There are few condos in San Antonio that are impressive as the Alteza.

Sitting high atop the Grand Hyatt hotel in downtown San Antonio, Alteza is a fine example of the luxurious, high-end living that is available in downtown San Antonio.

The First Residents are Welcomed

Although the Alteza has seen its share of delays – mainly because construction crews had to concentrate on the hotel construction before the Final Four in 2008 – it has now opened its doors to its first residents. The completion of the Alteza project is a huge boom for downtown San Antonio’s evolution and for the entire city in general.

For the residents of Alteza, it certainly can be said that “good things come to those who wait.”

Once completed, the Alteza will feature 147 condo homes; 19 of which will be open in a matter of days. The rest of the condos, spread out over 10 floors, are expected to be finished by spring 2010. To date, 31 condos are under contract, and activity is beginning to really pick up.

The Alteza condo development experienced challenges because of the tumbling economy and, as a result, the sales team is working to recover the many expired contracts.

The Alteza’s Unique Features

The Alteza boasts a unique hotel/condo feature that no other development does in San Antonio. Combine that with Alteza’s exclusive residences and outstanding amenities, and it’s easy to see why the Alteza development stands out from its competition.

Prices range from $298,000 to over $3 million for homes in Alteza, and most of them boast exceptional views and even more exceptional surroundings.

The sales team of Alteza feels strongly that the tough lending standards felt by many parts of the housing market probably won’t affect the sales of the condo homes of Alteza because many luxury buyers are not affected by tough lending practices.

In addition, the condo market in San Antonio is much stronger than other parts of the country, and many individuals are seeking out condos in San Antonio for second homes. In other words, the demand for San Antonio condos remains strong and resilient, despite the challenges felt by much of the housing market.

Some of the amenities and services of Alteza include:

• Controlled-access, reserved parking
• Private lobby and entrance
• Open-air swimming pool on the 32^nd floor
• Exclusive membership privileges to the Grand Hyatt fitness center
• Soaring ceilings
• Granite countertops
• Bosch and Sub-Zero appliances
• Wide-plank hardwood flooring

For those homeowners looking to downsize into a downtown San Antonio condo, now may be the time. The home buyer tax credit was recently extended into May 2010 (the closing must occur before July 2010), so new homebuyers, as well as those homebuyers who have lived in their current residence for at least five years, can take advantage of the government stimulus offer.

Long-Time Homeowners get in on the Action

The homebuyer tax credit, which was originally only targeted at new homeowners or those who hadn’t owned a home for the previous three years, now includes “long-time homeowners,” or those who have lived in their home for at least five years.

In other words, all those retirees looking to move out of their longtime home and instead settle into a downtown San Antonio condo can make out on this tax credit extension. The $8,000 tax credit still stands for new homebuyers, but another $6,500 tax credit is available for long-time homeowners.

Retirees Expected to Benefit from new Tax Credit

This is good news for retirees, and even better news for the real estate condo market of downtown San Antonio. And, luckily, most long-time homeowners have good credit, which means that they will likely be approved for a new mortgage.

There are certain limitations to the tax credit, however; homes over $800,000 do not qualify.

Benefits of the New Law

The income levels have been extended for the new tax credit, though; homebuyers can now make up to $125,000 and still remain eligible for the full tax credit (it was $75,000 under the old law). Couples applying together can make up to $225,000 jointly (it was $150,000 under the old law).

In addition, there is no stipulation in the law that states that the new home must be more expensive than the last, which is good news for retirees or for individuals simply looking to downsize.

Other individuals that will certainly benefit from the new law include military personnel, as any military personnel serving outside of the country for at least 90 days in 2009 or 2010 will be granted an extension of one year to claim the credit.

If you are in the market for a downtown San Antonio condominium home, then you’re in for a real treat. Although San Antonio, like most other parts of the country, has experienced a cooling off period for new home sales since the recession took hold last year, it hasn’t experienced nearly the kind of loss of real estate value as other parts of Texas, let alone the country.

With that said, it is important to point out that there are still great deals to be had for downtown San Antonio condos. If you’re looking for an urban residence right in the middle of all of the excitement and action of San Antonio, then a downtown condo is definitely worth looking into.

Aside from being in the heart of the city, a condominium in downtown San Antonio can afford you unrivaled opportunities to experience the outstanding, colorful culture that has made San Antonio so special. From the famed River Walk to the Majestic Theater, there is certainly never a shortage of things to see, do and experience as a resident of downtown San Antonio.

