restaurants and of course, the impressive array of schools for children, the Fountain View residence condominiums in Michigan is located on Pontiac Trail and 9 Mile Road. For various availability of floor plans and home sites, please contact iNest today for a one percent off deal for purchasing through them at Fountain View homes.

A brief overview of the Fountain View Michigan Detroit Condos

The condo residences at the Detroit Fountain View real estate property is now available either through Internest or thorugh the real estate developer Neumann Homes. The actual property development at Fountain View is close to Detroit in a small district of South Lyon Michigan where you will find condominium suites between two and three bed rooms in addition to either 2 or 2.5 bathrooms per home. The square footage of the Fountain View Detroit condominiums will range between one thousand four hundred and eighty six square feet to one thousand six hundred and sixty sq ft in living size. With unbelievable floor plans still available for your condo home and a price range for Fountain View Detroit condos between one hundred and sixty nine thousand nine hundred and ninety dollars to one hundred and seventy seven thousand, nine hundred and ninety USD, this is a great family real estate investment for anyone looking to get into the market as a home buyer or real estate investor in Michigan.

The Neumann Homes Fountain View condominium residences are reachable at their address at

1004 Fountain View Court in South Lyon 48178-1568 and you can learn more about this real estate property at the following web address: http://www.internest.com/tadianhomes/tadianhomes14524.asp?source=nco~g=5~t=mi.

Some things never change when it comes to real estate investment opportunities, selling your home, mortgage financing and more.

No matter how much things change in the real estate world, there are at least four rules you can count on, writes Tim O’Dwyer for the Australian Property Investor magazine. Although we clearly live in a rapidly changing world, as a conveyancing solicitor I’ve long recognised and remarked on the “Immutable Laws of Real Estate”.

They’re not really laws but are certainly seemingly unchangeable rules of conduct. Or maybe they’re just ever-present facts of real estate life. There used to be three. Now there are probably four.

1. Real Estate agents move quickly
You can’t really blame them for this. Selling real estate successfully for seller clients is mostly all about timing. So real estate agents, by nature or training or experience, know they should move quickly in response to buyer’s enquiries. More significantly, agents usually move like greased lightning when it comes to sealing deals. In those parts of Australia where real estate agents are permitted by law to prepare sales contracts, sellers and buyers alike often find themselves under more than a little real estate agent pressure to sign up to binding contracts super-fast. Real estate agents seem to believe that if they hesitate in this regard, they’ll lose sales and miss out on commissions.

2. Solicitors move slowly
Or so it seems. Rather, we try to act cautiously. We’re primarily concerned for our clients’ interests and these are often best served by our not rushing in. Hence we usually take our time – to carefully read real estate contracts, check documents and consider the many troublesome issues that can often arise in even the most apparently simple conveyancing transaction. But we often do need to move quickly, especially when it comes to ensuring seller’s documentation is ready for settlement or critical searches are sent and received for real estate home buyers. Why? Because often we find our clients have already signed contracts, usually under speedy agent influence, with dangerously short time limits.

3. People change their minds
This is one of the prime reasons for the first two rules. Real estate agents invariably, and understandably, want consumers locked into legally enforceable contracts before they have time for second thoughts. Competent conveyancing solicitors know from experience how they must always be prepared for their own clients and the other parties getting cold feet and wanting out of apparently done deals. Sometimes when people do change their minds, solicitors have to become “contract killers” on behalf of their cold-footed clients.

4. Holidays happen
We all know that all sorts of things can happen to cause problems and put real estate sales at risk when you’re buying or selling but, for some strange reason, an awful lot of buyers and sellers seem to go on holidays after they’ve entered into serious contracts. They then return home only a week or so before settlement is due. Solicitors by and large have learned to cope with this but, gosh, it can often make things trickier, such as getting essential real estate legal documents prepared, signed and sent where they have to go on time.

The moral
Anyhow, the moral of this story is obviously not to sign anything without first getting sound, independent legal advice and possibly an independent valuation – no matter whether you’re buying or selling real estate. You simply must not let yourself by rushed. Try to be as certain as you can before you commit yourself and, if possible, try to keep your holiday arrangements flexible. After all, your solicitors should be just a quick protective phone call away – except when they’re on holidays. Then you’ll have to hope a legal locum is in place.

Tim O’Dwyer is a Queensland solicitor. Email: todwyer@westnet.com.au

Grinnell Place Detroit Lofts Residences

Many words can be used to describe the functional and edgy Detroit real estate property now compete at the Grinnell Place Lofts and Residence Apartments which form some of the best urban living condominium homes in the city. Original and imaginative, the Detroit Grinnell Lofts in Michigan provides today’s lifestyle amenities within a historical building from 1921.

With many of the major centers in the United States, Detroit is seeing a revival of its historical and architecturally significant buildings into residential condominium lofts and real estate properties. Detroit MI is now home to some of the most interesting, progressive and contemporary loft residence homes, especially with the advent of the Grinnell Place Lofts along the historical Brooklyn Street of Detroit Michigan. Somewhat urban hip and edgy, the current and future of the most exciting communities in this beautiful motor city will be within the Detroit Grinnell Place Loft residence apartment condos area for decades to come. In addition, right now the Grinnell Place Detroit loft condominium homes are affordable and comfortable, providing urban spaces within a pedestrian corridor featuring many local conveniences and on site amenities that will provide you the lifestyle that you have always dreamed about. Hurry now, the models for the Grinnell Place Loft Homes in Detroit MI are open every Saturday between one and four in the afternoon or by appointment with a sales rep.

The restoration and inclusion of luxury amenities at Grinnell Place Lofts

As a beautifully restored and resurrected Detroit real estate property from the 1920s, the Grinnell Place residence loft apartments used to be the Grinnell Brothers Piano warehouse. The new Grinnel Place Lofts in Detroit MI will see a much different era for residential use and will include luxury amenities such as exposed brick walls like the traditional loft homes in addition to expansive and oversized glass windows with great views and natural lighting. Most loft homes at the Grinnell Place real estate properties in Detroit MI will enjoy private balconies and tiled bathrooms in addition to gourmet entertainment designer kitchens and hardwood flooring. Also, for the modern residences looking to up to date amenities, the loft residences at the Grinnell Place condominium homes and loft residences in Detroit will also have pre-wiring for cable, internet and security. There is sound insulation to make sure you have privacy and also, there are updated smoke and fire suppression systems throughtout the Detroit Grinnell Loft Homes building. All condominium loft homes will have air conditioning and secure indoor parking and there are also numerous upgrades a home buyer at the Detroit Grinnell Place Lofts can choose from upon purchasing.

The Development Team

The Detroit real estate development project team behind the Michigan Detroit Grinnell Place Loft homes and residences includes a collaboration of several companies that make up the Grinnell Place Development LLC including: Standard Federal Bank, The Garrison Company, BVH Architecture Inc,, Detroit Investment Fund, CS2, Nowak & Fraus, McDowell & Associates and more. For the Grinnell Place Detroit Lofts model homes images and photo gallery, you can visit their marketing web site located at the following URL domain: grinnellplace.com/?source=condoDomain. In addition, you can find out more about the excellent location of the Grinnell Place home lofts in Detroit MI today online.

For sales inquiries

If you are in the hunt for a new loft home, the Grinnell Place real estate Detroit properties is a definite must see. For any sales inquiries and questions, you can contact a sales representative at the Detroit Grinnell Place residence lofts at 313-831-8000 or you can contact a sales manager directly including Elizabeth at 313-617-2699 or etintinalli@detroiturbanliving.com, Lisa at 313-550-3713 or ldebs@detroiturbanliving.com and Austin at 313.550.2307 or ablack@detroiturbanliving.com today. The Detroit Grinnell Place loft condo homes and residences are located at 2003 Brooklyn Street in Detroit MI. For their general real estate property email, please use grinnelplace@aol.com.

Floorplans for the Grinnell Place Detroit Loft Homes

There are three model units available at the beautiful renovated Grinnell Place loft residence condominiums in Detroit Michigan. The Model Unit 1 consists of a spacious one bedroom loft home with two bathrooms, a large walk-in closet, office space, open kitchen with island, dining, living room and an open balcony. The Grinnell Place Detroit Loft residences condos will also feature Model Unit 2 which is much more elongated in layout size with one bedroom and bathroom, built in washer and dryer laundry room, kitchen and dining room, open living room and a balcony. Last but not least is the Model Unit 3 at the Detroit Grinnell Lofts and condominiums which features two floors: The Mezzanine Level will have a bedroom and bath with open space looking down on the Main Level which has a bathroom, kitchen/dining room, living space and a large balcony. The Detroit real estate properties at the Grinnell Place Lofts will start from one hundred and sixty five thousand dollars. Check out these real estate property in Detroit MI today for the best selection of condo loft homes.

Preparing your condo or real estate property for an earthquake and other condominium apartment tips

Originally published in the January 19 – February 02, 2007 Home Renters Guide in Vancouver, Canada by www.homebase.ca.

You can’t prevent an earthquake, but you can be prepared to avoid injury and be prepared to minimize the damage to your home. Go through your home, imagining what could happen to each part of it if it were shaken violently. For those living in a condo or apartment building, you may experience more sway and less vibration than in a single-storey building.

Work with your building or strata corporation manager to help quake-proof your home. Seek advice from professionals (insurance, engineers, and architects) if you are unsure what to do.

Previous earthquakes have proven that these items need attention:

- Tie down your water heater and other appliances that could break gas or water lines if they topple
- Secure top-heavy furniture like shelving units and armoires to prevent tipping. Keep heavy items on lower shelves.
- Fix mirrors and other hanging objects so they won’t fall off hooks.
- Located beds away from chimneys, windows, heavy pictures etc. Closed curtains will help keep broken window glass off nearby occupied beds.
- Put anti-skid pads (eg. Velcro) under TVs, VCRs, computers, and small appliances.
- Store valuable documents and special small keep sakes in a fire-resistant place.
- Keep sturdy shoes and outdoor clothing handy.
- Use child-proof or safety latches on cupboards to stop contents from spilling out.

Real Estate Apartment Safety

1. Never leave your apartment real estate property door unlocked, even while taking out the trash. You may find someone waiting inside when you get back!

2. If required to give the super-intendent a key to your real estate apartment or condo for emergency use, seal it in an envelope and sign your name across the flap with your signature overlapping onto the body of the envelope. This will deter against tampering. Periodically ask to see the envelope.

3. Make an effort to meet your neighbours. Learn to look out for each other’s interests. Know who “belongs.”

4. Don’t get on an elevator with a stranger. In an elevator, stand beside the control panel to have direct access to the alarm button.

5. Never isolate yourself in a basement laundry room. If possible, arrange to do laundry with a neighbour.

6. Never open your door to a stranger. Utility company employees can slip their IDs under the door. If in doubt, look up the company, telephone number yourself (don’t rely on a number they give you), and call to verify the information.

7. Do not prop outside doors open for any reason. If you find one propped open, close and secure it.

8. Use only your first initial on your doorbell and mailbox, and in the phone book for your real estate apartment address.

9. Immediately report any real estate building security problems to the super-intendent. Follow up to be sure the problem is corrected.

10. When your real estate apartment is unoccupied for a long period of time, leave a radio or television playing to give the impression that somebody is home.

Important tips for apartment condo finding

1. Get yourself in a gung-ho apartment condominium search frame of mind. You will be making dozens of phone calls and leaving many messages. If your messages aren’t returned the next day, you should call again, of course doing so with the utmost tact. If you don’t have a local phone number, get one. Apartment condos unlimited rents out very inexpensive voice mail boxes.

2. Keep your chequebook with you. When you see an apartment condo which looks good to you, you are going to have to decide and act upon it quickly. Good places do not stay on the real estate market long! People constantly lose good places due to indecision.

3. Collect all of your rental information before you visit your first vacancy.

4. Have a credit report with you and give yourself an edge over the next guy. Landlords will be impressed by your organization and preparedness. As well, you’ll save money by not having to shell out for each and every landlord who requires one.

5. Dress and groom as though you are going to a job interview. In many respects it is the same. Landlords for apartment condominiums of really good condo units usually have to pick of several applicants. They are looking for:

- Someone both able and responsible enough to pay rent on time.
- People who will treat them and their real estate property with care and respect.
- Quiet tenants who will not be disturbing to other tenants and neighbours.

6. Always keep your appointments and always show up on time. No-shows are a major source of frustration for building managers and condo landlords.

7. Don’t get discouraged! Finding a great real estate condominium apartment is not easy, but it is well worth the effort. Keep your chin up, get back on the phone and remember to always sound cheerful!

This is courtesy of www.homestore.com.

It’s time to pack up for your first apartment condo.

Here’s a helpful list of 10+ items to pack last and keep handy when you move to your new condo home … they’re things you’ll need to get to first and frequently.

1. Extension cords, batteries. Everything’s electric these days it seems. Computers, CD players, your Walkman, all those little gizmos you just can’t seem to live without. So it just makes sense to keep that extension cord or pack of new batteries right on top and within easy reach.

2. Tools. We’re talking hammers and screwdrivers, nails and screws, scotch tape, duct tape and especially, a tape measure.

3. A bottle opener and glasses. Thirst always seems to come first, particularly if you have to lug that stuff by yourself. Dehydration is a sneaky beast, so be prepared.

4. Snack, pizza and fast food coupons. You’re going to work up a hunger so think about treating yourself to a quick bite or a night out at Mickey D’s.

5. Address book or PDA. Keep those important telephone numbers handy.

6. Cell phone or regular telephone with plug – put these within easy reach. There’s always potential for an emergency.

7. Sufficient cash. Duh … but if you’re opening a new bank account you may have to wait for your first cheque to clear. Traveler’s cheques wouldn’t hurt either.

8. A copy of your real estate lease and personal ID such as a driver’s license. A speaking of banking, if you’re starting a new chequing account (or applying for utilities service) you’ll need proof of your new address too.

9. Cleaning materials. Especially paper towers – accidents do happen.

10. Light bulbs, a small lamp (perhaps a flashlight). It may be dark when you finally move in.

11. Alarm clock. You don’t want to miss your first day at school, right?

12. Box cutter. Don’t pack this puppy at all! It’s the first thing you’ll need to open your packages.

You can visit the following condo websites for more information about US and Canadian condo real estate development properties that are either under construction or during the planning and design stage.

Arcadia Condominiums on Upper East Side New York City

A master designed condo residence property in New York City NY is now open for home purchasers as well as NYC real estate investors at The Arcadia high-rise condominium tower residences. With master design, unique lifestyle in the Upper East Side and elegant interior spaces, The Arcadia New York homes and property are the most talked about NY real estate construction project in a long time.

An absolute exclusive New York real estate unique development property at The Arcadia Condominium tower is a highly desirable residence for many in this bustling metropolis in the United States. As a high-rise glass tower of twenty one stories, the New York Arcadia condo tower apartment residences and homes are masterfully designed and built and are located at the Upper East side of Manhattan at 408 East 79th Street in NYC. A boutique and prestigious collection of condominium homes and apartments are ready for purchase at the Arcadia New York condo residences which features only fifty three private homes that are brought to you, planned and masterfully crafted by the world renowned architect Costas Kondylis. With great amenities and an optimal location in the heart of New York City, Arcadia Condominium residence homes will also provide a sophisticated lobby that is designed by Alexa Hampton, part of the well experienced design team at Mark Hampton, Inc. Read below for more information about the New York Arcadia Condominium residence homes in this high-rise residential tower in NY’s Upper East Side.

The Interior Space and Design Features at Arcadia New York condo homes

New York real estate market is well known for the most luxurious and prestigious condo developments and conversions, but there is none other like the Arcadia Condominiums which not only offer elegant interior spaces, but also well thought out and built urban spaces for all residents to enjoy on a daily basis. Some of the luxurious amenities that come standard in the interiors of each New York Arcadia condo apartment residence includes high-tech infrastructures and pre-wiring for all things electrical in addition to gourmet professionally designed kitchen spaces and resort spa inspired bath rooms. With the most superior and premium high-end finishes and fixtures in all rooms, residents at the New York City Arcadia condominium real estate tower will feel truly blessed and lucky to call the Arcadia their home. The entrance lobby is both inviting and welcoming as Alexa Hampton has integrated marble herringbone floors, Veneitan plaster niches, Lacewood accents, amazing lounge areas and the utmost in precise and sophisticated finishes in the New York Arcadia condo homes entrance lobby. In addition, residents at the luxury Arcadia new York condominium apartment tower residences will have a library to access for morning coffee, newspapers, books or just a place to sit and relax. Other luxury interior space features at the New York Arcadia homes and properties will include great high-end appliances by Sub-Zero, Bosch and Miele in adition to state of the art technology and Wenge vanities in addition to mosaic tiled floors and cast iron soaker tubs. The New York real estate properties at The Arcadia condominium tower will also have gardens with lush greenery that will be designed by landscape architect Halsted Welles for this multi-level private garden space. with great rooftop terrace views ot the skyline at New York City, The Arcadia condo residents will be living in a once in a lifetime private residence in the Upper East Side of NYC. Gay friendly condominium destination. The Arcadia NY condo apartment residences will also feature a twenty four hour doorman and concierge services in addition to a super intendent for limo services, dry cleaning, food catering or other maintenance within this magnificent building.

The Floor Plans at Arcadia New York homes and properties

The first floorplan layout design at the New York Arcadia homes and real estate properties is that of Masonette A and the lower level called the Garden Terrace level features four thousand and sixty eight sf in interior and one thousand two hundred and fifty eight sf in exterior space. With three bedrooms, three full baths, two powder rooms, an Arcadia NYC gallery, living room, dining room, eat in kitchen, private master suite with windowed bath, recreational bath, utility room, private elevator, and terrace. There are also several luxurious two bedroom apartments and duplex penthouses available at the New York Arcadia condominium complex high rise building tower with different floorplans split up by storey which includes Floors 3 – 7, Floors 8 – 15, Floor 16, Floors 17 – 18 and the Arcadia penthouse duplex suites that are available in the New York real estate market.

Contact the NYC Arcadia condominiums and penthouse residences

If you would like more information details about this NY Arcadia Condo residence tower, please visit their web site today at arcadiacondominiums.com or you can submit an online enquiry form at the following url arcadiacondominium.com/appointments/appointments.cfm. on the New York Arcadia website apartments and residence information is split up in terms of the following main navigation categories: Arcadia New York condos master design, interior condominium spaces, Upper East Side living, unique lifestyle and community, residential layouts and floorplans in addition to contact details for sales representatives at the New York Arcadia real estate property.

For more New York real estate and NY Condo Properties, please click here. For more Condominium Pre-Construction Information in the US, click here.

Going behind the scenes for lenders on real estate property

Published in the API Magazine – December 2006 issue on Pages 75 – 76. Most borrowers like the reassurance of having detailed knowledge of their lending institution and its financial reputation. Taking one step back, you first need to determine your level of understanding of the business of money exchange. There’s a significant difference in the risks associated with borrowing and investing and the information you should be aware of in each case.

Mortgage Shopping
There’s a lot more involved in selecting a mortgage than merely enquiring about interest rate and product flexibilities. Past articles have covered the intricacies of these topics, but how important is it to understand your real estate lender’s business?

A real estate lender’s reputation is an important criterion you should consider when taking out a loan for a real estate investment property. If you’re using a broker, they’ll usually have an opinion on the real estate lender. This opinion will often cover such things as credit policy, processing efficiency and in some cases, effectiveness in resolving disputes.

Particularly in the case of a real estate lender, you know nothing about, a little research is needed on your part to determine how long the lender has been in business for real estate investment lending and their ability to provide a consistent product.

Ask about the interest rate offered. Is it a special rate or a standard rate? This is more relevant when you’re considering a fixed rate product. There are some real estate lenders who may have a special rate advertised at the time you’re looking for a loan on your property but this rate may change significantly afterwards. It may well be a good deal to start with but when the fixed rate period is over, it may be a different matter.

Variable rate interest for real estate properties isn’t totally reliable either. Most institutions move their variable rate in line with the Reserve Bank cash rate. However, it’s not a rule that’s set in concrete and your bank lender can certainly change the interest rate, even when there’s no official cash rate adjustment. Ask about their policy on this. Is the variable interest loan written with a specific margin to reference rate (such as a standard variable) or is it unlinked?

Service: Mild, Medium or Hot?
In many cases service is a major factor when shopping for the right loan. Matching your needs with a big institution practices can be relatively easy.

With an unknown lender, however, you simply need to be a little more inquisitive. Is the service they provide perfect? Before you make up your mind, look outside the square.

Ask yourself, will they continue to provide good service after the sale, or will it grind to a halt once you sign on the dotted line? And does the company employ enough people to answer your queries in the future? A small company previously unknown to you is not necessarily to be dismissed, particularly if it meets your loan criteria.

Investing: a different kettle of fish
Many of us invest cash in the forms of term deposits, online accounts, cash management trusts, shares or managed funds. Here, the fundamental rule of investing is king – risk-return equation.

It’s usually easy to see the trade-off between the interest rate paid and the company’s financial background, especially on term deposit and debenture products. You’ll quite often see a 3 or 4 per cent gap on interest rate paid on term deposits by major banks and debenture products from small investment companies.

When considering putting your hard-earned cash into an investment company, you need to be more astute about the institution and its financial reputation. Ask yourself about the company’s ability to pay interest promised, as well as the principal when needed by you.

The newspapers may report the current cash rate of 6.25 per cent (at the time of writing), yet your company can offer an attractive 9 or 10 per cent. You should expect a higher level of risk associated with this type of investment.

It may be that your money is invested into mezzanine funds which banks are unwilling to lend against. In the unfortunate event of the investment company going belly-up, you must realise that banks have first claim against the assets, with you, as a private investor, coming in on the secondary level.

Security versus Reputation
As we can see, different assessments are required when you’re investing your cash and borrowing some funds for your property. Most mortgage originators securitise their loans so most of their assets are transferable if the real estate lender goes out of business for whatever reason. They’ll simply sell off their loan portfolio to another lender or investor (such as an insurance company or mortgage trust) or secure their portfolio as a mortgage-backed security (MBS).

MBS is an asset-backed security whose cash flows are backed by the principal and interest payment of a set of mortgages. These payments are typically made monthly over the lifetime of the underlying loans.

When your loan is administered by a new lender, they may reconsider the products structure and may offer you a new product as a substitute for your current product. This can become a hassle for you if there are significant changes in pricing and flexibilities of the new product offered. However, the mortgage lending arena in Australia is highly regulated, with many areas of legislation ensuring the rights of the consumer are met.

As an overall, when we look at security versus reputation, we clearly see that major banks offer both. Even though you may not be sure about a lender’s security, you can’t afford not to research the lending institution’s reputation.

Santee Village Downtown Los Angeles

A new horizon is opening up in the LA real estate market at what is now know as the Santee Village Historic Loft residences and condominium apartments. A wonderfully planned and designed real estate property in the heart of downtown LA, the Santee Village lofts and homes are now accepting priority registrations.

There are a number of things home buyers look for when selecting a perfect home for their family and for themselves. In many ways, especially in the city of Los Angeles, California, the location and urban amenities on site and off site are of utmost importance. Safety, security and affordability also rank very highly from the perspective of prospective home buyers. This is whey the Santee Village historic lofts and residence apartments in downtown Los Angeles have a key advantage over other LA pre-construction loft condo property developments. Not only is the Santee Village Textile Building Lofts and The Santee condominiums conveniently located in one of the most exciting and revived LA districts of all time, but they are also functional and affordable for all. New construction, fine finishes and low maintenance living in this urban city are all available at the Santee Village LA loft residences at the Textile Building as well as the Santee Condo tower apartment residences. Currently, it is known that there will be two buildings that will be ready next year at the Santee Village in downtown Los Angeles which include the Textile Building as well as the Santee Condominium residences in this historic avenue of boutique shops, retail, residential communities and entertainment.

More about the Textile Building and Santee Historic Lofts in the Santee Village

The initial pricing guide has these luxurious historic loft style residences set for the three hundred thousand US dollar range. An LA real estate property development by MJW Investments in collaboration with the Phoenix Realty Group, the sales and marketing web site for the Santee Village Textile Building and Santee residences are produced by Macy + Associates. True loft living at the Los Angeles Santee Loft residences and Textile buildings are available for purchase soon at an average size of eight hundred and seventy five spacious square feet with modern amenities, fine finishes and the most luxurious appointments interior. An urban village community with landscaped promenade, market and retail space, sidewalk cafes and restaurants and more will line up along the streets around your private loft home at the Santee Village Los Angeles real estate property development and Textile Building lofts. The neighbourhood that surrounds you at the Santee Village historic lofts and residences at the Textile building in Santee Alley, the Flower Mart, Fashion District and Staples Center. With rooftop pool, basketball, barbeque and golf areas for recreational fun, the Santee Village LA historic loft residence community is a great place to enjoy life and have fun with family and friends. The Textile Building at Santee Village lofts will be of great design and construction throughout both the exterior building and interior finishes. A new way of living life downtown Los Angeles real estate properties are now available at the Santee Village Textile Building and Santee historic loft residences, so why wait to register?

Final comments about the LA Santee Village lofts

For more information and real estate property construction updates to the Textile Building and Santee loft style residence properties, please join the priority list today online at their marketing and sales website santeevillage.com/contact/InterestList.aspx. The interest list for the Santee Village historic lofts and apartments are filling up quickly. In addition, you can contact a sales representative for the Textile Building and Los Angeles Santee Lofts real estate properties at 213-624-1640 or sales@santeevillage.com. The physical location of the Santee LA Village lofts and residences is located at 716 South Los Angeles Street in Suite D in California 90014. You can view a Google map with directions online. In addition, the sales and marketing team for the Santee Village in downtown LA California suggests that you pre-qualify for your mortgage first before visiting the presentation center for purchase. There is a downloadable PDF application for pre-qualification online at santeevillage.com/contact/prequalify.htm through the preferred lender for Santee Village LA which is Countrywide Home Loans.

Taylor Midtown Brownstones Townhomes

Going back to the age of the famous brownstone and all-brick finished homes and residences, the Midtown Brownsones in Taylor Michigan are the latest in the Detroit MI real estate development market when it comes to luxurious and traditional townhomes and townhouses for sale.

As part of the significant New England lifestyle and history of architectural features and distinguished homes and townhouses, the Taylor Michigan Midtown Brownstones and townhomes brings back an era that has been lost in the development of pre-construction condominium projects in downtown city cores. For families and couples looking for something unique and something traditional, the Midtown Brownstones in Taylor Michigan present a great townhome and town house option that is often preferred over the pre-construction condo sales because of the exciting open floor plans, privacy and innovate interior design and layouts that maximize space and light. The Midtown Brownstones townhomes in Taylor MI are very close to Detroit Michigan, so if you live and play in the city, don’t worry, this real estate property community is close to everything you want. Rich in character, traditional in finishes and carefree low maintenance living is now available at the Taylor Midtown Brownstones and homes condominiums that present great value, long lasting style and convenience for all brown stone residents here.

An overview of the brownstones at Midtown in Taylor Michigan

Launched back in 2003 during a interesting real estate construction and conversion project, the Midtown Brownstones in the beautiful city of Taylor near Detroit Michigan presents the Midtown Brownstones of Taylor where you and your family can now move into a traditional and stylish townhome style house that will forever remain one of the most classy and elegant Detroit real estate properties in recent history. Featuring two bed, three bedroom and four bdr brownstone homes that have one to three bathrooms, the Midtown Taylor Brownstones is a fine collection of townhouses that will range from two thousand two hundred square feet approximately (try getting that size of a townhome in the city anywhere at this price) and will range from one hundred and sixty seven thousand nine hundred USD per brownstone midtown home in Taylor Michigan which is great value for any new construction property. Again, this property in Taylor MI is part of the Internest plan and you can receive up to one percent off your final purchase of a brownstone home here in Midtown real estate development by going through Inest. The Taylor Midtown Brownstone town homes and houses are located at 22668 Goddard Road in Taylor in Central Detroit, Michigan.

