I first got to know the Galley Condos as it was being planned. I remember fighting the huge crowd of real estate flippers for mini burgers at their showroom opening. Hard to believe that was less than two years ago. The building is close to completion and the sales center has moved to a first floor work loft in their northeast corner. The building sits in what is becoming a solid residential area at the north end of Belltown. The vibe is becoming more and more upper east/west side of Manhattan with this, Parc and Mosler Lofts joining other relatively new condos in the area. Sure, it's not at the center of retail or entertainment but this means it's quieter and calmer which many people, especially those with family, prefer. You are still within walking distance to most restaurants, and downtown is a short bus/taxi ride away. However, being on the northwest corner of 2nd and Broad is not the most ideal location for a view. Unlike Ellington or Concord which sit on top of a large hill on 1st, there is not much gain in elevation as you go to 2nd. I was surprised at the amount of water visible down Broad and up Denny but it is still significantly blocked by Concord. Although there is a 65 ft height limit along Denny, the rental property immediately to their west can go up to 13 floors which would completely block any views in that direction. I would recommend units that have at least some windows facing south or east to avoid being "blocked in" like Cosmopolitan.
They have a large number of floor plans from 600 sqft one level lofts starting around $350K. The lofts felt too small and dark for me considering they are long with windows at the far end. Considering the price, I would imagine they are for young, single professionals starting out. I don't think they would make a good second home considering how far it is from the downtown core. They have 2 bedroom 2 bath with or without den in the corners on the higher floors which are more interesting. I prefer the southwest corner unit which has a glassroom sticking out towards Broad. They can be large (about 1200-1450 sqft) and considering prices start right around $800k, there is value. In any case, considering the buyer's market, I would offer 10-20% below list. If your agent does not advise offering less than list even for new developments, they should be fired. ANYTHING is possible in a down market.
I was pleasantly surprised at the level of finish. The lobby is upscale and modern although obviously not as lush as the top tier condos downtown. There are solid appliances and fixtures in all units although I was worried about the base veneer cabinets. Once you get towards $1 million, the units automatically come with upgrades including top line appliances and solid wood cabinets. This is great since many top tier condos do not offer solid wood cabinets at any price. I did not like that the tub was in the second bath in most units, although this is just my preference. Also, I cannot understand why you would put only one vanity in the master bath of a two bedroom condo.
The list of amenities is pretty solid, as well. They have a decent sized fitness room, underground parking, a business center and two club rooms, one set up as a hip lounge with a view and deck on the 7th floor. They have a 24 hour doorman/concierge which many new condos lack. All this for a home owners due of around $0.50 per sqft; again, you can do a lot worse even at more pricey buildings. Considering Lampreia is moving to their retail space, I can't believe that residents would be disappointed. Yet, they are only 50% sold. What a difference two years makes. Here are the scores; I follow the Zagat format.
Location: 20
Building/unit quality: 22
Amenities: 22
Cost: +$350k
http://www.liveatgallery.com/
Update: Lampreia did not move to Gallery but changed their name to Bisato at their old location.
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