“Big” and “cheap” are two of the words I use to describe my current home. Far from pejorative, they’re watch words for folks who want to live somewhere better than they thought they could afford. In my case, “big” and “cheap” were what I needed to renovate. But this big and cheap condo was already renovated in 2016.
We’re talking about a two-bedroom, two-bathroom condo boasting 1,204 square feet for $145,000 that’s listed with Apryl Jolas of Coldwell Banker Residential. For cooks, there’s a Tom Thumb two blocks away and Preston Hollow Village’s Trader Joes is five minutes away. I’m talking about 10562 High Hollows Drive, unit #147. That’s west of Central Expressway between Walnut Hill and Royal Lanes. On the plus side, it’s in a multi-family area mixed with condos and apartments. On the upside, it looks like no one’s selling out for redevelopment — I see that plenty of cash has been splashed out on condo and apartment renovations. Stability is a good thing.
Another good thing? The $596-per-month HOA dues include utilities! Crank up the air in August and have a parka party. All totaled, with a 30-year mortgage, HOA dues and taxes, you’re looking at about $1,500 per month. Drop the mortgage to 15-years and you’re looking at about $1,800 per month.
The first two pictures show off the good-sized kitchen. Granite counters, stainless steel, white cabinetry, LED lighting, and a jumbo window. I think that’s all boxes checked, yes? In back of the photographer is the doorway leading to the dining room.
Another good-sized room for friends and family to pop over for dinner (since you’re so close to those grocery stores, there’s no excuse). The only oddity are those two stools and bar shelf. Unless you have bad friends who need to be punished by facing the wall for a time-out, ditch it. If it’s supposed to be a bar, widen the doorway and make it one. More good window space and even a door to the outside.
The door was meant for you. You’re not a great cook, but the kitchen and nearby grocery options inspired you to learn. But let’s be honest, the first few whirls may not be good. Say your Easter ham ignites in the oven, that door will prove handy in disposing of the evidence (ha!).
I know, I’m kinda going in reverse order here, but this is the living room (duh!). You can see the dining room on the right. You’ve got a marble-clad fireplace with plenty of built-in space for your treasures past and future.
In another angle, you can see even more built-ins and the hook-ups for the TV. You’ve also doubtless noticed the flooring matches throughout except the bedrooms. Another generous window brings in great light and allows for cross-ventilation when the weather cooperates. And remember, this isn’t a combo living and dining room — this is just living.
There are two bathrooms and both have been redone with double sinks – smart move. Let’s say a family of four buys this. While the kids might be OK with sharing a bedroom, separate sinks will see them on their way to school all the quicker.
One of the baths has a tub while the other a shower. Being a shower person, that’s the one I’d grab. Frankly, I love being an adult with a walk-in shower versus stepping into the tub only to have the cold shower curtain grabbing my leg like a dog in heat – don’t act innocent, you know what I’m talking about.
While this is a multi-family area, it’s an area built when two-story buildings made economic sense and allowed for generous treed courtyard spaces. Walk the dog, have an outdoor ‘que at the picnic table and don’t worry about cutting the lawn.
Of course, what complex would be complete without a pool? Pretty good shade in summer and a nice spot to cool off with a frozen margarita in a Yeti cup – or if you must, let the kids tire themselves out.
Remember: High-rises, HOAs and renovation are my beat. But I also appreciate modern and historical architecture balanced against the YIMBY movement. In 2016, 2017 and 2018, the National Association of Real Estate Editors recognized my writing with three Bronze (2016, 2017, 2018) and two Silver (2016, 2017) awards. Have a story to tell or a marriage proposal to make? Shoot me an email [email protected]. Be sure to look for me on Facebook and Twitter. You won’t find me, but you’re welcome to look.
