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Buying a Condo in Selene, Fort Lauderdale

Maria Montalbano October 14, 2024


Across from the pristine Las Olas Beach, Selene has coastal elegance and vibrant city life. The two iconic towers of Selene rise above the shoreline, offering residents breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the serene Intracoastal Waterway, and the dynamic city skyline. The building's contemporary architecture highlights floor-to-ceiling glass windows that connect seamlessly between indoor spaces and the stunning vistas outside.

The thoughtfully designed residences at Selene range from 1,400 to over 3,200 square feet and feature private balconies with sleek glass railings that allow for uninterrupted views. The luxurious living experience extends beyond the residences, with a range of high-end amenities, including a resort-style pool, a lap fitness pool, a spa, and fire pit lounge areas that are the perfect spot for relaxation. The pavilion-shaded pool bar adds a touch of sophistication, making it a great place for social gatherings or unwinding after a day at the beach.

Living in Selene, Fort Lauderdale means easy access to the best of Fort Lauderdale's shopping, dining, and entertainment scenes. It's a vibrant lifestyle that pairs the tranquility of waterfront living with the convenience of city amenities. For those considering making Selene their home, the allure of this location is undeniable — where modern architecture meets the coast's natural beauty.

Real Estate in Selene

Selene offers a range of luxurious living options, from spacious condos to opulent penthouses. Whether you're looking for a cozy yet stylish residence or a sprawling penthouse with top-tier amenities, Selene's market is designed to cater to varying tastes and preferences.

Condo Pricing

Condominiums at Selene start around $1,250,000 for a two-bedroom, 2.5-bath unit with 1,413 square feet of living space. These units provide spacious layouts and stunning views. For those seeking more space, three-bedroom condos with four bathrooms span up to 3,135 square feet and are priced at approximately $3,860,000. These homes offer larger living spaces, making them ideal for families or those desiring extra room to entertain guests.

Penthouses

For those dreaming of an elevated lifestyle, Selene's penthouses represent the ultimate in luxury living. These exclusive residences average around $10,000,000 and feature three bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and about 5,000 square feet of interior and exterior space. Each penthouse is designed to maximize the stunning ocean, Intracoastal, and city views, offering expansive living areas, high-end finishes, and access to the building's world-class amenities. Selene's penthouses are perfect for buyers seeking a prestigious home in one of Fort Lauderdale's most desirable locations.

Financial considerations for buyers

Potential buyers have various loan options, including conventional mortgages, jumbo loans, and FHA loans, which can be suitable for luxury condos like those in Selene. Getting pre-approved for a loan is a crucial first step in this process. Pre-approval helps determine your budget and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer, which can be a significant advantage in a competitive market like Fort Lauderdale.

Condo-specific loan programs

Specific loan programs tailored to condominium purchases exist, including some offered by banks in Fort Lauderdale. These programs may feature lower down payment options or flexible underwriting standards for buyers. Additionally, Florida has programs like Hometown Heroes, which can assist certain buyers with down payments and closing costs.

Real estate taxes

Fort Lauderdale's property tax rate is 2% of the home's assessed value, though this can vary depending on specific exemptions or incentives for primary residents. Understanding these tax implications is crucial for planning your long-term budget and ensuring you are fully prepared for the financial commitments of owning a luxury property in Selene. Consulting with a local real estate agent can provide further clarity on these aspects, helping you make a well-informed decision.

The importance of a home inspection

Conducting a home inspection is a critical step in home-buying, primarily when investing in a luxury property. A home inspection is a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition performed by a professional inspector. It covers the structure, electrical and plumbing systems, HVAC systems, and other integral residence components. For luxury condos and penthouses, inspectors may also evaluate specialized elements like high-end appliances and smart home features, ensuring every aspect of the home meets high standards.

A home inspection provides peace of mind for buyers, revealing any potential issues that may need attention before closing the deal. The process uncovers hidden problems, such as leaks, electrical issues, or structural concerns that may not be immediately visible. Addressing these issues early can save buyers significant repair costs down the line. An inspection can also be a negotiation tool, allowing buyers to request repairs or adjust the purchase price if issues are discovered. Ultimately, it ensures that buyers fully understand the property's condition, making them more confident in their investment.

Investment value

Buying a home in Selene is a strategic investment with potential for future appreciation. The Selene, Fort Lauderdale real estate market has shown strong appreciation trends in recent years, making it an appealing choice for investment. Luxury condos and penthouses, in particular, tend to hold their value due to their high-end finishes, prime location, and stunning views. As Fort Lauderdale continues to grow as a destination for luxury living, properties like those at Selene will likely increase in value, offering long-term investment potential.

The surrounding neighborhood also plays a significant role in determining a property's investment value. Selene's location is highly desirable because it is close to attractions like Las Olas Beach, shopping, dining, and cultural hotspots. Buyers should look for areas with planned developments or ongoing improvements, as these can positively impact property values over time. Investing in a neighborhood like Selene, where luxury and convenience converge, is a strategic move for those seeking long-term growth and enjoyment.

The buying process for a condo

Purchasing a condo at Selene, Fort Lauderdale, involves several key steps designed to help you make an informed decision. The journey begins with determining your budget and securing pre-approval for a mortgage, which allows you to understand your purchasing power. Once you have a clear budget, you can begin viewing properties that meet your criteria, including amenities, size, and view preferences.

Evaluating the HOA and building

One of the critical steps in buying a condo is thoroughly examining the homeowner's association (HOA). Review the HOA's financial health, as a well-managed association can maintain the building's value over time. Look for indicators like a solid reserve fund and a history of consistent maintenance. Understanding what the HOA fees cover is equally important — these fees typically include building maintenance, insurance, amenities like pools and fitness centers, and sometimes utilities. The knowledge ensures you know what to expect regarding monthly expenses beyond the mortgage.

Once satisfied with the building's condition and the terms of the HOA, the next step is to make an offer. After reaching an agreement with the seller, a home inspection and final walkthrough ensure the property meets your expectations before closing the deal.

Experience and expertise

When buying a home in Selene, Fort Lauderdale, working with a local expert like Maria Montalbano can make all the difference. With over 27 years of experience in the real estate industry, Maria brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for helping her clients find their dream homes. Her deep understanding of condos for sale in Fort Lauderdale, FL, means she can easily guide buyers through its complexities. Partnering with Maria ensures you invest wisely in one of Fort Lauderdale's most desirable residences.




Work With Maria

If you are relocating to South Florida, let me know the needs of your ideal real estate purchase, and my team and I will conduct in-depth market research to prepare the properties for your viewing upon arrival or virtual showing.