Contact information for the Midtown Brownstones in MI

For more information, you can still visit the sales office for the townhomes at Midtown that are located at 26500 Northwestern Highway, Suite 370 in Southfield Michigan 48076. The real estate development team behind the Midtown Brownstone homes in Taylor MI are the Taylor Pardee Associates LLC. The sales center is open daily between 12 noon and 6pm and you can call or email to book an appointment today with the brownstone sales representatives at 313.292.3330. You can also visit the Brownstone Midtown website for detailed instructions on how to get to the real estate properties in Detroit Michigan along with a detailed map with directions and a photo gallery of the townhome interiors and exteriors all online. There is also a three hundred a sixty degree virtual tour of the Detroit real estate properties at the Taylor Midtown Brownstones on their web site. With large kitchens and living quarters in addition to custom designed interiors, the Midtown Brownstones are a collection of townhouses and town homes that will fit any growing family looking for more than what a starter home can offer them in Taylor Michigan or anywhere in Detroit for that matter. With the highest quality building materials and finishes as well as a variety of amenities to suit your individual needs, the Midtown Taylor Brownstones and townhomes in Michigan are beautifully finished with brick and vinyl trim and provide private entrances to residences through metal doors. Also, all brownstones at Midtown townhomes in Taylor will have two car garages in addition to highly efficient gas furnaces/fireplaces, lush carpeting, Merrillat cabinets, GE appliances, exterior lighting and great storage areas just to name a few features.

Financing options for the Taylor Midtown Brown Stone Homes

If you are serious about purchasing a townhome at the brownstones in Taylor Michigan, now is the time to see what kind of finance options you have for mortgages and pre-approval. Firstly, the first program for your home ownership at the Taylor Midtown Brownstones will include no down payment whatsoever if you are comfortable with the payment plan which allows many first time home buyers and families to get into the Detroit real estate market today. Secondly, the Midtown Brownstones in Taylor Michigan also offer a lower interest rate of 1.5% lower than the average current rate for thirty year mortgage terms which again is a great option for families seeking a townhome/townhouse or brownstone home in Midtown Taylor MI.

More Eastern United States Condominium properties and real estate communites are listed here.

Tips on Saving for a Real Estate Down Payment

For many first-time home buyers, the thought of saving a substantial amount of money for a downpayment can seem overwhelming. But there are several ways to make a down payment a lot easier and have you into your new home faster than you’d ever imagine. Published in the New Home Buyers Guide January 19 – February 02, 2007 on Page 22.

Invest in yourself first
No doubt you think that paying your monthly bills is an important financial commitment. Like most people, you may also consider savings or investments to be purely optional.

However, if you can commit yourself to paying everyone else, you can make the same commitment to yourself. Set up a savings or investment plan and start making payment to it, just as you do for other creditors.

Re-organize your finances and you may find the money you need to collect for the purchase of your first home. Often times, finding some extra money for savings is as easy as reorganizing your budget. Managing your money a little differently perhaps by consolidating your debts, can sometimes free up the extra money you need.

Consider tapping into your RRSPs
RRSPs are a good way to secure your financial future while enjoying the tax benefits today. As a first-time home buyer (or if you haven’t owned a home in the previous five calendar years) you may qualify for the government approved RRSP Home Buyers Plan that allows you to use your RRSP savings toward the purchase of a home. If eligible, you and your spouse may withdraw up to $20,000 each from funds that have been in your RRSPs for at least 90 days.

The funds aren’t taxed as long as you repay the total amount to your RRSP over the next 15 years. Your payments don’t have to start until the second year after the initial withdrawal.

Use GICs to help you save
GICs offer you competitive rates of return and offer a safe, secure way to grow your savings. For flexibility, you can choose from a variety of terms. Choose non-cashable GICs and your money will be securely tucked away for the term you choose and you won’t be tempted to dip into it.

Another government approved program allows you to have less tax deducted from your regular pay cheque. You’ll benefit from a tax refund each month rather than one lump sum next year.

Every month you’ll have extra cash on hand to add to your downpayment savings on your new home or real estate property and then once you own your home, you’ll be able to make your regular mortgage payments or contribute to your RRSP more easily.

First Time Home Buyer Info

The first time real estate home buyer property purchase tax exemption. First time buyers are exempt from paying the property purchase tax under the following conditions:

1. Price of real estate property is $325,000 (Lower Mainland of Vancouver) or less. For homes between $325,000 and $350,000 an exemption is available on the sliding scale. Above $350,000, there is no exemption available.
2. Mortgage loan to value ratio is 70% or higher.
3. Mortgage term must be for one year or longer.
4. Mortgages held by parents do not qualify.
5. Maximum amount of real estate principal buy down in the first year is $13,000, in the Lower Mainland.
6. Home buyers must not have owned a house anywhere in the world before. If only one client qualifies then only their portion of the home purchase will be eligible for the exemption.
7. Home buyers must have been a resident of B.C. for at least one year, or have filed tax returns as a resident of B.C. for two of the last six years.
8. If home purchasers move out of the home prior to their one year anniversary, a portion of the Property Tax will be payable.

The price and savings for this tax exemption for first time home buyers of real estate properties:
$325,000 = $4,500
$275,000 = $3,500
$250,000 = $3,000
$200,000 = $2,000
$150,000 = $1,500
$100,000 = $1,000
$50,000 = $500

For more information about Real Estate Checklists and Tips for Real Estate Investment Condos in the United States and Canada, click here.

Klahanie – Polygon’s Master Planned Urban Villages

The New Year promises golden moments at the Canoe Club. Straight from the Klahanie The Village News 5.0 sent in January 2007.

Now that the leaves have turned from green to gold, the thoughts of Klahanie’s residents have also turned towards leisure activities more suited to cooler days. Fortunately, they have the exclusive Canoe Club right on their doorstep. Unlike anything else in the area, Klahanie’s spectacular 15,000 square foot facility is reminiscent of a grand West Coast lodge offering all the amenities you would expect to find in a world-class resort.

What’s your pleasure? Stay in shape in the fully equipped fitness studio with universal gym, free weights and cardio machines. Meet friends in the great room by the cultured stone fireplace, followed by a friendly game of billiards? Relax in the spa? All you need to do is decide.

“The Canoe Club is a year round celebration of West Coast living,” says Ralph Archibald, the Senior Vice Pesident of Sales and Marketing. Indigo homeowners Aiden and Candace Zanini are thrilled to be Canoe Club members … “What a treat to have our very own neighbourhood ‘oasis’ to escape to,” says Candace with a smile.

The Canoe Club is well suited for special events with a full-equipped kitchen and bar with catering access to the lounge and great room. There’s also a multi-purpose room ideal for smaller celebrations. It even has fully furnished suites available for out of town guests.

“The Canoe Club is the social jewel in Klahanie’s crown,” says Archibald. “It’s the place to meet friends, neighbours, and other residents in a really magnificent setting.”

Klahanie – Community and Nature in Balance

As part of its commitment to sound environmental practises, Polygon Klahanie Development Ltd. Meticulously planned and designed Klahanie to integrate seamlessly and sensitively with the neighborhood’s existing natural features and ecosystem. The Stormwater Management Plan at Klahanie, explained below, is a prime example of this Klahanie care and attention to the environment.

Because Klahanie is located adjacent to the sensitive water systems and eco-habitats of Burrard Inlet and Pigeon Creek, traditional stormwater management methods in the community would have placed undue stress on these environments around Klahanie. Instead, Polygon Klahanie Development Ltd. Implemented innovative water management practises that control and balance the gathering and release of stormwater from the Klahanie community.

Key features and practises of Klahanie’s Environmental Management Plan
- Maintenance and enhancement of Klahanie’s protected natural eco-habitat area.
- Stormwater Management Plan separates clean and dirty water. The clean, biofiltered water becomes part of the Klahanie waterway feature.
- Indigenous species used in the landscape minimize the need for irrigation at Klahanie real estate properties
- Permeable pavers help maintain the blanace of on-site stormwater.
- The abundant trees and plants provide natural filtration and regulation of on-site stormwater retention.
- Tree Retention Program treats and protects mature trees and indigenous species.
- Bike lane to encourage green transport methods, such as walking, and cycling, and bus lane for convenient transit access to and from the Klahanie community.

Boardwalk – The Spirit of Coastal Living

Imagine coastal contemporary apartments close to an ocean inlet bordered by shoreline parks. A real estate community rich in natural beauty. Serence, restful, yet resonant with an urban vibe. Shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants and every conceivable amenity conveniently close. This is Boardwalk at Klahanie – and it’s selling fast!

Since opening in the summer, real estate home buyers from across the Lower Mainland have been thrilled to discover these coastal contemporary two and three-bedroom homes. In fact, the Boardwalk at Klahanie sales program has been so successful, that the final real estate building is already over 80% sold!

Innovative, open-planned interiors flood with light from expansive windows. Warm fireplaces and plush carpeting promise cozy evenings. Gourmet kitchens inspire with beautiful laminate wood flooring granite countertops. And soaker tubs wait to pamper in luxurious ensuites.

Boardwalk at Klahanie’s spacious balconies or ground floor patios are ideal for informal outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying the fresh air and Klahanie’s lush coastal setting.

For sales information, please call 604-931-3833 or visit the Boardwalk sales centre located at 701 Klahanie Drive between noon and 5pm daily except Friday.

Nahanni at Klahanie – Coming Soon!

Polygon’s vision for Klahanie continues to become reality. Home buyers eagerly waiting for the next high point in the community can look forward to Nahanni – a highly anticipated concrete tower scheduled to commence sales early this year.

This soaring West Coast inspired concrete tower will feature a deluxe collection of two bedroom homes of impeccable tastes and uncompromising quality. In every aspect, every detail, excellence is the single standard. Spacious interiors will flood with natural light from floor to ceiling windows that also offer truly dramatic panoramic views of the North Shore Mountains and Burrard Inlet. Exquisite features include polished granite countertops, sleek stainless steel appliances, elegant imported tile floors, luxurious soaker tubs, expansive decks and patios, and much more.

Home owners will enjoy impressive resort-style amenities at the spectacular 15,000 square foot Canoe Club, including outdoor pool and spa, tennis courts, movie room, and other spectacular facilities. In addition, Nahanni residents will also enjoy exclusive access to 3,000 square feet of their own in-building amenities, featuring private health club, artisan studio, and roof top garden.

Stunning apartment residences in a concrete tower located at the head of Burrard Inlet in vibrant Port Moody. Nahanni at Klahanie is a real estate opportunity not to be missed.

To pre-register for this exciting new Klahanie community, please call the Nahanni hotline at 604-871-4126.

Polygon’s Real Estate Developer – Commitment to Port Moody

Polygon Klahanie Development Ltd. Is well into the process of completing a master-planned community that is already a significant asset to both the community’s residents and Port Moody as a whole.

Driven by their commitment to making a valuable and enduring contribution to the city, Polygon Homes consulted with the public and private interests throughout the original real estate planning process. Today, with hundreds of homeowners now in residence at Klahanie, it is proving to be a positive influence on Port Moody’s economy and quality of life.

The Polygon Group of Companies are deeply committed to buyers in all their communities. Now, in a third decade of homebuilding in BC, they’re more dedicated than ever to leadership in construction quality and homeowner satisfaction. The Polygon family of real estate companies, British Columbia owned and operated since 1980, has built more than 15,000 homes throughout the Lower Mainland, and has earned the trust of thousands of families through their focus on quality design and sound construction.

Polygon – www.polyhomes.com

Port Moody – Urban Village Meets the Great Outdoors

Port Moody is an exciting mix of city sophistication and small town ambience brought together in a spectacular natural setting. All this makes life at Klahanie just right. For active residents, the neighbourhood offers endless ways to keep fit and burn calories. How about an early morning run along Rocky Point Park? An invigorating kayaking expedition along Burrard Inlet? Or exploring forest trails by foot or pedal power? The possibilities are endless.

Those who prefer a more relaxed pace have equal opportunities for a leisurely lifestyle. Meet friends for lunch in nearby Newport Village. Browse the boutiques and shops on St. John’s. Soak up the sun on a sandy beach. Take in a show at the Arts Centre. You need never have a dull moment in this vibrant urban village that has such a close relationship to the natural world.

“The outdoor West Coast atmosphere waterfront location and having every modern amenity nearby is very appealing to home buyers,” says Ralph Archibald, Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing. “Also, as many Klahanie residents commute to work outside of Port Moody, they appreciate the close proximity to the West Coast Express, regular bus services and highway links.”

Klahanie
For more information, please call Boardwalk at 604.931.3833
Polygon Boardwalk Development Ltd.
Polygon Klahanie Development Ltd.
Polygon Nahanni Development Ltd.

Arboretum View Seattle Homes

An already completed Seattle real estate development property at Arboretum View is now available for home purchasers and renters. If you would like more information about the Arboretum View Homes in Seattle WA, please read below for more details and updates on available unit residences.

As Seattle braces for the new condominium boom that has seen an explosion in the real estate market in the United States, the Arboretum View Homes and residence condominiums are a different sort of real estate development property in Seattle WA that is fit for families, retired couples and people looking for something other than a starter home. On the market right now in Seattle WA is the Arboretum View Homes and residential community that will feature one and two bedroom homes in an ideal location in the Emerald City along the Pacific Northwest. Ideally situated in the Madison district of Seattle Washington, the Arboretum View residence homes and Seattle real estate properties will have some of the best construction and design work that you will see in homes in the market today. Already completed, these one and two bed room home residences at Arboretum View Seattle apartments properties are priced between an affordable mid two hundred thousand to the mid four hundred thousand us dollar range. The physical address of the Seattle Arboretum View Homes is at 2512 East Madison Street in Seattle WA 98112. You can visit the Williams Marketing Group web site for more detailed directions and a map on how to reach the Arboretum View Seattle homes development community.

More about the Seattle WA Arboretum View condominium style homes

With immediate occupancy available for all homes and residences at this Seattle real estate property, home buyers and renters will be able to take note of a great long and short term investment in real estate in Washington Sate. The sales office for the Arboretum View Seattle home residences will be open between the hours of eleven to five on Saturday through to Thursday every week. In addition, the community development sales manager for the Seattle Arboretum View residence condominium apartment homes is Aaron and he can be reached at 206.325.5605 and their sales office fax number is 206.325.5604. For a great virtual tour of the Arboretum View condominium style family homes, please visit the following URL web site circlepix.com/tour.htm?id=452260&refurl=williamsmarketing.com where you can view the property details, slideshow image gallery, virtual images, Seattle real estate listing details, printable brochures and to download the VR tour. To contact a sales agent that can help you with your purchase decision for the Seattle Arboretum View homes and residences, please visit the following website to submit your enquiry: williamsmarketing.com/comm_arboretumview/contactagent.html.

The Home Types and Features at Arboretum Seattle Properties

For more details about the interior and exterior features and finishes provided by this Seattle WA real estate property by Williams Marketing Group, please visit their web page at williamsmarketing.com/comm_arboretumview/comm_arboretumview.html for a listing of features. Firstly, the location within the Madison area district community of Seattle makes the Arboretum View homes ideally situated close to the Lake Washington area, Arboretum Park and Trader Joes as well as with very close access to major freeways such as SR 520 as well as I-5. The interior features of the homes at Arboretum View Seattle WA will include tiled or hardwood kitchen flooring depending on the condominium residence unit you choose as well as washer and dryers in every unit. The Seattle Arboretum View Homes will also feature an elevator, secure access parking, kitchen cabinetry that is high-end and full height, granite tiled counters, painting and closet organizers for the oversized storage area. For more information about the current condominium boom and condo residence market in Seattle Washington, Williams Marketing has clipped a newspaper article on this latest craze in the real estate market here: williamsmarketing.com/media_news/CondoBoomJustStartingExpertsSay.pdf.

Floorplans at the Seattle Arboretum View Homes and Properties

There are numerous floor plan layouts available at this property including Floorplan 101 condominiums at Arboretum View Seattle which a one bedroom and one bathroom condo unit with a pantry, kitchen, large deck and entry way with storage area and laundry room. The Seattle Arboretum View Condominium Homes will also feature floor plans 602 is a luxurious condo home that includes two beds, two baths, a kitchen pantry, living room, large wrap around deck in addition to a smaller deck off the master bedroom. There are actually seventeen different floor plan layouts offered at the Seattle Arboretum View condominium homes and you can download PDFs of all these configurations online at the following web site address: williamsmarketing.com/comm_arboretumview/floorplans.html. Get on it today as the Arboretum View condo homes and residences are selling quickly in this hot Seattle real estate market in Washington State.

If you are interested in reading more about other Seattle real estate and pre-construction condos in Washington State, please click here.

Excuses, excuses when it comes to real estate investing …

When it comes to property real estate investment, it really is true that “anyone can do it”. Is it time to challenge some of your erroneous beliefs? Story by Michaela Ryan written for the December edition of the Australian real estate magazine called API.

I can’t afford to invest in a real estate property at the moment. Because I’m a single parent. A student. A low income earner. I’m single. I have four kids. Do any of these sound familiar? For just about every excusive you might think of, API has at one stage or another profiled a real estate investor to prove you wrong. Whether it’s your first property or your fifth, there are practical ways to overcome any obstacles you think are standing in your way. API regularly presents techniques for investing when you mightn’t have much home equity, cash flow or time. The scope of this article isn’t the practical things you can do, but the mental shift you need to make in order to succeed in property real estate investing.

Last month, we looked at some positive beliefs that tend to lead to success. Now it’s time to consider whether there are any negative beliefs standing in your way.

What is a belief?

Behavioural science expert Philippa Bond, CEO of Inform Training and Research, says beliefs aren’t substantial facts, although people mistakenly think they are.

“A belief is usually formed by anywhere between one or three experiences that occur, that the individual looks back on retrospectively and then formulates a belief based on (those incidences),” she explains. For example, Bond suggests a person might hear that everyone else is getting a much better return on their real estate property investment. Then they might have a bad experience with tenants. And they might go on to purchase another dud property or real estate investment. So any or all of these incidents might lead them to form a belief that they’re no good at property investing. Making a link between the events, they think that their belief is a fact.

The belief is not a fact, as it would be easy to do some learning and research and become quite good at property investments and real estate. But they never find this out, because their beliefs puts an end to their property investing. Alternatively, they keep investing, but all the time they’re telling themselves that they’re no good at it. “The pre-disposition of that belief being validated increases enormously,” Bond says.

How can you change a belief?

Bond says in order to change a belief, you need to think through its consequences. If the consequences are unsatisfactory enough, you might be prompted to change the belief.

So if you currently believe “I won’t ever be wealthy”, what are the consequences of that belief going to be? Perhaps you won’t ever develop a savings or investment plan. That might mean in 10 years’ time you’ll still be living in your current apartment or home. It might mean yuou’ll never get to take your family overseas. And in 30 years’ time you might be retiring to live on the pension – without a great quality of life.

If you’re spooked by any of the consequences, you’ll probably change your mindset. You might start to believe that you actually can be wealthy. There are plenty of practical things you can do to build your wealth. But until you alter that limiting belief, you’re never going to get off the ground. Now let’s look at some other examples of beliefs you might need to challenge when it comes to investing in property and real estate.

1. I can’t afford to invest“Some people say, ‘I can’t really afford it.” Says John McGrath. CEO of McGrath Estate Agents and author of You Inc. “The reality is you could have a lot more home equity than you think in your first property, and you might be able to borrow against it.” He adds, “Funnily enough, I think it’s as much about your belief and your strategy as it is about your financial capacity. I know people that are earning $50,000 or $60,000 a year that have bought two properties and real estate investments over the last six or seven years. And I know people that are earning $250,000 and they still have no assets or real estate investments.

“It’s not necessarily about how much you earn, it’s about how much you have the ability to save and how disciplined you are in your approach to your financial affairs.”

2. Property real estate is so unaffordable these days
If you listen to certain sections of the media on real estate and property, you’ll believe that property ownership is out of reach for most Australians and North Americans.

“it’s a very interesting psychological barrier – this ridiculous word called ‘affordability’,” says Bond. She suggests that affordability doesn’t actually mean anything; it’s only relative to your net worth, and your ability to access money. So the first thing you might need to do is define what affordable means to you. “Something that’s affordable has nothing to do with the price. Whether something is affordable or not has got everything to do with a cost benefit analysis,” Bond argues.

In other words, you don’t need to get a ‘bargain’ in order for a real estate property to be affordable. “If the return on the investment real estate property is going to be strong enough, and you have access to the funds for that property, then it’s affordable to you.”

3. Property homes can’t go up any more
McGrath regularly hears people say they don’t believe property real estate prices can go up any more. He recalls hearing the same thing 20 years ago when he was starting out in the real estate business. At an open inspection for a studio apartment in Centennial Park, he overheard someone say, “This is like a tiny room. How in the future will anyone pay more than $15,000 or $20,000 for a studio apartment?”

“Of course today that’s probably worth $220,000 or $240,000 for the same apartment. And someone walking in there today might be inclined to say the same thing,” he says. “I think you’ve just got to follow the trends, see that there are certain real estate assets – predominantly I think it’s real estate property and blue chip shares – that over a period of time have had a very consistent growth cycle that is dependable. There are some things that have faltered – I think you can buy risky shares. I think you can buy risky property. But if you stick with well located property and blue chip stocks, I thin you’re guaranteed the same cycle that generations before have enjoyed.”

4. Property’s too difficult to liquidate
Bond says many people believe that real estate property investments takes much more time and money to sell than other types of investments. She challenges this belief by saying, “(If) the contacts are in place, you can turn over a real estate property at a party! You get an exchange (of contracts) the next day. You then demand a 10 per cent release on the deposit … which gives you instant cash there and then.

“But if you have a managed fund, it can take anywhere between 14 days and 21 days to be able to get your money out.” “The shortest property settlement in real estate is going to be 30 days. But even it if goes up to 60 days, you’ve got it locked in by a legal contract real estate which is very difficult to get out of.”

This is only hypothetical, of course, and Bond isn’t arguing that real estate property is any better or worse than a managed fund. However, she makes the point that property investments can be liquidated (turned into money) a lot faster than many people would imagine. If a vendor is ambitious about getting a high price, then it might take a long time to sell a property or real estate investment home. But that’s a problem that’s easily avoided by keeping realistic price expectations from the start.

5. I don’t pick the best properties or real estate
Bond is impatient with people who believe that they aren’t good at choosing decent real estate. “If you don’t pick the best properties, it’s because you’re lazy,” she says. “There are so many magazines, so many reports. It’s so easy to pick the right properties and investments in real estate markets. You’ve just got to do your research. “(Someone might argue) ‘Yes but I don’t want to pay for the median price reports’. Well-pick the wrong properties then!”

Where to from here?

If you think through the consequences of any of these beliefs, they don’t auger well for your success in property investments in real estate. However, you can turn them around whenever you like. John McGrath suggests, “Use (your limiting beliefs) as a catalyst for developing specific solutions that help you move forward.”

“So if something concerns me or I don’t get a great feeling about it, it doesn’t always mean I won’t go forward on it. It often means, I’ll just ask myself the question, ‘what is it about this particular strategy or transaction that I’m uncomfortable with?’ And (I’ll” sit down on my own or with my advisors and say, ‘how can I get beyond this?’ “Sometimes there’s no solution and you’re better to not go ahead. But a lot of the time you’ll find there is (a solution),” McGrath says.

For example, if you believe you couldn’t cope with an interest rate rise in real estate, the solution would be to lock into a fixed rate home mortgage. Or if you believe you can’t afford another real estate property investment, you might resolve to see a lender to find out how much you can borrow. That way you can act based on the facts, not beliefs.

Plymouth Michigan’s Daisy Square Townhomes and Luxury Loft Condominiums

The Detroit real estate development team for the Daisy Square Loft Condos and Townhomes in Plymouth MI is Joseph Freed Homes who have developed some of the most spectacular and affordable family oriented communities this decade. The Daisy Square Plymouth Townhouses and Loft Residences are still available for sale right now.

One of the most historical real estate development projects in recent memory in Detroit Michigan or at least close to it, the Daisy Square townhomes and luxury loft residence condos present traditional and historic condo homes for those who truly appreciate what this site meant to the township of Plymouth back in the eighteen hundreds and early 1900s. With more than two hundred years of history behind the Plymouth community, a new chapter begins with the Joseph Free Homes Daisy Square Loft Condominiums and townhomes/townhouses that are now available to families and couples who want to make their own history and carry on the traditions of the old city Plymouth Michigan lifestyle. For current exterior and interior photos of the Plymouth Daisy Square townhomes, please visit the following Plymouth web site marketing at internest.com/xyz/deeplink_fr.asp?T=P&PID=13107&BID=1878&SID=22&MID=39&L=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Edaisysquare%2Ecom%2Fresidences%2Ehtml&O=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Einternest%2Ecom%2Fdaisysquare%2Fdaisysquare13107%2Easp%3Fsource%3Dnco%7Eg%3D5%7Et%3Dmi. In addition, you can find more construction photos of the Daisy Square luxury loft residence condominiums in Plymouth Michigan online at internest.com/xyz/deeplink_fr.asp?T=P&PID=13107&BID=1878&SID=22&MID=39&L=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Edaisysquare%2Ecom%2Fresidences%2Ehtml&O=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Einternest%2Ecom%2Fdaisysquare%2Fdaisysquare13107%2Easp%3Fsource%3Dnco%7Eg%3D5%7Et%3Dmi. Again, a spectacular Joseph Free Homes Detroit real estate development, the Daisy Square Loft Condominiums and Townhomes will become a significant part of the culture and modern living spaces of Plymouth Michigan near Detroit for decades to come.

An overview of the Joseph Freed Homes Daisy Square real estate development

When you ask a home buyer what is most important about a Detroit real estate property development, the answer usually consists of the following: pricing, location, amenities/features and intangibles. Firstly, the pricing of the Daisy Square Condominium Lofts and Townhomes will be between two hundred and fifteen thousand to three hundred and forty thousand US dollars per residence which are all new construction projects and available now for sale. You can receive up to 1% off these prices through Internest agency. The second thing about the Plymouth Michigan Daisy Square townhomes and loft condominiums include the square footage that ranges between eleven hundred to one thousand nine hundred and twenty seven sq ft with two bedrooms and two or three bathrooms in either a loft style residence apartment or family townhouse. The Plymouth Daisy Square real estate properties are located at 101 South Union Road in Plymouth Michigan, which is very close to the west metro area of Detroit MI. The luxury loft condominiums at Daisy Square Plymouth MI will range between $215,000s to $345,000s. The luxury Plymouth Daisy Square townhomes and townhouses in this elegant remastering real estate project in Detroit Michigan will range from two hundred and thirty thousand to four hundred thousand US dollars.

The availability of the Plymouth Daisy Square Loft Style Condominiums

Here is a short listing of available Daisy Square Loft Condos on the Detroit real estate market as of December 2006. On the first floor, unit Plan E (two bed and two bath at 1038 sq ft) are available at floorplan 101E, 103E, 104E, 106E and floor plan B at Daisy Square Lofts (at nine hundred and ten sq ft) is avilalbe at 116B. the Plymouth real estate Daisy Square Loft Condominiums Plan C is between one thousand and twenty three sq ft to one thousand one hundred and thirty seven sq ft and features one bed plus a flex room or optional second bedroom with 1.5 baths and is available on the first floor of the Daisy Square Condo Lofts in Plymouth at 110C with a very similar plan model D at 111D. Floorplan L is a spacious two and two at Daisy Square Loft residences at one thousand five hundred and fifty square footage. Also, floor plan J at Unit 107J is a spacious two bedroom plus a flex den and two bathrooms at 1371 square footage. Also on the first floor of the Plymouth Detroit real estate Daisy Square Loft Condominiums is floor plan H with 1395 sq ft of living space. On the second and third floors, Daisy Square Plymouth Loft residence condos still features these available units: 01E – 05E, 17B, 16B, 12L and 11D.

