Mike's Blog

Featured Property: Protected Water Views of Bay, Coronado Bridge, Ocean, City, Ballpark & Fireworks Views from Horizons South Tower in Heart of Marina District!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:31:37 -0500

This is 92101 Urban Living's new featured property: "Protected Water Views of San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge, Pacific Ocean, City, Ballpark & Fireworks Views from Horizons South Tower in Heart of Marina District!"

This Downtown San Diego Condo is a 2 bed/2 bath SOUTH EAST corner home with private balcony shielded from wind. All-wood & tile flooring, granite counters & stainless appliances. Horizons amenities include pool, Jacuzzi, fitness center, community function rooms & meeting spaces. Flat screen & chandelier over fireplace excluded from sale.

Just a short stroll away is the Gaslamp District, Seaport Village, San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park and everything Downtown San Diego has to offer!

To see more pictures please visit: http://www.brenthaywood.com/gallery/10064323_3KjBv

Horizons' twin towers are landmarks in the Downtown San Diego skyline. Horizons is bordered by Market Street, Island Avenue, First Avenue and Front Street and is a short walk from the bay, seawall, beaches, parks, business core, shopping, restaurants and nightlife. Built and Developed by BOSA, the complex is luxury concrete construction, and was completed in 2001. The spectacular concrete towers open toward an inner courtyard of lush greenery and inspiring waterfalls that together create a sense of sophistication, privacy, and peace. While residences vary in size from 1036 sq. ft. one-bedrooms to 2918 sq. ft. penthouses, they all feature superior craftsmanship and quality, typical of BOSA developments. HOA dues are on the luxury level with amenities which include: lap pool, 24 hour security, gated community with concierge station at complex entrance, community rooms, and a fully equipped fitness center. Homeowners and residents of Horizons are very proud of their complex. They love the central location and luxury living features. All units are well appointed, and feature either city or bay views depending on floor and orientation.

Horizons amenities include:

Lush landscaping
Entranceway from Front Street complete with the soothing sounds of a central water feature
Elegant lobbies
Entertainment-sized balconies, patios and roof decks
Hardwood flooring in entry, kitchen, living, dining and hallways
Bedroom carpet in rich/neutral hues
Nine foot ceilings (in most areas)
Solid core, 7′ 3″ high interior doors
Customized French doors to dens
Gas Fireplaces with slab limestone surround & wood grain mantelpiece
Expansive full-height windows that draw in the spectacular views
Roller shade window coverings
Duel Control Central air conditioning separate for Living and Bedrooms
Maytag stacked laundry system
Double Pane Windows
Two High Speed elevators
Central water softener system
Closed-circuit cameras and full time security attendants provide 24-hour surveillance around the building and complex grounds
Gated subterranean and deeded parking for residents
Resident-only access to main entrances, subterranean parking, recreation and amenity areas
Individual and deeded storage lockers in the Parking Area
Separate and secured Bicycle storage in Parking Area
Full Time Community Attendants and Concierge on site

For more information please contact Pete at 619-857-2289 or email pete@92101urbanliving.com

San Diego Bay - Eco Friendly Efforts and Achievements in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:13:00 -0500

The Port of San Diego is hereby showing a map where eco friendly efforts and achievements along San Diego Bay including Downtown San Diego has been taking place. The Green Port Program goal is to focus on environmental benefits in six key areas:

Water
Energy
Air
Waste management
Sustainable development
Sustainable business practices

Some of the accomplichments have been installing solar panels on rooftops, landscaping with water wise plants, constuction on the LEED-certified Broadway Cruise Ship Terminal and more.

To see detailed data and landmarks located any place on earth you can use the freely available Google Earth. You can also learn more about animals and plants that live in San Diego Bay on The Port Of San Diego website. Click here to download the applications and start exploring!

To read more about Eco Friendly achievements please visit Port of San Diego.

"It's a Urban Dog's Life" Written by Kevin "The Food Dude" Roberts!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:10:44 -0500

92101 Urban Living is fortunate to present a guest blog by the East Village's own Food Dude...Kevin Roberts. A similar piece will be featured in the next month issue of The Downtown San Diego News. In addition to being a Downtown San Diego Loft owner in the M2i Complex; The Food Dude is executive chef of the successful East Village Tavern and Bowl, author of several cookbooks, and an accomplished TV and Radio Chef Personality seen on The Food Network, and Today Show.

"It's a Urban Dog's Life"
Written by Kevin "The Food Dude" Roberts

I bought a puppy! Not just any puppy. I did my research, months upon months of looking and pondering and thinking, What would be the best dog suited to my urban lifestyle? I would walk down the street doing re-con type missions and seeing what other dogs people had. One guy had a great dane, a horse basically, and all I kept visualizing is coming home to my 1 bedroom apartment and seeing the utter destruction afflicted by that enormous dog. I saw a girl with a Chihuahua. Not sure why it yaps and shakes all the time, but probably not the manliest dog for me. I settled on a French Bulldog.

