Tuesday Two Hundred: Big And Beautiful Loft in Walkable West End

I am really kind of stunned that you can find a loft in the West End for less than $200K, but it’s true. In fact, I’m flabbergasted that you can find such a large one — more than 1,500 square feet — in such a walkable, urban area.

But it’s true! All of it’s true! This historic, recently renovated corner loft with views of Dealey Plaza and Founders Plaza, as well as several downtown Dallas landmarks such as the Bank of America tower, is listed with Rogers Healy and Associates Realtor Steve Ridgely for $199,900. This is a historic building at Record Street and Elm Streets, right in the thick of some incredible redevelopment and super close to the West End DART station. The walk score for this property — Unit 406 at 509 Elm Street — is 97! That’s extremely walkable!

But what you’ll fall in love with when it comes to this two-bedroom, two-bath loft are the architectural detals. The exposed beam ceilings, brick walls, tons of windows — all of it oozes history. It makes this loft, which might otherwise feel cold and sterile, warm and inviting. It would make a wonderful home for anyone who loves historic details and wants to be in the thick of a revitalization and make an investment that could really bring in dividends.

Investors are looking to redevelop the West End Marketplace, a 240,000-square-foot commercial development, into a sleek hotel. The “Purse” building, or Parlin and Orendorff building, which is just across Record Street from this 23-unit residential complex, was recently purchased by a group of preservationists with plans to bring residential and retail to the site. Very exciting stuff!

But this loft isn’t without a few updates, mind you. The kitchen has been redone with new cabinets, an island, Silestone countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a fantastic backsplash. It’s the perfect place to make a memorable meal and soak up the view, too.

This loft sports two living areas, a utility and storage closet with washer and dryer, polished concrete floors, plenty of closet space (a rarity!) and 24-hour security as well as attached parking. HOA dues are $578 monthly and include security, maintenance, blanket insurance, and access to facilities including a fitness center.

My only gripe about this loft is that the bathrooms are a little bland. With an urban property like this I would have hoped to see baths that were a little more inspired. These feel rather suburban, and cheaply outfitted at that. I guess you could see it as an opportunity to invest in making this home your own. Maybe put in a cool steam shower with some neat industrial-looking hardware.

What do you think?