Young couples and empty-nesters looking for a home have a lot in common.
They tend to look for value and functionality and location is paramount.
In many cases, they have a budget that falls in the $200,000-to-$250,000 range.
A functional condominium in a central location for under $210,000 is exceptional value. Such a condominium exists in Tuxedo Towers -- Unit 12B, 1975 Corydon Ave.
RE/MAX Professionals' Pat Stecy said both the suite and complex have much to offer.
"This is a solid condominium project. The reserve fund is a healthy $741,388 for 120 units, so there's no worry of being hit with a special assessment soon after you move in," she said. "And the building, which was built in 1972, is a solid concrete and steel structure. Suites are very quiet; you hear little or no noise from traffic or tenants."
The suite is very functional. There's no wasted space in the main living area. That's due to the fact the kitchen doesn't take up too much space. At a compact but functional 7.6 feet by almost seven feet, it feels larger because it's opens on to the dining room.
"I think the layout of the suite's main living area makes sense," said Stecy. "There's plenty of room to move and cook in the kitchen, which is a smart space with grey cabinets, black laminate countertops and a black-and-white vinyl floor. The dining room can comfortably seat four, and the living room is actually quite a good size."
To be precise, the living room measures in at a surprisingly large 15.6 feet by 14.3 feet. A seven-foot sliding patio door serves two purposes.
"Not only does the door let in loads of natural light, but it also allows you to get the morning sun due to the suite's eastern exposure. At night, you get a view of all the city lights," she said. "You also get a huge balcony that's about five feet deep and 20 feet wide. It's a great area to grill steaks and hamburgers, and visit after dinner on warm summer nights."
Turns out, the other half of the suite features an equally sound layout. The second bedroom, which is found at the start of a hallway that leads to the main bath and master suite, was placed off to the left side and checks in at 11.6 feet by 14.3 feet with a big window and double closet.
Meanwhile, the space between the second bedroom and master suite is filled with all kinds of utility, said Stecy.
"There's all kinds of storage on either side of the hallway. There's a double coat/storage closet on the left-hand side along with a linen closet further down on the same side and a large storage room down at the end on the right hand side."
The utility doesn't end there, she added.
"There's a space behind bi-fold doors on the right side which can be used either as an in-suite laundry room or for storage. It's a very convenient, desirable feature to have."
Reach the end of the hallway and you find the master suite to the left and the main bath to the right.
"At 13.4 feet by 11.5 feet, the master bedroom offers lots of space, along with a large window and double closet with built-in shelving," Stecy said.
"And the bathroom -- which has been updated with newer flooring and a newer vanity with cultured marble top -- has been updated and offers excellent function."
Unlike many condo complexes, Tuxedo Towers offers several desirable amenities: a function room, gym and pool.
"Those features provide added value," she said. "The gym is basically brand new with treadmills, elliptical machines and weights, and the sal-water pool is next to a hot tub room and sauna. There's also a kitchen off the function room. The unit also has access to underground parking, as well."
Last but not least is the complex's central location.
"Not only can you get anywhere in the city quickly, but you can also walk to Tuxedo Shopping Centre and other services and amenities; Assiniboine Park is also within easy walking distance and Polo Park and downtown are minutes away," said Stecy, adding a 20 per cent down payment is required as the land the building is on is leased. "This building and the suite is a nice surprise and represents great value for a young or empty-nest couple."
lewys@mts.net