From what I've read, they are used to small apartments being from France and all, low maintenance and basically lazy. Now that's my type of dog. I can go to work, travel and still have a life. But what they didn't tell me was the constant crying, shitting and peeing I am now enduring on a constant basis. I call it the trifecta of doom. Then my breeder dropped a bomb-shell on my nomadic world. Stinky, my dogs new name, cant leave the apartment for another 3 weeks until she's had her last Parvo shots. 3 weeks!?! Holy Mackeral, 3 weeks of crying, shitting and peeing. I need a drink.

I got to thinking, are there bars and restaurants or cool shops in Downtown San Diego that are Stinky friendly? A place I can go just hang out and spend quality time with my pet without sitting on the couch all day? Here's what I found:

East Village Tavern & Bowl
930 Market Street & 9th, East Village District
100 foot long patio, come enjoy your favorite drink or game with your pet

The Fleetwood
639 J Street & 7th, Gaslamp District
Enjoy their wrap around patio on the corner with your pet

Pannikin
675 G Street & 7th, Gaslamp District
Enjoy your exotic coffee or tea with your pet

Café 222
222 Island Ave & 2nd, Marina District
Enjoy the best breakfast tamales with your pet

You can go to: www.DogFriendly.com for an extensive list of hotels, parks, beaches, bars and restaurants.

Winter Shelter To Go in The East Village District in Downtown San Diego After All!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:08:16 -0500

The San Diego City Council voted 6-2 to put the Winter Shelter at the same location as last year at 15th Street and Island Avenue in the East Village District in Downtown San Diego. It is still unclear if the shelter will be located at this address at this time, it is up to the private owner to allow it first.

The owner has said that he will not host the winter shelter there this year. If not allowed the shelter will be located at 13th Street and F Street, a site owned by the Centre City Development Corporation.

The shelter will be open from December 2nd, 2009 to late March, 2010 and will cost about $433,000 and hold about 220 beds.

Kevin Faulconer and Ben Hueso, council members, say it is unfair for Downtown San Diego Condo and Downtown San Diego Loft home owners, Downtown San Diego residents and businesses to host the shelter once again.

To read the Union Tribune's news article by "Craig Gustafson" please visit Homeless shelter to go downtown again

To read 92101 Urban Living's former blog about the "Winter Shelter" please read Winter Shelter in the East Village District in Downtown San Diego 2010 Rejected!

"Things To Do" on "Halloween" 2009 in Downtown San Diego!!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:05:22 -0500

We are all excitied about Halloween 2009 in Downtown San Diego!! Here is a couple suggestions for Downtown San Diego Condo and Downtown San Diego Loft home owners, San Diego residents and visitors.

The Haunted Trail in Balboa Park

The spooky and dark trails are located in the Marston Point section of the park which is east of Sixth Avenue and Juniper Street in Balboa Park. Look for the orange signs with the ghoulish writing to point you in the right direction. The Haunted Trail in Balboa Park starts on September 25, 2009 and goes until October 31, 2009. The Haunted Trail is open from 7pm to 12 Midnight Fridays and Saturdays and 7pm to 11pm Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The trail does take a break on on Mondays and Tuesdays except for October 26 and 27, 2009. The cost is $14.99 per person.

For more information, call: (619) 696-SCARE or visit their website here.

The Haunted Hotel

features specially decorated rooms that bring back the spirits of Hollywood horror films from the past. The hotel is situated in an old building that probably has stories of its own to tell. The Haunted Hotel is located at 424 Market Street in San Diego's Gaslamp District. The terror starts on September 25, 2009 and goes until October 31, 2009. The operating hours for the Haunted Hotel are as follows: Fridays and Saturdays from 6pm to 1am and Sundays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7pm to 11pm. The venue is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays except for October 26 & 27, 2009. The cost is $14.99 per person.

For more information, call: 619 696-SCARE or visit their website here.

The 9th Annual Dos Equis XX Monster Bash

The Monster Bash takes place in the Gaslamp District on Saturday, October 31, 2009 from 6pm to Midnight.

The event's location is at 7th Avenue between Market and J Street and on Island Avenue between 6th and 8th Avenues. This is strictly a 21-year old and up event that will feature live music, DJs, and go-go girls. The Monster Bash's Costume Contest promises to be an outrageous affair. This year, the prize money is $3,000 cash.

To attend the Monster Bash and take advantage of special drink and food specials at participating Gaslamp bars and restaurants, you must purchase a wristband at the cost of $25 in advance and $30 at the door.

For information, please call 619 233-5008 or visit their website here.

Halloween Family Day in Balboa Park

This is a new event this year. Most of Balboa Park's museums will open their doors to children of all ages on Saturday, October 31, 2009.

Fifteen of the Park's museums will open their doors free to children (17 years old and under) with a paid adult admission.

