January 17th, 2012  Posted at   Condominiums
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Some people only need one reason to buy a condominium as opposed to a house. If you are looking for a new place to live, and are located in an area where condos are plentiful and ideally located, you no doubt have given the prospect of owning one some serious thought. Yes, there are things to consider like monthly or yearly fees, payments following assessment, and living very close to your neighbors, but condo living is not without its many advantages. If you are scraping for just one reason to buy one, here are popular ten from which you can choose.

  1. Buying a condo is a good investment. You could live in one for many years, but if ever you need to move you have the option of turning your property into a rental. Condos are typically a prime rental property in resort areas – you could rent yours year round or during peak seasons.
  2. Owning a condo usually means less yard work. If you buy into a high-rise, you definitely don’t have to mow a lawn! However, if you buy into a more spread out community, your fees cover the cost of landscaping.
  3. Buying a condo is a better investment than renting. When you rent, you give money away to live in your home. When you’re finished, you have little if anything to show for it. Buying a condo gives you property that is yours.
  4. Simple repairs and renovations may be covered in your fees. Unlike with a home, you probably won’t be able to add on to your condo, but simple fixes in plumbing and electricity may be handled by your condo community, so you’ll save time and the hassle of hiring a contractor.
  5. You gain access to amenities you might not obtain otherwise. Pool ownership, for example, can produce headaches. Buy a condo with pool access, and you can enjoy the luxury without the stress of maintenance. Read more… »
January 17th, 2012  Posted at   Condominiums
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Longboat Key, a world-class island vacation destination, is situated half way between the counties of Manatee and Sarasota. The barrier island, however, is rapidly becoming renowned as a locale where the permanent residence market is growing and luxury condominiums are the primary focus. Located across the bridge from Sarasota, there are numerous condos for sale in Sarasota Florida offering limitless design choices. An enjoyable way to experience these residences is by taking the paved bike path traversing the length of the island.

Longboat Key is mostly comprised of these lavish coastline hugging condos and virtually all boast resort worthy amenities such as, poolside lounges, bars, and upscale restaurants. Tennis and golf enthusiasts of all skill levels will find world-class facilities but other than golf and tennis, real estate on Longboat Key presents active residents even more diversity. Being a water wonderland, it’s easy to enjoy backwater or offshore fishing adventures, parasailing, kayaking, or windsurfing, to yachting and powerboat racing.

For rental income investment or just a hidden away lifestyle, the condos at Cabana Beach Club are some of the finest on the island. A throw back Key West styled two-story resort complex, it was built in 1970 and is situated at 5851 Gulf of Mexico Drive. It’s the perfect choice for short term rentals, but if a charming residence to get away from everything is your desire, this could be the place. The residences are highly affordable, but still boast a long amenities list highlighted by the resort style pool, fabulous Bay and Gulf vistas, BBQ picnic area, private boat docks, and direct beach front accesses. Read more… »

January 16th, 2012  Posted at   Condominiums
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Now that you have found the perfect apartment community, its time to choose the floor-plan and square footage that makes the most sense for you. Read more for suggestions on how you can pick the best unit for your money.

Upstairs or Downstairs

Obviously if you or someone you will be living with has a hard time getting up and down the stairs you probably want to choose a unit on the first floor. Also parents with small children will want to do the same. It would give parents the peace of mind that comes with having a patio on the first floor instead of a balcony on the higher floors. Also there is another huge advantage. It sure in convenient to be able to walk into your own place without having to walk up a flight of stairs with groceries. Electricity bills are usually lower in the summer too.

But if you like city views, a unit located on higher floors sure would provide a better perspective of the city. And many times units on the top floor have higher ceilings and will keep you warmer in the winter.

Location

If you like your own piece and quiet, having a unit located in the corners or outside perimeter will provide less foot traffic. But maybe you like the apartment amenities like the clubhouse, pool, and fitness center. These are usually located in the center of the community. It would certainly be more convenient for your here.

View More Than One

Its always a good idea to view more than one unit. Sometimes that is not possible if there are not many vacancies. But you might be able to see certain things that were not obvious to you before. So be sure you take some extra time and ask you leasing agent to show you some different floor-plans. Pay close attention to the appliances, the lighting in certain units, street noise, and of course the view outside of the unit. Read more… »