Square Feet

Michelle Hotchkiss, real estate agent and mid century fiend, has square feet and a nose for great property. Each issue she brings us her pick of the week.

Photo by Gillian Drummond

Photo by Ellie Leacock

Where it is: Villa Catalina Apartments in Sam Hughes

Listed by: Long Realty

The damage: $107,500

You'll love it because: These "garden apartment style" condos are the most swinging places I can think of in town! This is iconic architecture of the MCM style, built in the late 1950's featuring mint green accents on the metal railings and deep eaves, and more horizontal spansions of brick and glass. Most of them I've seen on the market still retain their original finishing touches in the bathrooms and kitchens. This one is absolutely in the most coveted location in the complex, with mountain, sunset and courtyard-side views. The property is listed on the National Historic Register.

Here comes the but: At least one resident must be over the age of 55, and none can be under 18. The HOA fee is practically an entire mortgage payment, with averages of around $600 per month. But keep in mind this includes two pools, free use of a laundry room, water, electric, trash, sewer, property tax, building insurance, landscaping, roof and building exterior maintenance, and HVAC/plumbing maintenance.

Find more of Michelle’s property picks at Atomic Tucson