In true Halloween spirit, participating museums will offer a variety of hands-on activities, music, performances, and special programs. Visit San Diego History Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum, San Diego Museum of Art and much more.

To see a full list of the available museums click here.

For more information about this event please visit Balboa Park.

Haunted Tales Come to Life on Embarcadero ‘Ghost' Ship

Eerie legends and ghostly tales will come alive on the Embarcadero this Halloween at the Maritime Museum of San Diego's haunted Lantern-Led Tours and Halloween Carnival. Those who dare to come aboard will creep through each deck of the historic Star of India, led by the light of lanterns. Museum guests will be told true stories of people who died during the Star's voyages and whose ghosts are said to still live on the ship today.

Tours for the entire family will be held from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 31. An old-fashioned Halloween carnival with games, prizes, food, costume contests and more for parents and kids of all ages will also be held on Saturday, October 31, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets to the lantern led tours are $8 - $14 and include same-day admission to the Maritime Museum. For an additional $5, kids can participate in the carnival activities for unlimited play. All activities will take place at the Maritime Museum of San Diego on the Embarcadero, 1492 North Harbor Drive.

For more information, call 619-234-9153 ext. 101.

Fangtasia Halloween Party at Stingaree

Leave it to San Diego's hottest super club to master the perfect mix of sexy and sinister for Halloween.

Stingaree presents Fangtasia on Halloween night. This sensual yet sinister party will feature a vampire costume contest, huge DJs (DJ Ob-One, DJ Idol, and Cris Hererra) and wicked signature cocktails.

Visit www.Groovetickets.com for $20 pre-sale tickets.

The party starts at 8pm to 2pm Saturday October 31st, 2009 on 454 Sixth Avenue, 92101.

To read more about this event visit Stingaree for more information.

HALLOWEEN on the Black Pearl - Side Bar

Check out "Halloween on the Black Pearl," Sidebar's pirate themed Halloweenen! $1000 grand prize for the sexiest costumes on October 31, 2009.

Side Bar is going wild for Halloween this year. Celebrating our favorite wicked holiday for the first time since the re-design last summer, Side Bar is going all out to show a cryptic side of the chic new space.

A brand new haunted house opened this month, located in the cursed dungeon below Side Bar.

Side Bar believes that Halloween deserves two nights of celebration. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 28 and Saturday, October 31, because you have two hot dates for "Halloween on the Black Pearl" at Side Bar.

The authentic haunted house beneath Side Bar is opening doors for the special engagement, offering Scare venture tours on both Wednesday and Saturday night for Side Bar patrons. For $25 per person, you get VIP entrance to Side Bar and a ticket and no-line entrance to the haunted house.Visit Side Bar for more information here.

Trick or Treat on India Street

This is the third annual Trick or Treat on India Street in the Little Italy District. Join us on Friday October 31st where Little Italy businesses are opening their doors for the little ghouls and goblins of the Downtown neighborhoods to come Trick-or-Treat from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.

This fun family event allows children to experience Trick or Treating in an safe and urban Downtown San Diego environment. Just because children grow up in the City doesn't mean they shouldn't enjoy the fun of dressing up and getting candy. There will also be a Halloween costume competition for the kids (10 and under) at the Piazza Basilone at 6:30pm.

Read 92101 Urban Living's former blog Halloween 2008 in Downtown San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter

Looking for Something Fun to Do? Play "Disc Golf" at "Morley Field" in San Diego 92101!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 16:02:28 -0500

Looking for something new to do with your free time?? How about "Disc Golf" at Morley Field in San Diego?

Disc Golf has been played at Morley Field since 1978 when Snapper Pierson first established the course. Snapper is "Course Pro" and "Disc Golf Hall of Fame" member and he made Morley Field one of the original Disc Golf courses in the world.

The course is located right up the hill from Downtown San Diego, perfect for the Downtown San Diego Condo and Downtown San Diego Loft home owner, resident and visitors, a few miles from the San Diego Intl. Airport, San Diego Harbor, Coronado, and directly across from the San Diego Zoo.

There is plenty of parking coming up the hill from Downtown San Diego right off Pershing Drive, but for the busy day, park behind the course instead. Just continue Pershing Drive and take the first and second left. As you enter the course you can see the "Morley Field Pro Shop" where you pay the course fee, rent discs, get a snack and grab a score card.

Morley Field is open for the public from dusk to dawn all year around except for the Southwestern Disc Golf Team Tournament held in the beginning of December and the Spring Fling held in May. Weekdays cost $2,50 for the whole day to play and on weekends and holidays $3.

There are 19 holes to be played with usual par 3. Pin positions change each Monday and there are 3 to 6 positions for each hole. There's a lot of locals and experienced disc golfers there all the time and they are all more than happy to give you a helping hand with finding your next t-pad or if you have any questions in regards on how the game works.

To find out more information about tournaments, monthly's, doubles play and much more please visit Morley Field.