The Townhomes at Daisy Square Plymouth Michigan

There are four different model suite floorplans for the townhouses at the Plymouth Daisy Square townhomes that include the Winslow at two beds and two baths in one thousand two hundred and fifty square feet with a garage attached, patio, walk-in closets and an optional den. The Bradford model townhome floor plan at Daisy Square Plymouth MI is slightly larger at one thousand six hundred and fifty eight sq ft and has a loft area in addition to a balcony/deck, large great room and double bowl sinks. The Alden Plymouth Daisy Square townhome residence is even larger at one thousand eight hundred and ninety two square feet and features two beds plus a loft and optional third bedroom with 2.5 baths. Lastly, the Plymouth Michigan townhouses at Daisy Square townhomes will feature the Standish floor plan model with three bedrooms plus a bonus room and 2.5 bathrooms laid out in a very spacious family oriented two thousand four hundred and thirty six square feet.

Condominiums Carleton of Mercer Island

This Seattle real estate development on Mercer Island is one of the first and most exciting properties that offer condominium residences and condo homes. A residential community like no other on Mercer Island, the Carleton Condominium residences features one and two bedroom homes.

You can read more about other Seattle pre-construction condo projects and tower residence apartments here.

As of December 2006, the Carleton Condo homes of Mercer Island, Seattle are ninety percent sold! As one of the hottest and most exciting new real estate developments in all of Washington State, the Mercer Island Carleton Condominiums are located in the center of the business district on this beautiful island. Featuring both 1 and 2 bed room condo residence apartment homes, the Carleton of Mercer Island will only offer sixty condo units to lucky home buyers, of which only ten percent are still available to the general public for purchase. In addition, right now, the real estate developers of the Carleton Condominiums of Mercer Island Seattle will provide special real estate purchase incentives for those who purchase soon. One of these great incentives at the Mercer Island Carleton residence real estate properties in Seattle WA include the development team paying the first four month of your mortgage principle and interest. You will need to speak with a sales agent at the Carleton of Mercer Island Seattle condominiums property development for more details about this once in a lifetime opportunity.

About the Carleton Condos of Mercer Island in Seattle WA

The physical location of the Mercer Island Carleton real estate properties is at 2760 76th Avenue SE on the island in WA, just a boat ride away from central Seattle downtown. Right now, the sales and presentation center for the Mercer Island condominiums at Carleton home residences are open Monday through Wednesday between the hours of twelve noon and five pm in addition to weekends (both Saturday and Sunday) between eleven in the morning until five pm at night. The sales manager for the residential community at Carleton Seattle condominiums on Mercer WA is Anita and you may contact her by telephone at 206.236.5911 for more details about the buyer bonus in addition to available units. At 90% sold already, you will need to act quickly to purchase a home here. The real estate developer and owner of the Carleton Condominiums of Mercer Island is Robert Hardy. For more information about the condominium real estate market in Seattle and Mercer Island, you can download a PDF from the Williams Marketing website with a recent article from a local newspaper: williamsmarketing.com/media_news/CondoBoomJustStartingExpertsSay.pdf. To contact a Williams sales representative for the Mercer Island Carleton Seattle real estate properties, please use this inquiry form online williamsmarketing.com/comm_carltonofmercerisland/contactagent.html. For Mapquest directions and a map to this real estate development on Mercer, please visit the following web address: mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?country=US&addtohistory=&formtype=address&searchtype=address&cat=&address=2760%2076th%20Ave%20Se&city=Mercer%20Island&state=WA&zipcode=98040%2d2760.

The Interior Features and Amenities at Mercer Island’s newest community

At Carleton Condominiums and residence homes, residents can enjoy interior features in their one and two bedroom homes such as large decks and patios with views, wood burning fire places in addition to updated interior designs and modern amenities such as plank siding and large storage units. All residents at the Mercer Island Carleton condo residences will also have secure parking in addition to being located in one of the most convenient and beautiful islands in the Pacific Northwest. Mercer Island has quickly grown into a great urban community with active lifestyles and the Carleton condominiums Seattle real estate development is a perfect example of how urban conveniences meets country living. Just minutes away from downtown Bellevue and Seattle along I-90, the Carleton of Mercer Island condominium homes and residence apartments are close to everything you will do and see while living here.

Floor Plans at the Mercer Island condo community

There are four advertised condominium layouts at Carleton of Mercer Island development. The first is a 2 bed and 2 bath unit covering condominium number 209, 309, 310, 506, 507, 603, 604, 702 and 703 and consists of a large kitchen, separate living and dining rooms in addition to a laundry room and an outdoor deck. Condominiun Unit 308 at the Mercer Island Carleton condo homes is another 2 and 2 with a similar layout as above, but with an additional entry hallway space with storage closet. For Units 103, 203, 303, 511, 512, 608, 609, 706 and 707 at the Carleton of Mercer Island real estate development, there is also a large deck in between each bedroom in addition to a kitchen, dining and living room that are all separate. Units 505 and 602 at the Carleton Mercer Island condominiums have an entry that sweeps right into the living space and balcony and the bedrooms are located on the far side of the unit. Lastly, condo units 510 and 607 at the Seattle Mercer Island Carleton condos is also a 2 bdr and 2 bth unit with expansive dining and living spaces and a deck.

The Victory New York Condo Apartments and Residences

This developed and launched condominium tower at the New York Victory condo tower residences and luxury apartment homes offer a great selection of floor plan layouts as well as in suite features. The luxury Victory condominium residences in New York City are available for purchase and rent.

If you would like to learn more about other New York real estate properties and NY Condos, please click on this link. Also, for more details about other pre-construction condos in the Eastern US, please click here.

The real estate New York development team for The Victory NYC condo homes and apartments is Sidney Fetner Associates (or SFA Properties) who build, own and manage some of the most impressive urban residences and commercial properties. The New York Victory condo residence tower provides affordable condominium homes and apartments in the Manhattan district close to all local conveniences and amenities in addition to being just steps away from the major commercial and retail districts in New York City. The Victory condo residences and apartment homes in New York are located at 561 Tenth Avenue in NY 10036. Also, this condominium tower is considered a new construction New York real estate high-rise residential tower of The Victory property residences provides the most striking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and water both day and night. If you are looking for more information regarding the Victory New York condominium homes and residence properties please visit The NYC Victory web site located at thevictory.com today for details about the lobby, views, amenities, kitchen & bathroom features, floor plans, neighborhood, development team, contact info and Victory residence NY condo availability.

Impressive array of high-rise tower amenities at The Victory New York

This impressive New York real estate development project in the Manhattan district called the Victory condo homes and apartment residences provides a great selection of various building amenities that sometime resemble those of resort style hotels in warm climates. The building amenities at the New York Victory condominium tower residences provides tremendous views from all directions and angles from private homes in addition to a three thousand two hundred square foot fitness center. The Victory New York City residence apartments and condominium tower in Manhattan real estate also provides a half-court basketball and golf driving rnage in addition to a two thousand seven hundred sq ft terraced sundeck that you and your family can enjoy sunbathing or relaxing. There is also a three thousand square foot landscaped Victory Garden where you can sit and read a book or chat with friends at the Victory condo homes and apartment properties in New York City, NY in addition to a convenient laundry facility within the condo tower. The New York City Victory residence tower apartment condo homes and NYC real estate properties will also host an on-site valet parking and a Resident’s Lounge complete with a kitchen, large screen television, pool table and lounge area for parties and entertainment.

Residence Features at the NYC Victory property residences and condominiums

The interior finishes and features provided by the condo apartments at The Victory high-rise residential tower in New York City, NY will provide Energy Star appliances and stainless steel ranges in addition to Uba Tuba luxury and high-end granite counters. In addition, residents at the NY Victory condo apartments and residences in New York City can come to enjoy elegant white oak floors in addition to custom designed kitchen hardware and fine finishes. The residence condominium homes at the Victory New York condo homes will also provide Italian porcelaine stone bath rooms in addition to Kohler fixtures and Lowe glass thermopane windows that will keep energy efficienty high. In addition, there will be high speed internet connections at the Victory New York condo homes and apartment properties which will also be just five minutes away from Times Square, Penn Plaza and everything else that the Manhattan area has to offer.

Floor Plans at the New York Victory condo apartment homes

There are quite a few NYC Victory floor plans and layout configurations to choose from at this New York real estate property which includes Studio floorplans G (on three to seven), Residence L (on floors four through six) as well as floorplan layout N which is on floor four to seven. In addition, there are several alcove studio floorplans at the Victory New York condo tower residences which include Residence B (4-7 and 12 to penthouse level), Residence C (floors 4 – 7), floor plan E (three to seven), F (also three to seven) and floor plan Victory residence I (from floors 3 – 7). There are numerous spacious one bedroom condominium homes at The Victory apartment residences in New York City real estate market with one bathroom which include a bay window, pass through open kitchen concept as well as a linen closet. There are also a great number of two bedroom condo floor plans offered at the New York Victory condominium tower residences and real estate properties which include two bathrooms, den, floor to ceiling bay windos, open kitchen space and linen closets.

Visit the Victory condo residences today

If you would like more information or would like to enquire about the condominium availabilities at the New York Victory real estate residence apartments, please visit their leasing office at 561 10th Avenue south of forty second street. The Victory New York conod tower residence homes are available for leasing, so you must fill out a rental application form online at the NYC Victory web site at thevictory.com today. The Victory New York leasing office is open on Mon through Fri between 11:00am to 7:00pm and they are closed on all weekends. The New York Victory leasing office for condominium and apartment rentals can be reached at 212-695-5505.

Cheshire Park Clarkston Condominiums

Located in the North Metro area of Detroit Michigan, the Abbey Homes real estate development at Cheshire Park in Clarkston MI is now providing special home buyer incentives with great mortgage plans for first time townhome or condo buyers in Detroit MI. The Cheshire Park Condominiums in Clarkston are now in its final release and selling quickly.

The community at Cheshire Park Condominiums actually presents a strong collection of townhomes and townhouses that are great for families that are not looking for starter pre-construction condominium Detroit real estate developments right now. With two bedroom condo style townhomes available at Clarkston Cheshire Park condos, residents and home buyers will have a great say in how the finished product will look with the option of either having a den or a third bedroom in their townhouse residence apartment. In addition, all homes at the Cheshire Park Townhomes in Clarkston near Detroit Michigan will have great rooms that open up onto spacious balconies with great views of the community. All appliances in all homes and townhomes at the Cheshire Park condominium suites in Clarkston will be included including kitchen and laundry appliances, which is very different from other Detroit pre-construction real estate condo projects.

The latest incentive packages for Clarkston Cheshire Park Condominiums

If you and your family are looking to purchase a family townhome within the next few months, Abbey Homes, the Detroit real estate development team behind the Cheshire Park Town Home condos, is providing a special incentive purchase package to home buyers who purchase Condominium suites 315, 316 and 317 at the price of one hundred and sixty nine thousand dollars today. In addition, the special incentives for Clarkston’s Cheshire Park condo townhomes for those three units specified will include free stainless steel upgrades in all kitchen appliances as well as a washer and dryer for the laundry room. Other special incentives for these condominium townhomes at Cheshire Park Clarkston Michigan will include zero down payment for their mortgage pre-approval and approval, five thousand dollars towards closing costs and legal fees in addition to the early termination fee fro the real estate developers, Abbey Homes. Why wouldn’t you want to purchase one of these condominium townhouses today at Cheshire Park Clarkston Michigan? There is no better deal in the Detroit real estate market to date and the purchase of one of these townhomes at Cheshire Park will also include the upgrade to third bedroom in addition to a second full bath room or if you don’t want these optional upgrades, you can get an addition five thousand USD off your purchase price!

About the Cheshire Park Townhomes and Condominiums by Abbey Homes

Located in Clarkston near Detroit Michigan, this real estate property is located in the north metro area at 6375 Waldon Center Drive in Clarkston MI. The real estate condo developer for the townhomes at Cheshire is Abbey Homes, a noted and well experience team that has master minded luxurious liveable and low maintenance communities throughout the state of Michigan. Located close to shopping, downtown historic Clarkston city center and entertainment and recreational options, residents at the Cheshire Park real estate condominiums will live a healthy and active lifestyle here. The unit sizes for the Cheshire Clarkston Park Condominiums will range from one thousand four hundred and eighteen square feet and the pricing range currently is between one hundred and seventy nine thousand, nine hundred and ninety USD to one hundred and ninety six thousand four hundred and forty dollars with special incentives including a one percent off from Internest for any Cheshire Park Clarkston townhome residence condominium homes through them. Available for immediate occupancy, the Clarkston real estate properties at Cheshire townhomes are perfect for any family or couple looking at growing. Profesional landscaping, close to dining, shopping, schools, golf course, and with garages, garbage pickup, hiking and biking trails, internet and snow removal services, these are some of the Clarkston Michigan Detroit real estate features at the Cheshire Park Condominiums of note.

Model Homes at the Cheshire Park Condo Townhomes in Michigan

There are three current model townhomes available at the MI Detroit Cheshire Park real estate properties near Detroit Michigan that includes the Carlyle model suite floor plan that consists of two beds and 1.5 baths with 1418 square footage and three stories and one car parking garage. Actually, the other two model homes at Cheshire Park Condominiums townhomes in Clarkston called the Baldwin and Asbury are also one thousand four hundred and eighteen sq ft with three stories and two brd and 1.5 baths. There are multiple unit homes for each floor plan on sale right now by Abbey Homes and for the current pricing of these Cheshire Park Condominiums, please visit the following Abbey Homes availability web site at premier.homebuilder.com/Detroit/hr.asp?head=YES&bid=0808&sid=8392. As you will see, the Clarkston Detroit Abbey Homes Cheshire Park condominiums will range between an affordable $169,900 to $190,065 and will be made available for move-in between January 10th to April 1st, 2007.

Squamish Real Estate for 2007

Are you in the market to purchase some recreational real estate in Squamish, or a real estate investment opportunity in time for the Whistler-Vancouver 2010 Olympic Games? If so, check out the following Squamish condominium real estate developments either in pre-construction or under development already.

More information about Squamish real estate and West Vancouver properties are available online at this link.

Amble Path
A better life in the heart of nature and the wilderness is what Squamish Amble Path real estate properties will provide you and your family. Amblepath is about first rate living in SQuamish BC which features eight different family home styles and designs for you as a home buyer can choose from.

Arbour Woods
Already sold out, the Arbour Woods Squamish real estate development featured thirty six unit duplex apartments with three bedroom homes around sixteen hundred square feet. Real stone exterior in addition to stainless steel appliances and open concept floor plans were the distinct features of Squamish Arbour Woods real estate properties.

Bracken Arms Estates
Life in the great outdoors with all the comforts of home is what Bracken Arms Estates in Squamish can provide you. The Bracken Arms Estates are located in Squamish British Columbia and offer twenty eight home sites that start from $249,900 and public sales only started in November 25th, 2006.

Edgewater
The Squamish Edgewater real estate properties featured home sites and townhome plans for real estate investors and home buyers in the Squamish to Whistler corridor. Featuring a great location with an amazing natural setting amongst old growth forests, water and mountains, the Edgewater Squamish properties sold out very quickly.

Ravens Plateau
The Squamish Ravens Plateau at Garibaldi provides craftsman homes offering style, comfort, security and elegance with full size lots and only five percent down required. Squamish’s premier residential community, there are still some real estate properties for sale at University Height’s Ravens Plateau at Garibaldi, so visit their presentation centre today for more information.

Redpoint Living
One of the newest real estate developments and master planned communities in Squamish, BC is the Redpoint Living properties located near rock climbing, central amenities, biking, hiking, beach walking and kite surfing. With townhomes and condominium real estate residences on sale right now, visit the Redpoint Squamish presentation centre today. A Kingswood Properties Ltd. With Sotheby’s International Realty, SQuamish Redpoint condominiums and townhomes are hot.

River’s Walk
SQuamish’s newest real estate community consists of fifty eight luxury townhomes at River’s Walk that is centrally located with glacier and forest views. Over 2,000 square foot homes and real estate properties with garages and basements are available at the River’s Walk Squamish properties with even your personal workspace or added living space.

Rockcliff at Eaglewind
A rare luxurious apartment homes real estate development in the heart of Squamish is coming to the Rockcliff at Eaglewind, the next epic landmark in Squamish near Whistler, BC. With one and two bedroom homes starting from $229,900, there will be eighty contemporary apartment homes available at the Rockcliff at Eaglewind. For other two and three bedroom townhomes and homes opportunities in Squamish, please visit the Talon at Eaglewind.

Skye
The first release of homes in this master planned innovative community of townhomes and classic apartments was sold out very quickly. Called the Skye Squamish, these steel and concrete apartments are some of the finest designed and built condo apartments in this town. Check out phase 2 for other real estate opportunities.

Soleil
Soleil is the second phase in this Squamish master-planned community of classic town homes and condominium apartment units that will feature one hundred and sixty two apartments and only sixty four townhome residences. A striking new collection of West Coast architecture and design just thirty minutes fro Whistler and forty five minutes from downtown Vancouver, now is the time to purchase a real estate property at Soleil Squamish. Call 604.904.2240 for details and the presentation centre for Soleil Squamish is on 121 Lonsdale Avenue in North Vancouver.

Seascapes
Designed for the most discerning tastes, every one of these spacious West Vancouver townhomes enjoys a spectacular view of Howe Sound. Inside, natural materials – granite, ledgestone, hardwood and more – reflect the majestic West Coast setting. Seascapes starting from $769,900 for 2,350 square foot townhomes near Squamish.

Talon at Eaglewind
The first phase development of luxury apartment condo homes in Squamish have been completed and have made way for Phase 2 called Rockcliff (please look above for details). Featuring great finishes and features as well as community amenities, Squamish Talon at Eaglewind will be ready for move-in this year.

Thunderbird Creek
A once in a lifetime masterplanned community in Squamish featuring single family homes and in the heart of nature, the Thunderbird Creek in the Highlands Squamish real estate properties are on sale and have been finalists for two 2006 Georgie Awards including best single family detached home and for Technical Innovation. The Thunderbird Creek Squamish in the Highlands showhome and presentation centre is still open at 1019 Condor Place.

University Heights
An ideally located community in the University Highlands comes the highest standard and green technology Squamish real estate development project by the name of University Heights. The presentation centre is now open and features single detached family houses with driveways and rear lanes in addition to townhomes with private street access.

You can also find out more about Whistler real estate and property listings online by clicking on this link.

The Home Buying Process

Frequently asked questions about buying a new home from the New Home Buyer’s Guide BC Homes & Resorts from August 25 – September 22, 2006 edition with permission from the Canadian Home Builder’s Association (Visit CHBA at www.chba.com and HomeBase.ca for more information).

The home buying process should begin with questions – lots of questions to help you to make the right decisions about the builder you choose and the home you buy. Asking questions helps you to understand the buying process and eliminate any uncertainty you may have about it. Here are some of the common questions that home buyers ask in consumer seminars, in calls to local Home Buyers’ Association offices and in builders’ sales centres.

How do I make sure that I choose the right new home builder?

Talk with several new home builders first. Check out each company and the quality of their homes. Visit model homes or sales offices. Get facts and figures about every builder: How long have you been in business? Where have you built real estate before? Where are you building now? Can I visit one of your construction sites? Are you a member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association? And so on. Ask about their customer service and third party warranty. Ask for references from past customers and follow up with them.

What kind of products will my builder use?

Professional builders use only products with a good reputation and a proven track record, products that are made by established manufacturers, meet Canadian standards and come with a warranty. The use of brand-name products in new homes offers a double benefit – you know what you are getting and so does your builder. I am not sure about my builder’s construction methods and technologies. How do I know they really work? Home building has advanced tremendously even over the last ten years, and technically, new homes are more sophisticated than they used to be. If you have questions about any aspect of how your home is built or how any of the systems or products work, such as the furnace or ventilation equipment, don’t hesitate to ask. Professional builders will be happy to explain things in detail. They often have cutaways or examples in their model homes or offices, or they can give you manufacturer’s information or third-party (such as government) reference materials.

What if there is a delay in finishing the home?

Both you and the builder want to see your home completed on time, and in the vast majority of cases, your home will be ready as scheduled. Occasionally, a delay may happen as a result of the unforeseeable – most often, sudden shortages of materials or labour. When a delay in unavoidable, your builder will work hard to minimize any inconvenience to you and your family. Ask your real estate builder to explain in detail what you can expect in case of delay.

Can I visit the construction site to watch the progress of my home?

Seeing your home take shape can be an exciting aspect of buying a new home. Ask your builder about the company’s policy on site visits and how to make arrangements. Can you tour your home while it is in progress and when? During construction hours, or in the evening and on weekends? Keep in mind that, for safety reasons, you should not enter the construction site for an unscheduled visit.

I have heard about the “other costs” of buying a home. What are they?

By far, the largest cost of home buying is the price of the house. However, there are some accompanying costs that you should be aware of. These costs vary from one region to another, but typically include lawyer’s fees, an appraisal fee (for mortgage purposes), fire insurance, and adjustments if you are selling your current home. Ask your builder or lender to give you a list of items and an estimate of costs. (Home buyers are often encouraged to set aside between 1.5% and 2.5% of the rice of the house for additional costs). At the same time, make sure to ask about the projected taxes for the new home, and the builder’s estimate for utility bills.

How long will it take to build my home?

The time required to build a new home can vary considerably, depending on development of the land, availability of labour, size and design of the home and a number of other factors. In larger developments, construction of your home may no begin until a certain percentage of the homes have been pre-sold to ensure an efficient and cost effective real estate construction process. Your builder will provide you with a detailed schedule of events and milestones, so you’ll know exactly what to expect and when.

Can I make changes to the design?

Today, customizing is the norm, not the exception. Often, your chosen plan can be modified, before the foundation is built, to suit your own needs and desires – eg. Moving walls, wxpanding closets, adding windows. However, each builder has a different approach, so ask about flexibility and limitations in the design. Do I have choices? Can I make changes and when? In larger real estate developments, the exterior style elements and colour scheme may be architecturally determined, so there are fewer opportunities to accommodate personal preference.

What is warranted and for how long?

Professional real estate builders provide third-party warranty on their homes to protect purchasers against faulty materials or workmanship, usually for one year, and against major structural faults for up to five years (up to ten under extended warranty options). The warranty also protects deposits up to a certain amount. Warranty programs vary from one province to another, so make sure to have your builder explain exactly what’s covered or call your program office for more information.

What else should I know about?

How buyers ask many other questions, depending on the specific circumstances. For instance, when you are buying from a model home or from a drawing, you want to know if there are any differences between what you see and what you get. You also want to know about your choice of features, if you can supply your own fixtures or materials, and if you get a credit or refund when eliminating items included with the home. In large developments, ask to see the utility plan: Where are the electrical boxes or panels placed? Streetlights and postal boxes? Where is the bus stop? Also find out about the landscaping plan and when the roads will be paved.

Professional home builders welcome your questions. They know that a well informed customer is most often a satisfied customer – the greater your confidence in them, the more satisfying the process for both you and your builder.

Nexus San Diego Condominium Living

Situated in the heart of downtown San Diego Nexus condo homes and property residences is a place to get connected and to be inspired. The Nexus condominium suites and San Diego real estate property development is cool and modern yet sophisticated and traditional and provides an optimal location for you to experience San Diego California to the fullest.

A perfectly situated downtown condominium apartment tower residence has been launched at the San Diego Nexus real estate construction property. Brought to market by Centex Homes planners and builders, the Nexus San Diego residence condo homes will be located on the south west corner of 9th Avenue and G St in downtown San Diego, CA. A residential condo tower residence of eight floors, the San Diego Nexus residence apartment suites will total sixty eight in all with layout floor plans between one and two bedroom condominium suites with one or two bath rooms. The condo residence apartment unit sizes at the San Diego Nexus properties will be six hundred square feet to one thousand three hundred sqf in size. A new construction real estate property is now underway at the San Diego Nexus condominium homes and luxury apartment properties, and best of all, the Nexus condos are available at pre-construction pricing still.

Living at Nexus Condominium Suites in San Diego, California

Inspired urban living in San Diego’s East Village district of downtown city center is the focal point of this new California high-rise tower at Nexus condominiums and homes. With open balconies and terraces in addition to its traditional brick and metal finishes, the Nexus San Diego homes and apartment residences will forever change the beautiful sky line of the downtown core with it’s exposed steel beams and glass walls. An innovation in architecture and design is found at the San Diego Nexus condo residence apartments which gives spin of traditional features and craftsmanship coupled with the modern amenities and finishes that you expect from a San Diego pre-construction project. With only seventy six residence homes at the Nexus SD in California, the layout floor plans come in many options and at ground level, the Nexus provides two story live and work residence homes too that total only two. As far as building community amenities go at the San Diego Nexus residence apartment building, you can make full use of the common open space terrace on the seventh floor as well as a fitness center on the ground floor. Private underground parking at the Nexus San Diego condo residence tower is also available to all residents and guests in addition to a great location close to all the sites and sounds of downtown San Diego East Village.

Contact the Centex Homes San Diego Nexus condominiums today

If you and your family are wanting to purchase a home in the next little while, the Nexus condo suites and property apartment residences are waiting for you. The Sales Gallery for Nexus San Diego homes and real estate property development is located at 930 Market Street in downtown SD in California. The presentation sales gallery for the San Diego Nexus condominium homes and luxury apartments provided a virtual walk-through of this property construction project with interactive kiosks on large flat screen plasma screens. With fully furnished and to scale model homes and suites at the San Diego Nexus Sales Gallery, the condominium homes and residence apartments are brought to life with the color palettes, detailed scaled models and of course the knowledgeable sales team that can answer any questions you have about the condo residences at the Nexus San Diego properties. For maps and directions to the SD Nexus condo properties, please visit the corporate Centex website located at centexdowntown.com/nexus/map_nexus.html for detailed instructions and a downloadable PDF map. In addition, if you would like to join the San Diego Nexus condo homes interest list, please click here centexhomes.com/San-Diego/Survey.asp?divisionID=1096&neighborhoodID=45695&groupID=4197 and complete the online form. The phone number for Nexus San Diego homes and property is 619.255.0137 and the fax # is 619-255-0920.

The Residences at Nexus in San Diego California

For more information and updated details about floor plan availability and the selection of residence homes, we suggest that you visit the San Diego Nexus website at centexdowntown.com/nexus/residences_nexus.html for all the details. The San Diego Nexus residence properties and real estate development tower will offer Suite 603 which is a one bed and one bath unit with a balcony. In addition, Suite 803 at the San Diego Nexus condominium homes and apartment residences is also a one bed and one bathroom condo with a large open terrace as well as a balcony. Suites 201, 301, 401, 501 and 601 at this San Diego real estate property at Nexus residences are one bedroom plus living rooms and one full bathroom residence units, all with a spacious studio and open balcony floorplan. The floor plan layout for Suite 308 and 408 at the Nexus San Diego condo properties are also one and one units with balconies. Lastly, the Suites 312, 412, 512 and 609 floorplan layouts at the Nexus San Diego real estate residence apartments are spacious studio spaces with large urban patios. You can view an interior virtual tour online at the Centex corporate website and visiting the San Diego Nexus sub-page.

For other California Real Estate projects including San Francisco pre-construction condos and San Diego developments, please click here.

Perth Real Estate Prices Close in on Sydney and Small Real Estate Developers in Australia

Property prices in Perth are within reach of eclipsing Sydney as the country’s most expensive, median price data for the September quarter of 2006 shows. Originally published in the Australian Property Investor December 2006 edition on Page 18.

Perth House Prices climbed 39 per cent to $491,587 over the year to September, while Sydney house prices were flat at $520,253 according to composition adjusted medians released by Australian Property Monitors (APM). Unit prices in Perth were up 44 per cent at $341,730, whereas Sydney unit prices dropped 4 per cent to $351,922.

Michael McNamara from APM said the margin between Sydney and Perth house prices was now only 5.5 per cent, just three years ago, Perth prices were half those in Sydney.

“It is interesting to observe that if Perth continues to outperform eastern capitals by the same proportions, then it will soon surpass Sydney for the title of most expensive median house price in the country,” McNamara said. However, he said 39 per cent annual growth was “clearly unsustainable” and tipped that the Perth market would peak in the December quarter this year.

