Lofty Living In Phoenix

As a real estate agent I have always been fascinated with different life styles and types of housing. Since moving to Phoenix I have witnessed how the Phoenix metro area has changed and evolved. Many families have been drawn to the single family homes in Phoenix’s sprawling suburbs for the schools and parks. People entering retirement move into manageable smaller homes surrounded by activities and friends. Now as Phoenix continues to evolve we have seen urban dwellers drawing them today’s our emerging downtown.

Many of my clients from the East Coast are calling me and asking about Loft Living in Phoenix.  Lofts are popular on the East Coast, but are new to the Phoenix area and are mostly new construction.  These are not old warehouses or buildings that have been converted into lofts, but brand new loft style condos.  Most are centrally located in Phoenix and right by the light rail which makes the commute easy, either way. Phoenix Lofts are spacious with many amenities including private garages, ample storage, fitness centers, spas, pools, security.  Many include hardwood floors and stainless steel appliances.  They can be 1-3 levels in high rise buildings, penthouses, or those in smaller buildings above restaurants and offices.  Most all have excellent views.  Yard maintenance is a thing of the past and social and cultural opportunities are close by as are sporting events.  Restaurants, wine bars, theaters, and museums are all within walking distance.

What is even more interesting, is the urban dwellers that are being drawn to these downtown oasis. Baby Boomers and successful young people are excited about loft living and what city life has to offer them..  Loft Living is very popular in Phoenix, AZ and the developers can barely keep up with the building of these lofts.  If you would like to experience a true adventure in living, I would suggest you take a look at Loft Living in Phoenix.  It is a fast growing niche in the housing market and an attractive alternative to traditional housing. 

Focusing on Purchasing a Closet, Not Staying in It.

As a real estate professional and member of the gay community, I am often asked, “Why do you focus on the gay community?”  I am a real estate agent; I help people buy and sell houses.  Sexual orientation does not change that fact. But it occurs to me that the majority of Realtors do not understand the gay community or their wants and needs.

It’s not that gay and lesbian home buyers are that different.  Actually, we are quite the same. However, as a real estate professional, I understand that a good agent does more than just “find a house.” We Realtors provide understanding and guidance on the largest purchase in a person’s life. But more than that, buying a house should be a fun and personal experience.

Over the years, I have worked with several clients that have come to me after a negative experience with other realtors. It’s not that these real estate professionals aren’t good Realtors.  Rather, that buying a house is still a process firmly associated with a “traditional” heterosexual family.  The advantage in working with a professional who specializes in the gay market is the process and perhaps the result.  Instead of defining (or defending!) yourself against the assumed norm, you are allowed to be you, without the embarrassing questions.

In buying your previous homes, you may have heard, “Surely you want separate bedrooms and baths, so I’ll show you homes with two master suites.”  What possible answer is there:  1) Make it clear that you are sleeping in the same bedroom…..and then the awful answer, “oh, I see”, followed by the uncomfortable pause; or 2) Say nothing.

Some of my clients are still not “out” or want their privacy or just don’t want to answer these kinds of questions.  The buyers may fear being disrespected by the agent, not getting quality service or perhaps creating an uncomfortable situation for both parties.   

Or buyers are asked, “Which one of you will be on the title?” The assumption being that one person is making the purchase and the other will be a renter.  Many laws that govern home ownership and property are still based upon heterosexual norms and legal definitions of marriage. Understanding those regulations and protecting the rights of both parties does require a level of expertise and knowledge that many real estate agents lack.

My partner Kris and I know all too well the pain and discomfort that comes from these questions.  The good news is, not all real estate agents ask them. That’s why I specialize in the gay community. Instead of questioning your personal sleeping preference, what we really want to know is “Do you want a pool?”, “How many bedrooms and baths would you like?”, “How much do you want to spend?”  You know the important stuff in buying your next home.  It’s this level of understanding, protection and empathy that every home buyer deserves. So, yes, I do specialize in the gay community not because they are special, but they are special to me.