Phoenix Urban Living - Archives January, 2008

Home : Blogs : Michael Fitzpatrick : Phoenix Urban Living : Archives January, 2008

Get your motor running.... - 01/31/08 11:04 AM

I have seen lately allot of people starting to embrace to two wheel mode of transportation (i.e. motorcycles and scooters). Our two wheel friends get 40-80 miles to the gallon, can be parked almost anywhere and reduced congestion. Now I know this is more appropriate for warmer weather climates. I ride … (2 comments)

Urban Community: people helping people. - 01/31/08 10:50 AM

I'm always impressed on how interested people at the urban core are more apt at saying 'hello' or helping a stranger. I have relatives visiting and they made the comment that suburbia doesn't really seem to promote a true sense of community. I've always been a city or country person, not … (1 comments)

Lofts have a better cost ratio. - 01/29/08 12:48 PM

Most (not all obviously) loft condos in Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale have reduced monthly expenses as compared to single family homes. The insurance, heating and cooling, lack of landscaping, pool, etc... makes for a reduced monthly expenses. Of course some of the luxury properties have high HOA's to address all the … (0 comments)

What people want in lofts in downtown Phoenix. - 01/29/08 12:41 PM

Most people today throw the term 'loft' around loosely as a marketing term. Most of the lofts in Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale or 'soft lofts'. Apartment condos with loft finishes (exposed duct work, concrete floors, etc..). The urban buyer doesn't want the finishes that the suburban buyer wants (travertine and granite … (0 comments)

Think locally and act locally. - 01/24/08 11:16 AM

It is a joy and add's to the fabric of life when you take the time to search out the small retailer, restaurateur, etc.. and contribute to keeping your hard earned money in the community. These local business people need to spend money on product, accountants, food, clothes, etc... This keeps … (1 comments)

Modern architecture and the urban buyer. - 01/24/08 11:09 AM

I represent allot of urban buyers (people who want to own a condo in the heart of everything) and these buyers are unique and exciting people who enjoy living life to it's fullest. You can never predict their tastes as they are the most eclectic bunch you'll have the privilege to … (0 comments)

Urban core living: a true green initiative - 01/22/08 11:27 AM

The main reason I focus on urban residential real estate is because it truly addresses the human impact on our planet. Living in the core minimizes the use of the single occupant vehicle which reduces emissions due to commutes to work and play. Also, urban condos/homes are usually smaller in size … (2 comments)

Sweet Spot for the buyer. - 01/22/08 11:14 AM

With the Fed finally taking a more proactive stance on our sluggish economy combined with high inventories of homes and condos creating a 'perfect storm' for buyers. This is an unprecedented opportunity for smart buyers to make smart purchases. While the hot real estate market truly benefited the seller, the current … (15 comments)

Live/Work or Residential/Retail Options? - 01/17/08 11:41 AM

I've been blessed and one of the lucky ones who purchased a true residential retail unit (I differentiate since really any home is live/work...residential/retail is zoned where you can have a 'store' with walk in business). I get asked all the time whether there are more of these types of units … (1 comments)

Distressed Urban Properties a good choice?? - 01/17/08 11:25 AM

Many people are starting to look at distressed properties (foreclosures and REO) as a way to get around the escalating homes prices in the past four years. This is a true catch 22 in the urban market. Many of the distressed properties are due to investors who were looking to flip … (2 comments)

Austin or Tempe? - 01/15/08 11:49 AM

Of course Austin but wouldn't it be great if Tempe embraced lessons from Austin to become this cool, eclectic and musical area within Phoenix? If you take a look at the neighborhoods west and southwest of downtown Tempe, you'll start to remember your last trip to Austin. If you've never been … (2 comments)

The bottom in urban real estate in Phoenix? - 01/15/08 11:12 AM

Many people ask me what my outlook is on housing in the urban core. This question is quite common and I completely understand why people need to ask the question. The real issue is NOBODY ever knows and if you try figuring that question out you'll be busy like the cat … (0 comments)

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