Darwin’s explosive growth also continued in the year to September, with its median house price surpassing Melbourne and Brisbane to make it the fourth most expensive city for houses. In the September quarter itself, growth in Darwin was slowing but still relatively strong. House prices were up 5 per cent over the three months and unit prices climbed 4 per cent.

McNamara tipped that Darwin, like Perth, should peak in the December quarter. “For these markets, much depends on commodity prices as property prices correlate strongly with the commodities index,” he said.

Price growth along the eastern seaboard was virtually non-existent in the September quarter for both houses and units, a fact McNamara puts down to interest rates. “Early this calendar year, property markets in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane showed positive signs, leading us to believe that moderate quarterly growth in median prices would be expected throughout 2006,” he said. However, interest rates rises this year have seen buyers in the markets retreat to a more cautious position.

“Eastern seaboard capital cities are now experiencing a stabilisation phase in their property cycles and we predict that trend will continue for the next 12 to 18 months.”

On a different note, Adelaide rentals are in hot demand. Adelaide’s Hills district has put up the ‘no vacancy’ sign, recording a nil vacancy rate in September. The vacancy rate across the city as a whole remained at 1.6 per cent, Real Estate Institute of South Australia figures showed. That is under the national benchmark of 2 per cent. The Hills region, from Crafers to Nairne, recorded a zero vacancy rate, while the western suburbs had the highest proportion of rentals available at 2 per cent.

Small real estate developers and home developments

Tips and inside knowledge from the Dec ’06 issue of the Australian Property Investor magazine.

Inside Knowledge about small real estate developers
Small developers should always allow themselves a little bit of breathing space with their financing, Tom Riley says, because prices tend to change over the course of a job. He says the contract price for his real estate project grew by about 5 per cent over the 12 months it took to complete. However, thanks to the years he’s spent working in the building industry the price rise didn’t come as a nasty surprise to Tom.

“The real estate contract grew just under $20,000 over the 12 months,” he says. “I was anticipating that there’d be the rise and it wasn’t outside the parameters of what I thought it might be.” Other small developers should be aware that the home prices they’re quoted might change as well, he says. “I hear people say, “we’ve got a fixed price contract’ and they probably have, but there’s always a rise and fall clause in there – and it’s usually a rise.”

As a result it’s not the best idea to spend the maximum amount you can access right from the outset. “You need to be in a position where you’ve got a little bit of extra money to play with.” Tom says he doesn’t blame his real estate builder for the rise, as material costs climbed over the 12 month period and so did the charges for real estate sub-contractors.

Tom’s small real estate development tips
1. Not everyone wants to live on the edge. Have a workable back-up plan in case things go pear-shaped.
2. Running your real estate proposal past the council before you buy can save a lot of anguish later on.
3. Put everything in writing. Even things you think are obvious can be misinterpreted by real estate builders, and you may have to make costly compromises later on.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Some real estate developers think everyone else is stupid anyway, so you might as well ask if you don’t know.
5. Don’t over capitalise for the area you’re building in. There’s no future in building $500,000 townhouses in a suburb where the media price is under $200,000.
6. Do the sums, then do them again, then halve the potential profit and halve it again. If you can live with the result, do it. If you’re young enough, do it anyways – time will fix most mistakes. Real estate property investment can be forgiving if you can wait long enough.

Home Financing Fundamentals

Written by Kelly Wharton for the Dec 08, 2006 – Jan 05, 2007 edition of the New Home Buyers Guide for Vancouver. The real estate market is hot and so is the competition for your home mortgage business. “The past six months have seen an incredible increase in the new products and options that lenders offer,” says Joanne Thomas, a mortgage broker with Centum Capital Group Inc.

There is so much information swirling around on home financing that the thrill of buying your new house – especially your first one – can quickly be replaced with a money headache. This article will help you focus on the fundamentals of financing your new home purchase and explore some of the newest products out there.

Don’t let the down payment get you down

Issue number one on your mind will probably be the down payment. A bank or other financial institution will lend you a significant portion of the purchase price of your real estate deal. The lender secures this loan by registering a mortgage against the title of your house. “The down payment amount is calculated on the purchase price of the house only, so the home mortgage does not usually cover closing costs like taxes and survey, appraisal and lawyer’s fees,” cautions Sheree Rankin, a Royal Bank mortgage specialist. So don’t forget these additional transaction costs in your savings plan, especially Goods and Services Tax if the house or real estate property is a new or substantially renovated, and the provincial property transfer tax or PTT calculated on the value of the house. First time home buyers may be exempt from the PTT if the value of the house is under $325,000.

In a normal or conventional home mortgage loan, you will need to save 25% of the purchase price. If you have less than the 25% down payment, you may qualify for a high ratio mortgage. These home mortgage loans require as little as 5% of the purchase price down since the lender is insured against the risk of default by mortgage insurers like the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The premium for this home insurance – which is a percentage of the amount financed – is usually added to the home mortgage amount.

Whether you are getting a conventional or high ratio house mortgage, first time real estate home buyers can use up to $20,000 of their registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) toward the down payment. This is a Canada Revenue Agency program called the Home Buyers’ Plan or HBP. It allows withdrawals from your RRSP to buy or build your home by October of the year following the year you withdraw the money. The withdrawn amount is not taxed and if you are buying with your spouse or partner, each of you can withdraw up to the $20,000. You can use RRSP contributions made up to 89 days before the withdrawal and still claim your current RRSP contribution as a deduction. You have to repay the withdrawn amount over a period of 15 years beginning two years after withdrawal. To find out if you qualify for the HBP, visit the website at www.cra.arc.gc.ca/tax/individuals.topics/rrsp/hbp.

In this new competitive world it is possible to finance 100% of your new house price with no down payment. First National offers this type of insured mortgage. Joanne Thomas reminds us that good things come at a cost, “The insurance rates associated with these types of home mortgages are higher than for other high ratio loans.”

Freedom 25…Or 35… Or 40

Once your real estate down payment is settled, you will know how much you need to borrow or the principal amount of your house mortgage. Your focus can turn to establishing a repayment schedule that is comfortable for you. The factors that determine the monthly payment amounts are the amortization period, interest rate and principal amount. The amortization period is the number of years it will take to actually repay the mortgage loan plus interest. The common length of time was 25 years but some lenders are now using 30, 35 and even 40 year amortization periods to calculate repayment amounts. The greater the amortization period, the smaller the monthly payments, but the longer you have the debt.

The total length of a home mortgage loan on your real estate property will be made up of several terms, the period of time the lenders will agree to lend you the principal with interest. Once the term is up, you can renegotiate your home mortgage for a renewal term or repay the loan.

Cracking the Nut

The annual cost of borrowing the principal or the interest rate will also affect your monthly payments. Each of the different real estate mortgage terms – usually between six months and five years – will carry with it an applicable interest rate and certain restrictions. Depending on your taste for risk, or your ability to read crystal balls, you can chose a mortgage loan that is variable (the interest rate changes with a lender’s prime rate) or fixed (the rate stays the same for the term), open (you can prepay the loan during the term without penalty) or closed (no prepayments or with a penalty).

Some new options may help you cope with the monthly mortgage nut for your real estate property. First National has an interest only mortgage which means you pay only the interest on the principal for a period of up to 10 years. The cost for this product is a higher insurance premium and you need a 10% down payment.

Lenders also advertise cash back mortgages which give you a percentage of the loan back in cash. A higher interest rate is the price tag for these types or mortgages. Planning the financing of your new home or real estate investment ahead of time by focusing on essential issues will mean exchanging headaches for homeowner bliss.

Bricks and Mortar Real Estate Investment Tips

Welcome to another instalment of Bricks & Mortar, where our panel of experts answers real estate property investment questions from API readers. Published in the December Australian Property Investor real estate magazine.

When to sell real estate?

Question: My husband and I are both working at the moment, however, I’m going to be starting 12 months’ maternity leave in January. We think we might need to sell one of our investment real estate properties (we have six) to help ease the financial load during this time. My question is, from a CGT perspective, would we be better off selling the property while we’re both earning an income or should we do it when I’m at home with the baby? The property is in both our names, 50/50.

Answer: Congratulations on your pregnancy. I hope everything goes smoothly for you. From a CGT perspective, it’s best to wait and sign the contracts in a financial year where you have a lower income so that any gains made on the sale of a property are added to a lower base income and not a higher base income. By the way, and for what it’s worth, another option instead of selling an investment real estate property is to use a line of credit (LOC) to help with the cash flow. This LOC will mean that your debt will increase over this time but twhere the funds are used to pay for property-related expenses and mortgage repayments, the interest should still be tax deductible.

This real estate investment strategy enables people to keep their properties at times like this instead of triggering the enormous costs of selling and seeing their portfolio decrease, and allos them to keep all future gains in real estate value on the properties in question.

Dale Gatherum-Goss

Can I claim the interest on a real estate investment property

Question: I have an investment property in real estate with about $68,000 left on the loan. Long story short, the interest I currently incur isn’t deductible against income against the property. If I were to “refinance” this real estate property loan as part of opening a new loan which I require for the explicit purposes of buying another investment property, will the interest earned on the sum total of the loan (i.e. the $68,000 plus the amount of the new property) now be deductible against income from the new and/or both properties?

Answer: No unfortunately the Tax Office follows the money in cases like this to see the purpose of the new home loan and how the funds were used. So, any new house loan would be apportioned between tax-deductible debt and non-tax-deductible debt I’m afraid.

Dale Gatherum-Goss

Is it too late to invest in real estate?

Question: I am a 53 year old nurse who works full-time and I’m concerned my superannuation won’t provide me with enough money to enjoy my retirement years. I currently earn $55,000 per annum and have almost paid off my home which is worth about $300,000. My question is, is it too late for me to invest in real estate or property to help secure my financial future? If it isn’t too late, what should my real estate strategy be going forward?

Answer: No, it’s not too late. Yours is a common scenario where an individual realises that relying on superannuation alone isn’t going to deliver the retirement lifestyle they were hoping for. Provided you are five to ten years away from retirement, you can still capitalise on your income and home equity in your existing real estate property to build wealth.

To maximise that wealth creation through real estate property investment at this point in your life will require a very unemotional and businesslike approach in order to maximise your capital gains. Your selection of the right real estate property asset is crucial and you should be concentrating on only one area – the high-growth inner urban areas 2 to 12 km from a major CBD – where scarcity value, high demand and low supply will underpin your real estate investment. By focusing your property strategy on capital growth you will build and control home equity. And it’s controlling equity that’s the key to attaining financial independence.

Don’t be daunted by the higher prices in these areas. One very well chosen, more modest real estate asset – such as an apartment – can outperform the wider marketplace and inflation, not to mention larger, lower growth properties in middle to outer suburbs. Seek independent financial advice on the best loan package for your circumstances.

Next, seek truly independent real estate property investment advice to ensure you do get the maximum capital gain and good, long-term rental income. These two advisory areas should be kept separate. Don’t waste any time before seeking the appropriate advice. Steer totally clear of any “get rich quick” property real estate investment schemes. Many people seeking to rapidly top up inadequate superannuation have been tempted by these to their financial detriment.

The safest way to invest in this real estate asset class ist o take an unemotional, longer-term very well advised view.

Monique Wakelin

Real Estate Valuation discrepancy

Question: Why is there such a big difference between a real estate agent’s appraisal and a valuer’s valuation of a property or home, particularly when it’s for the bank? I had an agent give me an assessment of the value of my home before getting my loan but the bank valuer said it was worth a lot less.

Answer: It probably comes down to a question of the instructions and motivations of the valuer and the real estate agent. The valuer is instructed by the lenders to provide a realistic assessment of the real estate market value of the property as they find it on the day of inspection. They can’t take into account future improvements or presentation issues you may attend to if you were to place it on the real estate market. The lenders simply want to know a “safe” amount they should use as security, so in the unlikely event they have to take over the property, they’re covered.

The real estate agent’s appraisal isn’t bound by these instructions. Often the reason for providing a free appraisal is as a marketing tool to try to gain your favour and ultimately a listing. Therefore, it’s in their best interests to be “bullish” about their opinion of the market value so that you’re more positive and inclined to list it with them. Remember that real estate valuers are totally independent and have no vested interest in your real estate property or home.

Phil Grahame

The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit Residences

Elegance and sophisticated urban chic living spaces has arrived in Detroit Michigan. Located at the luxurious Westin Book Cadillac Detroit residences, these condominium homes will have unequalled design, service and quality that the Detroit real estate market is so well known for.

Location is the key to many real estate purchases and at the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit condo residence homes, home buyers can be rest assured that living at this luxurious and prestigious property will mean that they will be in the heart of it all including all the amenities of the Westin hotel, twenty four hour security as well as concierge services. Also, with hotel style features and conveniences such as dry cleaning, housekeeping, laundry, valet parking and more, the residence condominiums at the Detroit Westin Book Cadillac real estate properties is a one of a kind living experience in urban Michigan. With new lifestyle and modern amenities abound, the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit residence condo apartments is a ground breaking opportunity for you to get into the Detroit real estate market today at an affordable cost. This high end high-rise condominium tower in the heart of Detroit’s city skyline is now open to the public for purchase.

The Contact Details for the Westin Book Cadillac residence condominiums

A Ferchill Group real estate development and management offering, this Detroit real estate property at the Westin Book Cadillac Residences has just completed its initial offering for condo purchases. An Esquire Properties, the Westin Book Cadillac residence property in central Detroit Michigan is still accepting registrations and enquiries online or you may call them at 313.580.2200 to book an appointment for viewing and purchase. To register today, you can visit the Westin Detroit Book Cadillac residence high-rise real estate marketing web site at westinbookcadillacresidences.com/join/. For detailed information about the Westin Detroit Book Cadillac floor plans, interior and exterior features, amenities and contact info, please visit their website at westinbookcadillacresidences.com and browse by using their main navigation bar on the top right side of the web page.

Amenities galore at this Detroit real estate property

Want exceptional and unique amenities that are luxurious and affordable? Would you like residential amenities to be high-end? The Detroit Westin Book Cadillac residence amenities for all condominium home owners will include features and conveniences such as the following: utility metering that is individual for each residence owner, safety deposit boxes on site, mailbox area, private high-speed elevators, storage, reserved parking and phone messaging. Also all home owners at the Detroit real estate properties at Westin Book Cadillac residence condominiums will have attached parking, fitness center complete with a swimming pool as well as a staffed lobby area with concierge. Some of the standard services provided by the Detroit Westin Book Cadillac condo homes and high-rise residential tower will include housekeeping, maid services, translation, newspaper deliveries, pet sitting, shoe shining, walk up calls, notaries, twenty four hour concierge, doorman, security surveillance, valet parking, business center and more.

Available floorplans at the Westin Detroit condominiums

For a detailed listing and PDF downloads for all floor plan layouts at the Westin Book Cadillac residences in Detroit MI, please visit the following URL westinbookcadillacresidences.com/plans/plans.htm. The Westin Detroit Book Cadillac condominium homes and residences features Plan 01 which is a two bed and two bath unit with one thousand one hundred and fifty six square footage. Plan 02 layout floor plan at the Westin Detroit condo tower is thirteen hundred and seventeen square feet and two bed and two bath. Another two and two are featured in Plans 03 and 04 at the Detroit Westin Book Cadillac real estate property development with respectively one thousand two hundred and sixty five and twelve hundred and fifty two sq ft in urban indoor space. Plan 05 configuration layout at the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit condo residences is nine hundred and sixty five square feet and is a one bedroom and 1.5 bath unit while Floorplan 07 is one thousand one hundred and sixteen sqft. Another 2/2 condo unit at the Detroit Westin Book residence condominiums is Plan 09 which is 1179 sq ft and Plan 11 which is one of the smaller units at 946 sq feet and 1 bed/1.5 bath. One of the penthouse floorplans 2601 is one thousand four hundred and thirty four sq ft with two bedrooms and two bath rooms.

The Westin Book Cadillac Residences Launch

As you know, there has been a lot of news and updates surrounding the launch of this luxurious Detroit real estate development at the prestigious and famous Westin Book Cadillac Residence Condominium homes and apartments. A one-day public release opportunity for interested home buyers at the Detroit Westin Book Cadillac Residences who are looking to purchase a condo home and Detroit real estate property at this development can visit the launch party on Saturday, December 2, 2006 from 10am to 2pm. In addition, the Detroit real estate property launch at the luxurious Westin Book Cadillac condominium residence apartments and homes will be located at the Detroit Athletic Club at 241 Madison Avenue in Detroit MI 48226 and the presentation center launch requires proper club attire. With only a few remaining condo homes left at the famous Westin Book Cadillac Detroit residences, you will not want to miss this fabulous event party.

The Helena New York Residence and Condominiums

An environmentally sensitive and friendly condominium tower at New York Helena Condo residences and apartment properties is an advanced residence master-planned community at the gateway of the Upper West Side. Be one of the first to own or rent at the recently completed Helena New York condominium tower residences today.

The new era in New York real estate property developments and design is seen at the residential high rise tower residences at The Helena NYC condominiums and luxury apartments that features some of the most environmentally sound and sensitive features and finishes of any NY real estate property project ever. With a reduction in waste, water efficiency, pollution and energy usage, the Helena condo apartment properties in New York City is an official green building that is changing the landscape of NYC real estate properties towards more responsible living and low maintenance condominium apartments. With innovative architecture and interior designs that are striking yet understated, the New York Helena condominium residences and apartments will provide expansive windows that focus on providing enough natural lighting both day and night as well as provide amazing views of New York City’s skyline. With building materials that are environmentally friendly and recycled, the New York Helena condo tower residence apartments will produce the lowest possible short and long term impact on the environment, which is something to cheer about.

Services and Amenities at this green designed Helena New York condominium residences

In the lobby entrance of this luxury and environmentally sensitive high-rise residential tower at New York Helena apartments and luxury condominiums residents can enjoy front desk staff twenty four hours a day as well as a daytime concierge during business hours. In addition, a private health club by the name of the Club Helena is a private three story impressive fitness and wellness center inside the Helena New York condominium real estate property development and will features some of the most modern and new cardio equipment and free weights on the market these days. This New York real estate condominium tower at the Helena apartments and properties will also provided a room for pilates and yoga in addition to a Club Helena children’s playroom and a board room/ business center with high speed internet connections. The Club Helena at this condo tower apartment residence in New York City will also feature a living room or amenities room complete with a fireplace, kitchenette and wireless internet access as well as the latest newspapers from around the world. A roof deck at the top of the condo Helena tower residence condominiums in New York will also be a place where you can just unwind and relax after a busy day. The Helena roof top deck is a place where you can view out to the Hudson River as well as the Manhattan skyline anyday and any time of the week. Some of the New York Helena condo apartment valet services available to exclusive residents include shoe repair, dry cleaning, as well as maid and in suite cleaning services. Private and secure underground parking is also available for all residents at the luxurious Helena residence condo homes in New York real estate market and also provides special plugs for hybrid vehicles. A shuttle bus service to and from the Columbus Circle is also provided at this luxury NY real estate property at The Helena. Other on site amenities and local conveniences at The Helena apartment residences in New York, NY, include a grocery store and an ATM bank machine making life that much easier and more convenient than ever.

Floorplans and Residence Interiors at The Helena New York condo tower

This new construction property at the New York City Helena residence apartments was completed in 2005 and is ready for immediate occupancy by both home buyers and renters. With a great selection of spacious floorplans that provide great open spaces and practical living urban indoor areas, the Helena condominium residences in NYC is thirty eight floors tall and provides five hundred and ninety seven residential units. The real estate manager for this New York Property at The Helena is by Sidney Fetner Associates and the original architects for this amazing condominium tower was FxFowle Architects. The available condo units at The Helena NYC include studio apartments, studio units with home offices, the Alcove studios at The Helena condominiums NY, an Alcove studio with home office area, 1 bed and 1 bath units (some with home offices) as well as one bedroom condo residences with 2 bathrooms. In addition, the more spacious family oriented apartment condos at the New York Helena properties includes Residence B on floors three through eight which are one bedroom, two bath rooms and a home office condominiums in addition to the numerous 2 bdr/2bath units located on all floors of this luxury high-rise NY condo tower residence. The Helena New York City residence apartment condos will feature kitchen fixtures and finishes by Zodiaq, Maytag Energy Star and custom hardware and Italian tiled floors and the bathrooms will be both functional and elegant. For more details about the NYC Helena apartment condominium interiors, please visit the Helena web site at thehelena.com for more details about lighting, windows, surfaces, climate control and common areas.

The Location and contact details for the New York real estate Helena condo tower

The location of the NYC Helena condominium apartment suites and homes is at 601 West 57th Street in New York 10019 located within the Manhattan district and Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood. If you would like more information, please contact the Helena sales manager via an online form at their web site located at thehelena.com. Also, if you’ve already viewed a residence apartment New York real estate suite to your liking, please apply online today at the following URL: on-site.com/form_applications_updt.jsp?goal=6&attr=5&property_id=47733&lease_id=0&unit_id=0&required=4,g. The owner and NYC real estate developer for the Helena condominium tower residences is The Durst Organization and the Management Team is Sidney Fetner Associates. For more information about Helena Condos and New York real estate, click on this link.

Innovative concept offers vacation home luxury for a fraction of the cost - Kanata Tremblant EcoVillage Homes and Storied Places

A growing number of resort real estate developments have gone along the routes of the fractional ownership model that was first introduced in Canada by Intrawest Corporation, resort developers and real estate developments across the world including Whistler Blackcomb, Mont Tremblant and Copper Mountains. Also known as shared ownership or quarter ownership, it is different from traditional timeshare in that you as a real estate investor or home buyer are on title for the real estate property and have control over the eventual sale of the home.

Kanata Tremblant EcoVillage Canadian Village Homes for Sale

Is a new Canadian Village, traditional, private, ecological and modern, centred around a prestigious residential property development at the Mont Tremblant Kanata real estate development in Quebec. Innovative log homes at the Kanata Tremblant property located on approximately 2 acres of land, with stunning views, exceptionally valued at less than two hundred dollars per square foot. Lake front lots at the Kanata Mont Tremblant real estate development are also available for purchase. Four thousand square foot model home at the Mont Tremblant Kanata log homes available for viewing right now. Represented by Sotheby’s International Realty Quebec’s Mont Tremblant office. Call us today for your private tour of this remarkable development at the Quebec Mont Tremblant Kanata log homes real estate property. Visit www.kanatatremblant.com for additional information or you can call 1.819.681.7557 or visit 1986 chemin du village in Mont Tremblant today. C’est avant tout la creation d’un village canadien a la fois traditionnel, prive, ecologique et moderne, favorisant un development immobilier residential de prestige a la Mont Tremblant Kanata. Somptueuses maisons en bois rond d’inspiration moderne, offertes a moins de 200 $ du pi. Situees sur environ 2 acres de terrain, lots en bordure de lac disponible, vues magnifiques a Mont Tremblant Kanata. Masion modele de 4 000 pi ouverteaux visiteurs. Represente par Sotheby’s International Realty Qeubec, bureau do Mont Tremblant. Telephonez nous pour une visite privee de cette splendide demeure!

Whistler-Blackcomb Resort

Storied Places – At Nature’s Door Fractional Ownership
Some of the first fractional real estate properties were started in British Columbia at the site of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Whistler-Vancouver. The Whistler-Blackcomb resort is owned and operated by Intrawest and has seen a huge increase in fractional, shared and quarter ownership properties for real estate homes, chalets and condominium suites.

Some of the latest real estate opportunities from this fractional ownership model include the luxurious Storied Places up in Whistler where a home buyer can own a fraction of 1/10 in a luxurious three or four bedroom chalet style home that provides the ultimate in features, finishes and community amenities located in the prestigious At Nature’s Door development. An exclusive fractional ownership and shared ownership style features an exclusive ski-in/ski-out home starting from just $294,900. Thanks to fractional ownership, you can receive a deeded interest in an exquisite mountain home in Whistler’s exclusive Taluswood neighbourhood. With access to private, privileged community for the times you choose, At Nature’s Door, Storied Places is truly effortless shared ownership overlooking the Dave Murray Downhill and comes with stone fireplaces, well appointed kitchen featuring Sub Zero fridge, Viking gas range and wine fridge in addition to outdoor decks and private hot tub. There is also a Private Owner’s Lodge with fitness facility, sauna, steam room, heated outdoor pool and hot tub. This fractional ownership opportunity has been extremely successful and Intrawest has already built and planned many other Storied Places fractional shared ownership style real estate developments throughout North American resorts. For more information, please visit www.storiedplaces.com.

Whistler iQ Evolution Fractional Ownership
A modern take on mountain living in Whistler, British Columbia, the evolved way to own real estate in Whistler is through the Intrawest Quarter Ownership program (iQ) which has now returned to Whistler with Evolution real estate fractional ownership real estate properties. Offering stylish one and two bedroom resort homes in Whistler Creekside, Evolution is definetly a modern take on resort mountain living for singles, couples and families. Open floor plans, contemporary interiors, luxurious features and amenities are just some things to smile about at Evolution Whistler’s fractional ownership real estate opportunity that is selling now. Ski-in and Ski-out via the Creekside Gondola only a short stroll away. All for an incredible price through iQ that may never be available again. With Whistler Evolution, owning a stylish resort home in Whistler can be a reality, but only for a limited time. Register today at www.myownwhistler.com or call 1.877.771.6767.

Whistler Shared Ownership Opportunities in Real Estate

Variety is the Spice of Life according to the Whistler Real Estate Company Ltd explanation of how shared or fractional ownership models can allow you to experience more paying less for resort Whistler real estate property. Long recognized as the hottest mountain resort real estate market in Canada, Whistler real estate is also at the forefront of the shared ownership property industry, which is the fastest growing segment in resort real estate sales. Starting with deeded timeshares at Whiski Jack over 25 years ago, to today’s properties at “At Nature’s Door” and “Evolution”, shared ownership opportunities in the Whistler real estate market are designed to accommodate a variety of budget and lifestyle options. Fractional ownership interests and timeshare opportunities are the perfect way to take advantage of outstanding resort accommodation and amenities with full service management at a fraction of the fee simple price. All forms of timeshare, from points to deeded interests, can be found at a number of premier locations, whether next to the ski runs, at the base of the gondolas or alongside the Dave Murray Downhill, venue of the Men’s Olympic Winter downhill event in 2010. Property pricing in the Whistler shared ownership or fractional ownership of resort property: Timeshare (deeded) between $2,500 to $50,000, Timeshare (Points) at $100 a point; Tenth Interest (3 to 4 bedrooms) starting at $259,000 and Quarter Interest (1 bedroom) starting at $90,000.

From the Real Estate Marketing Team of Whistler Evolution Intrawest Fractional Ownership Condo Property Development

It's Ray Longmuir from Evolution with a quick update on what's happening in Whistler. Winter is just around the corner and if you are looking to get some great deals on new equipment, don't miss the annual Whistler Blackcomb Turkey Sale happening next weekend October 5 to 8. Construction of Evolution Whistler is progressing well with roofing and windows complete. We are now able to conduct construction tours of the remaining Whistler Evolution condo homes. If you interested in a personal tour of the property please give me call at 604 935-4535 to make arrangements. There are a limited number of one and two bedroom homes still available at quarter ownership opportunities. If you would like to re-acquaint yourself with Evolution please contact me today at 604 935-4535 or visit www.MyOwnWhistler.com. Drop by our Discovery Centre in Whistler Creekside for our Wine & Cheese Open House held every Saturday from 2pm-5pm next time you are in town. Ray Longmuir - Sales Director, Playground Real Estate Inc. 604 935-4535 or rlongmuir@playground.com.

Bighorn Mountain Resort Fractional Owners

Imagine owning a five-star property at Canmore’s Bighorn Mountain Resort. You arrive at your exquisitely furnished, 2,400 sq ft home, fridge fully stocked and spa services booked by the concierge. After a day in the Rockies, you can plunge into your rooftop hot tub, barbeque on one of four decks, curl up in front of one of five flat-screen TVs, or relax in one of three deluxe master suites …

Sound like a retreat for the ultra rich? IN fact, it’s easily affordable, thanks to an innovative fractional ownership concept premiering this fall at Bighorn Mountain Resort in 2006. The Resort is Canmore’s first private residence club. As a member, you share title ownership in one of 20 exclusive $2.4 million vacation homes. The cost per 1/8th share is $225,000, which mortgage companies view as an appreciating real estate investment, versus timeshares, which are considered depreciating assets.

