ARE YOU READY? Buying Activity In The Downtown San Diego Condo Market Is INCREASING!
Posted by Ana Gramling | Visited 333 times, 1 so far today | Leave A Comment »
As an agent who lives, sells and farms downtown condos, I am happy to tell you the activity in downtown has not been this busy in years! My husband and I purchased our downtown condo in 
October, 2005 when you had to “know someone” to even be considered a buying prospect.
I recall friends and family embracing the luxury of owning a downtown condo, but they never dreamed of truly owning and having a primary residence at a hip and groovy pad like ours!
The downtown condo/urban lifestyle is not for everyone, but for those of you who have considered the thought…now could be your best buying opportunity! Prices are better than they have ever been and, you might even pick up a builder closeout and/or concessions that you just can’t pass up!
Don’t just take my word for it…check out Alan Nevin’s article in San Diego Metropolitan’s editorial titled Downtown Derby, just click here. Mr. Nevin is one of San Diego’s foremost real estate analysts and is the director of economic research with Market Pointe Realty Advisors, a consultancy providing real estate and demographic statistics, feasibility studies and litigation support to the California land use industry and legal profession.
His perspective on the pulse of San Diego’s real estate market is well respected and highly sought after. In addition, research the facts of the actual sold activity on the MLS to determine the true value of buying in today’s market. Also, I invite you to visit my website to tour the MLS.
Choices…choices…CHOICES! Did you know downtown has eight districts (“neighborhoods”)? Yes, you can choose from the active Gaslamp Quarter with prominent restaurants & nightlife to the historic El Cortez district. If you’re obsessed with the Padres, you must live in East Village! 
If bayfront is your preference, the Columbia district with cruise ships, sail boats, Lindbergh Field and the historic Star of India could be part of your front yard landscape. If the arts and convention center are more your forte, it looks like the Marina is your neighborhood.
Of course, downtown’s best shopping can be found in the Horton Plaza district and if Italian food is your love…you must consider Little Italy! The Core district would be a perfect choice if business is your bag.
A few facts and tips of downtown urban living…
• If you are considering buying in downtown, know the importance of working with an agent who truly knows the downtown market. Agents who farm a specific area are considered specialists in their respective market. Ask your agent what their specialty is!
• Get loan qualified before you seriously start to shop. I tell all my buyers how important it is to first know your financial comfort. There is nothing I hate more than showing a client property they cannot realistically afford.
• Know the construction composition of the building! There are differences.
• Stairs do lead you to a conclusion. Know their location and composition.
• Yes, location is important, but location “within the location” can be even more important!
• Delinquencies vs. aggressive collections vs. reserves. Carefully review the HOA financials.
• “Low Profile” takes on a new meaning in urban living…it refers to the height of your furniture to ensure you maximize your view.
• PARTICIPATE ON THE HOA BOARD – THIS IS A MUST!
I’d love to hear from you! Ask me about square footage vs. pricing… ask me about assigned parking… ask me about CCDC’s bus tours! Ask me about how truly dog friendly downtown is or ask me about downtown rentals…
My mission is to deliver service above and beyond and to ensure my personal commitment to you. I truly love what I do and I welcome the chance to earn your trust.
I’ve gotta go now…were on our way to share a pizza at Basic Pizza with our favorite white pie with mashed potato and bacon topping. Later, were off to enjoy an exceptional dessert at Extraordinary Dessert! So, in closing, thank you for the opportunity to show you my neighborhood. Remember…I’m just a phone call away at (858) 688-3363.
P.S. By the way, I’m an exceptional bowler! If you see me at our local East Village Tavern & Bowl, don’t be shy…let’s play a game!
