07/09/2006

Location is everything for buyers

The appeal of parking the car

By BECKY KALAJIAN

Special to the Record-Eagle

Margo Abbott had no problems at all selling her six-acre farm in Cedar and moving to a condominium in town.

But it was no ordinary move. Abbott was the first resident in Southview, the residential part of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, formerly known as Building 50.

The empty-nester is enthusiastic about her new life, citing the sense of community she feels, being within walking distance to restaurants, and the minimal upkeep her space demands.

"The future of this spot is extraordinary," she said. "I loved my farm, but I sure love my new place."

Abbott's 2,000-square-foot space overlooks acres of parkland at the Commons. She often bikes through them, coming home to her ultra-modern, lofty home that features plastered brick walls, 13 foot-high ceilings, and original wood floors.

"I can't hear storms, traffic or anything," said Abbott. "I feel like I'm living in a castle."

Across town, Abbott's enthusiasm is echoed by Laura Sabat and Fred Rohe, who moved into the pastel-hued Midtown development last October.

Rohe, who is retired and works out of the home, said that the move from suburban Elk Rapids to downtown Traverse City was "the right one."

"I needed to downsize — I had a house with four bedrooms for just myself and it was just too big," said the father of three grown sons.

Sabat said that the neighborhood atmosphere is what attracted her.

"It's a very neighborly atmosphere," said the mother of two grown sons. "It's quite nice."

See related story:

• New urbanism: Selling a lifestyle - July 9, 2006