You may buy as many shares ass you like. One share gives you five weeks’ accommodation annually, plus additional visits during 11 weeks of flex-time. Every day of the year at the Canmore Bighorn Mountain Resort , you have full access to resort’s private spa, mineral pool, fitness centre and lounge.

Since more vacation home owners spend less than four weeks annually at their real estate properties, fractional ownership, like the one at Bighorn Mountain Resort in Canmore, works brilliantly. For a fraction of the cost, home owners and real estate investors, can enjoy superb amenities and services, with no maintenance or security worries – while investing in Canmore’s sizzling real estate market.

For details on fractional ownership at Bighorn Mountain Resort in Canmore, please visit www.bighorncanmore.com or call toll-free 1-866-890-7563.

The Best of All Words through Fractional Ownership of Real Estate

It’s part of the North American dream. The vacation getaway. A place by the lake where you leave everyday cares far behind, where sunny days are filled with water sports and where good times seem to stretch to eternity. And as we near the end of the 21st century’s first decade, more people than ever are making that dream into a reality thorugh real estate fractional ownership or co-ownership of property opportunities. A great article by the most trusted resort property writer, Susan B for the Homes and Resort magazine of BC. But if you’re thinking quaint if somewhat rustic cottage in the country, think again. Fueled in large part by demand from the growing legions of baby boomers across North America, today’s resort getaways need to be increasingly sophisticatd, upscale and urbane to attract attention. Boomer homebujyers in recreational real estate know what they want which usually includes luxury, pampering, amenities, fine dining and they have both the money as well as the inclination and time. Already well heeled in their own right, many boomer home buyers are also reaping the benifts of what financial analysists believe will be the largest transfer of wealth in history – some $41 trillion that’s beginning a relentless migration from the pockets of the aging boomer population into the pockets of their active – leisure oriented adult children who are the beneficiaries. And with more than 80 per cent of this financial tsunami yet to hit, recreational real estate property and resort homes is clearly taking the lead as their investment vehicle of choice.

Fractional wnership Provides Sound Economics and Ultimate Flexibility to Boomer Buyers

With the price of new recreational property and resort homes skyrocketing, fractional ownership also makes economic sense. “Why would you pay a full time price for property you only use part time?” says Craig Andersen of PilotHouse Real eState Inc and an enthusiastic suppoerter of this sales model. In fact, after marketing a variety of resort fractional real estate propreties including The Residences at Sun Peaks, Craig purchased a quarter ownership as alegacy for his oen family at Currents at Otter Bay on Pender Island. “The national average for use of a vacation property is 19 days – or rougly three weeks per year,” he points out. “So what happens to your vaction property for the rest of the year? Usually it just sits there… empty. Quarter ownesrhpi or fractional ownership gives y ou use of your resort property for 12 weeks throughout the year, and it’s guilt free. You know everything will be clean and in perfect working order every time you show up – no more spending half the holiday fixing things, and if you decide not to use it yourself, it goes into the rental pool and generates revenue for you.” If you’re truly serious about taking more time off but can’t quite see eye to eye with your significant other about where to spend your vacations, fractional resort ownership of real estate could also be the route to the return of holiday harmony. As one fractional ownership purchaser at The Residences at Sun Peaks puts, “I like to ski, my wife prefers the desert to eh mountains and my kids want to vacation in Hawaii. Instead of buying one property that’s a compromise, fro the same price I can buy a quarter interest in four properties, enveryone gets what they want and everyone’s happy.”

A New Style of Co-Ownership of Resort Property

Rapidly becoming a serious contender in this competitive world of vacation properties, fractional ownership is on the rise. From Whistler and the Gulf Islands to Osoyoos and ski slopes in Fernie real estate, many of the most exclusive resorts under constructin are adopting this sales model in order to appeal directly to a real estate market of boomer homebuyers who want maintenance free, distinctly hands off approach to recreational property. These hotel style strata units come fully furnished most of the time and are most frequently offered in quarter, third or half shares basis although twelfth shares are now appearing with more regularity. Unfortunatley, often still tarnished by the unsavoury reputation of the totally unrelated timeshare, each fractional share of resort property is fully deeded property you can resell, mortgage, or will to the beneficiary of your choice. Boomer buyers have access to their property on a rotational basis – typically for a week period each month. However, if you choose not to use your property during your rotation, it’s placed into a rental pool generating a revenue stream that can be sued to offset your carrying costs. Here too, the emphasis is on no worry resort real estate investment through fractional ownership – professionals like Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts and Bellstar Hotels & Resorts handle the myriad details of hotel management, reservations and housekeeping. One baby boomer home buyer at the recently opened, $31 million Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina in Pender Harbour put it this way. “We’re too busy to worry about maintenance and repairs, and we certainly didn’t want just any property. Here you have 24/7 serivce, the amenities are of an excellence that means we can bring clients as wella s family, and witht eh marina we have the option of arriving by private boat or floatplane. There really is nothing else like it.” Now selling in the Gulf Islands, Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa fractional ownership opportunities is proving so popular that many early boomer buyers are purchasing additional fractions in this oceanfront retreat. “We’re seeing people who bought one of our Villas now buying a Spa Suite for when they have guests or older children come to say,” explains sales rep Ian Watts. “Everyone has privacy, but you can all get together for socializing or meals.”

Toy Factory Lofts Toronto Condominiums

A new concept. The future of urban living loft residences. The Toronto Toy Factory Lofts is a unique Toronto real estate development property that combines urban living condominium spaces with a home apartment feel with luxurious amenities and interior features. The Toy Factory Lofts Homes in Toronto are on sale now.

A glorious past meets a brilliant future at the Toy Factory Lofts in the bustling metro city of Toronto in Canada. Taken from the Toy Factory Lofts website located at toyfactorylofts.ca, the marketing and advertising says: Some things just get better with time is the philosophy behind transforming the old Irwin Toy Factory into two hundred and fifteen condominium lofts, a unique combination of work, live and play units. Furthermore, the Toronto Toy Factory Lofts home page also says this about the condominium loft real estate properties: The characteristics which attract people to lofts and real estate in Toronto are so fundamental to our nature – space, air and light – it’s no wonder that we place an emotional premium on them says architect Sheldon Levitt of Quadrangle Architects. In addition, the Toronto Toy Factory loft residence condominium web site says: The oldest parts of the Toronto real estate building were constructed around the turn of the 20th century and certain sections of the brick walls are several feet in thickness and steel ceiling beams combined with solid Douglas fir posts are not only rare, but also irresplaceable. This is what you can expect to find as a Toronto home buyer at the Toy Factory Lofts and home condominium loft residences in this hot real estate market. Also, all of this will be kept and rejunivated by sandblasting until everything looks young and fresh again at the newly renovated Toy Factory Lofts in Toronto Canada and according to Sheldon, “in its capacity as a historical landmark Irwin Toy Factory as no equivalent in Liberty Village and the real estate Toronto buildings at the Toy Factory Lofts residences such as these are now recognized for their inherent exterior beauty as well as their interior design simplicity and spaciousness. These attributes will make it a spectacular place to live under its new name The Toy Factory Lofts and a welcome addition to the Toronto real estate market.

The Toy Factory Lofts in Liberty Village Toronto and Loftology Definition

A new buzz word in the international real estate market has made its way everywhere around the world and the word is Loftology. It is the belief of the Toronto real estate developers and architects, that loft living such as the new Toy Factory Lofts are the new era of urban living spaces where residents can enjoy all the spacious-ness and functionality that both a condominium residence apartment as well as a home or townhouse can provide. Loftology is the buzz-word that started from the Toronto real estate market as it has become home to some of the most impressive master-planned and renovation loft community projects in recent times and real estate markets such as Miami, Philadelphia, Detroit and Boston are also jumping on the Toronto real estate bandwagon after seeing the success stories surrounding the luxurious Toy Factory Lofts and apartment homes in Toronto’s Liberty Village. Loftology is here to stay and will be further expanded upon with more condo conversion properties coming up in Toronto’s downtown core that used to be a manufacturing district turned into a master planned residential community that is fresh, new and urban. Toronto’s Toy Factory Loft is the leader in the loftology era and will nurture and develop this side of the real estate market for decades to come. With many of Toronto’s loft residences converted from former factories and warehouses, the Toy Factory Lofts in Liberty Village are no different and will feature the characteristics of loftology or loft urban living that includes exposed bricks, beams, high ceilings, hardwood flooring and large windows. True condominium loft style living come from these historic treasures and the Toy Factory Lofts Toronto Liberty Village real estate development is the most authentic of its kind in North America.

The Amenities of the Lofts at Toy Factory Toronto

Some of the most impressive community features and amenities are provided on site by the loftology Toy Factory Lofts in Liberty Village or Toronto where you will find a furnished lobby entrance and lounge that is designed by II BY IV Design Associates in addition to concierge services throughout both day and night. The atrium is light filled and provide high ceilings, welcoming both guests and residents back to the Toronto Toy Factory Lofts urban loftology residence apartments. In addition, the interior atrium is professionally landscaped with skylights, a courtyard inside as well as mature trees. The landscaped courtyard is unique in the downtown core of Toronto and the Liberty Village Toy Factory Lofts residence condominiums will provide a place to truly unwind and forget about the stress in your life. The Toy Factory Lofts urban living condo loftology lifestyle will also include the roof top terrace that comes complete with professional landscaped grounds, a hot tub and magnificent views of the Toronto downtown skyline. In addition, residents at the Liberty Village Toronto Toy Factory Lofts apartments can also enjoy the fitness room and sauna for true loftology lifestyle choices as well as high speed internet access throughout for wireless devises, PDAs, laptops and other high tech equipment. For Toy Factory Lofts entrepreneurs and business people, there is a meeting and work space provided at this loftology style residential building with a business center for you and your clients. For guests such as family and friends, they won’t have to worry about transportation back home after a wild party, just make use of the guest suite here at the Toy Factory Lofts apartment condominiums in Toronto. In addition, the loftology style Toronto Toy Factory Lofts residences will provide secure underground parking spots for all residents in addition to bike storage too.

Sheriden Manor Real Estate

Invest: Retire or just Enjoy Recreation. An article written by Bill Kimmett and published in the New Home Buyers Guide in the October 13 – October 27, 2006 edition.

Being more than a bit shell shocked with real estate prices lately, I thought I had slumped into an 80s mode when Cliff Armstrong of Sutton Group Express Realty informed me that “you can purchase at Sheriden Manor in 100 Mile House from $44,900.”

To put things into perspective, you can buy a condominium in this bustling South Cariboo town for the price of a car. And with real estate investment returns ranging from 24.8% to 36% per annum, this is an incredible deal. Invest in B.C.’s hot real estate market now and reap the benefits.

To make your real estate investment painless as possible, a management company will ensure that your condominium is rented at no additional cost to you. And vacancy rates have been at less than 2% for the past few years. Here at Sheriden Manor, buyers will enjoy a completely worry-free investment in real estate.

Back to my day-dreaming! Buy a home for this incredible price, and decide whether to rent as an investment or move in and retire in the splendour of the South Cariboo. My friend had a guest ranch in nearby Clinton, so the rolling big sky country surrounding 100 Mile House is familiar to me. So close to Vancouver yet a million miles away in serenity and lifestyle.

Last year I drove with my brother the road from Vancouver through Whsitler, Pemberton and then to the Cariboo. An alternative route to the typical drive through the Fraser Valley through Hope and then North. The scenery was spectacular and with the miles, stress dropped away.

Arriving at 100 Mile House you will be amazed at the variety of outdoor pursuits to engage you. Lakes abound offering the bliss of fishing or simply relishing the sparkle of pristine waters. Camping is the name of the game in this four season wonderland with opportunities to set up your camp around every corner. The excitement of riding steeds over seemingly endless trails captures the cowboy in all of us. And for those who need the thundering hammer of engines in their outdoor adventures, you will find it in the snowmobiling trails. Cross-country skiing for the purists and downhill for the speed fanatics … here in the condominium at Sheriden Manor, you are close to it all.

Cliff advised that for as little as $11,000 down you can be an owner here. And when you call him, ask about the zero down payment plan. Sheriden Manor sounds better and better. The points to remember are prices from $44,900, worry-free managed investment in real estate, fully rented with a less than 2% yearly vacancy rate, returns to 36% plus, close to a bounty of four season enjoyment, and in the vibrant growing community of 100 Mile House.

Visit www.cliffandgary.com or call Cliff Armstrong or Gary McGratten at 604-538-8888.

Their advertisement in a real estate magazine is as follows:
This is your opportunity to invest in BC’s hot real estate market. Returns on real estate investment from 24.8 to 36% per annum with bachelor, one bedroom and two bedroom condominiums for sale. Close to hundreds of lakes, fishing, camping, hiking, boating, cross-country and downhill skiing, horseback riding, hunting, golfing, snowmobiling and much more.

Buying a new home or real estate investment

Courtesy of the Canadian Home Builders Association and also published in the New Home Buyers Guide in October 2006.

The Typical New Home Buying Process

Buying a brand new home is a big decision and an important real estate investment, and there is a lot to think about. You want to buy with confidence, enjoy the experience and know that you have made the best decision for you and your family. Typically the process of buying a brand new home or real estate property takes place over time and in several stages. To begin with, you want to take some time depending on your priorities – what you want in a home, where you want t o live and how much you want to spend on your property – and then explore what’s available. Once you have narrowed your choices down to one community, one builder and one real estate home, you are ready to work out the details and sign a contract with your builder. Then it’s time to step back and let the builder do the work.

Before you start looking

Get off to a great start by doing some pre-planning before you go house hunting or real estate shopping. Discuss with everyone in your household what they want in your new real estate property and surroundings. Make a list of what’s important and divide them into must-haves and would-be-nice-to-haves. Also think about what you absolutely don’t want to live with. Here are some of the things you should consider.

Community
- distance to work; traffic; public transportation
- schools and child care
- places of worship; hospitals; libraries
- distance to shops
- green spaces; recreational facilities

Your Home
- style; size; number of bedrooms; home office, other needs
- layout; open or divided spaces; formal or informal; privacy needs, flexibility for changing use of space in the future
- mobility restrictions, health considerations; indoor air quality
- energy efficient outdoor spaces
- special features – the things you have always dreamed about having
- pre-wiring for automation; security systems, communication, entertainment, business

Financing
- the downpayment you have available
- the monthly mortgage payment you are comfortable with
- other financial obligations and needs

At this point, find out who the CHBA members builders are in your community. Check ads in your newspaper to get a sense of what builders are offering. Talk with family, friends and co-workers who have recently bought a new home. Ask your lender for mortgage pre-approval so you know the price range you should be looking at. Attend a home show or real estate investment show to see the latest in features and finishings, and to meet area builders.

Exploring your Options

Now you are ready to see what’s available. As you drive around visiting builders’ model homes, sales centres for new real estate deals and offices, it’s a good idea to take notes. That way, it is much easier to make comparisons later.

The key to successful home hunting is to take your time. Don’t rush. Take a thorough look at everything and ask questions – lots of them. The real estate builder or salesperson should be ready and pleased to answer each question. Sales centres will often have a complete information package on the real estate and homes, the development, and the real estate community, including schools and other facilities. And keep in mind that a real estate builder’s model home is usually just one of several designs offered by the company – a starting point.

The community/development
- Does the community meet your needs (as determined in your planning)?
- Does the development have a good “feel”? Can you see yourself living there? Ask about landscaping plans and common facilities, if any. Visit a builder’s finished real estate development for a better impression
- What are the long-term plans for the community and real estate development – e.g. growth, roads, facilities, commercial/industrial expansion?
- Are there any community or development convenants and bylaws that restrict how you can live in your home (e.g. no pets)?

Model homes and real estate plans
- Take a close look at the qualify of each model home – is construction solid, the real estate finishing well done with attention to details?
- Compare real estate floorplan layouts and size (more square feet does not always mean more living space).
- Find out if the features in each model home are standard or upgrades (i.e. extra cost) and ask to see samples of the real estate builder’s standard finishing products.
- Note the features of each real estate property and home that appeal to you (worth considering when you have made a final decision on a model and have some leeway for details).
- Imagine your family’s daily routine through out the seasons.
- Note if the real estate builder is using brand-name products you know and trust.
- Ask about each builder’s design flexibility (e.g. moving walls, enlarging windows).
- Ask about optional or upgrade “packages” (e.g. lighting and plumbing fixtures).
- Look at the real estate company’s other designs and plans
- Visit model homes outside your price range for ideas for layout and features (but stay focused on the price range that’s most comfortable for you).
- Ask about lot availability for the home model suite you are interested in – there may be restrictions.

The builder
You should shop around for your real estate property builder as carefully as you do for your home.
- Is the company a member of the local Home Builder’s Association? Membership is an important indication of their professionalism.
- Does the company belong to a provincial new home warranty program?
- How long has the company been in business, and on average, how many real estate properties do they build annually?
- Where else have they built and/or are they building now (it’s worth a quick tour to see if you like the finished results).
- Will they give you the names of past customers for references (Do check with a few to find out if they are satisfied and would recommend the real estate builder).
- Call the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints against the company.
- Ask about after-sales service – most builders have an established follow-up system
- Find out, in detail, what the warranty on your real estate property or home covers.

And you also need to know
- What is the recommended deposit? Can you make a refundable deposit to hold the home/lot for a few days or a week, while you make a final decision?
- Are you expected to make milestone payments throughout construction or pay the full price of the home, less deposit, on the day you take possession?
- When can construction and real estate development begin, and when can you expect to move in?
- Who will your contact person be, before and during the real estate construction phase of your home?
- Would you be able visit your home during construction?

Once you have found your new home

When you have found the home you want, and you are confident that you are dealing with a professional builder, you can ask the builder to write up a sales agreement. Make sure you have a lawyer review the contract before you sign. From here on, you will be working in close contact with your real estate builder, or builder’s representative to see your home purchase brought to a satisfactory conclusion.

- You need to finalize arrangements with your bank lender, if the real estate contract is conditional upon financing.
- As construction progresses, your real estate builder will call you into choose finishings such as cupboards, floor coverings, and tiles (referred to as “colour selections”).
- Your builder may ask you to make final decisions on placement of electrical, telephone and cable outlets.
- The builder may make arrangements for you to visit your home in progress (for safety and insurance reasons you cannot drop by the construction site unexpectedly).
- Just before your home is completed, you will be asked to join the real estate builder on a walkthrough of the home to verify that the work has been done according to plan. You will be asked to sign a certificate of completion, noting any last-minute touch-ups or details yet to be done to your real estate property. This triggers the warranty coverage on your home. Outstanding work will be done before you move in, or soon after.
- The builder will provide you with the manufacturers’ warranties on components and products used in your home.
- On closing day, title to the home is transferred to you from the real estate developer, the outstanding payment balance is transferred from your financial institution to the builder, and you get the keys to your new home. This is done through lawyers who register everything with the appropriate authorities.
- Before the end of your first year in the new house, the real estate developer will touch up any small imperfections that may have merged due to the house settling and materials drying out (completely normal in any new home).
- BUT you don’t have to wait if you have questions, concerns or problems. Professional builders provide effective after-sales service-part of their commitment to customer satisfaction.

The Lido Residence Homes along the San Diego River

If you are in the hunt for a metropolitan urban living community in Mission Valley, the San Diego Lido condominium style apartment homes and residences are for you. Centrally located in a tranquil and relaxing setting, the Lido San Diego residence condos along the Riverfront at Mission Valley are now available at new pricing.

A tremendous valued San Diego real estate property at The Lido along the river front area of Mission Valley has come to town. The real estate San Diego based developer is Concordia Homes who have brought together a relaxed master-planned condominium style community of luxury residence homes that are close to everything you need to work, play and relax in Mission Valley. The San Diego Lido condo homes and apartment properties will range in pricing that are very competitive with other San Diego pre-construction real estate property at this time of this burgeoning and ever changing market. The Lido residence apartment condominiums along the San Diego River in Mission Valley will range between one bedroom and one bathroom condo homes that are nine hundred and three square feet and range from the high three hundred thousand US dollar range to two bed room and two bath Lido home residences at Mission Valley San Diego which are between one thousand one hundred and seventy one square feet to seventeen hundred and ninety three square footage and priced from the cost of the mid four hundred thousand USD range. In addition, for an exclusive few families and couples, the San Diego Lido condominium style home residences will feature apartment suites that are three bedrooms and two baths with fifteen hundred and sixty four square feet. These luxury Lido San Diego residence homes along the riverfront in Mission Valley will be priced from the mid five hundred thousand dollar range.

The Neighorbood and Lido San Diego overview of residence properties

The physical location of this master-planned home community in Mission Valley is at 8355 Station Village Lane in central San Diego, California. The zip code for the Mission Valley Lido San Diego condo residence apartments is 92108 and it is considered an absolutely new construction development CA project. The entire San Diego real estate construction project at the Lido residences will feature two hundred and twenty condominium style apartment residence homes that will be situated along the riverfront of San Diego in a village district called Mission Valley which is very quiet, safe and vibrant. Already completed, the San Diego Lido residence homes will range from one to three bed rooms and one to two bath rooms per apartment Lido condominium and the unit sizes will be between 1171 – 1798 square feet, much larger than traditional San Diego pre-construction tower residences in Mission Valley. Available now for purchase from the $300s, you can call 619-260-0993 for more information about the Lido floorplans, availability and condominium suites for sale. Living at the San Diego Lido real estate properties is a blessing as you will be within walking distance to the Mission Valley shopping malls, live entertainment venues, fine restaurants, San Diego Padres baseball games, Charger football games as well as the San Diego river. In addition, the Lido residence condo homes in San Diego’s Mission Valley will be close to many recreational and outdoor venues that will include eighteen hole golf courses, river side bike trails and a lot of water sports.

The Amenities at the Lido Residence Properties along San Diego River

Whether you want to relax and unwind after a busy day, or if you are in the mood to entertain family and friends, the San Diego Lido residence condominium homes and residential complex will provide many different on site amenities that will keep you fulfilled and happy. Much like a four star luxury hotel, the San Diego Lido condo homes and residence properties in Mission Valley will provide swimming pools … yes, not just one, but two. The main swimming pool is for swimmers and for socializing as well, and the second pool is a bit more secluded and private for those romantic getaways or intimate moments at the Mission Valley San Diego real estate property development at the Lido resort. In addition, the SD Lido residence condominium community will provide a resident Club House complete with a flat screen television, sound system, full kitchen, indoor and outdoor fireplace and lounging areas as well as a pool table. The Lido San Diego condo homes and resort style luxury apartments in Mission Valley also provide a Fitness Center so that you definitely can cancel your current gym membership. Other great on site amenities provided by this master planned home community at Mission Valley Lido condo residences are numerous walking and biking baths along the San Diego Riverfront areas with magnificent views.

More information regarding the Lido Condo Homes and Apartments in Mission Valley

For further details about the San Diego Lido condominium suites and homes, please contact the Lido sales office today for a site tour. Located on site at 8355 Station Village Ln #4102 in San Diego, CA, the telephone number for the Lido sales center is 619.260.0993. You can also join the Mission Valley San Diego Lido interest list online at their marketing web site located at the-lido.com as well as view a map with directions on how to get to the San Diego riverfront Lido condo residence homes.

More San Diego condominium projects are listed here.

Top 10 Home Cover-Ups and Renovations

Originally published in the Australian Property Investor magazine (API) and story written by Matthew Liddy, there are some very useful tips on how to spot cover-ups and what to do about it if you are either purchasing or selling a home that requires renovations.

Homebuyers must be on the lookout for sellers who’ve found problems with their home, moved to cover it up and then put it on the real estate market. Here are the top 10 cover-ups that can cost the unwary. Story by Matthew Liddy. Please visit www.apimagazine.com.au for more useful information.

Building advisory service Archicentre warns that buyers must beware the touch-up job, the quick cover-up that conceals a problem with a house but does nothing to fix it. “People who are buying properties may trip up over the situation where the seller has really just done a quick cover-up in order to move the property and get out of the problem,” says Archicentre Queensland manager Ron Tanton. “The new buyer is then saddled with the hidden defects and the hideous further costs involved.”

Cover-ups can prove effective because buyers don’t know what to look for and don’t always get a building inspection, Tanton says. “Typical weapons of mass deception include the use of gap filling products, wall panelling, strategically placed furniture, pot plants or rugs, or newly painted surfaces,” he reveals. Tanton says the top 10 cover-ups can be expensive to fix.

#1. Illegal Building
Typical example are low ceiling heights in habitable areas, dodgy extensions and alterations, and small boundary clearances. Tanton says these issues often don’t’ take too much covering up because many people aren’t aware of the regulations.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $100,000

#2. Cracking
Archicentre says it has seen internal cracking filled and painted and external cracking being hidden behind plants and trellises. Tanton says if a crack has been filled, plastered over and painted, it can even be difficult for a professional to detect.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $50,000

#3. Termites, borers and timber rot
Termites themselves try to conceal their activities but sometimes homeowners help uot by patching up floor damage or concealing it under carpets, Tanton says. “Cover-up merchants are the ones that generally deny access to the underfloor or the roof space,” he says.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $20,000

#4. Roof problems“Quite often the cover-up merchants will simply paint over the top with some sort of gooey stickey stuff and then paint it all in and make it look nice, only to find within two or three months or six months or twelve months, we’re back to where we were, wheras it should have been replaced in the first place,” Tanton says. With tile roofs, silicone is increasingly being used to stick tiles back together in an effort to get a house sold.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $20,000

#5. Rotten weatherboards and windows
Home real estate inspectors have seen rot patched with filler or covered with tin and painted. “It’s a small, inexpensive leap to spend a bit of spare time bogging up a few holes so that people don’t see it but what unfortunately can happen is the timber rot continues even through the paintwork over the top is quite good.”
The Cost to Repair: Up to $10,000

#6. Rotten stumps
One of the telltale signs of rotting timber stumps is a white, salty look to the bottom of the timber. “To cover up those sorts of things, people quite often paint the stumps and make them look nice,” Tanton says, adding that access is also often denied to underfloor areas with problem stumps.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $8,000

#7. Faulty or illegal wiring
Tanton says this is an area where cover-ups get downright dangerous. Cover-ups involve putting furniture in front of problematic power points or painting over them. “Bodgy do-it-yourself wiring”, especially in roof spaces, is also a problem.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $6,000

#8. Faulty or illegal plumbing
Cover-ups include painting or panelling over rusty plumbing that’s visible and homeowners carrying out their own illegal plubming connections and extensions.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $6,000

#9. Damp
Walls and ceilings are at times simply painted or panelled over, concealing the effects of dampness. “They’re very hard to see, particularly if the weather’s not raining a lot. If it is raining a lot then uite often the dampness will manifest itself as a smell.”
The Cost to Repair: Up to $5,000

#10. Guttering and downpipes
Archicentre inspectors see guttering and downpipes bogged up to hide rust. “We see that particularly with people selling homes – a bit of bog and spit and paint, and she’ll be right mate, nobody will get up there and have a look.” And they often get away with it. Some new homes also have secondhand guttering, he adds, an issues impossible to detect from the ground.
The Cost to Repair: Up to $3,000

Canterbury Heights in Tigard Oregon

A Polygon Homes real estate development in Oregon State, the Canterbury Heights project consists of a combination of condominium suite residences as well as townhome condos with the latest in architectural planning and design coupled with great finishes.

Convenient and easy family living is what the Tigard Canterbury Heights Oregon townhomes and condominium suites can offer the growing real estate market in suburban states. With a strong collection of condo homes that range from one and two bedroom homes to two and three bedroom townhouse or townhome style living, the Canterbury Heights in Tigard Oregon State is another Polygon master-planned community that will be home to hundreds of growing families looking for affordable yet luxurious living that will have timeless design with modern features and amenities. Right now, you can visit the Canterbury Heights in Tigard Oregon where the sales center has two model suites open for you to view before purchase so that you can see what you’re buying into.

