Condo of the Week: $600,000 gets you a 500 sq.-ft. patio downtown

The details: 312-1205 Howe Street / $598,000 / 670 sq. ft. / 1 bed, 1 bath

The condo: It’s not often you find this kind of private outdoor space in the middle of the city. This stylish one bedroom condo boasts a 500 sq.-ft. patio that has been professionally landscaped into a true urban oasis, complete with turf, large patio, bbq area, propane heater, and garden bed. Inside, the space is highlighted with a well laid out and open floor plan, 10’ ceilings, engineered hardwood floors, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The sleek kitchen is done with walnut cabinetry, integrated fridge and dishwasher, stainless cooktop and granite counters. If you want to combine city living with outdoor entertaining, this home is certainly worth a look.

The building: Alto is a six-year-old concrete building developed by Anthem Properties. Pets and rentals allowed. One parking stall and storage locker.

The neighbourhood: Located at the corner of Howe and Davie, you’re right in the heart of the action here. Essentially all of downtown is walkable from your front door and you can easily stroll into the West End or Yaletown for dinner depending on your mood. You’ve got a parking stall with this unit, but if you want to go car free, it’s certainly easy to do with this location.

The potential downsides: You are on the 3rd floor of a building at a busy intersection, so there will be some traffic noise. With high rises around you, you will also need to be ok with some windows overlooking your patio.

An urban oasis to help you escape the city without leaving the city.

Fencing and planting provides privacy, while a large deck and turf gives some added green.

The open floor plan with engineered hardwood floors, over-height ceilings, and large windows.

The sleek kitchen with walnut cabinetry, integrated appliances, and granite counters.

The dining area could accommodate a table larger than what is shown here.

The bright living area with a wall-mounted TV set up.

The bedroom can house a king-sized bed with side tables.

The spacious bathroom with separate tub and shower, plus loads of storage.

The flex space makes a great home office or additional storage area.

The Alto at the corner of Howe and Davie.