Public Infrastructure Project - "North Embarcadero Visionary Plan Phase 1″ in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:59:54 -0500

The Public Infrastructure Project "North Embarcadero Visionary Plan Phase 1" (NEVP) is one of the last major urban waterfront redevelopement opportunities in North America, this is taking place by San Diego Harbor in the Columbia District in Downtown San Diego in the Winter of 2009.

A permit for the first phase of the North Embarcadero Visionary Plan was approved at the July 2009 Board of Port Commissioners meeting. The first phase includes the area on Harbor Drive from the Navy Pier to the B Street Pier and a portion of West Broadway from the railroad tracks just past Pacific Highway, to the intersection of Harbor Drive.

Project details:
Designed to showcase the San Diego waterfront as a place for "urban gradeur," the NEVP will:

Enhance and sustain a dynamic and diverse waterfront and benefit Downtown San Diego Condo and Downtown San Diego Loft home owners, residents, visitors and businessess
Protect and inprive environmental conditions of San Diego Bay
Provide public improvements as amenities to eliminate blighting conditions and mobilize private developement dollars in construction of public improvements
Create green open spaces, contributing to the residential environment of San Diego Downtown's urban environment

Project Highlights:

The result of mulitjurisdictional cooperation and planning efforts codified in 1997
Project is jointly planned and funded by the City of San Diego, CCDC and the Unified Port of San Diego
Project area is one mile in length and 1/4 mile wide (four times as long as the Prado in Balboa Park)
Creates a 100-ft wide continous esplanade along the water's edge
Constructs unique and effective stormwater conveyance and treatment systems
Fully coordinated with future, adjacent private and public developement projects
Includes the construction or enhancement of all public right of way whitin the project's limit

To read more about "The North Embarcadero Visionary Plan" please visit Port of San Diego.

Want to Become a Downtown San Diego Condo Renter in ICON in The East Village/Ballpark District. Check This Out!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:54:59 -0500

Make a Smilebox slideshow

ICON #1507 is a split master bedroom floor plan ideal for roommates or a couple looking for a second bedroom/office with a view. Facing Southeast, ICON #1507 captures dramatic views of the Ballpark, San Diego Bay, Coronado Bridge and mountains to the East. Beyond this spacious floor plan, ICON offers a rooftop deck with panoramic views of the Downtown San Diego, the largest fitness center in the East Village District, a community movie theater and common area lounge all available for private reservation. ICON has the largest community fitness center in East Village. ICON #1507 comes with two parking spaces. $2900/month unfurnished or furnished for additional fee negotiable. No pets, no smokers. Minimum 6 month lease. Security deposit equal to one month of rent.

To see pictures please click on the following link http://picasaweb.google.com/thistlep/ICON1507Pics02?authkey=Gv1sRgCJWiro3Bj8O6aw&feat=directlink#

To see video please click on the following link http://picasaweb.google.com/thistlep/ICON1507Video?authkey=Gv1sRgCNnYysyQ5MbDWg&feat=directlink#

ICON: Located in the heart of the East Village encompassing an entire city block bound by 10th, 11th, J Street and K Street. Icon is a superb location with Petco Park on one side, and the new San Diego Public Library development site on the other. ICON has two entrances: 321 10th Ave, and 350 11th Ave. Finished in January of 2007, the developers Levin/Menzies went to great lengths to make this one of the most unique and desirable complexes in all of Downtown San Diego. ICON's amenities include: 26th story skybox with views into Petco Park and the bay beyond, a fully equipped community room, large and spacious fitness center, a theater room, and 24 hour Community attendants and security. The ICON complex is comprised of Four Buildings of all concrete construction: Building 1 (high rise tower) is 25 residential floors. Building 2 is 11 stories, Building 3 is 9 stories, and Building 4 is 5 stories. The four buildings surround a perfectly landscaped interior courtyard that features original sculpture art, and waterfall features. The interior courtyard gives the complex an intimate community feeling.

Icon #1507 features include:

Floor to ceiling glass in all rooms
Dramatic South East Corner views of Ballpark, Coronado Bridge, Mountains to the East
Wood flooring in kitchen, carpet throughout
KitchenAid Architect Series stainless steel appliances
Slab granite countertops and 4" backsplash
Porcelain or engineered marble bath flooring
Double vanities in master baths with custom, floating backlit mirror treatment
Exposed interior concrete structural elements
9' ceiling heights
Washer and dryer in unit
Thermostatically controlled individual heating and A/C
Outdoor balcony facing East, BBQ friendly!
Open-air lobby at 11th Avenue entrance
Dynamic retail venues including The Corner restaurant and Pizza Wings & Things
"Fit" Luxury fitness center/pool located directly across the street!!
Icon Skybox viewing terrace overlooking PETCO Park, exclusively for Icon residents
Courtyard-level 5th Inning Lounge available to Icon residents for meetings, special events, community activities
Icon Movie Theater with raised seating for 14 people
Community Fitness Center for all levels of co-ed fitness training and conditioning
60-foot sculpture by renowned artist Ned Kahn in center courtyard
Two controlled-access lobbies with community attendant staffing and on-site facilities manager
Controlled-access subterranean garage & off-street loading docks
Convenient trash chutes on each residential floor
Exciting restaurants, entertainment and shopping in the Ballpark District and the Gaslamp District, all within easy walking, trolley or pedicab distance
San Diego Trolley just one block away for easy, safe and fun transportation
MLK Promenade, Embarcadero, San Diego Marina and Urban Art Trail within steps of your front door for recreational walking, jogging, roller-blading, biking and more

To see our ad on Craigslist please click here and to see our ad on San Diego Reader please click here.