Some features to look for at the Canterbury Heights Townhomes and Condos

This real estate masterplanned district of Canterbury Heights in Oregon will feature the latest and greatest in technology and luxury finishes that will include gourmet European style kitchens with open concept functional spaces including gas ranges, stainless steel Whirlpool appliances, tiled counters and maple cabinets. In addition, all homes at the Canterbury Heights Oregon development will also have natural gas fireplaces as well as tile surrounding in addition to the usual ten year PWC warranty. With certain floor plans already sold out temporarily at the Oregon Tigard Canterbury Heights condominiums and townhomes, please visit their sales center before everything is sold out at this wonderful real estate development built for couples and families. You can find out more by calling the sales office at Canterbury Heights Oregon at 503.684.6517. You can also contact them via email at canteburyheights@polygonhomes.com or if all else fails, just contact Polygon Homes for more information regarding Canterbury Heights in Tigard. The actual address if you’re visiting the model suites is at 10777 SouthWest Cantebury Lane in Tigard OR.

The floor plans at Oregon’s Canterbury Heights real estate development

There are several model floorplans to choose from at this property project that includes the Hollyberry floor plan for townhomes that includes one thousand four hundred and forty eight square footage with three beds and 2.5 baths. There is a separate dining room in addition to a family sized two car garage and is priced from two hundred and eighty nine thousand nine hundred USD. The next floorplan model at the Canterbury Heights Oregon Tigard real estate development project is the Gingerwood plan that is approximately one thousand three hundred and ninety two sq ft with 3 and 2.5 with a open concept kitchen and attached garage that is perfect for those cold winter days and nights and is priced from two hundred and thirty nine thousand US dollars. The Fir condominium townhome at Canterbury Heights Tigard is 1417 sqft and has a deck that spins off the kitchen and living room that is very functional and spacious and there is also some homesites available for an affordable $275,000. The Elm floorplan at Tigard Canterbury Heights in Oregon State will also have 1129 square ffet and 2 bedrooms with a tandem two car garage from $219,990. The Dogwood Canterbury Heights floor plan will be approx one thousand and sixteen sq feet with two and two and a patio off the kitchen/dining area and is from $224,900. The next floor plan model suite at the Canterbury Heights Oregon real estate properties is the Chestnut that is approx nine hundred and ninety five square feet but it is temporarily sold out for the moment. The Bayberry condominium at Canterbury Heights is one of the smaller units at 801 sq ft and is a 1 and 1 with a deck and is priced from approx one hundred and eighty thousand USD. The Deodara floorplan is also sold out at this time as is the Aspen two and one. Lastly, the Cypress floor plan at Canterbury Heights Oregon is still available at $228,990 and is approximately 1153 square footage with two beds and two baths and an attached garage.

For more information about Condo Projects in Portland, please click on this link.

Four questions to ask your selling real estate agent

What better way to test your real estate agent’s ability to answer tricky questions from potential home buyers than by asking a few curly ones yourself?

Published in the Australian Property Investor (API) Magazine in Australia, this article was written for the December 2006 issue. Please visit apimagazine.com.au for more useful real estate and property information.

Property sellers can’t afford to simply assume their chosen real estate agent will get the best possible price and should test their negotiation skills, according to the Independent Real Estate Consulting group. The group’s director, Robert Williams, says inexperienced sellers often make the mistake of assuming the best of their agent. “most real estate agents offer priceless expertise and do their best to negotiate the best possible real estate deals for their clients,” Williams says. “However, there is a worrying small percentage of agents who are clearly out to look after themselves.” “The idea of asking your real estate agent specific question is simply to feel out how they would deal with a potential home buyer and to assess if they have the ability to increase your sales price.”

“The way they treat potential home buyers is likely to reflect the way they will treat you.” With that in mind, Independent Real Estate Consulting suggests sellers ask agents four tricky questions including:

1. How much do you allow for real estate negotiation?
The real estate agent’s answer to this question will give you a clue as to what you can expect your property to sell for. “The best response from your agent should be along the lines that they don’t allow anything and they’re after the asking price,” Williams says. “in most cases, how your real estate agent responds is often what they’re also telling potential home buyers, so if their answer is ‘we usually allow about 10 per cent’, the best price you’re likely to get from that agent will be 10 per cent under your asking price.”

2. How would you respond to the question, “How long has this real estate property been on the market?’
This is an extremely common question among potential home buyers who want to determine how urgently you need to sell the real estate property – and thus get an indication of how much yhou’re likely to negotiate on the price. “It’s important that the agent does not give out such information,” says Williams. “They need to be skilled enough to answer the question without giving the details away.”

3. How negotiable are your real estate fees?
While many real estate sellers might like to hear that their agent is willing to lower their fees, this can also be a warning sign that they’re too quick to negotiate. “if the agent easily drops their fees without much pushing, you can assume that they may just as easily drop your selling price just to make a sale,” says Williams.

4. What can you teach me about negotiation?
You want your agent to be a skilled negotiator with considerable knowledge and experience of the best approach to dealing with real estate property buyers. This question can help you to decide whether you’ve found the right person for the job. Williams advises, “If you’re not impressed with their response, or don’t learn something worthwhile, then it may be time to reconsider your choice of agent.”

The Right Person
When choosing a real estate agent to sell your home, keep the following guidelines in mind.
a. Shop around. Get the names of one or two real estate agents from other homeowners in your area who have recently sold. Talk to at least three agents.
b. Make sure your agent has a valid license.
c. Get a list of all their fees.
d. Find out if they have good knowledge of your area.
e. Ask if they adhere to a code of ethics.

For more real estate tips and pre-construction condo listings, please click here.

Urban Glass House New York City Luxury Residences

Modern architecture and trendy designs is no longer unique to New York City, but the new Urban Glass House condominium residences and luxury apartment suites will push the limits in NYC urban living spaces. The New York Urban Glass House luxury residences are a modern approach to city living for only an exclusive few.

With Philip Johnson, the world famous designer-architect behind the Glass House in Connecticut, under the helm for the NYC Urban Glass House condominium suites and trendy chic residence apartments, it is no wonder why there is so much marketing hype surrounding this luxurious New York real estate property development right now. With sixty years of prime architectural marvel, the Glass House has forever remained a signature piece by Philip Johnson and now, NYC gets to enjoy a luxury residential community that is committed to the unusually high standards or liveability and design such as the original Glass House but brought over to this new endeavour at the luxury residence apartments at New York Urban Glass House development project. With his partner, Alan Ritchie, Philip Johnson is now transforming this twelve story glass condominium building on Spring Street in lower Manhattan into a twenty first century glass oasis at the Urban Glass House luxury condo apartments in New York City, NY. With only an offering of forty exclusive and prestigious apartment condominiums at the NY Urban Glass House tower of 12 stories, this New York City real estate development will push the limits in design, interior and exterior, as well as building amenities and finishes that this city has seen ever. A haven with understated elegance and a refuge from the daily busy lives of all New Yorkers, the NYC Urban Glass House luxury residence apartments and condo suites are now available for purchase.

More about the New York Urban Glass House real estate properties and offerings

A world acclaimed architect of the name of Annabelle Selldorf is behind the design and architecture of this magnificent new Urban Glass House real estate property in lower Manhattan NY. Verging on modern inspirational finishes with understated clean lines and finishes, the Urban Glass House in New York City will provide luxury residences and condominium apartments that will stand the test of time and are perfect for any traditional or contemporary focussed individual or family. From spacious interiors to luxurious features and amenities, the real estate NYC property at the Urban Glass House will be home to only a few exclusive New Yorkers who can call lower Manhattan their home and oasis. From the original plans and designs including commitment to living spaces and urban layouts by Philip Johnson, the Urban Glass House luxury residences and apartments will be carefully designed in its purest form so that all floor plan layouts will maximize urban living spaces, and keep things open. With sliding doors to expand and contract living spaces to modern technologies that we are accustomed to, the New York Urban Glass House residence properties are a perfect blend of traditional and new features that we all look for in a home.

Urban Glass House Floorplans that are available on the New York real estate market

There are not many luxury condominium suites and apartment residences still on the New York City real estate market listings as many floorplans and properties have already been sold out at the NYC Urban Glass House development for obvious reasons. Currently, in apartment 2, the NY Urban Glass House luxury residences have sold out floors two through to nine as well as eleven. Floor 10 in Apt A at the Urban Glass House New York condominium is a two bedroom and two bathroom unit with home office and powder room with seventeen hundred and seventeen square feet (160 sm) in urban space. The New York real estate properties at the Urban Glass House condo apartments B feature Floors 2, a four bed and four bath unit with two thousand three hundred and nine square footage (or 215 sm), Floor 4 which has three beds and three baths with a home office, power room and excellent river view terrace and with 2037 sf (189 sm) in living space, Floors 7 & 8 which are Urban Glass House NYC 3 beds/3 baths unit with two thousand and thirty seven square feet in addition to Floor 11 which has 2 bdr/2baths and a large terrace. The New York City Apt C at the Urban Glass House luxury residence condo apartments also features only the Floor 11 unit which is a 2 bedroom and 2 bath condominium unit of fourteen hundred and fifty seven square feet in urban indoor space. Apt D, Floor 5 luxury and chic condo residence property at the Urban Glass House New York real estate market is still available and is a one bed, two bath plus library and powder room unit with 1489 sf. Floor 11 is also available. However, please note that all NYC Urban Glass House penthouse suites and luxury residences are currently all sold out. You can view images and renderings of these New York City real estate properties online at the Urban Glass House web site at urbanglasshouse.com.

The sales and contact information for this NYC real estate property

If you are interested in purchasing a luxury residence condominium at the New York Urban Glass House condominium tower, please contact the sales and design center which is located off site at 330 Spring Street, Residence 4B in New York City, NY 10013. The marketing and sales for the NYC Urban Glass House luxury condo apartments and residences is done by The Sunshine Group Ltd and the Urban Glass House properties are by Philip Johnson and residences designs by Annabelle Selldorf. The phone number for the sales and design center for the New York Urban Glass House is 212-620-0330 and the email address is andrea@andreaschwan.com. For the NYC real estate development team info or for the latest press releases and updates to the Urban Glass House, please visit their web site for more information.

Ladd Tower Condominiums in Downtown Portland

Located in Oregon State’s most beautiful city, the Portland Ladd Tower Condos is a premier downtown living experience that is fit for those sophisticated few who would like to live on the prestigious Park Avenue in central Portland. Ladd Tower Condominiums are now available to the public.

As quoted from the Oregon Ladd Tower Condo web site, the Ladd Tower is a twenty one story, mix-use residential tower that is ideally situated in the cultural district of downtown Portland in Oregon. Located at SW Park Avenue and Jefferson that is just one block away from Broadway Portland Oregon, the Ladd Tower Condominium residences and homes offers only one hundred and ninety luxury condo suites with floor plans that range in size between six hundred square foot urban studio plans to one thousand five hundred and fifty square foot two bedroom homes. In addition, the Ladd Tower Condominiums in Portland Oregon on Park Avenue will also feature three thousand sq ft penthouse suites for the discerning purchaser. Every day outside of Ladd Tower, residence at this high-rise tower on Park Ave Portland can enjoy South Park Blocks, the cultural and historic heart of this growing city. With style and elegance at the forefront in design and features, the Portland Ladd Tower Condo residences and real estate property development is a unique and distinct downtown building that is an architectural landmark residence in Portland Oregon. Purchase your dream home today at the Ladd Tower Condominiums real estate properties today.

More information about the Ladd Tower Residence Homes

For the urban enthusiast, the Portland Ladd Tower condominiums are perfectly situated at 1300 SW Park Avenue, just blocks away from Broadway along Jefferson and Columbia Streets. With large urban greenery and parks surrounding your condo home, residents at the Ladd Tower real estate property will have plenty to see, do or just relax around their own wonderful and peaceful neighborhood. For more info about the history about the Ladd Tower residence building or for renderings both interior and exterior of this Portland high-rise tower condo building, please visit their website at www.laddtower.com today. The location of the Ladd Tower Portland Oregon condos is impeccable as these residences are all about history, culture, art, architecture, the Park Blocks and more. Just minutes and steps away from your private condos at Ladd Tower real estate project will be the unique downtown districts called the Cultural District which is bounded by Market Streets and Salmon Street as well as Broadway and 10th Avenue. Lots of history, culture, fine dining, shopping and parks are waiting for you and your family at the Ladd Tower neighborhood. You can also check out numerous views from various floors of the Ladd Tower online at their marketing website today.

Showroom and Sales

If you are in the condominium market looking to purchase a new home for you and your family, the Ladd Tower on Park Avenue in Portland Oregon may be a perfect fit for you. The showroom and sales office is located at 723 SW Salmon Street in Portland and the phone number to contact is 503.226.2525 and is brought to the Portland real estate market by Ladd Tower and Opus Carroll LLC. For more information, you can register online and you can also see construction progress and updates online (ground breaking occurred in the fall of 2006). The show room and sales presentation center is open on Tuesday to Saturday between 11am and 5pm and on Sunday between noon and 5pm. You can also email the Ladd Tower residence condominiums in Oregon at info@laddtower.com and visit their web site at www.laddtower.com. This real estate property is exclusively marketed by Debbie Thomas Real Estate. And the general contractor is Opus Northwest LLC. The architecture and Interiors for the Ladd Tower Oregon Portland real estate project is Ankrom Moisan Associated Architects and the interior coordination is done by Soderberg Laman Designers. The branding for the Ladd Tower condos is by Market Image Management and New Moon Design.

Floorplans and residences at Ladd Tower Portland

There are many unique and functional floor plans offered at this real estate development beginning on Floor 2 that includes No. 205 which is a two bed and two bath at 1203 sq ft as well as spacious No. 207 which is approximately seventeen hundred square feet in size. On the penthouse level of the Ladd Tower in Portland on Park Avenue, you will find the most spacious condominium residences that include No. 2101 which is a two bedroom, two and a half bathroom and media room unit of two thousand five hundred and fifty three square feet in addition to floorplan No. 2103 which is three thousand two hundred and one sqft. You can view an interactive planner online too. Some amenities and features of the condos at Ladd Tower Portland include its convenient location close to shopping and dining, cultural and historical venues, museums, churches, markets and more. There is a residential lobby with twenty four hour security and concierge in addition to awesome views of the West Hills area, downtown, city skyline and mountain views in addition to high ceilings, open living spaces, spacious balconies and hardwood floors. Also, there are custom crafted wood kitchen and bath cabinets in addition to slab granite and stone counters with stainless steel appliance sin all condominiums homes in Ladd Tower on Park Avenue residences. Premium plumbing fixtures, soaker tubs, gas fireplaces, utility rooms, garage entrances, underground parking, fitness center, ground level retail and pedestrian friendly sidewalks are other outstanding features at the Portland Ladd Tower real estate property development that you will come to enjoy everyday.

This includes the following real estate developments in Portland: Benson Tower, Harrison, The Meriwether, Eliot Tower, The Metropolitan, John Ross, The Civic Condo Tower, Pearl Condos Waterfront, Portland Riverscape Condominiums, Riverscape Residences and McCormick Pier.

Schnitzer Northwest Breaks Ground at Brix on Broadway in Capitol Hill

Just released as an email blast to priority registered real estate purchasers and investors in the Seattle Washington area, the Brix condominiums latest news and updates are located below

Schnitzer Northwest bringing more than 1,200 homes to region

SEATTLE – January 9, 2007 – Schnitzer Northwest LLC, one of the region’s leading development companies, celebrated the groundbreaking for the company’s second Seattle residential community in just as many months.

Brix, located in the heart of Capitol Hill on Broadway East, is bringing 141 upscale condominium homes to the prestigious and historic Harvard/Belmont district.

Schnitzer Northwest, which officially began a move into the residential market just two years ago with a nine person team, currently ranks among the area’s top developers of multi-family projects planned or in construction in the Puget Sound, with nearly 1,200 new homes in five distinct neighborhoods.

“Schnitzer Northwest has developed a strong reputation for producing top caliber results in the commercial real estate industry,” said Dan Ivanoff, managing investment partner with Schnitzer Northwest. “We have put together a creative and dynamic team to bring those same results to our residential developments. Schnitzer is very excited to expand to develop exceptional homes in some of the most unique and sought after neighborhoods in the region.”

Brix, located at the intersection of Broadway East and East Mercer Street on north Broadway at the former Safeway site, has been well established as the residential anchor for the emergence of the “new” Broadway, which includes more than $155 million in private investments over the next few years. Within just two years, the face of Broadway is expected to significantly shift with hundreds of new home owners moving in as well as new business investment in the neighborhood.

“Brix is a vibrant new development that will be a cornerstone to Broadway’s future,” says Suzi Morris, investment manager of Brix. “The building’s handsome brick exterior will extend the historical charm of the Harvard/Belmont district seamlessly into the Broadway streetscape. Our location will provide homeowners the opportunity to experience all the sights and sounds of Capitol Hill. Brix is in the perfect Seattle location – within walking distance to downtown, the Seattle Asian Art Museum, Cal Anderson Park, and the densest selection of restaurants and shops that Seattle has to offer. ”

Morris also notes that Capitol Hill’s ideal location has been validated by the 22 percent appreciation of the area’s condominium sales prices last year which is more than any other King County area.

Designed by award winning architect Mithun, Brix will offer a variety of floor plans, including two-story town homes and lofts, open one-bedroom residences, and spacious one and two-bedroom homes. Townhouses and lofts will face the residential neighborhood of 10th Avenue East and interior courtyard, while modern one and two bedroom condominium homes will face west over Broadway. A lush, private central courtyard will join the two sides.

Brix will set the mark high in Capitol Hill condominiums by offering elegant finishes to homebuyers. Each home will feature sophisticated interiors by MNID Inc., complete with wood cabinetry, stainless steel Bosch and Fisher Paykel appliances, gas cooking, and upscale lighting and plumbing fixtures. Built-in entertainment centers and kitchens with floating islands are also available.

During the official start of sales in October, eager homebuyers lined up to be among the first to have the opportunity to learn about Capitol Hill’s newest development and take advantage of pre-development pricing. Approximately 30 percent of the homes were sold.

“Brix is the newest and most exciting project in the area,” says Sabina Mustafayeva, a Brix home buyer. “It is extremely close to downtown, and conveniently located near I-5 and 520. You couldn’t ask for a better location. I love the modern design and the great pricing.”

Residents at Brix will be able to enjoy extra amenities including a central landscaped courtyard, a spacious rooftop deck and lively retail on the first level. Garage parking and additional storage are standard with every home.

W.G. Clark is the general contractor for Brix.

Brix is offering 35 unique floor plans with one level homes starting at $314,000, and two level lofts and town homes beginning at $445,000. Interested buyers are encouraged to visit the Brix sales center at 700 Broadway East or visit the project’s Web site, www.brixcondos.com. For more information, you can also visit condominium real estate listings in the western United States.

About Schnitzer Northwest

Schnitzer Northwest has developed approximately two million square feet of Class A and suburban office, flex and bio-tech space and luxury multi- family apartment units in the Seattle and Portland markets. The company has acquired and repositioned approximately 1.0 million square feet of commercial product and has approximately 5.0 million square feet of development opportunities in the pipeline in the Seattle and Portland regions. It also manages approximately four million square feet of property for its own account and others.

Diane Jacobsen - Buyers Agent
Williams Marketing

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

email: info@brixcondos.com
phone: (206)262-9416
web: http://www.brixcondos.com

Palermo Condominiums in Downtown San Diego

Located in the multicultural city of San Diego CA, the Palermo Condo homes and apartment residences are available for immediate occupancy and move in. Situated in the heart of downtown city core, this San Diego real estate property development at the Palermo Condominiums Homes has been selling very quickly.

The Palermo lifestyle is what you have always dreamed about. Situated next to Horton Plaza boutique shopping arcades in addition to Little Italy and the vibrant bay area of San Diego Palermo condominium apartment residence homes represents the new age of urban living offerings in the bustling San Diego real estate market. From SD loft home apartments to residence condominiums, the Palermo Condos San Diego California are now selling and available to both home purchasers and re investors in this metropolitan city. With choice condominium suites still available, the time is now to get on it and purchase the home of your dreams by the water, shopping, dining and entertainment. The San Diego Palermo condo residences and apartment loft style homes can be contacted by appointment only. You can also visit the San Diego Palermo web site to view a SD photo gallery of artist renderings and still photos of the residential high rise interiors and exterior architecture.

An Overview of the Palermo San Diego condo homes and loft style apartments

Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, there is no better hot spot to live then at the Palermo condo homes and lofts. The real estate builders for the San Diego real estate property at Palermo condominiums is Integral Partners LLC. The location of this mid-rise residential tower in the central core of San Diego California is at 1st Avenue and Beech Street. The Palermo loft homes and condominium suites will total two hundred and thirty units covering six stories. The luxury Palermo homes in San Diego CA will range between SD one and three bed rooms to one and three bathrooms as well. For pricing and availability of San Diego Palermo lofts and condos, you can contact the real estate developer directly. This new construction Palermo SD condominium homes and apartment loft residences in San Diego CA will range between six hundred to fifteen hundred square feet and are available now. Please contact the Palermo sales manager today for more information at 800-580-1501 or 619-230-1501. You can also register online at the San Diego Palermo SD condos and lofts web site located at the following web address palermodowntown.com/registration.html. For printable directions and a map of the surrounding community at this San Diego real estate development SD Palermo loft style condo homes, please visit palermodowntown.com/directions.html. Lastly, pre-qualification for mortgages is requested by the sales and marketing team at the Palermo San Diego lofts and condominium suites through the well established Countrywide Home Loans. You can download the fax form for your pre-qualifying mortgage from the San Diego SD Palermo condominium web site.

The Palermo Floor Plans in San Diego California

Featuring four floorplan layout configurations online at the Palermo San Diego website, this real estate property development will feature a loft style apartment of decent size with a bedroom loft, living and dining room, open concept and functional kitchen, full bathroom and laundry room. The Mezzanine Lofts at the Palermo San Diego real estate properties will consist of a bedroom loft on the upper floor and the separate kitchen from living and from dining rooms as well as the full bathroom on the lower floor. Floor plan Unit 1C at the San Diego Palermo condominium suites and apartment residence properties features a one bathroom and one bedroom condo home with full kitchen, closet and living room as well. The layout floorplan for Unit 2A at the SD Palermo condo units and residences includes two bedrooms and two full size baths in addition to a practical kitchen, separate living and dining rooms in addition to an open balcony with views. Another large 2/2 residence condo unit at the Palermo Condominiums in San Diego California is Unit 2C which has a bit of a different layout floorplan in addition to Unit Floorplan 2D. The three bedroom and 2.5 bathroom Unit 3 at the luxury Palermo Condo Residences in San Diego CA features a laundry room, spacious kitchen, dining area, and a living room that opens onto a large balcony. Contact the sales office today for the Palermo Condominiums situated in downtown San Diego today for more information on the remaining units for sale.

Condominium Hotels on the rise around the world

A big trend towards condominium style hotels is growing throughout the world as many thousand of people are able to afford multiple residences for living and renting. As travel has become the largest industry in the world, many families and retired couple as well as some smart and savvy younger real estate investors are snatching up what is called "condo hotels" or "condominium hotel" units across the globe.

If you are looking to purchase a real estate property that could be used both as your primary principal residence as well as a vacation property that can be rented out to other holiday goers during the times when you are not using your residence condo property, a condominium hotel will be suitable for you. As a growing trend, many real estate developers throughout the world are turning to these condo-hotel style high-rise towers in major cities as well as recreational holiday destinations as many couples and families want to travel throughout the year or during their holidays. A condo-hotel is virtually what is sounds like, a cross between a hotel destination with luxury amenities and features that reflect five-star holiday packages in addition to the comforts and privacy of a private condominium tower. For more information about hotels that are either under construction or already developed, please visit this excellent resource for boutique accommodations that can act as both residential condo high-rise units as well as holiday condominium units.

In many cases, condominium hotel units are just as affordable as regular real estate developments, but the added feature is that your condo unit will go into a rental pool for business people traveling through your city or if you own in a holiday destination, to other vacationers during the times when you are not home. With self-storage lockers as well as the top of the line facilities, features and amenities in these real estate developments, it is no wonder why this is a growing trend for real estate investors throughout the globe.

Detroit Riverfront Condominiums and Apartments

A big change in the motor city is happening at the Riverfront Condos and Apartments in Detroit’s riverfront real estate property development. AS one of the most spectacular natural settings along the river, the Detroit Riverfront properties are now launching a series of residential communities.

Located along the Riverfront, close to all the amenities and attractions that Detroit is known for, the new real estate properties at the Riverfront Apartments and Condominiums in Michican is featuring elegant and sophisticated residence homes for those who want to be part of it all. From excellent views of both the city sky line in addition to the Detroit river, the Riverfront Condominiums and Apartments are the latest in a resort style master-planned community along the beautiful river front of this city. Panoramic views both day and night, an urban Zen just outside your window as well as full service amenities like a market and coffee shop are just outside your door at the Detroit Riverfront condominiums and apartment residences. In addition, the Riverfront real estate Detroit properties will be part of a twenty four acre river front redevelopment that will enjoy a revitalization and infusion of arts, culture, concert halls, casinos, restaurants, dining, shopping and of course major transportation hubs in and around the Detroit Riverfront condominiums and apartment homes. This Detroit river front real estate development features both condos and apartment homes as will be described below very briefly.

Detroit Riverfront Tower 300 Condominium Homes

A conversion of unparalleled planning and construction, the Tower 300 Riverfront Detroit condo residences and condominium homes will provide a stunning new lobby with modern design and furniture in addition to new carpets, walls, cherry wood doors and trimming throughout. All condominium homes at Tower 300 Riverfront Detroit real estate properties will be completely revived to its former glory and all residents at Tower 300 will have access to the many local amenities and onsite features provided to all home owners that will include a salon, restaurant, market, and fitness center. Some of the features of the Tower 300 Condominiums Riverfront Condos in Detroit MI will includes expansive windows with new vertical blinds, stackable laundry facilities, Whirlpool appliances, controlled heating and air conditioning, new electrical switches, cherry wood entry doors, smoke detectors, sprinklers in addition to the Tower 300 Condominiums Signature Collection design finish package. All Detroit Riverfront Tower 300 Condo residences will also have upgraded carpeting, hardwood flooring, crown molding, closet organizers, window treatments, paint colors and recessed lighting. The Tower 300 Riverfront Detroit Condominiums will also have stainless steel appliances, ceramic or marble bath tubs, upgraded faucets and fixtures in addition to granite or marble flooring in the kitchens and bathrooms. The Detroit Riverfront Condominiums Tower 300 homes will be priced from $126,000 for one bathroom and one bath, $145,500 for one bedroom and 1.5 baths as well as $232,500 for 2 beds and 2 baths residence condo units. There are combination condominiums at Tower 300 Riverfront Detroit real estate properties for sale as well from $316,304. Each Riverfront Tower 300 Detroit Condo, home owners will get one covered parking space in addition to the ability to purchase another one. For the Riverfront Detroit Tower 300 Condominiums floorplans, please visit their marketing web site at riverfrontcondominiums.com where you can find information about the 1 bed and 1 bath from 553 sq ft all the way to the two bedroom and two bath units at 1300 sq ft at Tower 300 Condos in Detroit’s Riverfront real estate properties.

