CONDO LIFE
What are the top luxe items buyers want?
Outstanding amenities are becoming an expected feature in luxury condos with buyers not only in Houston, but throughout major cities in the U.S. In the WashingtonPost.com’s article, Over the Top Amenities are a Given in Today’s Luxury Condo
Building, the goal is to make residents “feel like they are living in a six-star hotel” where their every need is met.
Find services such as Jetsmarter, outdoor yoga lounges and various resort-style swimming pools to catch the rays at different times of the day in Miami. At one particular property, the concierge can even gather up chairs and umbrellas to be set up at the beach.
Paige Martin, broker with Keller Williams Realty, said buyers have their check list in mind when choosing the perfect luxury condo to settle into.
According to Martin, there are three main things that buyers have prioritized when selecting their dream home.
High on the list are designer finishes in bathrooms, kitchens, cabinetry and flooring. A variety of textures, colors and styles in materials such as terra cotta, natural stone, ceramic, porcelain, and glass are included in this area of decor.
“Thanks to HGTV, designer touches are imperative,” Martin said. “Gone are the days where ‘entrylevel developer-grade finishes’ are well received.” Second on the list are resort-style amenities. Why are these important? Not only are they the social hub of communities, they also create a resort atmosphere with urban concepts in mind. Items included in these provide relaxation, exercise opportunities, party settings, pet accommodations and services meant to enhance your living experience overall.
“Most buyers are expecting resort-like amenities such as a pool, stateof-the-art gym, and pet facilities as there are been a recent ‘arms race’ to add more and more amenities,” said Martin.
Above all, security is a main concern as well, Martin added.
Many security-conscious buyers who want to live in a high-rise look for a variety of security measures including a 24/7 manned entrance, omni-present cameras, full time staff, security elevators that require a key card to access specific floors, and a strong on-site building manager presence.
“Given all of the crime in the news, we’ve seen a large increase in the desire for high security. This not only includes security guards, but also cameras, security access and some of the newer smart building features,” Martin said.
The overall goal is providing the ultimate experience without ever having to leave home. Houston residents have incredible choices.
At places such as The Sophie at Bayou Bend in Houston, residents can also partake in some exclusive living features.
This contemporary twist on the good life offers open floor plans with extensive living spaces from 2,400 square feet to 5,000 square feet. Find sky-high 10-foot ceilings and expansive windows that provide light-filled rooms. This then opens to an expansive 400 square foot terrace with its own summer kitchen, grill, and fireplace.
Don’t forget that’s it is also a gated community complete with concierge and porter services, garage private parking, dog walking area and additional services ranging from housekeeping, dog walking, dry cleaning, car maintenance, personal trainers, and in-home chefs.