Available now! For more information call Pete at 619-857-2289 or email pete@92101urbanliving.com

Little Italy Association Meeting October 6th, 2009 - Stay Involved in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:50:22 -0500

The Little Italy Association is a collection of residents including Downtown San Diego Condo and Downtown San Diego Loft homeowners in the Little Italy District who share a common interest in the positive development of this budding neighborhood. It's open to renters, home owners, business owners and for anyone who care to see and contribute to the growth of this area of Downtown San Diego. This group needs participation not only in its meetings but in its community projects as well.

The Little Italy Association Board of Directors Meetings will be held at the Lady of the Rosary Parish Hall (1654 State Street) in Downtown San Diego from 8:30a.m. - 10:00a.m on October 6th, 2009.

To read more visit Little Italy San Diego or visit our original blog at http://www.92101urbanliving.com/blog/downtown-san-diego-real-estate/little-italy-association-meeting-coming-up-october-6th-2009-stay-involved-in-downtown-san-diego/720/

Winter Shelter in the East Village District in Downtown San Diego 2010 Rejected!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:04:22 -0500

The City Council of San Diego proposed to have a vacant lot in the East Village District in Downtown San Diego as the spot for setting up a temporary winter homeless shelter. Downtown San Diego Condo and Loft homeowners, residents and business owners stood up and expressed opposition.

The proposal was rejected on September 15th, 2009 after a 5-2 vote. The San Diego City Council has encouraged San Diego City staff to give alternative places that might be more suitable and located outside Downtown San Diego by early next month.

The winter shelter was supposed to be located around Island Avenue, J Street and 15th Street. Please visit "East Village" to see a map of the area.

The East Village District has hosted the winter shelter the last two years and Councilman Kevin Faulconer, who represents Downtown said, "It's unfair to keep burdening Downtown year after year with the shelter, especially when homelessness is a regional issue. There are other parts of the City that do need to help. This is a Citywide issue."

To read the more about the "2010 Homeless Emergency Winter Shelter Program" please read the article "Council rejects shelter location" in the Union Tribune or please visit the City of San Diego.

New Loan Disclosure Rules May Potentially Affect Close of Escrow!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:02:27 -0500

The new requirement that started July 30th, 2009 is part of the Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act (MDIA) and implements new loan procedures to protect borrowers and foster greater transparency in mortgage lending.

If the Annual Percentage Rate on an initial Good Faith Estimate is no longer accurate at close of escrow, a lender must generally provide a residential borrower with a new disclosure and a three day right to rescind before consummating the loan. Realtors are forewarned that, because of this new three day waiting period, a lender’s failure to timely provide corrected disclosures has the potential of delaying funding of the loan and close of escrow.

If you are a Downtown San Diego Condo or Loft homeowner or if you are thinking about investing in Downtown San Diego and have questions please contact us at 92101 Urban Living at 619.677.2435 and press “0” followed by “7” or reach us via email at info@92101urbanliving.com

To read more about the rules and regulations click here.

The Star of India has Returned to the Embarcadero in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:00:40 -0500

After more than three weeks of maintenance the Maritime Museum’s staff celebrated the Star of India’s return at the Embarcadero in Downtown San Diego on Friday September 11th, 2009 with music from the Navy band and cannon blasts.

To read our former blog please visit “The Star of India in Downtown San Diego is Getting a Face Lift!!” and to read more about the Star of India please visit the multimedia presentation from The Union Tribune “Star of India”.

North Embarcadero is Blooming with the New Urban Trees 6 Exhibit in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:22:23 -0500

New sculptures were recently installed by the San Diego Port and a public ceremony will be held on September 12th, 2009 at 10am in front of the Port’s B Street Cruise Ship Terminal in the Marina District in Downtown San Diego. There will be entertainment, refreshments and the “Urban Trees Challenge” contest where you can win a prize for answering questions about the Urban Trees artworks.

One of the new sculptures installed is a giant box of popcorn that overflows with over sized baby chicks and next to that, a giant tuning fork with wavy branches points out toward the sea. Just a few yards from that, three spotted frogs frolic up a game board that swirls to the sky. To read more about the Urban Trees 6 Exhibit visit there website here.

Visit the Urban Tree Gallery for a fill list of the trees here.