The Riverfront Detroit Tower 100 and 200 Apartment Residences

Apartment homes of varying floor plans, styles and features that suite different types of lifestyles is what both Towers 100 and 200 residences at Detroit’s Riverfront real estate properties will provide you. With onsite amenities and panoramic views, feature balconies and upgraded features, the Detroit River Front Tower 100 and 200 apartments will provide incredible views, twenty four different Tower 200 and 100 floor plans, closet space, in home washer and dryer, individual heating and AC, intrusion alarms, balconies on select apartment residences, dens as well and nine foot ceilings. The Detroit Riverfront Tower 100 apartments and Tower 200 residences are available for leasing only at this time. The leasing rates for Tower 100 and 200 apartments in 1 bed and one bath is $758 per month, 1 bed and 1.5 baths from $890 and 1 bed plus den from $937/month. Other leasing opportunities from Detroit Riverfront Tower 100 and 200 apartments include 2 bed and one bath residence homes from $1061, two and two from $1045 and two bedroom plus den condo residences from $1788 per month. Lastly, the luxurious three bedroom and three bathroom units at the Tower 100 apartments and Tower 200 Detroit Riverfront apartment residences will be from $2653 per month. For a limited time offer at the Tower 100 & 200 apartments in Detroit real estate riverfront, you can get two months free.

Contact info for the Detroit Riverfront Condominiums and Apartments

For more details about purchasing a Riverfront Condo (Tower 300) in Detroit MI, please contact 313.393.5111. For more information about leasing apartments at the Detroit Riverfront Apartments (Towers 100 and 200), please visit 313.393.5030.

The Facts and Breakdown of Mortgages and Pre-Approval for Mortgages

Another useful article written for the New Home Buyers Guide (HomeBase.ca magazine in the Lower Mainland), this breakdown goes through the different types of mortgages available on the market these days for home buyers, first time purchasers and how to get the best pre-approval for your home buying situation and how to secure your mortgages with banks. Originally presented in the December 08, 2006 to January 05, 2007 edition of the New Home Buyers Guide, you can read more about current real estate developments and mortgage bank information online at the www.homebase.ca HomeBase website today.

There is no such thing as “just a mortgage” these days. Today’s home owners have a special needs and widely varied financial circumstances. Because of this, there are numerous types of mortgages, mortgage pre-approvals and bank payment options designed to meet the unique requirements of every home owner. In addition to the HomeBase.ca definitions, we have also include the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver mortgage definitions too. The fundamental components of a bank mortgage wherever you live include:

Mortgage Principal
The amount of money you need to borrow, usually the difference between the selling price of the real estate property and the down payment. The bank mortgage is the amount initially borrowed or the portion still owing on the mortgage. Interest is calculated on the principal amount.

Interest
The amount you will pay for borrowing money for your principal real estate amount.

Mortgage Payment
A regular instalment, usually made up of principal and interest, by which you repay the mortgage over its term to maturity.

Amortization Period
The actual number of years it will take you to repay the entire mortgage, generally a period anywhere between fifteen and twenty five years. A table showing the amounts of principal and of interest comprising each level payment due at regular intervals and the outstanding principal balance of the loan after each level payment is made.

Amortized Mortgage
A bank mortgage requiring periodic payments which include both a partial repayment of the debt and interest on the outstanding balance.

Mortgage Term
The length of time which a specific mortgage agreement covers generally being between six month and twenty years (although twenty five year terms have recently been introduced). When the term matures or expires, the balance of the mortgage is generally renegotiated for another term at prevailing rates and conditions in effect at that time.

Home Equity
The value of the real estate property over and above all claims, generally being the different between market value and the outstanding principal of all mortgages relating to the property. Essentially the difference between the price of which a real estate property can be sold and the mortgage(s) on the property. Home equity is the owner’s stake in the property.

Conventional Mortgage
A mortgage loan that is seventy five per cent or less of the loan to value ratio; and does not require insurance by CMHC or other private insurer.

Debt Service Ratio
The percentage of a borrower’s income that can be sued for housing costs.

Gross Deb Service (GDS) Ratio
The amount that a lender will permit a borrower to use from his/her gross income in order to qualify for a loan for housing costs, including mortgage payment and taxes (and condominium fees, when applicable).

Total Debt Service (TDS) Ratio
The maximum percentage of a borrower’s income that a lender will consider for all debt repayment (other loans and credit cards, ect.) including a mortgage.

High-Ratio Mortgage
A bank mortgage that exceeds seventy five percent of the loan to value ratio; must be insured by either the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (in Canada also known as CMHC) or a private insurer (in the United States and Canada) to protect the lender against default by the borrower who has less equity invested in the property.

Mortgage Insurance
Government backed or private-backed insurance protecting the lender against the borrower’s default on high-ratio (and other types of) mortgages.

Open Mortgage
A mortgage that can be prepaid or renegotiated at any time and in any amount, without penalty.

Variable Rate Mortgage
A bank mortgage for which payments are fixed, but whose interest rate changes in relationship to fluctuating market interest rates. If mortgage rates go up, a larger portion of th epyament goes to interest. If the rate goes down, a larger portion of the payment is applied to the principal.

These definitions and information on mortgages is brought to you by HomeBase.ca and the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver.

The South Star Condominium in New York City

A wonderful New York condominium real estate development is one of the brightest lights in this ever expanding city. The New York South Star Condominium tower residences and apartment homes is a past historical building transformed into the modern future downtown Manhattan condo residence for urban individuals.

A bridge between the old and new is transforming the downtown Manhattan South Star condo residences into the most marketed and hyped NYC real estate development in decades. The icon of the Art Deco style of architecture in addition to the contemporary flair of world famous Andi Pepper and Stephen Jacobs who designed the Hotel Gansevoort, the South Star New York condominium residences and luxury apartment homes will provide luxurious and prestigious addresses in addition to it’s historical and convenient location in the vibrancy and excitement of downtown Manhattan, New York City, NY. Highly distinguished individuals and families will make the NYC South Star condo tower building residences which will have intelligent layouts that make sense to urban living individuals in addition to high ceilings that now come at the premium in any New York pre-construction condo tower these days. Ready for occupancy and move-in in the summer of 2006, The South Star condo homes and apartment residences in New York City is the premiere residential address that you will ever live in.

Some amenities and features at the South Star New York condominium homes as well as the amazing community neighborhood in lower Manhattan.

An impressive feature of the New York City South Star condo residences is the interior designed and architects of the lobby entrance as explained above. With chic urban spaces that provide Art Deco designs and a concierge attended lobby, residents at the New York South Star condominium tower residences will also enjoy twelve foot coffered ceilings, luxurious materials and a great color palette of soft stones and striking finishes. The creative team behind this New York real estate property development includes WSA Management Ltd, the real estate development firm, Architect Stephen Jacobs and Interior Designer Andi Pepper as well as the Corcoran Group Marketing in charge of The South Star sales and creative marketing. North of the New York South Star condo homes and apartments will see City Hall Park, historical architecture, contemporary arts and culture as well as the restaurants of the vibrant TriBeCa district of NYC. Just south of the NY South Star condominium tower residences are the historic monuments, museums, elegant and fine dining restaurants, and the historical streets of original New York City. Further east of the private homes at the South Star tower building includes the old port, markets, shopping arcades and intimate streets as well as Pier 17. Lastly, to the west of the South Star New York real estate residence tower apartment suites includes the beauty of Trinity Church and St. Pauls in addition to the Boat Basian and River Park.

Contact info for South Star NYC

The physical location of this residential high-rise tower residence in downtown Manhattan New York is at 80 John Street in NY 10038. This is also the same location as the Presentation Center where the exclusive marketing and sales agent is Corcoran Group Marketing, Barrie Mandel. The phone number for the sales office at the New York South Star condominium residence tower is 212-809-3180 or you can submit an online form question through the NY South Star website at southstarcondo.com today. Brokers are welcome at this NYC real estate property. For South Star New York condo and apartment residence availability, please visit the following Corcoran corporate web site corcoran.com/n_websites/south_star/availability.aspx.

NYC South Star Floor Plan designs and layouts

Just a few sample floorplans are listed below. For the full list of floor plan layouts and downloadable PDF designs, please visit the New York South Star condo website today for all the details. Residence D floorplan at the NYC South Star condominium tower residence is a seven hundred and ninety nine square foot open plan condo home with one bathroom on floors three through eleven. A luxurious residence suite F on the same floors is one thousand and six square footage and consists of two bedrooms, two bath rooms and a living/dining room as well. The Residence 14B layout floor plan at South Star New York real estate properties is another prestigious and spacious suite of three beds, two baths and a separate living room from dining area and features one thousand three hundred and ninety two square feet in indoor space. Floor plan for Residence 18D is quite unique with slanted walls and features 1090 sq ft, a one bedroom and two bathroom residence with home office and study as well as a dining/living room at the New York City South Star condominium apartment suites. Even higher up is the Residence 22B which is five hundred and eighty six square feet in size and features The South Star 80 John Street New York one bed and one bath with a living/dining room and a private terrace. The most impressive condominium suite at the New York South Star real estate properties is of course the penthouse suite PH which is one thousand and fifty nine square footage and features one bedroom plus a study, two baths, living and dining room in addition to a large and open private terrace.

The Park Shelton Condominiums Detroit Luxury Residences

A set of luxury condo homes and residences are now located along the banks in Midtown Detroit. With historical elegance, legendary design and modern amenities according to their Detroit real estate marketing team, the Park Shelton Condominium Residences fit in the luxurious master-planned condo community category.

With an exclusive and comfortable urban plan surrounding the Park Shelton Detroit condominium home apartment residences, you as a home buyer in this growing Detroit real estate property market can be the first to own in this one of a kind property package. The Park Shelton condominium residences in Detroit Michigan provides boast stylish living and building construction design that reflects the character of Midtown Detroit in Michigan of the traditional eras. In addition to the legendary design and well built construction, the real estate Detroit properties at the Park Shelton condo residence apartments will also be within the exciting Midtown district where local conveniences meet business and retail arcades. Not only is this a posh and chic urban living residential community, but the Detroit Park Shelton condo homes and condominium residences is Midtown Detroit’s newest prestigious and premier address in Michigan. Originally the Wardell Hotel, the newly renovated and urban planned Park Shelton Condominiums in Detroit MI is part of an innovative plan to make Midtown more liveable as a residential community. The results are outstanding.

The Amenities and Features at the Detroit Park Shelton condo residences

Luxury urban living is what the Park Shelton condominiums in Midtown Detroit can offer any home purchaser or real estate renter in the state of Michigan. With numerous on site community amenities offered at this residential condo high-rise tower, the Park Shelton will be one of the most exclusive and posh residential towers in the city. The Detroit Park Shelton residence apartments will have an exercise room plus a full sauna for you to keep active, fit and healthy including an elegant entrance lobby that will greet you and your guests every day. In addition, the Park Shelton Detroit condo residence homes will also have a roof top solarium deck which is great for entertainment in addition to a twenty four hour doorman as well as a full time concierge to help you with all your daily needs. The Park Shelton Detroit MI residence condominiums will also have a parking garage underground with secure access entry to all public areas to ensure your safety in addition to retail space on the ground floor. All residents at the Park Shelton Condominiums in Detroit MI will also have access to their own storage lockers and there will be dry cleaning service on site too, which is very unique to any Detroit real estate property development.

The Finishes at the Park Shelton Detroit Condo homes

As an upgraded real estate property in Detroit, the Park Shelton condo residence homes will have multiple upgrades to many of the fixtures, finishes and features in the individual condominium units which include new heating, air conditioning, pre-wiring for television, cable, internet and security alarms, new plumbing and electrical works as well as solid doors. Some of the standard features that were kept from the original architectural design of the Park Shelton condos homes building in Detroit MI include the hardwood flooring (real) in addition to many details along the walls and floros. There is in suite laundry (washer and dryer) as well as entertainment kitchens that come complete with new stainless steel appliances and Kohler hardware. In addition, the Detroit Park Shelton condominium residence apartments and Detroit real estate properties will also have fully restored and elegant bathrooms, again with Kohler finishes.

New Detroit Park Shelton Condominium Floorplans have just been released!

Here is a listing of many of the layout floor plans available for home residence apartments at the Park Shelton real estate development property in Detroit MI. From floor units 201 – PH01, the Park Shelton Detroit condominiums will host one bed and one bath units with six hundred and forty four square feet. From floorplan units 211 – PH11, the Detroit Park Shelton condo residences will be two beds and two bathrooms with a square footage of one thousand four hundred and seventy sq ft. One of the larger condominium homes at the Park Shelton Detroit real estate property is the 218 – PH18 floorplan with two bedrooms and two bths in sixteen hundred square feet of living area. Floorplan 20 which is from 220 – PH20 will be a one bed and 1.5 baths residence condo at Park Shelton and will feature eight hundred and sixty square feet. For more information about the Detroit Park Shelton floorplans, please visit theparkshelton.com/floorplans_index.htm for downloadable PDFs and details.

Sales are now open

The Park Shelton Detroit MI properties are now open for sales to the general public. The design and sales center features furnished model suites and is located at 15 East Kirby in Detroit MI 48202. The phone number for the Detroit Park Shelton condominiums and luxury residences is 313.872.7275 and the design presentation center is open every day between 11:00am to 6:00pm. You may also contact them to book an appointment for more information or purchase at info@theparkshelton.com. The recent price list of the Detroit Park Shelton condominiums and luxury residence homes is studios from under one hundred thousand, one bedroom condos in the one hundred and thirty thousands and two bedroom condominiums in the two hundred and seventy thousand dollar range.

21 Chelsea New York Condominiums hottest real estate properties

A classical condo tower in the middle of Manhattan NYC is about to become the most luxurious and unique New York real estate development property in the city and it is called 21 Chelsea NYC. Located at 120 West 21st Street, the New York 21 Chelsea condo homes and apartment properties is in a gentrified community with historical significance, architecture and intensity.

Come see for yourself what the 21 Chelsea New York condominium homes and residence apartment condos have transformed the Manhattan area into. As the Manhattan area thrives and grows into a luxury residential community within New York City, NY, the 21 Chelsea condo homes and residence apartments are leading the way in terms of spacious urban spaces that has spawned one of the most classical and traditional condominium tower residences in New Chelsea, the district just north of 23rd Street in New York City. 21 Chelsea apartment residences are luxurious, spacious and ever promiment and signify the past elegance and importance of the original Chelsea New York district where this new residence condominium high rise tower will give way to the first off the avenue luxury building created for the twenty first century. Leading the way in culture and lifestyle, the 21 Chelsea New York condo homes and NY real estate properties here are well within the New York City landmarks that include Ladies Mile, and its prominent arts, culture and design architecture in addition to Virgil Thompson, Gertrude Stein and Andy Warhol and even Sid Vicious. With the recent advancements in Chelsea New York high-rise tower condominiums, the NY real estate market here is being transformed into an oasis of residential communities that are both liveable and very urban chic, just like what the New York 21 Chelsea condo apartment building will provide.

The Residences at the NYC 21 Chelsea condominium tower residences

If you would like more information regarding this New York real estate property condo tower, please visit their marketing web site online at the following URL address: 21chelsea.com. The residence condominium features at the 21 Chelsea apartment condos in New York City include gourmet kitchens that offer stainless steel appliances that will include the standard microwave, dish washer, gas range and more and are laid out in an open plan for both entertainment and casual dining. In addition, the New York City 21 Chelsea apartment condominiums and residence homes in NYC will provide designer bathrooms that will have finishes like white ceramic tiling, chrome fixtures and finishes, in addition to an oversized vanity mirror and medicine cabinets. The NY 21 Chelsea condo tower residence apartments will also have premium oak hardwood flooring throughout in addition to pre wiring for multiple phone lines, high speed cable internet in addition to large windows. Some select condo units at the 21 Chelsea condominium tower apartments in the New York real estate market will have large private terraces that will be perfect for just relaxing and reading a book or even entertaining friends and family to an evening meal. All residence apartment condos at the 21 Chelsea New York properties will have individual controlled air conditioning as well as heating. You will need to contact the Leasing Office at 21 Chelsea New York residence apartments for more information about 21 Chelsea lease and rental options.

Some NYC tower amenities at the 21 Chelsea New York real estate development

This new age of condominium tower residences comes complete with on site facilities and amenities that were never present in older construction properties. At the 21 Chelsea apartment residences, residents will enjoy a custom designed lobby that is strikingly Chelsea styled and designed with stone imported from Spain as well as wood detailing. In addition, the entrance lobby of the New York 21 Chelsea residence condo apartments will have a twenty four hour doorman in addition to a full time on site concierge. The 21 Chelsea properties will also have a sundeck that is private to residents as well as direct access to an attended parking garage. For security of residents at the New York 21 Chelsea condo residences and properties, there is video security, and a laundry room on site. Leasing 21 Chelsea lease opportunities are still available.

Floor Plans available at the 21 Chelsea New York condominium tower residences

There are five available floor plans that range from studio apartments to luxury two bedroom condo homes at the 21 Chelsea NYC real estate properties. Firstly, the studio residence at 21 Chelsea NYC is nineteen by eleven feet by fourteen by five feet in square footage. Another studio apartment residence at the New York 21 Chelsea properties is 20’-7’ by 15’9’ and features a large open terrace with great views. The first one bedroom condominium suite at the 21 Chelsea apartment tower residence features a large living room and outdoor patio balcony and the second one bedroom condo home does not have any outdoor space. The last floor plan at NYC 21 Chelsea condominium tower apartments is the two bedroom luxury condo suite with no outdoor space.

Contact the NY 21 Chelsea condo properties in New York City

For more information about the luxurious residences at New York 21 Chelsea traditional condominium apartments, please call the Leasing Office at 212.645.4477 or you can email a leasing agent at info@21chelsea.com. You can also visit the 21 Chelsea web site for this New York real estate leasing opportunity information at the following web address 21chelsea.com.

East Bay Condominiums in Walled Lake Michigan

If you are looking for a fabulous luxury style of living, welcome to East Bay, a premier townhome condominium community located across the street from Walled Lake in Oakland County, just minutes away from major freeways. The East Bay condominiums in Michigan present a combination of natural beauty and setting with active lifestyles for urban style residences. Cultural, safe and quiet, the neighborhood of Walled Lake East Bay condos are now yours.

BUILDER’S CLOSE-OUT sale for new condominium homes and townhomes in East Bay Walled Lake Michigan is now available. Call 248.669.7500 today to get a hold of one of three townhome units left at the East Bay Condominiums in Michigan. Firstly, there is only one dockside unit left that is available for occupancy right away for move in at the East Bay Condominiums in MI. This dockside floorplan unit townhome at Walled Lake East Bay includes nine hundred and seventy six square feet of living space with two beds and two baths. The pricing for the Dockside Unit at East Bay Condominiums in Michigan has been reduced from one hundred and sixty one thousand nine hundred USD to one hundred and forty nine thousand nine hundred dollars. There is alos only one Cove Unit left at the East Bay Condominium townhomes and residences in Walled Lake Michigan which features a luxurious thirteen hundred square foot floor plan that is great for families and couples and there are two bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms in this layout that is available today as well. The regular price for the Cove Unit at the Walled Lake East Bay Condo townhomes was one hundred and ninety two thousand six hundred USD and now, you can make it your home for only one hundred and sixty nine thousand nine hundred dollars. The East Bay Condominiums near Detroit Michigan also have a close out sale of the one Edgewater Unit left in this Detroit real estate development that includes forteen hundred and thirty nine square feet of spacious urban living that includes 2 bdrs and two bathrooms and is available for immediate move-in too. The initial pricing by the Detroit real estate developers for the Edgewater Unit at East Bay Condominiums Walled Lake was one hundred and seventy nine thousand nine hundred dollars and it can now be yours and your family’s for only one hundred and fifty nine thousand nine hundred US dollars.

Why rent when you can own at East Bay Condominiums in Detroit Michigan?

That is the question any Detroit home buyer should ask themselves with the bargain prices for luxurious waterfront townhomes still available at Walled Lake East Bay Condominium community. The East Bay community overview includes a location within the bustling Oakland County center of Walled Lake district that is home to about seven thousand permanent residents year round. Only fourteen miles southwest of Pontiac and about twenty miles north east of Ann Arbor in Michigan, the Walled Lake East Bay Condominiums Detroit real estate development property is close to Interstate 96, M-59 as well as US-23 so that you are always close to work and play. The East Bay Community of townhomes and townhouses in Walled Lake will feature a club house to die for that will include a community member’s only swimming pool in addition to a luxurious clubhouse that is perfect for any event or family gathering party. It is also a place to host meetings and conference rooms in addition to kitchen facilities are of the utmost quality for your enjoyment. You can also view a site plan on their web site today at eastbaycondominiums.com. The Detroit Walled Lake East Bay Condominiums and townhomes features two to three bedroom townhouses that range in size between nine hundred and seventy six square feet to one thousand eight hundred and forty sq ft in size with one or two bedrooms or anything in between. A condo style development, the Detroit East Bay Condominiums townhomes and townhouses had an initial price point from one hundred and forty nine thousand nine hundred USD which have been dropped to basement pricing during their close-out right now.

Contact information for the Walled Lake Townhomes East Lake Real Estate

The East Bay Condominium suites and townhouses are located in Detroit’s north metro area in Walled Lake Michigan. The actual physical address of the East Lake Townhomes in Walled Lake is 102 East Bay Drive and it is a new construction Detroit real estate property that is available for move in and purchase right now. With a history of real estate appreciation higher than the national average rate of return, the East Lake Condominiums in Walled Lake will make a great short term and long-term investment for you family and if you would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact Mike at the sales office at 248.789.8410 or 248.669.7500.
The model suites townhomes at East Lake Walled Lake Michigan
Comparing some of the floorplans and model homes at the East Bay Condominiums in Walled Lake townhomes is not an easy task as they all present luxurious and elegant family homes. Firstly, the Atlantic Model is a split style with 1800 sq ft approximately with 2.5 baths and three bedrooms starting from the mid two hundred thousand dollar range. The Bay suites and townhomes in the East Bay Condominiums Detroit real estate property will have 1600 square feet of living space split with 2 baths and three bed rooms form the low two hundred thousand USD range. The Cove Walled Lake East Bay condos will have split level 1300 sqft and 1.5 baths and 2 bdrs total form the one hundred and eighty thousand dollar range. The Dockside model floorplan at the Walled Lake East Bay condominium townhouses will have ranch style and 976 sq ft (the smallest of all the floor plans) and 2 and 2 with $149,900. The last of the model Walled Lake floor plans at East Bay townhomes is the Edgewater Homes in ranch style and approx 1429 sq ft with 2 and two and starting from $169,900.

Skyscraper Forums and High Rise Residential Tower Websites

Listed below are two of the leading skyscraper forums as well as high-rise pre-construction condominium residence web sites on the internet. Please take a look.

SkyscraperCity
SkyscraperPage
Pre-Construction Condominium Real Estate in the United States

New York Altair 18 and NYC Altair 20 Loft Condominium Homes and Residences

Two selections, two affordable condo tower residences, two distinct lifestyle choices. This is what the New York real estate property development at Altair loft style condominium towers and apartment suites is about. Welcome to Altair 18 Lofts NYC apartments and Altair 20 Loft style condo homes in New York.

With no limitations in design and architecture, the modern and contemporary chic residential tower loft residences at New York Altair 18 loft condominiums and Altair NYC 20 loft style homes apartments are part of a beautifully master-planned condo community that is built from the traditions and history of a turn of the century building. A combination of luxury amenities and community vision at the New York Altair loft style residence apartments sets it apart from other NYC real estate pre-construction condo development projects and gives rise to two distinct loft residence towers in the middle of New York City called Altair 20 historical residential tower and Altair 20 loft style refined and sophisticated apartment condos. Featuring similar amenities and luxury features, the Altair 20 New York Altair 18 condominium loft style homes push the edge in terms of refinement, craftsmanship and low maintenance urban living in NYC and provide a wealth of striking and high-end appliances, fixtures, finishes and amenities that are suitable for individuals to families and from young professionals to retired couples. Presenting NYC lofts like you’ve never seen, the New York Altair 18 and Altair 20 loft condominium homes are one of a kind residence apartments that are conveniently situated and located close to your work, play and relaxing districts of Manhattan, New York City. Check out the sales center today for these two luxurious loft style condominium towers at Altair apartment condos.

The condominium loft tower amenities at New York Altair apartment suites

If you are looking for loft amenities at the New York Altair 20 condominiums and Altair 18 NYC apartments, you will find a great roof top deck at Altair 20 lofts that will allow you to enjoy the sun during the day and gaze at the midnight stars in the evenings. Perfect for entertainment and candlelight dinners, the roof space at Altair 20 condo tower residences and loft apartments is open to private residents only. In addition, Altair 20 loft style homes in the New York real estate market also provides a fitness center gym that is designed by the world famous La Palestra with state of the art equipment for cardio and free weights. Again, this is a private gym for Altair 20 loft residents in NYC. The New York Altair 18 apartment loft condominium residents will also share the gym and wellness center as well as the roof space with luxury Altair 20 residents. The loft residence tower at New York’s Altair 18 condo tower will also provide concierge services located in the entrance lobby that provides distinct and luxurious finishes that include a dramatic façade of laurel wood from floor to ceiling in addition to natural materials and soft tones, welcoming all guests and residents to the Altair loft residence towers. Elegant Cove designer lighting is another luxury feature provided by the New York Altair loft residence entrance. You can visit the New York Altair lofts web site for images and renderings of these high-end amenities.

Altair 18 Lofts and Apartments in New York City

This condominium NYC residence tower is located at 32 West 18th Street, New York. Some of the most impressive features of these loft apartment residences in New York’s Altair 18 lofts include Radiant heat flooring of wide plant white oak or limestone finishes as well as real and original wood burning fireplaces. Other features of the loft condominiums at NYC Altair 18 include overheight ceilings that are approximately ten feet six inches all the way to eleven feet two inches tall. The kitchens at the New York Altair 18 loft residence apartments will have twenty three inch Rosewood kitchens by Valcucine Italy in addition to Miele 5 burner cooktop and double wall ovens. Residents at the Altair 18 condominium suites in New York real estate Altair properties will also enjoy white glass countertops and backsplashes in addition to open spaces for entertainment. The master bathrooms at the residence lofts Altair 18 properties will include Radiant heated floors, Bleu de Savoie marble tiling walls, Bain Ultra Thermo masseur tub, Grigio Carnico marble and double vanities as well as a Sony Wega flat screen television.

The New York City Altair 20 Loft apartment residence finishes

The loft condominiums at the tower residences at Altair 20 New York City will feature wide plank cherry flooring in west facing lofts and wide plank walnut finishing in the east facing loft condos. The luxurious gourmet kitchens at the residence lofts at New York Altair 20 real estate properties will have walnut stained cabinets in the east facing loft condominiums and cherry finishes in the west residences. Appliances at the Altair 20 condo loft apartments in NYC will feature five burner Miele cooktop, Sub Zero wine cooler, Miele coffee system with warming drawer, Kitchen Aid stainless steel microwave and an extremely high end Sub Zero 700 series fully integrated fridge. The residents at Altair 20 New York loft residences will also enjoy Valcucine by Italy cabinets. The spa inspired bath rooms at the NYC Altair 20 loft homes will have Novelda cream marble wall tiling, Bain Ultra Thermo Masseur soaker tub, Dornbracht fixtures and fittings as well as double vanities and the flat screen television.

Next steps for purchasing a New York loft residence at the Altair Towers

For more information about either the lofts at Altair 18 or New York Altair 20 loft residence apartments, please visit the Altair Sales Center that is located at 32 West 18th Street in New York, NY 10011. The phone number for this sales center is 212-352-3218. The Sales Director fo the New York Altair Lofts is Debra of the Corcoran Group and you can reach her via email at deb@altairlofts.com or by cell number at 646-621-3341. For more information about this luxurious New York City real estate property at Altair lofts, please visit their marketing web presence at altairlofts.com.

Stark Seventy5 Portland Street

Condominiums at 75 Portland called the Seventy5 Condos and luxury residence tower is a real estate development in Toronto Canada by Freed Developers, Stark & Yoo. Continuing along the lines of the previous Starck designed luxurious condominiums, the Seventy5 Condos on Portland Street are a rare find in Toronto.

