One of the questions I get the most is, “Which are the buildings in Downtown Tacoma with Lofts?” Thanks to Downtown Tacoma’s industrial past, there are quite a few, some of them are rentals and some are condos. I thought I’d do a series of posts about what is out there in Tacoma. If you think I missed one, or need to update my information about financing or amenities, please leave your feedback in the comments!

Condo Buildings

Cliff Street Lofts – 1119 A Street Tacoma, WA 98402

The Cliff Street Lofts were one of the first buildings in Downtown Tacoma to be converted from apartments to condos. They have the high ceilings, open layouts, and features like exposed brick that Loft Lovers enjoy. Some of the units enjoy views of the city, while others have full Mount Rainier and Murray Morgan Bridge/Port of Tacoma views.  The building is not FHA or VA Approved as of the writing of this post- so double check with your lender if you plan on using that type of financing to purchase in Cliff Street.

Building amenities include underground parking, a rooftop deck with BBQ’s and deck chairs and an elevator.

Perkins Lofts – 1101 A Street Tacoma, WA 98402

I often think of the Perkins Lofts as the Cliff Street Loft’s slightly fancier older sister. The finish levels on lofts in The Perkins Lofts are higher, with many of the units sporting cool designer touches. The units at The Perkins Lofts tend to be large with lots of exposed brick, wood floors, and big windows. This building has fared better than many downtown during the downturn. Last I heard they were iffy on FHA financing and could not do VA Financing, so check with your lender about how best to get a loan on a Perkins Loft.

Building amenities include underground parking, a rooftop deck with BBQs and deck chairs, two elevators (great on move in day!), and an atrium/reading room.

The Bridge Condominiums  – 744 Market Street Tacoma, WA 98402

The units inside The Bridge are all totally unique! You know when you buy one of these that you will have something different than everyone else in town. As I understand it, before the building was converted into condos it was some kind of medical facility, so there are lots of brick walls, concrete floors, and unexpected layouts- usually in a good way!  Unlike many lofts that are built into existing buildings- some of the units at The Bridge have their own private rooftop decks, one of my clients that bought there even has TWO DECKS, which in the world of Lofts makes him rich in decks indeed! That said, even if you’re not lucky enough to have a unit with a deck there is a shared community room with deck on the roof. These units are funky, with brick and concrete accents, stairs to nowhere, and other unusual lofty touches. Last I heard FHA & VA financing were not available, so check with your lender about options. My last client to buy here got a Portfolio Loan.

Building amenities include a community room with a rooftop patio with a BBQ, elevator, and storage is available to rent monthly. The biggest downside is the lack of parking, most residents rent spaces by the month or year in the uncovered lot next door.

Next time I get a few minutes I’ll highlight a few more Loft buildings in Downtown Tacoma, and include a few buildings for you renters, too!