A Look at downtown San Antonio Real Estate

Current estimates show the average price of a downtown San Antonio condominium hovering right around $532,000. The median price for a downtown San Antonio condo is $474,950, making the average price per square foot about $271.

Downtown San Antonio real estate can range from airy lofts to upscale condos, but what remains the same is the luxury and convenience that can be found here.

The Steel House Lofts, for example, certainly epitomize loft living in downtown San Antonio, as they feature contemporary architecture with an historic backdrop.  Located in the historic Peden Iron & Steel Building, this converted warehouse building boasts plenty of high-end features and amenities.

Luxury living is found at the nearby La Cascada, which not only boasts high-end condo homes, but a great location on the Riverwalk. A rooftop swimming pool, overlooking the beautiful, downtown skyline, is just the tip of what La Cascada has to offer.

The Broadway Condos are a great example of a fantastic, downtown location. Lush gardens surrounding the Broadway Condos provide a unique contrast against the historic buildings of the area. High-rise living in the Broadway is only further exemplified by the fantastic building amenities and services.

A truly unprecedented building is starting to take shape along the San Antonio skyline. Luxurious living is no longer saved for the suburbs! For those San Antonio residents seeking ultra-luxurious living in the vibrant downtown area, the Broadway certainly fits the bill.

After years of planning, the Broadway is well on its way to becoming the hottest address in San Antonio. Luxury living in San Antonio has been brought to a phenomenal high-rise that may very well compete with some of the finest high-rises in the biggest American cities.

The Broadway boasts super luxurious luxury condominiums in the sky in a superior resort lifestyle. This exclusive address offers its residents over two and a half acres of green space, making it feel as though the building is situated in a peaceful, rural setting instead of right in the middle of the all the excitement and action of downtown San Antonio.

The resort atmosphere of the Broadway is further exemplified by the resort-style swimming pool, private gardens, and an outdoor kitchen, complete with poolside cabanas. Imagine walking the private gardens, floating quietly in the sparkling pool and relaxing poolside in a beautiful, private cabana! The Broadway rivals the finest hotels in the country, thanks to its upscale amenities and services.

Some of the fine services and amenities found at the Broadway include:

• 24-hour concierge and doorman services
• Optional chef, grocery, meal and housekeeping services
• Landscaped grounds, complete with an outdoor fireplace
• Private, underground parking (valet or self-parking)
• Media lounge
• State-of-the-art fitness center with both cardio and weight areas
• Furnished conference room
• Two, high-speed elevators for convenience and privacy
• Business center with wireless Internet service
• Beautifully decorated guest suites
• Yoga and Pilates studio

Condo living in downtown San Antonio is red hot, thanks to fabulous, dynamic surroundings, a flourishing city and plenty of high-end condo residences.

With an average price of $575,544 and an average price per square foot of $297, condo living in downtown San Antonio doesn’t’ come cheap. But what it does come with are loads of fantastic amenities, a sure-fire location and residences that are sure to impress.

Travis Park Lofts

Take the Travis Park Lofts, for example. Located smack dab in the middle of downtown San Antonio, this sleek condo building features 17 units with such fantastic features as exposed ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, stained concrete floors, and expansive, open floor plans. Conveniently located near the famed Riverwalk and Majestic Theater, the Travis Park Lofts are popular among San Antonio professionals, young families and empty nesters, just to name a few, and are also served by the highly acclaimed San Antonio Independent School District.

La Cascada

Downtown living on the Riverwalk is enjoyed at La Cascada, a luxury, 12-story residence with 46 condo homes. If luxurious, downtown condo living is what you seek, then you’re in luck with La Cascada. From expansive, spacious floor plans to designer finishes and private balconies, the residents of La Cascada are afforded the finest surroundings in the downtown area. In addition, a great array of building amenities, such as a fitness center, a business center and a rooftop swimming pool and spa, provide residents with fantastic, high-rise condo living in San Antonio.

Alteza

Located high in the sky above the Grand Hyatt Hotel, the luxurious Alteza condominiums are sumptuous, opulent and just plan fantastic. Nineteen floor plans and six penthouse floor plans provide the perfect backdrop to the beautiful surroundings, such as exotic hardwood flooring, natural stone countertops, 10-foot ceilings and private balconies and terraces.

Residents of Alteza enjoy the high-end services of the hotel, including catering, room service and maid service, and also have exclusive membership privileges to the Grand Hyatt fitness center.

While other parts of the country continue to struggle to keep their heads above water amidst the struggling, national housing market, San Antonio is experiencing a rebirth of sorts, particularly when it comes to downtown condo living.

