First Time Buyers

Ten Things to Look for When Buying a Condo
It's no secret that real estate continues to be one of the best investments available. Perhaps there is no greater example of this than Southern California. Millions of dollars are being poured into urban real estate communities from East Los Angeles to San Pedro and throughout downtown Los Angeles.

With so many options, today's buyer, especially a first-time buyer, can become overwhelmed. To help focus your search, below are ten factors first-time homebuyers should consider when purchasing a condo.

1-Location, Location, Location
The classic real estate adage is true. Make sure the property is in a location that will continue to grow and thrive. For example, the location should be close to major commerce areas, an airport and entertainment destinations. Waterfront locations do historically well in appreciation and Vue offers a prime location in one of Southern California's waterfront communities.

2-Views
One of the amazing things about the current Southern California condo market is that developers are building vertical. If you are looking to live in an urban environment, explore the possibility of living in a high-rise to get that birds eye view of your city. Vue provides amazing common area on the rooftop ensuring that every single homeowner has an opportunity for a view!

3-Parking!
One of the main challenges in a condominium community is parking. When you have a dinner party in your beautiful new home, you want to make sure that your guests will have a convenient place to park. Ample parking is crucial and Vue offers each home two parking spaces plus ample guest parking. Your friends and family will never be frustrated by the cost and scarcity of parking in an urban environment when you live at Vue.

4-Keep'in Up With The Joneses
Even if you don't buy the penthouse, you can still live the same lifestyle!! As prices in the building continue to appreciate, the better investment you are getting for your money. The key is to get in! And Vue offers a great opportunity for first time buyers with residences priced from the mid $300's. Look at your home here as the first step to building your real estate holdings!

5-Finish First
When looking at a condo, pay close attention to the finishes including countertops and flooring. Be sure they fit into your personal style and are of quality. In any market, a well finished home and well appointed common areas, will increase the value of your home.

6-Meet You At The Pool
All condominium communities have a Homeowners Association Fee (HOA). Ensure you are getting your money's worth. If you want a pool and gym at your new home, buy a property that offers these amenities. Don't sell yourself short on amenities; you are investing a lot of money each month on HOA dues, make sure you are getting what you want. Remember that amenities also add value to your home.

7-Understand What You Are Buying
Whether it is a new development or an older home, engage yourself in the construction of your new home. Has it been built to meet your approval?

8-Neighborhood
Become familiar with the neighborhood in which you are purchasing. Other development in the area is a great indicator of a neighborhood increasing in value. Look for not only additional residential, but restaurants, shops and entertainment. Vue is smack dab in the middle of a great redevelopment area and already has the great neighborhood features that make you feel at home: the farmers market, the local pub and the fabulous shoe shop!

9- The Advantages of New Construction
Buying your first home is overwhelming enough. Now imagine being responsible for costly repairs! Purchasing in a newly constructed condo development will minimize costly repairs for new homeowners.

10-Winning at Real Estate
Buy into a property that you know has been successful and is continuing to see steady sales. Make sure you review newspaper and magazine articles to see what the public thinks about the community. A good tool to see if the property is seeing continued success is to confirm that the prices are continuing to rise throughout the sales process. If you get in early and prices continue to rise, you have already made money on your investment. What could be better than that!