Sandy Jamison Managing Broker at Tuscana Properties
San Jose Condo ManiaNews > What to Look for in a Downtown San Jose Highrise
If you’re looking to buy a high rise condo in San Jose, downtown is the place to be for many reasons. The convenience of living close to work, great shopping, dining and entertainment are what top most people’s lists. But this style of living also fosters a sense of urban community and connectedness.
Walk to Santana Row to browse the colorful shops, stay for fine dining at the Left Bank Brasserie and then take in a show at the Repertory Theatre. It's great to leave the car in the garage and use public transit to get where you want to go.
There are some great options if you decide a high rise is for you. City Heights, built in 2007, is 16 floors of fabulous one and two bedroom high rise homes within walking distance to restaurants and clubs. The soaring 22-story Axis, built in 2008, is just a few blocks away.
So what, besides price, should you consider when shopping for a downtown high rise?
Parking – Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure your new home has enough parking to suit your needs. Some buildings only offer one reserved space but others guarantee homeowners two deeded parking spots. The number of parking spots may vary by the size of the condo unit. Check the parking spot locations, height restrictions and proximity to the elevator.
View - Does the unit have a view and can that view be obstructed with future building? Not all high rises are created equal. The Axis is next to the San Pedro Market – a large one-story square. The 88, another 22-story residential skyscraper completed in 2008, also has terrific views. While no one can predict what future developments will bring, it’s reasonable to say that this building’s close proximity to San Jose University will protect the views there indefinitely.
Accessibility - Does your unit have the right amount of security and accessibility for you? Check to see if the lobby is attended and how on-site security controls access. The 88, for example, has an attended lobby and 24-hour security. Residence parking is also separated from the public parking provided for the Safeway downstairs.
HOA fees – Monthly homeowner fees are generally higher in high rises because of the added expense of common area air conditioning, elevators, front door persons, etc. It’s worth doing a price comparison. Ask yourself how the HOA fees stack up against other communities. They can differ by hundreds a month. This is the part where you want to take a closer look at…
Amenities – Do the amenities on offer match what’s most important to you? For example, a doorman is classy and helpful and adds an extra set of eyes for security but maybe a fitness center and pool rank higher on your list of priorities. Some amenities you don't want may hike the HOA fees.
Last but not least, give some serious thought to the location. Location is one of the top reasons that people choose highrises downtown. If you like to walk to restaurants, shops and entertainment is it the best fit? City Heights, for exampls, may not have a complete set of amenities, but it is one of the best high rise locations in San Jose because residents can walk to HP Pavilion, San Pedro Market Square and a variety of restaurants, shops, museums, galleries and night clubs.
Though not guaranteed, information and statistics in this article have been acquired from sources believed to be reliable.
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AXIS Condos For Sale!
Skyline views and award-winning design are the top attractions of living at the Axis high rise condos in San Jose. This 22-story blue glass building attracts buyers who want to live in style and be close to everything downtown. The Axis houses 329 units and is close to the HP Pavilion, Caltrain, 280 Freeway and the downtown Farmer's Market.
Residences have floor-to-ceiling windows with balconies to enjoy the San Jose weather. The attended lobby is modern and inviting. Residents ...
CITY HEIGHTS Condos For Sale!
Sweeping city and Silicon Valley views make the condos at City Heights some of the best San Jose has to offer in downtown high rise living. Floor plans range from 1-2 bedroom flats to two story lofts. The penthouse loft style with a big bank of windows and and upstairs open loft area is spectacular. Each condo also comes secure underground parking.
Amenities include a fitness center, elevators and community room. The community is in the heart of downtown on the edge of historic ...
95110 Condos For Sale!
# Active Listings 14 Min Price $525,000 Max Price $1,199,000 Avg Price $784,914 PPSFT $711
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Information Deemed Reliable But Not Guaranteed. The information being provided is for consumer's personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. This information, including square footage, while not guaranteed, has been acquired from sources believed to be reliable.
Last Updated: 2024-12-21