Ben Brewer, president of the Downtown Alliance San Antonio, has recently remarked that the demand for downtown living continues to remain strong, and that homes are still continuing to sell at a brisk pace.

However, home sales in downtown San Antonio still come with their share of difficulties, mainly as a result of the national housing slump. In particular, developers are experiencing financing difficulties and restrictions imposed by banks and other lenders.

The Completion of the Vidorra sets the Stage

A fine example of the dynamic growth of downtown San Antonio condos is the Vidorra, an upscale condominium building boasting 150 residences. Developers of the Vidorra have sold more than 40 units over the last, two months alone.

The manager of the Vidorra development team, Jeff Rochelle, has noted that, since March, his team has sold approximately five residences every week.

If Vidorra is any indication of the superb residences found throughout downtown San Antonio, then the real estate market will certainly continue to impress.

Homes in Vidorra, which range from about 1,000 square feet up to 3,866 square feet, are priced from $255,900. Residents can choose from 15, different floor plans and two penthouses in the Vidorra.

There are plenty of amenities for the residents of Vidorra, including a prime location near Sunset Station, a swimming pool and spa, a fitness center, business centers, secure parking and 24-hour concierge service.

Just a few of the other condominium residences of downtown San Antonio include: Las Cascada, Piazza San Lorenzo, Alteza and the Judson Candy Factory Lofts.

Downtown San Antonio condominiums are luxurious, exceptional and upscale, to say the least. From top-notch amenities and services to outstanding views and surroundings, life in downtown San Antonio is top rate.

The luxury condominiums of San Antonio include:

La Cascada

La Cascada, located along the famed Riverwalk, features 12 stories and 28 exceptional residences. Some of the features of La Cascada include expansive, open floor plans, hardwood floors, granite, tile and marble finishes, walk-in showers and oversized bathrooms and vanity areas.

Some of the building amenities afforded to the residents of La Cascada include a fitness center, a business center, a rooftop swimming pool and spa, private, secure parking and 24-hour concierge service.

Vidorra

Located in Sunset Station, just one block from Commerce and the Alamodome, the Vidorra is the newest high-rise condominium complex in San Antonio. This high-rise building features 20 stories and 155 condominium residences, townhomes and penthouses. Some of the amenities of Vidorra include a fitness center, 24-hour concierge service, guest suites, a rooftop garden, meeting rooms and a business center.

The condominium homes of the Vidorra feature stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors, granite fixtures and designer fixtures.

Piazza San Lorenzo

Located along downtown San Antonio’s Riverwalk and just one block from the Majestic Theater, the Piazza San Lorenzo is a new, luxury condominium community featuring La Residenza, 28 condominium residences and Villa Verona, 41 furnished accommodations with a residence club.

Residents of La Residenza enjoy use of a rooftop terrace and swimming pool, underground parking, 24-hour concierge service, a fitness center, spa and sauna and optional maid service.

Residents of Villa Verona enjoy concierge service, valet service, 24-hour security, on-site restaurants, daily maid service and a full-service spa.

Alteza

Located atop the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Alteza consists of 147 condominium residences on floors 25 through 34. There are 19 different floor plans and six penthouse plans, and square footage for these residences ranges from 808 to more than 5,600.

Some of the superb amenities and features of Alteza include exotic hardwood floors, ten-foot ceilings, valet parking and private balconies or terraces.

Judson Candy Factory Lofts

Located in downtown San Antonio, close to the Riverwalk, the Judson Candy Factory Lofts consist of 84 loft residences, most of which are priced in the $150,000s.

The loft layouts of the homes of the Judson Candy Factory Lofts feature stainless steel appliances, 10 to 13-foot ceilings, polished concrete floors, maple cabinetry and granite countertops.

The Piazza San Lorenzo is set to be San Antonio’s newest, luxury community!

Located alongside the San Antonio River, in the heart of San Antonio, the Piazza San Lorenzo is reminiscent of some of the grandest residences in Italy.

The community of Piazza San Lorenzo includes: La Residenza, which features 28, high-end condominium residences; and Villa Verona, which features 41 furnished and appointed accommodations that are centered on a private residence club.

The Piazza sets the groundwork, and will be the centerpiece of an entire community, complete with boutiques, high-end restaurants and offices. The entire community will lead directly into San Antonio’s Riverwalk.

This community will also be within walking distance to many of the galleries, restaurants and shops located in the downtown San Antonio area.

