CHALET-ON-THE-LAKE CONDOMINIUMS CENTRAL OAK PARK NEIGHBORHOOD ST PETERSBURG

Add caption Chalet-on-the Lake is one of a relatively few all-age communities included in this blog.   I believe it merits inclusion b...

Add caption

Chalet-on-the Lake is one of a relatively few all-age communities included in this blog.   I believe it merits inclusion because of its great in-town location, about three miles west of downtown and the relative value it offers given its location.  It is situated directly north across Library Lake from the recently renovated and spacious city Main Library,  most of Chalet-on-the Lake's four dozen condominiums have very pleasant waterviews. 

First, this well established community (built 1972) provides easy access to the urban amenities of St. Petersburg offers yet is located in a tranquil semi-suburban neighborhood. The Main Library which offers classes and discussion groups including many catering to seniors is within walking distance.  It is also located just a mile or so from the beautiful Kenwood cottage residential community of St. Pete that itself adjoins the up- and-coming artsy and hip Grand Central District area immediately west of downtown.  The Grand Central District offers a great selection of small independent restaurants, shops, galleries, and various establishments that attract tourists and local residents including the sizable gay community in that immediate area. Ordinary shopping is also convenient.  Within a mile or so immediately to the west is a new Publix supermarket, drug stores, a Sam'e Club and a Wal-Mart.

Considering such a very convenient in-town location in a desirable neighborhood, it is not surprising that prices have risen rapidly in the past year.  I think there is still good value in the moderate prices (a renovated one bedroom, 920 square feet unit recently sold for $80,000.  During the last six months, two 2 bedroom, 2 bath, 1220-1240 square feet units have been on the market and sold in the mid-$80,000 to low $90,000 range.  Available condominiums here don't last long on the market!  These 2 bedroom units sold within 3 days of listing although the prices were more than one-third above the Summer of 2015. The monthly HOA fees in mid 2016 are relatively modest (about $305 a month for a 2 bedroom unit; $281 for a 1 bedroom unit that includes trash, water, covered parking, and basic cable as well as exterior building insurance.  Modest HOA fees probably reflect the fact that this complex is located in one of the highest elevation areas of St Petersburg.  Chalet-on-the Lake is located in a non-evacuation zone that does not require flood insurance.

As one might expect with its location in-town, the grounds are fairly modest in size though on one side the very pleasant Library Lake the property.  Moreover, most of the units have great views of greenery and the lake out their back windows.  In contrast to most modestly priced in-town complexes, there is a community swimming pool on site as well.

Covered parking lot area of Chalet on the Lake

Again, Chalet-on-the Lake is modest sized, and there are a limited number of condominiums. Given that it;s a popular location with a modest turnover of units, you may have to wait awhile to find one on the market.

Swimming Pool area at Chalet-on-the Lake

Advantages of Chalet-on-the Lake

• Convenient in-town location in pleasant neighborhood
• Most condos have scenic water views
• Modest HOA fees
• Covered parking for most units

Possible Concerns:

• Most units don't have private balconies/porches.
• Prices have risen rapidly in past year.

Tony Branch
Earnest Realty, Inc.
3136 3rd Avenue North
St. Petersburg, Florida 33713
727-460-7887 direct line
727-323-1706 office
stpetetonybranch@gmail.com