Luxury Living without the Price Tag: Philadelphia’s Best Luxury Deals

May 29, 2008

Although the Center City market has been heating up a great deal lately, there are still exceptional deals to be had for the savvy buyer.

Those looking for the best deals need look no father than the Essex at 300 N 3rd St. This new construction five-star building offers everything buyers are looking for: elegant open floor plans, great ceiling heights, luxury marble baths, chefs kitchens with Viking appliances, private outdoor space, and deed garage parking. All at drastically reduced prices– no other building in Center City can compete with the value offered at the Essex!
Essex Living Room

Modeled on the world’s finest hotels, The Essex offers the most discerning buyers a rare opportunity to purchase a boutique urban estate home in a historic Philadelphia landmark. The Essex rises triumphantly from finely landscaped 18th-century cobblestone streets in the form of famed architect and sculptor James H Windrim’s 1870 National Bank of Northern Liberties building. The sophistication and substantial scale established by this graceful granite exterior set the tone for substantial luxury and timeless elegance.

Boutique urban estate homes range grandly scaled pied-a-terre’s to Old City’s finest multi-level lofts and stunning penthouses. Discrete garage parking, elevator access, and sumptuous marble-clad rotunda-style common areas quickly establish The Essex as a five-star destination. Grand open stairs, exceptional ceiling heights, broad expanses of glass opening onto surprising views, flowing modern floor plans, and generous private terraces define the interiors accented by Mitchell+Gold design throughout. Exceptional deals include the following units:

Unit 102: This 2119 sq ft tri-level loft in the original bank building of the Essex features two full bedroom suites, 18-foot ceilings in the gallery-style main living area, and a family room and den on the lower level The two and a half baths are finished in fine marble, and the 15′ high arched historic windows flood the space with light. $599,900

Unit 214: This stunning new single-level residence offers 2045 sq ft of gracious, flowing space perfect for entertaining. Features include a massive private master suite, formal foyer with powder room and walk-in closet, generous guest suite with large windows overlook cobblestone side street, third bedroom or den, 6′-wide gallery hallways perfect for local artwork, 9′ ceilings, viking-outfitted chef’s kitchen, lavish marble baths, and private outdoor space overlooking a beautiful park. $699,900

Unit 303: Occupying the upper southwest corner of the original bank building, this gorgeous loft offers 1744 sq ft of voluminous luxury in a perfect fusion of timeless grace and loft living. Features include 15′ ceilings throughout the massive main volume and the sun-drenched master bedroom. The private guest suite is accented by lovely curved walls, and includes a generous walk-in closet and private windowed bath.$689,900

Penthouse One: The bi-level penthouses represent the pinnacle of five-star living at The Essex. Accessed via a dramatic private rotunda, the penthouse level stands apart with generous ceiling heights, vast expanses of glass, exceptionally generous floor plans, and three private terraces each overlooking Old City, the Delaware River, and the Ben Franklin Bridge. Penthouse One is laid out as a colonnade of perfectly proportioned spaces drenched in natural light. 3260 sq ft of luxury encompass generous formal spaces, a sumptuous main-level in-law suite, two upper bedroom suites, striking views throughout, and an incredible 545 sq ft of private outdoor space on three terraces. $1,499,000

SALES CENTER OPEN TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY 2:00 PM TO 5:00 PM!!!
STOP BY FOR A GREAT BUY!!


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Naval Square, Philadelphia New Construction

May 7, 2008

Naval Square is a 144 unit gated community consisting of condos and town tomes in the Graduate Hospital sections of the city. In the early 19th century, the property served as the first home of the U.S. Naval Academy and as the nation’s first retirement home for sailors and marines. Built by Toll Brothers, these 1 bedroom condos starting in the $300’s and town homes starting in the 400’s are offered in a number of different floor plans. Each unit comes with parking.

Image of a Naval Square Kitchen


The units have unique layouts and they have a quality feel. I especially like the new condo building in the back, which has private entrances from the parking lot into the lower floors. It’s quiet back there and the condos are a good value.


The setting is picturesque. The homes have a classic, suburban feel. The location is a short walk to Fitler’s Square and the Rittenhouse neighborhood. For buyers who like classic style in a gated setting, Naval Square is worth checking out!

To see many more pictures and every property currently listed for sale at Naval Square, visit the Naval Square page at PhiladelphiaNewConstruction.Com.

-Sal Gardner

(Get To Know Sal A Little Better @ TheRealEstateItch.Com)

Sal Gardner

Five Star Living at an Unbelievable Price

May 2, 2008

For those looking to find a fabulous new residence in one of Philadelphia’s hottest neighborhoods, the luxury digs at the Essex are on many buyers’ short lists.  Now, to sweeten the deal, the development team is releasing three exceptionally priced promotional units.  These units are  being offered at exceptional discounts for a few lucky buyers.  How good are the deals?  How about a 2119 Sq Ft loft with 20′ ceilings, garage parking, a viking kitchen, and luxury finishes for only $649,900?

To find out more, read on at: The Boutique Collection Site.

Memphis Flats, New Construction Review

May 2, 2008

Memphis Flats is a 72 unit condominium in the old Popcorn Factory in the heart of Fishtown. The building is comprised of two sections, built between 1900 and 1920. The timber section has exposed heavy wood beams and concrete floors, and the concrete section has poured concrete beams and wood floors. Both sections have high ceilings, exposed ductwork and exposed brick.

I was able to see a few finished units on the first floor. The rooms felt large, with a lofty feel. The kitchens are outfitted with Ikea kitchens and Bosch appliances, which give them a clean, designer look. The kitchens are a bit modern looking, but I think they offset the rustic feel of the unit well.

Prices hover at around $300 per square foot and condo fees are $.25/psf, which include all utilities except plug-in electricity. This will get you a 1,000 square foot 1 bedroom for about $300,000 with about $250 per month in condo fees. Although the price directly compete with single family homes in the area, having most utilities, parking, and exterior maintenance included make them a good deal for buyers who want a cool condo in an urban setting.

Our Memphis Flats PhiladelphiaNewConstruction.Com page features every available unit currently on the market at Memphis Flats.

-Sal Gardner

(Get To Know Sal A Little Better @ TheRealEstateItch.Com)

Sal Gardner

Trump Tower, New Construction Review

April 30, 2008

It’s finally coming to Philadelphia! Located on the Delaware River, Trump’s 45 story luxury tower will boast amenities such as an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness center, running track tennis courts, and a five star restaurant. Each unit will include parking, and chauffeured car service for the residents.

Trump Tower Philadelphia Rendering

The Philly sales center is on the 57th floor in the Liberty One building. I was able to see a sample kitchen and bathroom, as well as all 63 floor plans. The spaces will be sleek and modern, but have a warm feel to them. The kitchen has features like Miele appliances, Fisher& Paykel drawer-style dishwashers, and Sub-Zero refrigeration. Baths will be in marble with double sinks, soaking tubs and separate showers. I found the finishes to be modern without being cold. The floor plans all make best use of space, light and views.

Prices start at $700K for an 1,100 square foot one bedroom, topping out at $2.95 million for a 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 2,400 square foot penthouse.

Don’t miss out on the details — Receive my reviews of Philadelphia New Construction by using the email subscription form at the top of this page.

-Sal Gardner

(Get To Know Sal A Little Better @ TheRealEstateItch.Com)

Sal Gardner

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