Frequently Asked Questions about High-Rise Living

THE LUXURY, THE SECURITY, THE CONVENIENCE, AND MOST OF ALL, THE VIEW!

High-Rise living represents an entirely different way of life. The lifestyle is a celebration of luxuriant surroundings, spectacular views, peace of mind, physical fitness and convenience. You'll find that you don't need a house to enjoy a home.

Services

Q:

What kind of "extra" services can I expect from high-rise living?

A:

Residents of high-rise living enjoy the peace of mind of a controlled-access lobby, as well as services such as a concierge to pick up your packages and a doorman to greet you each day. With staff in the lobby 24 hours a day, high-rise living gives you a respite from the stress of city life.

Recreational Activities / Entertainment

Q:

What kind of physical/recreational activities does high-rise living afford?

A:

Exercise rooms with numerous weight machines and other equipment, along with tennis courts, jacuzzis and saunas are features of many high-rise residences. High-rise living offers an entertaining lifestyle. Spacious and uniquely-designed floorplans are ideal for entertaining, and many highrises have party rooms which are available to residents upon request.

Parking

Q:

Are parking facilities provided by the building?

A:

All residents enjoy assigned garage parking privileges. Valet parking is available for the convenience of residents and their guests in most buildings.

Rules

Q:

Are there specific guidelines in effect for residents to follow?

A:

To maintain a high standard of living and maximum comfort for all residents, rules existpertaining to issues such as noise and pets.

Operations

Q:

Do residents have any control over the operation of the building?

A:

The homeowners own and manage their building. They elect a Board of Directors for business and residential decissions. The Board of Directors establishes the policies and the building manager implementes the policies for the Board.

Utilities

Q:

How are utility fees handled?

A:

In most buildings the cost of an energy-efficient, chilled water air-conditioning system is part of the monthly maintenance fee. Residents pay only for minimal electricity to run their fan, lights, etc. You control the temperature and fan speed of your residence with your individual thermostats, both for air-conditioning and heat.

Remodeling

Q:

Do I have the option to remodel my home if I choose?

A:

Remodeling and design criteria are available at the manager's office. Major changes or the combining of two units, however, must be approved by the Board of Directors, (following a feasibility study by a structural engineer), as these types of changes may effect the entire building.

Staff

Q:

Who is responsible for the upkeep of the building?

A:

High-rises are maintained by a staff of experts who ensure that the common areas of the building(such as hallways) are vacuumed and cleaned regularly. They are also responsible for grounds maintenance, pool cleaning, exterior window washing and building repairs, as well as preventative maintenance on all engineering equipment.

Repairs

Q:

Who handles repairs inside one's own residence?

A:

You will be responsible for repairs within your own residence. Repairs to the building's common areas are included in the monthly maintenance fee.

Maintenance Fees

Q:

What types of expenses might I expect as a resident?

A:

High-rise residents pay a monthly fee which is used for general operating costs of the building such as common areas, pool, staff wages, special repairs and unscheduled maintenance. The maintenance fees are based on the square footage of your residences (including balconies), and are comparable to the average costs of maintaining a single family home.

Insurance

Q:

What insurance am I responnsible for carrying in a high-rise?

A:

The Council of Co-Owners carries insurance on the common areas and exterior structure of the building, leaving you responsible for only interior walls and contents of your individual residence. Your insurance company should contact the building's carrier for any information they require.

Taxes

Q:

Do I pay the same amount in taxes as a homeowner would?

A:

Your taxes are comparable to taxes of individual homes. Property taxes in Texas are based on the assessed market value of your home. For a high-rise this is based on the value of your individual unit plus your percentage of owership in the building's common areas and land. In Harris County, valuations are based on the sale prices of comparable units in your building and/or your original sales price adjusted for yearly appreciation or depreciation. You have a right to protest your yearly valuation if you feel is is not a fair estimate of your unit's value.

Pricing

Q:

How are high-rise residences priced?

A:

In most cases, residences are priced according to the unit's size, view and height in the building. For example, a 2000 square foot unit on the building's first floor would be worth less than a unit, with an identical floorplan, on the tenth floor. Likewise, a city view will enhance the value of your high-rise home. Prices are also based on the particular building's quality of construction, amenities and location.

High-Rise Market Demand

Q:

What does the current high-rise market look like?

A:

There has been an increasing demand for luxurious residential high-rise living because of the unique lifestyle these residences offer. The many privileges, as well as the comfort and peace of mind high-rise living affords its residents, have attracted more and more buyers over the years.

Without sacrificing a sense of home or living space, high-rise living encourages an easier, maintenance- free lifestyle by providing many amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and exercise rooms. Experience the convenience, luxury and freedom that a high-rise home affords. High-rise living - it's the way to enjoy life!

This building profile is presented for informational purposes only and does not represent a listing of property for sale or lease.

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Diane C. Moser - Licensed Texas Real Estate Broker

For more information call or e-mail

Diane C. Moser

Broker - CBR®, CIPS, CRS, e-Pro, GRI
Referral & Relocation Certified
(713) 827-7300

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