Lofts and Condos: Common Areas By Andy Asbury

When people buy a condo or loft, not only do they buy a home in which to live, they also buy access to conference or party rooms, pools or fitness centers, rooftop spaces and lawns with grills and picnic tables. And those are just some of the common areas that can be found in loft and condo units.

Common areas refer to any part of the building or grounds to which all owners share access. That includes fun spots like pools and party rooms, as well as necessary spots such as hallways and stairways. They are areas that all owners can use, and of which all owners, typically through a maintenance fee, share responsibility.

Issues arising as a result of common areas are not especially common, but they can occur. Here are some things to think about:

Maintenance: Just as two single-family home owners may have very different ideas about what constitutes a well-manicured lawn, so, too, may loft or condo owners. What one person thinks is a neat and tidy lawn or hallway, another person may think is a mess. Since all owners pay for maintenance of common areas, if you think it is sub-par, notify the association or a member of the board of directors for the building. It may be something that easily can be changed.

Plan ahead: People often like to use party rooms or pools when they host an event such as a birthday party. But if other owners are using the areas when you planned to use them, you probably do not have much recourse since they have as much right to them as you do. If you are planning a big party or event, notifying the other tenants in the building well in advance can head off problems. You may even consider drawing up a schedule and posting it outside of the room. That way, everyone can see what people have planned.

Clean up: If you are not a particularly neat person, make sure you keep that character trait confined to your loft or condo. One of the quickest ways to irritate your neighbors is to leave behind a mess, especially in the common areas of the building. It will not take them long to figure out you are the culprit.

Keep it common: Since all tenants share ownership of common areas, some can be tempted to use them to store their personal belongings. They may keep a life jacket by the pool, their bike in the hallway, or their lawn chairs stacked against an exterior wall. But doing so is not a good idea, and it is likely the bylaws of the association prevent it. Not only could the items get stolen or broken, but also if everyone did it, the clutter soon would become unmanageable.

Explore Minneapolis condos online at http://www.MinnesotaLoftsandCondos.com. For more information about Minneapolis lofts contact Andy Asbury's team of lofts and condos agents at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Area Leaders.

Security In Lofts and Condos By Andy Asbury

When people search for a loft or condo to buy, they pay attention to all the basic things that homeowners need to think about: Does the layout work? Is the kitchen large enough? How about the bathrooms? Where is it located? But there is one thing that relatively few people think about, even though they should. That is the security of the building in which they are looking. It is an important consideration, given it relates directly to the safety of them and the things they own.

Think about it: Many condos and lofts are located in high-rises or other buildings that have multiple tenants. Because of that, there often are people coming and going throughout the day. Those people may include friends and family, people servicing broken plumbing, or maintenance people mowing the grass or sweeping the hallways. When there is that many people around, it can be difficult to determine who belongs and who does not.

Here are some things to consider as it relates to loft and condo security:

Doorman: Having a doorman who controls access to the building and is working at all hours of the day is one of the best forms of security there is. But if the building in which you are looking has a doorman, you can expect to notice the extra cost in your association fee.

Cameras: Video cameras that record what happens in the garage, the hallways or the front of the building are another good security feature. That is especially true if they are in easy-to-see locations because they serve as deterrents to bad behavior.

Locks: At a minimum, the condo or loft building should have locks on the front door. Even better if there are working locks on all doors leading to and from common areas. And the front door of your loft or condo, of course, also should have a working lock.

Intercom: Most buildings have an intercom system that allows visitors to contact the residents they need to see. When they press the intercom, the tenant receives a notification and can talk to them or unlock the door (remotely, in some cases). It is best if the intercom is behind a locked door.

Recording devices: Some buildings have devices at the front door that deliver an image to the television or computer of the tenants. That way, if someone is delivering a pizza, for example, the tenant who ordered the pizza can be sure it is actually the deliveryman at the door.

Relationships: There are all sorts of devices designed to increase security in lofts and condos, but one of the best ways is to develop relationships with the other people who live in the building. That way, everyone looks out for one another.

Palm Beach Condominium Living By Kaylee McInnis

The allure of Palm Beach condominium living is legendary. For those buyers who seek the ultimate in spectacular floor plans, impeccable service and resort-style condominium amenities, the Palm Beaches have an exceptional collection of residential choices.

As one of the most affluent areas in the country, the Palm Beaches have defined the concept of luxury living. Singer Island, with its pristine beaches and breathtaking location, is among the most desirable addresses in this very exclusive area. Charming, yet undeniably chic, Singer Island condominiums offer sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway, plus condominium amenities that are similar to those of an elite private club. Singer Island condos are replete with opulent finishes and appointments for the height of luxury living. The condos are designed with gourmet kitchens with Bosch and Sub-Zero appliances, and generously sized baths with imported stone finishes. The elegant lifestyle is enhanced by shared amenities that include resort pools, whirlpools, poolside grilles, and access to a stretch of soft sand beach. Within these luxury enclaves, Singer Island residents enjoy exclusive privileges such as private social rooms and expansive ocean-view fitness centers.

On Singer Island, homebuyers can create their own private oasis of serene luxury that is spacious, elegant, and low maintenance. Real estate that allows owners to enjoy a carefree lifestyle is especially desirable for those buyers looking for a weekend getaway or seasonal residence. The ease of condominium living on Singer Island is complemented by its easy-to-get-to location. Singer Island is a short drive from most points in Florida, and is close to the Palm Beach International Airport, which offers frequent flights to Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago and many other major cities.

In addition to the easy access from destinations both in and outside Florida, for many buyers of luxury properties, Singer Island's proximity to the Palm Beaches is especially appealing. These are condos close to everything you could want. Exceptional shopping is nearby, including the exclusive designer boutiques of Worth Avenue and The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens. International retailers such as Chanel, Ralph Lauren, Lily Pulitzer, Tiffany & Co. and many more are all nearby. Just a short drive away is PGA National Resort & Spa, home to five championship courses by legendary designers, and Wellington's equestrian community, with several clubs that offer full seasons of polo tournament play and social events.

It is no wonder that Singer Island has become a sought-after enclave for luxury residential living. With all the pleasures of the Palm Beaches within easy reach, and a location that's just a short flight from many major cities in the U.S., it's become one of the best values among luxury properties. Still relatively undiscovered, this island retreat is ideal for those who treasure their privacy, yet still want to be able to enjoy the excitement of the Beaches. Tranquil, safe and with a small population year-round, even during the winter season, Singer Island represents both the best of Old Florida and new luxury.

Rising 27 stories and offering panoramic ocean views, the unique property offers residents unparalleled service and attention to detail, The Residences Palm Beach is the pinnacle of Luxury Condominium Living.