La Residenza

La Residenza includes four buildings: Villa Regina, Villa Bernini, Villa Simona and Villa Palladio, all of which boast river and skyline views, spacious rooms and beautifully designed interiors which feature both traditional and modern conveniences.

Residents of La Residenza enjoy many community amenities and services, which include:

• Rooftop terrace and swimming pool
• Underground parking
• 24-hour concierge and security services
• On-site fitness center, spa and sauna
• Optional maid service and personal chef
• On-site management

Villa Verona

Villa Verona is the Piazza’s own, equity-based, Private Residence Club, which gives homeowners unlimited access to services and amenities that rival those found at the best resorts in the world.

The Villa Verona, which is ideal for those homeowners seeking a second home, provides individuals with luxury accommodations, not only at Villa Verona, but other, affiliated Private Residence Clubs around the world.

Just some of the perks of being a part of the Villa Verona include:

• Concierge service
• Valet service
• 24-hour security
• Four, on-site restaurants
• Personal chef on request
• In-town shuttle service
• Daily maid service
• Full-service spa
• Resort-size swimming pool
• Fitness center
• Hill Country hunting and fishing privileges
• Preferred access at select golf clubs
• Complimentary Majestic Club membership

Beautifully perched high atop the Grand Hyatt Hotel, the Alteza serves the most discriminating homeowners in San Antonio.

From the amazing skyline views, to the high-end amenities and services, the Alteza is a fine example of luxury living in downtown San Antonio.

The 147 condominium homes are comfortably situated in the heart of San Antonio, thus enabling residents to enjoy all that this urban playground has to offer. The Alteza is just ten minutes from the San Antonio International Airport, as well as the excitement and sites of the Riverwalk.

The sleek, modern design of the Alteza, which boasts a cast concrete exterior and expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows, speaks of the luxury which is found inside.

Catering, housekeeping service, dry cleaning, room service and valet service are all amenities which are afforded to the residents of the Alteza as part of the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Other amenities and services of the Alteza include:

• Owner’s lobby and private entrance
• Owners-only pool on the 32^nd floor
• Controlled-access to residences
• Controlled-access, reserved parking
• Private balcony or terrace in each unit
• Membership to Grand Hyatt’s fitness center

Residence Amenities

The Alteza comprises floors 25 through 34 of the Grand Hyatt Hotel, and features 19 different floor plans and six penthouse plans.

The homes of the Alteza range in size from 808 to over 5,600 square feet, and have one to three bedrooms. The custom penthouses are located on floors 33 and 34 of the building.

Features of the residences of the Alteza include:

• Ten-foot ceilings (12-foot ceilings in the penthouse residences)
• High-end, stainless steel appliances
• Exotic hardwood flooring
• Natural stone counter tops such as marble and granite
• High-end fixtures

Prices for the homes in the Alteza range from $370,000 to $3.5 million.

The historic Judson’s Candy Factory recently saw a beautiful revitalization which transformed an old warehouse into one of San Antonio’s hottest, new loft residences.

Great San Antonio Location

Conveniently located within minutes from the Riverwalk, the King William District and the Blue Star Arts Complex, the loft residences of the Judson Candy Factory Lofts allow residents to become fully immersed in the exciting, urban lifestyle of San Antonio.

The Judson Candy Factory Lofts are also just a short drive away from downtown San Antonio, thus making this residence ideal for urban professionals.

The Judson Candy Factory Lofts, which feature 84 loft residences, are affordably priced from the $150,000s. Homes range from 700 to 2,100 square feet in size.

High-End Design Features and Amenities

The design of the Judson Candy Factory Lofts gives them a warm, comfortable, loft feel. Some of the design features include sealed and waxed concrete floors, 10 to 13-foot ceilings and sleek, maple cabinetry with granite counter tops.

Other features of the residences of the Candy Factory Lofts include:

• Stainless steel appliances
• Washer/dryer connections
• Pre-wired for Cable and High-Speed Internet service
• Low E glass windows
• Private balconies/patios

Community Services and Amenities

In addition to the modern surroundings, the residents of the Candy Factory Lofts enjoy use of the many community amenities, which include:

• State-of-the-art fitness center
• Ground-level swimming pool
• Covered, controlled-access parking
• Landscaped grounds and green space
• Secured and monitored building access
• Beautiful, rooftop terrace
• Dog washing facilities

With a troubled national economy and an equally strained housing market, the Judson Candy Factory Lofts provide homeowners with an exciting, dynamic residence that is both affordable and beautiful. The Judson Candy Factory Lofts are a fine example that high-end, urban living in San Antonio doesn’t have to cost a fortune.