Read our former blog “San Diego Urban Trees” and “Urban Trees 5 Exhibit in Downtown San Diego!” for more information about the Urban Tree Exhibit!

San Diego Restaurant Week is Back!!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:20:27 -0500

San Diego Restaurant Week 2009 - In its fifth year as San Diego County’s largest and most successful dining event, San Diego Restaurant Week was launched with the intention of spotlighting San Diego as a premier dining destination. Held twice annually, this beloved culinary tradition features more than 180 of San Diego’s best restaurants offering fixed price, three-course meals for $20, $30 or $40.

There are no tickets or passes required. Food lovers may simply dine out at as many participating restaurants as they like during San Diego Restaurant Week, explore new dining opportunities or enjoy old favorites. Advance reservations are strongly recommended and can be made by calling restaurants directly or visiting their profile online.

This is a great opportunity for Downtown San Diego Condo and Loft homeowners, residents and visitors in Downtown San Diego to try something new and different at an affordable price. Check out Aqua Al 2 , Confidential, Donavon’s in the Gaslamp District and many more. To see a full list click here. Bring out your family, friends, co-workers and have a great time!!

For more information visit San Diego Restaurant Week and to read our former blog visit “Downtown San Diego Restaurant Week…Don’t Miss It!“.

“Hornblower Cruises and Events” Recognized by Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners in Downtown San Diego as a “Green” Tenant!

92101 Urban Living — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:18:49 -0500

September 1st, 2009 Hornblower Cruises and Events received a special recognition in Downtown San Diego for their partnership with the Port of San Diego and their promotion of Port tenants’ environmental stewardship efforts.

Want to learn about local habitat restoration efforts, LEED-certified Condo and Loft building projects and clean energy ventures - catch the “Green Tour” of San Diego Bay that Hornblower launched July 15th, 2009.

To read more about the “Green Cruise” please click here and to read more about the “Green Port Month at the Port of San Diego” please click here.

Labor Day 2009 - Things To Do in Downtown San Diego!!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:39:08 -0500

Want to know what to do for Labor Day weekend? Downtown San Diego Condo and Loft homeowners and San Diego residents and visitors check out these places on what to do in Downtown San Diego this coming weekend.

Embarcadero Park
The Summer Pops series by the San Diego Symphony rocks the park near Seaport Village with a post-concert fireworks show. Embarcadero is located between Seaport Village and the San Diego Convention Center and you can go there for picnics, concerts and outdoor movies. To read more visit Embarcadero.

Old Globe Theater Complex
Catch “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” under the stars during the Summer Shakespeare Festival in Balboa Park. Balboa Park’s intimate performing arts venue, famous for 360 degree seating and seasonal outdoor shows. To read more visit Old Globe Theater Complex.

Hornblower BBQ Cruise
The Labor Day BBQ Cruise includes a two hour narrated cruise of San Diego Bay and all your traditional BBQ favorites including fresh salads, savory BBQ and lots of delicious desserts, all make fresh on board by the Hornblower crew. Hornblower combines sightseeing, dining and cruising for the best experience San Diego Bay has to offer! Stroll the decks and meet the Captain in the wheelhouse. Board at 11am and cruise away at 11:30am-1:30pm. To read more visit Hornblower.

Lounge Six
It’s one of our favorite pool decks in Downtown San Diego, and it’s open to the public all weekend! Sip cocktails, munch on appetizers and sun yourself alongside Downtown San Diego’s see-and-be-seen set that also have fire pits and views of Petco Park and the San Diego Harbor. To read more visit Lounge Six.

Beach At W Hotel San Diego
The W’s trendy rooftop bar brings the beach, with sand and all, into the heart of Downtown San Diego. The staircase from the hotel lobby, which converts into a chic lounge after dark, leads up to an outdoor oasis on the 4th floor roof. People are sipping chardonnay and martinis while socializing near the fire pit or lounging in large white cabanas. Light techno music gets louder and funkier as the night wears on. To read more visit W Hotel.

Labor Day Pool Party at the Hard Rock Hotel
Their first return visit since February of 2008, MSTRKRFT takes charge of a special Labor Day pool party at Float and Woodstock deck. Famous for hard-hitting remixes of electro rock hits, this DJ duo turns nDJs Dadon, Stillwell, Pornscore, Jackson Glass & Brazzabelle. Doors open at 11am. Toostalgic beats into fresh, new remixes you won’t be able to ignore. With read more visit Hard Rock Hotel.

Little Italy Labor Day Stickball Tournament
Local stickball teams will compete in a round robin and double elimination playoff. The game is played in the street when opposing teams use sticks to maneuver a ball to opposite sites to score for points. At the end of the playoffs, the winning team will receive the honor of champion. This tournament is free and is located between Date St. & Beech St. in the Little Italy District on Sunday, September 06 2009, at 8:30am - 5:30pm. Don’t miss out! To read more visit Little Italy Stickball Tournament.

