Essential Features to Look for in a Modern Urban Condo

Many people dream of an urban lifestyle that starts with the purchase of just such a property. For most, it means a condo in an urban part of the city that exudes style, functionality, and convenience to complete their “urban” experience.

However, the search and selection of such a condo requires more than just appearance. It is necessary to pay attention to some key features – location, design, and shared amenities that the building offers. Before making your final choice, be sure to consider whether that condo covers the features you have set as the most important.

We made a small guide to what you should look for when choosing an urban condo.

Location and Accessibility – The First Priority

Location is often the most important factor when choosing a property, especially when it comes to modern urban condos. I mean, we understand why. If you live in a fast-paced city life, then you also want a condo in a top location where everything is within your reach, because that’s actually a daily lifestyle.

Living in such an environment and having conveniences within your reach (grocery store, pharmacy, school, public transportation) actually saves you time and reduces the stress that usually occurs when driving in traffic jams. 

Philadelphia is an excellent example of how one can determine real estate value solely based on the neighborhood and nearby amenities.

As you can see, even without looking at a price tag, you can get an idea of what the value of a property could be simply by looking at stats like these. Old City condos will prove excellent for those who enjoy art, fine dining and are looking for a lush and active nightlife. A condo in Rittenhouse Square will be for those who are looking for that prestige, elite feel of luxury. 

Also, if you’re living in the strict city center, then a high walking score (and/or a bike score) will be on your list of priorities, since parking and driving may prove to be cumbersome in that area of the city. Also, it’s very important to be very well connected by transit (just so that you have your options open in case the need arises).

‘Restaurants and other places for entertainment’ – This sounds like a perfect combination because you can take advantage of both a modern and cultural experience with accessibility to all the content important for functioning in everyday life.

Location has a big impact on the resale value of property, so when choosing a location, explore different neighborhoods, as condos in high-demand neighborhoods tend to be more expensive than others. Also, consider what that part of the city offers and whether it meets your lifestyle needs (both current and future).

5 Interior Features that Elevate Condo Living

And now that we have chosen the location, let’s get down to decorating. The interior of the apartment dictates how you’ll feel in your home – whether it’s in the city center or on the planet Mars. Modern apartments give priority to a design that makes the most of the space, providing superior aesthetics and practicality.

It is interesting that more often in modern buildings (or condos) we can find indoor “green walls”, large windows that let in a lot of natural light or roof gardens. This approach is known as the biophilic design principle; it improves the well-being of residents, reduces stress levels, and increases the desirability of the property.

1. Open-Concept Layouts

One of the most famous features of modern design is the open-concept layout. This layout actually created a seamless flow between the rooms to let in as much natural light as possible. This also creates better airflow and a better environment for connecting at parties and gatherings. Spaces with an open layout don’t need to be cluttered with furniture because they tell their own special stories by themselves.

2. Smart Home Technology

You can’t expect smart home technology in every condo, but you can at least hope for it. It increases comfort and energy efficiency, and it can be an app for smartphones that control the whole condo or individual items such as thermostats, light bulbs, or a keyless entry system. Technology offers you remote home management, as well as the possibility of reducing living costs.

3. High-Quality Finishes

And this is something you should demand, especially if the condo is renovated or newly built. Durable floor coverings (wooden floors, porcelain, or quartz tiles), high-quality appliances, and generally high-quality finishes elevate the overall aesthetic and give a touch of elegance. And since it’s not all about aesthetics, it’s important that they’re long-lasting and safe.

4. Storage Solutions

Functionality and good use of space are key, especially in limited spaces where every square inch is valued. Well-thought-out storage solutions are worth their weight in gold – built-in wardrobes, spring box beds, and multi-purpose furniture. With clever solutions, you can solve the problem of clutter and be overwhelmed by unnecessary things.

5. Shared Amenities

To close the circle, some buildings have their own private gyms, rooftop green gardens with city views, shared courtyards for hanging out, laundry facilities, or parking lots/underground garages. These are all features that are available to all community members (residents) to make their daily lives easier and give them “that something” that makes their chosen lifestyle even more special.

Conclusion

The search for the right condo can be exciting but also exhausting. Before making a final decision, pick the right location and then comb through everything else – from the quality of the work, through tough-out layout to the roof gardens, and decide what is important to you about the condo, both now and in the future.

When choosing a condo, whether modern or otherwise, there are some key features that should guide you, but at the end of the day – the heart wants what the heart wants.