Welcome to the new year and a new set of luxurious condominium tower residences that will become available in the Toronto real estate market. One of these residential tower condominiums along Portland Street in Toronto Canada will be Stark and Yoo’s Seventy5 Condos on 75 Portland St. Much anticipated and aligned with the growing condominium homes market in this metropolitan city, the Seventy5 Condominiums Toronto will be home to the city’s urban dwellers who want a slice of the lifestyle that this growing city has been known for including business, retail, shops, dining and nightlife. Starck Seventy5 Portland Street is a one of a kind real estate development by Freed Development Group Ltd. Which will define extraordinary style in a unique and imaginative way by a team including Yoo by Stark, Core Architects and Freed as mentioned above. A great destination residential condominium tower, Seventy5 Toronto Condominiums at 75 Portland Street will stand eleven stories with anodized and aluminum frames in addition to a courtyard designed by Philippe Stark that will open up to a condo residential community of grandeur and sophistication in the heart of Portland Street in Toronto. Innovative and elegant courtyard and lobby renderings and photos can be found at the 75 Portland Street Seventy5 Condominiums in Toronto at seventy5portland.com today.

Seventy5 Condominiums at 75 Portland Street Styles and Features

Well, if you are looking for a simplified style and look, then Stark and Yoo have come up with a master design that will combine texture and simply style choices for all finishes and fittings as well as furniture and objects within every luxury Seventy 5 Condominium at Portland Street in Toronto Canada. Minimal in nature, elegant in style, the Toronto Seventy5 Condos at 75 Portland St. will become the most sophisticated condominium high-rise tower in the city because of its reliance on natural beauty and design lines that Yoo and Stark are so well known for. In addition, the minimal style will be white, pure, concrete, function, form, essential conceptual, aesthetic, and zen. The nature style for the Seventy5 Toronto Condominiums at Portland will still be very simple and sophisticated but raw with leather, stone, wood, trees, green, brown, free, wild, grass, sky and hippy styles and lines that will give today’s urbanite and modern couples a taste of what Toronto urbanity is all about. Some of the great features at this Stark designed Seventy5 Toronto Condominiums will include exposed concrete columns, nine and nineteen foot ceilings, floor to ceiling glass, eighteen inch windows, courtyard with stone slabs and wood decking, eleventh floor penthouse units, interior walls with white latex paint, four inch baseboards, extra wide sliding doors, balcony dividers for privacy, gas ranges, high quality stackable washer and dryer, HVAC systems for individual units, custom designed transclucent glass sliding bedroom doors, parking and storage, remote control private garage access and bike parking. The Seventy5 Toronto Stark condo residence homes at 75 Portland Street will also have pre-finished engineered hardwood floors, quality designer ceramic and porcelain tiling, four piece bathroom set, oversized glass shower stall, bathroom upgrades, euro-style kitchens, corian or stone counter tops, stainless steel appliances, lighting packages, multi-media technology and must have safety and security features. For all the floorplans at the Seventy5 Stark Toronto Condominiums at Portland Street, please visit their web site for downloadable PDFs and all the detailed floor plan layouts featured at Toronto’s Seventy5 Condos.

Contact the Seventy5 Condos at Portland St.

If you are hunting for a new condominium residence in the heart of Toronto’s bustling urban community, please contact the Stark Seventy5 condominiums at 75 Portland Street in Toronto on M5V 2M9. You can call them to book an appointment at 416.598.7775 and their presentation center is open on Monday to Wednesday between 12 – 6pm, Thursday between 3 – 8pm and Saturday and Sunday between 12 and 5pm. You can also register online at the Toronto Stark Seventy5 Condominiums web site located at www.seventy5portland.com. The Seventy5 Condos real estate project is a Freed Development.

New York Condominiums and Pre-Construction San Diego Condo Residences

It's time to introduce the latest listings for new pre-construction condominium buildings as well as under development projects in the New York City and San Diego areas. Please click on the following links for a list of the latest and greatest from New York Condos.

New York real estate developments included in this list are:
15 Madison Square North, 181 Sullivan, The Collection at 20 Pine, 325 Fifth Avenue, 45 Park Avenue, Adams Square, Ariel East & Ariel West Condos, AVERY Riverside, Beacon, CityHomes at Westside Station, Downtown By Starck, Element, Fields Crossing, Herald Towers, Link, Olcott, Orion, RAO’s, Rushmore at Riverside & 64th, Slate, Stanhope, Sundari, Waldo Lofts, Zinc, 184 Thompson, 255 Hudson, 99 Gold, Aria, BLUE, Brownstone Lane II, Clinton West, Nolita Place, Tribeca Space, and View59

Some of the spectacular pre-construction condominium high-rises in San Diego include the following:
Adagio, ALTA, Aperture, ARIA, Bayside at the Embarcadero, Cairo, Diegan Condo Hotel,
Luxe Penthouse Suites, Fahrenheit, Grande at Sante Fe Place, Icon, La Boheme, M2i Loft Residences, Paramount Townhomes, Pier Homes, Samuel Fox Lofts, Smart Corner, Stella, Bayview, Cedros Seaside Homes, Central Park La Mesa, Centro, Embassy 1414, Legacy Walk, Legend, Library Tower, Mark, Metrome, Paradise Walk National City, Park Terrace, Playa Blanca by Stonemark, Revolution, Sapphire Tower, and Vantage Pointe

A Portion of the Pie - Article about Fractional and Quarter Ownership of Real Estate

Fractional ownership entitles buyers to a portion of the development with equity that can be resold. Quarter ownership offers buyers access for at least 12 weeks a year – more than enough for a vacation getaway. This article comes from the Westcoast Homes & Design magazine from November 2006 and is written by Leslie Peterson.

Almost a decade ago, a ski-resort developer in the French Alps persuaded some of his guests that, rather than rent, they ought to buy a portion of the hotel he was development. This innovate marketing concept has grown exponentially to encompass a whole range of fractional ownership arrangements, up to 1/52nd and beyond.

The terms timesharing and fractional ownership often are treated as one and the same. Not so, according to those who market and sell these resort properties. They are friendly cousins, perhaps, but with marked differences in actual ownership, though both arrangements attract buyers looking for vacation getaways.

Similarities? “Why pay 100 per cent of the cost for something you can’t possibly use 100 per cent of the time?” asks Vince Taylor of Pilot House Real Estate. Both timesharing and fractional ownership are set up to offer buyers a slice of paradse without paying for the whole pie. But there the commonality ends, Taylor says.

“Unlike timeshares, which confer right of use but not fee simple title to the land,” he notes, “fractional ownership is considered genuine real estate and entitles buyers to a portion of the development with equity that can be resold. So the fractional share of the cottage or ski chalet can be mortgaged, bequeathed in a will, listed and sold like any other home, without involving the other owners.”

Quarter ownership, the most exclusive form of fractional ownership, came on to the local real-estate scene in late 1999 Whistler’s Montebello II, where more than $25 million of quarter shares sold in the initial sales launch. The biggest surprise at the time was that only about 20 per cent of quarter-ownership buyers were concerned about affordability, Taylor says. “Most quarter ownership buyers continue to be primarily interested in luxury and availability of the finest real estate offerings in the world. Combine that with the fact that each owner has access to at least 12 weeks each year – since few people have more than 12 weeks’ holidays, the time is more than enough.”

Aside from the financial advantages, quarter-ownership also offers purchasers the freedom on the “lock and leave” lifestyle. Just walk in the door, pick up skis or a tennis racket, then head for the hills, the court or the beach. No repairs, no cleaning and upkeep, simply the opportunity to take full advantage of leisure time.

According to Taylor, there are no hidden costs or surprises of quarter ownership. “For each property,” he explains, “there is an ownership corporation (which helps set the usage rotations, and looks after all indoor finishings) and a typical strata corporation with duly elected officers. As always, all costs/budgets, changes must be approved by the owners – just like any other type of real estate. The only difference is that all the aggregate costs are then divided equally between the owners of each home.”

Recently, concerns have been raised in connection with taxation of these properties. Yet according to John Peebles, manager, valuation, and policy standards with BC Assessment, it is important to understand “that the use of the property is the key to determining the classification, rather than the form of ownership.” To be classed as commercial, any type of real estate must pass strict tests. For example, if a complex is smaller than 20 units, it remains in the Class 1 residential category, he says, pointing out there has been no change in legislation, merely closer scrutiny. “Every strata corporation is a bit different as to how it is structured, so potential buyers should read the fine print in the prospectus to see what the limitations are for personal use.”

With more than a 15 year history in North America, this radical shift in our approach to vacation time represents secure, traditional real-estate purchase with a healthy resale market, Taylor says. “living in the finest homes for a fraction of the total cost, never having to worry about maintenance, cleaning or repairs, and always having a stable real-estate investment makes quarter ownership the most popular choice for families, professional investors who are not afraid of the brave new real estate world.”

San Pedro VUE Condominium Tower Residences

A new high-rise is coming to the community of San Pedro California called the VUE Condo Homes and Apartments which represents a high-rise waterfront living space in Old Town San Pedro. VUE Condo residences in San Pedro’s real estate market is hot and hyped, so see for yourself why this development has been so successful in garnering attention.

San Pedro recently was voted the best city and place to spend a perfect day by the Los Angeles Magazine 2006. And by most accounts, most days in San Pedro are perfect days, so the advent fo the VUE Condominium real estate properties is by no wonder a hot commodity these days. With waterfront living becoming scarce and San Pedro real estate property values on the rise, now is the time to get into the VUE Condos residence apartments today at pre-construction costs before they skyrocket. Representing a great location with high-end amenities for residents in addition to a luxurious roof top deck, the San Pedro VUE Condo homes and residences will provide exclusive waterfront living urban spaces in the heart of California. The VUE Condominiums in San Pedro CA will start from the mid three hundred thousand dollar range. Often marketed as an up and coming Long Beach, Gaslamp Quarter or Silverlake, the San Pedro VUE Condo Homes and real estate properties are one of the fresh and new age real project developments that will change the landscape of the market in California. Liveable urban living with low maintenance features and amenities will make living at the VUE San Pedro condominium homes a pleasure.

About the VUE San Pedro high-rise waterfront tower

A brand is very important to any San Pedro real estate development and the VUE Condos and Homes residences have a great brand that represents true urban lifestyles and living spaces that will include the utmost high-end features and amenities just like at a holiday resort. From the rooftop terrace to the amazing swimming pool and spa with sundeck, the VUE Condominiums in San Pedro offer a different kind of lifestyle and living that you may not have experience. From a fitness gym with cardio and free weight equipment in addition to stainless steel appliances in the kitchen with mangnificient Quartz counters and wood cabinetry with designer finishes and fixtures. The San Pedro VUE Condo residents will enjoy great views of the San Pedro skyline both day and night from their own home. In addition, most of the building façade is made of spectacular glass and also, residents at the VUE Condo residences in San Pedro will enjoy a yoga and piilates studio in addition to controlled fob entry access to all public areas including a garage for parking. For those residents at the VUE Condominiums in San Pedro CA who like entertaining family and friends, the rooftop terrace deck is a perfect locale for all your parties and get-togethers that will include barbeque areas, lounging, and the great views of the city. For some building renderings of the VUE Living Condos in San Pedro California, please visit their marketing site at vue-living.com/?source=condoDomain. In addition, there are building VR Tours of the San Pedro VUE Condominium high-rise waterfront tower. San Pedro real estate properties at the VUE Condo residence homes and apartments also features more information about the local community and conveniences surrounding you online at the VUE website.

For more information about VUE

If you would like more info and details about the San Pedro VUE Condo residence apartments and homes today, please join the VUE interest list (also called the priority list) online at the following web address vue-living.com/interestlist.aspx. In addition, the sales team surrounding the marketing of the VUE Condo Residences and waterfront high-rise San Pedro real estate property are asking all potential home buyers to get pre-qualified for mortgages prior to visiting the presentation center to make their purchase. The San Pedro VUE Condominiums have chosen both Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and Chase Home Mortgages as their preferred lenders and you can submit your application online at www.vue-living.com/prequal/. If you live near the VUE Condo waterfront homes or are close by, you can visit the VUE Condominiums sales center that is located downtown at 222 West 6th Street in San Pedro CA 90731. The telephone number for this presentation center at the VUE San Pedro is 310.833.9900 and they are open between ten and six everyday. For a Google map and directions to the VUE San Pedro real estate property development, please visit this URL maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=222+West+6th+Street+san+pedro+ca&om=1. For all the legal information for the VUE, please visit http://vue-living.com/legal.htm.

GMP Architects floorplans for the San Pedro VUE Residential Tower

Below is a select number of floor plans offered for sale at the VUE presentation center today. On the first floor Plan C at the San Pedro VUE condominiums is a one bedroom and one bath unit with living room and separate kitchen as well as a small patio and the total indoor space is seven hundred and eighty one square feet. The larger floorplan J is between 1615 to 1775 sq ft and features two beds and 2.5 baths as well as a kitchen, living room and patio. Some of the VUE Townhomes in San Pedro California (which face west) consist of two levels and will have two bedrooms and two baths in addition to a living room, kitchen ½ bath and patio on the upstairs level. The sixteen floor is the penthouse suite level at the San Pedro VUE Condo residences. Floorplan D5 for this VUE penthouse suite is a 2 bed and 2 bath unit with a kitchen, open living space and a small patio ranging between one thousand and forty four to one thousand one hundred and sixty eight square feet.

The Mercury Luxury LA condominiums

As Koreatown’s first and only luxury high-rise in Los Angeles The Mercury condo residence tower is a home that is sophisticated, luxuriously designed and a place to meet. The Mercury LA condominium homes is the new age of Los Angeles Koreatown that has seen a big revival in real estate development over the course of the past few years. Now it’s your turn to be a part of The Mercury Koreatown LA.

You can now view the presentation center for the Los Angeles Mercury condo homes and apartments by appointment only. A new era of fresh design in Koreatown LA has the Mercury as one of the hippest and most chic urban living spaces and high-rise towers in all of Los Angeles California. As the only high-rise luxury residential real estate property in LA, The Mercury will feature such distinct features and finishes as bamboo flooring, very high over height ceilings in all residence suites as well as security and gourmet kitchens. As an exclusive and prestigious LA real estate development, the Mercury Los Angeles condominium residence apartments will have an amenity floor that comes complete with a resort-style pool, fitness center and of course, the most amazing views of the LA skyline both day and night. As the LA’s only Koreatown high-rise condo residences in Los Angeles, The Mercury condominium residence and real estate properties are the gateway to Korea Town. The luxury condo apartments at The Mercury LA start from the low four hundred dollars, so contact the sales representative at the presentation center today for more information. In addition, there is a virtual tour of the Koreatown Mercury Condominium high-rise tower and you can also join the Mercury condo interest list online at their marketing website.

About the Mercury Building in Los Angeles

Refined urban living spaces and condominium homes are what the LA Mercury condo high-rise can provide any prospective home buyer and residents. In addition to being a mid-century old building that has been recently converted into a modern architectural gem, the Los Angeles Mercury condominium residences and real estate properties in Los Angeles CA were once originally the Getty Oil Company at the crossroads between Western and Wilshire. At twenty three stories in height, the Mercury LA apartment condo residences will transform the skyline of Koreatown LA and will provide a state of the art residential high-rise building for many families and singles. The first high-rise tower in the luxurious and revived Koreatown, The Mercury condominium homes and apartments are now released to the general public for viewing and purchase. For those who are looking for a mix-use building, the Mercury is all about convenience. LA real estate residents at the Mercury condo residences will enjoy ground floor restaurants and retail just downstairs. This is what urban living is all about: simple and convenient, making your life that much more enjoyable. Just a few steps away from Beverly Hills and downtown Los Angeles, the Mercury Condominiums in LA real estate market are just within access to beaches surrounding the Koreatown district. Close to major public transportation routes in addition to highways, the koreatown Mercury LA condo apartment homes are perfectly surrounded by everything you need to do and see in Los Angeles California.

Location and contact Mercury Condo Residences today

If you are looking for something that is extraordinary and will never be repeated, the Mercury Condominium residences in LA will forever change your sense of the Los Angeles real estate market. A unique real estate construction project that is renovated and converted, the Mercury LA residence homes is about being unique and fresh and the Mercury Sales Gallery is located at 3807 Wilshire Boulevard in Suite 901. Just across from the official site of the Los Angeles Mercury condominium high-rise tower, the Sales Gallery is in Los Angeles CA and is open between 10am and 6pm every day of the week. To book an appointment, especially if you are coming from outside LA, please contact 1.877.586.9652 today or 213.251.1420. The official site of the Mercury Condominium residences is at 3810 Wilshire Blvd and the pricing range for these luxurious condo apartments will be between the low four hundred thousand all the way to one million US dollars. You can visit the marketing blog for updates about this LA Koreatown real estate development. News is located online at themercuryla.com/the-extras/news.php and the latest advertisements are located at themercuryla.com/the-extras/ads.php. For virtual tours of the LA Koreatown Mercury condominium tower residences, please visit http://www.themercuryla.com/the-tour/index.php and the photo gallery of images is located online at http://www.themercuryla.com/the-tour/gallery.php at the LA Mercury website.

The Roof Top Amenity Deck at the Mercury in Koreatown LA CA

At an extraordinary setting twenty three stories above the ground, the Koreatown condominium residence tower at The Mercury features a rooftop deck for residents that will include an amenities retreat of the ages. With lots of recreational, relaxing and entertainment venues hosted on this floor, the Mercury Los Angeles condo residence apartments and LA real estate properties will provide the utmost in liveable and urban living spaces for private use. This private deck at the Mercury condominiums in LA California will include great three hundred and sixty degree views, a business center and event lawn and even a barbeque and lounge area. For recreational options at the Mercury rooftop amenity floor in Koreatown, try the fitness club or swimming pool and spa area. Lastly, there is a fire pit with reflection garden up top as well.

Choosing The Right Builder For Your Home

Published in the Westcoast Homes & Design November 2006 magazine and courtesy of the Homeowner Protection Office, this article explains what steps you should take in determining the correct real estate developer/builder for your new home.

Is it best to use a licensed residential builder or can you built your own home? Knowing your rights and obligations will help you make an informed choice.

Licensed Builders

Effective July 1, 1999, the Homeowner Protection Act (the Act) regulations established mandatory requirements for residential builders in order to protect buyers of new homes. Residential builders must be licensed by the Homeowner Protection Office and must arrange for third-party home warranty insurance in order to build a new home in British Columbia.

The licensing and home warranty insurance required ensure that your builder has met minimum standards and that you are protected by the most comprehensive construction defect insurance in Canada. The Act sets out a minimum standard of insurance coverage that provides two years’ coverage on labour and materials (some limits apply), five years on the building envelope and 10 years on the structure.

Owner-Built Homes

The Act defines an “owner-builder” as a person who builds a single, detached home for their won personal use. Owner-builder eligibility can occur once in every eighteen months from occupancy of a previous owner-built home. An owner-builder does not have to be licensed or arrange for third-party home warranty insurance on their home.

An owner-builder who sells their home without home warranty insurance is subject to a 10-year Statutory Protection provision of the Act. This means that an owner-builder who sells their home within 10 years after first occupancy could face legal action by the purchaser if construction defects are discovered.

In this case, the owner-builder is personally liable to subsequent purchasers that the home is reasonably fit for habitation, built from materials of good quality, and designed and constructed with ordinary competence, skill and care.

The Act requires that an owner-builder build or directly manage the construction of their new home, otherwise they may face prosecution for offences under the Act. If someone else other than the owner-builder performs a management of builder function, they must be Licensed Residential Builder and arrange for home warranty insurance for the owner.

Beware of unscrupulous individuals who might try to convince you that posing as an owner-builder and hiring them as an unlicensed builder will save you money. Ask yourself why this individual is not able to obtain a builder licence, and whey they don’t want to provide you with home warranty insurance.

By mindful of these considerations when making the decision to either have your new home constructed by a Licensed Residential Builder or build it on your own.

Contact the HPO for more information on Licensed Residential Builders and owner-builders. A public registry of Licensed Residential Builders is also available on the HPO website at www.hpo.bc.ca or phone the toll-free line at 1-800-407-7757.

Howeowner Protection Office

Los Angeles Market Lofts Downtown

Set to launch in January 2007, the Market Lofts downtown LA residence condominiums will be located at 9th street and Flower in the city core. As part of the South Park residential community the Los Angeles Market Lofts and residence homes will be a mix use district that is highly sought after.

Brought to form by Lee Homes and the CIM Group of Los Angeles California, the Market Lofts is a mix-use LA real estate property development that will see the construction and design of luxurious two bedroom loft residences as well as a selection of smaller one bedroom condo loft homes. Located in downtown LA, Market Lofts residences and real estate properties will see an initial sales launch January 27, 2007 where you can get both early unit selection as well as pre-construction sales pricing for your dream home. Affordable costs and a great location are the two keys to the success of the Market Lofts in downtown LA which will also be home to Ralph’s Supermarket, the first grocery story in downtown Los Angeles since the mid 1900s. Can you believe that? For a truly liveable, sustainable and low maintenance condo real estate property in LA, the Market Lofts will provide the most luxurious and exclusive residence lofts set among retail and other specialty shops such as Cold Stone Creamery, the Quiznos Subs, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, Robeks Juice as well as a UPS Store. Every local convenience and amenity you can think about will be just steps away from your loft residence at the LA Market Lofts and real estate property.

Building Amenities at the Market Lofts

A new development is arising in the heart of downtown LA California that will change the real estate market in this bustling city for the better. As a mixed use property, the Market Lofts in Los Angeles will buck the trend of chic and overpriced high-rise residential towers by designing and construction a truly liveable, green and low maintenance low-rise loft homes building in the heart of the city. Some of the building amenities at the LA Market Lofts and residence homes will include parking that is secure, a controlled entry system, a full fitness center for resident use only as well as a stadium theater with room for twenty family and friends for your favourite movies and shows. In addition, the Los Angeles Market Lofts and apartment homes will also feature a social amenities room that will also have a catering kitchen as well as a private residence entrance (as this is a mix use building with retail and restaurants). The Market Lofts LA real estate properties will also have a lobby with three elevators in addition to an outdoor swimming pool with a spa and sundeck.

Floorplan Features at the LA Market Loft Residences

The living spaces within each floor plan at the Market Lofts in downtown will be truly stunning and unique from anything else you have seen on the real estate market in Los Angeles. Firstly the Market Lofts and residence apartments will see nine foot, six inch ceilings (overheight0 in addition to concrete flooring on the 2nd floor, pre-wiring for everything, hardwood flooring from floors three to seven in either Oak or Maple finish as well as hook-ups for laundry appliances. The LA Market Lofts real estate properties will also see central AC and heating in addition to balconies off of some select loft units, private patios on the 2nd floor and safety regulated sprinklers and alarm pre-wriing for your safety. Some of the kitchen features at the Market Lofts and real estate residences will include CaesarStone counters and eating bar, whirlpool stainless steel appliances, designer lighting, wood cabinets with some glass doors and fine hardware fixtures. The bathrooms at the LA Market Lofts and apartment condominiums will include walk-in closets, fluorescent lighting, Caesar Stone countertops, ceramic surround tile, chrome bath accessories in addition to Italian cabinets.

The next purchase steps for the LA real estate property

If you are looking to purchase a Market Loft in downtown Los Angeles, this is the perfect time for you and your family to submit an online pre-registration form to express your interest in this property. You can find the registration form online at market-lofts.com/html/contacts.html. In addition, you can also find the Market Lofts Sales Office at 810 South Flower Street in Los Angeles California. The Presentation center is open every day between 11:00am and 5:00pm. In addition, the LA Market Lofts and residence homes have a phone number at the sales office at 213.553.9375 where you can book an exclusive appointment. The pre-qualified interest list has grown for months now, so please make sure you submit your details as soon as possible to ensure that you have a spot in the purchase order. In addition, prequalification for your mortgage is necessary for this LA real estate building in downtown Market Lofts. For more information about the Market Lofts building, please visit their marketing web site at http://www.market-lofts.com/html/the_building.html. The one bedroom loft residences at the Market Lofts LA will be priced from the low four hundred thousand dollar range. The more spacious two bedroom loft condominiums at the Los Angeles Market Lofts real estate property will be priced from the mid five hundred thousand dollar range.

Library Court Los Angeles Condo Urban Living

A new and exciting property has just been launched at West 6th Street in downtown Los Angeles California and it is called the Library Court LA condominium homes. Sheer glass and metal exterior facades with extra-ordinary interior amenities are signatures of the Los Angeles Library Court condominium homes and real estate properties.

If you are looking for a condo community that features the most impressive of liveable floor plans, community oriented amenities and features as well as an excellent location in Los Angeles, the LA Library Court condo residence apartments are the key to your future. From a playroom to a fitness center and from a Library Lounge on the roof top, the Library Court LA real estate property development is one of the fresh new urban living spaces that combine traditional construction with new modern low maintenance living for families, couples and singles. In addition, the zen like Library Court that includes Wolfgang Puck, Mitaki Sushi, a Library Bar as well as the subway just steps away, the Los Angeles real estate market is welcoming a new addition to the bright and contemporary property developments in the most amazing district along West 6th Street. View a photo gallery on the LA Library Court apartment condo website today and also be the first to know about Library Court and its updates in the real esteat property Los Angeles development by pre-registering online. The LA real estate property at Library Court will feature studio condominiums, one and two bedroom downtown homes that will start from the three hundred thousand US dollar range, which is very affordable for downtown Los Angeles living in a new construction condominium residential building.

Contacting the Library Court LA condo residence homes today!

‘Get Courted’ at Library Court is the LA real estate marketing strategy associated with this premier address in downtown Los Angeles CA. Right now, the downtown homes at the Library Court real estate properties are listed from the four hundred thousand US dollar range for one bedroom homes. In order to have a chance to purchase one of these prestigious and exclusive downtown LA residences at Library Court, you will need to follow a few simple steps for registration and pre-qualification. Firstly, get on the interest list of the Los Angeles Library Court residence apartment homes today and receive news and update releases during the course of the construction phase. Secondly, the sales team at the Library Court Los Angeles downtown condo residences are suggesting that all prospective home buyers pre-qualify for Wells Fargo Home Mortgages so that you are not disappointed or slowed down by the purchase process. To download an application for prequalification for the Library Courts LA condo downtown homes, please go online and download the PDF form and fax it back to 310.234.8501. Lastly, you should call the LA Library Court sales center today at 213.488.1931 to book an appointment to tour the property and to make your purchase decision. LA real estate in downtown is hot right now, so the Library Court downtown condominium residences are expected to sell out very quickly.

An overview of the Library Courts LA real estate development

The condominium downtown homes community will consist of six stories (low-rise residential) that will feature ninety homes. ON the first floor of the Los Angeles Library Court real estate properties, there will be the Library Bar for entertainment and drinks, Wolfgang Pucks for exceptional dining, a few retail and casual dining spots, the fitness center as well as Units 101 – 105 which are all townhome houses at Library Court with two floors, two beds, two bathrooms and approximately one thousand one hundrd and forty two sq ft to one thousand one hundred and seventy nine square feet. The second floor of this real estate property in Los Angeles Library Court homes will feature many studio homes in addition to one and two bedroom condominium style apartment residences. From studio homes of five hundred and ninety square feet to 2 and 2 baths with over 1185 square footage, the second to the fifth floors contain the majority of the ninety luxury homes at Library Court Los Angeles CA. The penthouse level will also feature a similar layout with approximately the same unit configurations. Some of the sleek interior design features at the luxury homes at Library Court LA will include hardwood flooring, stainless steel kitchen appliances, granite counters, washer and dryers in addition to floor to ceiling windows. In addition, other great features at the Library Court Los Angeles homes and real estate property will include direct elevator access form the garage to each home, natural lighting, townhouses with private patios as well as nine to fifteen foot ceilings for the loft style residence homes.

Final summary of the LA Library Court Homes

Just around the friendly neighbourhood of downtown Los Angeles, the Library Court residents will find plenty of food, art, entertainment, shopping, nightlife and other local conveniences just next door to their private homes. The Library Court Homes and condominium apartments ware located at 630 West 6th Street in Los Angeles California 90017. The telephone number for the LA Library Courts real estate project is at 213.488.1931 and the fax number is 213.488.1943.