Seaport Village
Alongside four miles of tree-lined paths you’ll find all sorts of entertainers doing their thing. Bands, singers, dancers, magicians, whatever. There’s something for any age, so have a seat, take in a show and get a little sun. Seaport Village has scheduled stage performances and daily entertainers. All of their talent performs, where else, outdoors. Enjoy two hours free parking with any purchase. Hours: Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Check out the schedule for this coming Labor Day:

Sat 9/5
12-4pm Javid & Naoko New Flamenco
12-4pm Coco & Lafe
7:30pm-9:30pm Stacey Murray & the Stimulus Package

Sun 9/6
12-4pm Nadro John
1-4pm Midnight Heat

Mon 9/7
12-4pm Khausak
12-4pm Coco & Lafe

To read more visit Seaport Village.

USS Midway Museum
The aircraft carrier USS Midway is docked at Navy Pier in the Marina District to serve as a museum where visitors can experience a piece of San Diego’s unique military history. Prepare yourself for a lifetime memory aboard the USS Midway Museum. You’ll explore a floating City at sea and relive nearly 50 years of world history aboard the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century. To read more visit USS Midway.

Eat, Shop and Enjoy Little Italy Mercato in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:37:35 -0500

Want farm fresh produce, artisan foods and specialty items? Come on down to Little Italy Mercato, the City Market for Downtown San Diego Condo and Loft homeowners, San Diego residents and visitors. The market opens every Saturday year around at 9am and continues until 1.30 in the afternoon, the place to go is Date Street from Kettner Boulevard to Union Street in the Little Italy District.

Curious about what they offer? Here’s a list of things to do and buy:

Fruits and vegetables
Herbs
Flowers and plants
Eggs
Cheese
Fish
Bread
Sauces
Olives
Pasta
Coffee
Pastry
Crepes
Paninis
Smoothies
Italian ices
Local Chef’s specialties
Live music

Don’t miss the CHEF DEMOS at the Amphi Theater at Date Street and State Street that is coming soon!

For more information visit mercato@littleitalysd.com and to read our former blog visit “Secrets of Downtown San Diego’s Urban Living“.

Hotel Indigo in Downtown San Diego - Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:35:38 -0500

The Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego will be the 1st hotel to be LEED Certified in Southern California. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. The Hotel Indigo is LEEDing the charge by:

Eco-Roof. The rooftop and a portion of the Phi Terrace are planted with native plants to cut down on energy usage and eliminate storm water run off.
Parking discounts for guests driving Hybrid vehicles.
Showers and Bike racks to encourage/assist their staff in utilizing alternative transportation.
Recyclable materials utilized in the construction of the hotel.
Off site laundry services are being utilized to reduce energy costs and increase water efficiencies.

Hotel Indigo is a part of the local Art and Culture Community. Each guest room features a wall mural with images of native San Diego plant life, waterscapes, and flowers photographed by Ian Cummings, a local artist. In addition a 40 feet glass mural depicting the waves of the Pacific Ocean designed by Lisa Schirmer dresses the exterior of the hotel.

The Hotel Indigo is completely pet friendly! There is no additional pet fee or deposit and no size restrictions on you pet. Join Hotel Indigo for their Canine Cocktails, coming this fall Every Tuesday from 6.00 - 9.30, starting after Labor Day. Proceeds benefit the San Diego Humane Society.

To read our former blog about Hotel Indigo visit “Now Open! Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego!” and for the Hotel Website click here.

San Diego is One of the 10 Top Most Desirable Places to Buy a Home!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:34:02 -0500

According to ABC News, a market with cheap prices is not the only factor you should consider when you are thinking about investing in a new Downtown San Diego Condo, Loft or house. You should look for communities with a strong job market and stable housing values. Look for Cities with military bases, a strong tourism industry, state capitols and college towns because they are more “recession proof” according to Zilllow.

San Diego has a lot of what you would be looking for, the Naval Amphibious Base (NAB) Coronado, a lot of tourists and respectable schools and colleges like SDSU and UC San Diego and more. Are you thinking about investing in San Diego?

For questions about current market conditions or more information about condo and loft sales please go to the 92101 Urban Living website or call 619.677.2435 and press “0” followed by “7.” 92101 Urban Living can also be reached via email at info@92101urbanliving.com.

The Star of India in Downtown San Diego is Getting a Face Lift!!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:09:46 -0500

Early Tuesday morning the Star of India took sail and moved from its location at the Embarcadero in the Columbia District to a South Bay dry dock in National City for its yearly inspection and hull repairs.

The Maritime Museum is hoping to have the ship back by September 4th after blasting its iron hull with sand and water to prepare it for a coating that is expected to prevent it from rusting and to keep the Star of India from having to be painted every 10 years. The repairs will cost about $225,000 and the Maritime Museum is paying for it but they are hoping for sponsors to help with the cost. The museum says the work is expected to save about $4,000 per year.

