My friend Kerry Woo posted on his Flickr account photos from the Nashville Urban Living tour held on Sunday, April 19, 2009.  As a result, I’m ready to pack my bags and move downtown!  The tour is sponsored by the Nashville Downtown Partnership:

Downtown is a great home address. Across the country, contemporary urban living is a popular choice for empty-nesters, young professional and others. This event provides an inside look at unique and exciting opportunities for downtown living right here in Nashville. When you see the variety of housing options, the convenience and style, and this diverse, dynamic city neighborhood, you will understand why downtown Nashville is the place to call home!

Some of my favorite photos by Kerry:

As the gray hairs continue to take over my mane, I’ve begun to think about eventual retirement in a condo where there will be no more lawns to mow, the sweet sounds of a golf course behind me, and a pool beckoning my wretched old body out front (heh).  This two bedroom, two and a half bath condo is only $129,000.  Want.

So many times condos can be the perfect solution to someone who’s ready to buy, but can’t quiet get into a single family residence.  The insurance on condos should be less, since typically an owner doesn’t have to pay for exterior insurance.  Low maintenance can be terrific with all lawn work being provided by the home owners association (my husband and I will someday retire to a condo or townhome community).  And condos are generally just more affordable.

There is one little-bitty thing to be cautious of when you buy a condo, though.  HOA fees.  I’ve seen monthly fees for as little as $50 per month.  I’ve seen them for $300 per month.  In Arizona, one agent is reporting fees of $650 per month.  I’d say "EEK!" over that, as would other buyers who have the beejeezus cared out of them.  Other folks are none too pleased with what they get for their money. The Straight Scoop offers a mini discussion thread on HOA fees.  Though comments were posted in February, they still ring true.

Of course, condos aren’t the only ones facing association fees - here’s a good overview of what they pay for in other communities.