The Star of India is the oldest operational tallest ship in the word and The Maritime Museum says this dry dock is necessary to keep it that way. To see the video of moving the ship please click here.

San Diego City Council Votes to Include San Diego Unified School District in New Downtown San Diego Library!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:08:17 -0500

The San Diego City Council endorses plan to include the San Diego Unified School District to lease the sixth and seventh floors of the new Downtown San Diego Central Library located in the East Village/Ballpark District right next to Downtown San Diego Condos in Park Boulevard West and Park Boulevard East.

The City Council voted 5-3 to authorize the mayor’s office to enter into a letter of intent with the San Diego Unified School District. The plan would be for the Unified School District to pay $20 million dollars in bond money from voter approved Proposition to leave the two floors available for the School District that would serve about 400 students.

City Council members Donna Frye, Sherri Lightner and Carl Demaio are questioning the accuracy of the estimated $185 million total cost of the new Downtown San Diego Library. Demaio says “We do not, let me repeat, we do not have the funds available to complete this project”. He says the City is at least $35 million short.

San Diego News Network says that “The City has raised about $37 million from private donations for the new library. A $20 million state grant is also on the table. The bulk of the remaining cost would come from redevelopment money.” There is a lot of work that is still to be done, but Counsilman Kevin Faulconer beleives they should take this to the next step.

Read our former blog “San Diego’s New Central library on YouTube! ” and “What do you think of downtown San Diego’s “School-In Library” Concept in the East Village?” for more information.

Buy Foreclosures Now Before it is Too Late for Downtown San Diego Condos!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:44:33 -0500

Anyone who wants to buy a foreclosure in Downtown San Diego better act fast or you might end up with nothing. Foreclosures are put back on the market and they are often selling in a week - sometimes in less.

Downtown San Diego Condo and Loft buyers are facing a trend where agents have one or two foreclosure listings now, compared with 15 to 20 a year ago. As a result of less inventory and higher demand, there is almost no negotiating with the banks…no back and forth or counter offers. This is not to say that banks will not make deals, but due to the fact that there are competing offers on the same property. The seller is pretty much asking for the highest and best price…and cash is king.

For example, we just put an offer in for an investor client of ours on a bank owned Treo unit (2bed,2bath,2parking) located in the Columbia District. One of the offers was at full price all cash, the second over asking all cash, and finally the third $15,000 over asking price but financed. In fact…in the second quarter of sales for Downtown San Diego Condos, 109 units or 37% of the total sales were all cash purchases.

Please refer to the following graph where you can see Downtown units sold, Financing vs. Cash the second quarter of 2009. Financing is leading the way with 186 units sold or 63% and Cash has 109 units sold or 37%.

Groundbreaking Celebration - The Broadway Pier Cruise Ship Terminal in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:43:38 -0500

On Tuesday August 4th, the groundbreaking celebration and the first day of construction took place of the $22.4 million Broadway Pier Cruise Ship Terminal located in the Columbia District in Downtown San Diego.

The 52,000 square foot, two story steel and metal framed terminal will be able to handle 2,600 passengers and will include spaces for ticketing and baggage and U.S. Customs & Border Protection.

The Cruise Ship Terminal is scheduled to be completed in December of next year.

To visit video from 10News click here

Read our former blogs “Broadway Pier Cruise Ship Terminal & Lane Field Plans Receives Approval!” and “Broadway Pier Cruise Ship Terminal” for more information.

Now Open! Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:41:20 -0500

Hotel Indigo in the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego is an experience unlike any other. The colors invite, the imagery excites and the architecture delights. Hotel Indigo is designed for style conscious travels who wants more than a beige box. All rooms offers a refreshing experience with plush bedding, hardwood floor, spa inspired showers and all the amenities you have come to expect.

Downtown San Diego Condo homeowners in The Mark and Diamond Terrace and Downtown San Diego Loft homeowners in M2i and Fahrenheit and San Diego visitors take the change to experience something new, visit Hotel Indigo’s Phi Terrace fir an evening cocktail and enjoy the breathtaking views over Downtown San Diego.

The hotel is located on 509th Avenue across the street from Park Loft and just a short stroll away from Petco Park. To get more information about Hotel Indigo please visit their website here.

The Development of the Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge Continues in the East Village District!

92101 Urban Living — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 14:39:48 -0500

Make a Smilebox slideshow

92101 Urban Living has been following the development of the Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge in Downtown San Diego. The bridge is located right across the street West of Petco Park and East of the Hilton Hotel in the East Village/Ballpark District. We have new pictures to show above of the construction taking place of this exiting development.

Downtown San Diego Loft home owners in M2i and Parkloft and Downtown San Diego Condo home owners in Park Terrace and Icon and San Diego residents will soon enough be able to cross the trolley and train tracks from Park Boulevard over to Harbor Drive.

Read our former blogs Harbor Drive Pedestrian Bridge Breaks Ground and Downtown San Diego Harbor Drive’s View is Now Forever Changed and also visit ccdc.com for more information.