For new homebuyers in today’s market, every penny counts.

That’s why at Washington Square Condominiums in Bellevue, the homeowners association and the developer have jointly fought for years to keep their $0.42 per sq. ft. homeowner’s dues the lowest among Northwestern condos –without compromising on quality or amenities.

“As far as the HOA dues, there is a tremendous ‘bang for the buck’ existing at Washington Square,” says Whitney Danielson, a long-time resident who works locally as a commercial property manager.

Typical homeowner dues among downtown Bellevue’s luxury condos fall significantly higher than those of Washington Square -averaging about $0.52 per sq. ft. When paid monthly on a median-sized condo, homebuyers at Washington Square could save over $50,000 over 30 years of ownership.

“When considering all the new buildings in the area, Washington Square offered not only a beautiful place to live with many amenities, it also had affordable HOA dues,” says Gustavo Varo, a resident who just bought this spring. “I did not want to sacrifice square footage just so my dues would be lower.”

Buyers at Washington Square find that their HOA dues aren’t just cheaper –they’re also comprehensive in covering homeowner needs and wants.

The HOA dues paid by Washington Square residents cover use and upkeep for the spa, exclusive Resident Loft, massage rooms, state-of-the art fitness center, 24/7 concierge or night doorman services, exterior building maintenance, interior maintenance throughout the common areas, building security, parking, insurance and more.

“The building quality and the upkeep of the common areas, as well as the services provided by the concierge have proven to be worth the HOA investment,” says Inin Lim, another resident at Washington Square.

The spa, in a spacious tiled room with windows overlooking the city, provides a relaxing way for residents to end the day, while the massage rooms and masseuse can be reserved via the onsite concierge staff.

The 3,000 sq. ft. Owner’s Loft, with billiard tables, a 60-inch flat screen TV, full chef’s kitchen, and several separate dining and lounging areas, is a favorite for many.

“We have access to an amazing owner’s lounge, with pool tables, full kitchen, Jacuzzi, locker rooms, etc,” says Lynn Manolopoulos. She and her husband Paul purchased their home in December.

But a common question asked by prospective buyers browsing at Washington Square remains: Just how do these paid services affect the daily lives of Washington Square homeowners?

“I often use the concierge to handle my dry-cleaning, arrange for airport transportation, ensure my guests enter the building, and for dining recommendations,” says Sandra Rivera, a homeowner who took advantage of FHA financing when buying her condo. Washington Square was the first high-rise condo tower in Bellevue approved to offer the special government-backed program.

“It’s nice to know the concierge staff is just a phone call away,” Rivera adds, “and that you’re receiving value for what you pay for.”

With no amenities or maintenance compromised, many wonder how Washington Square keeps their HOA dues so low.

“We sub-meter the charges for natural gas [except for gas to the stovetop], electricity, and water for each of our homes,” says Jody Hughes, a sales executive at Washington Square. “That way, the homeowner only pays for their personal use.”

Enabling both responsible resource consumption and lower HOA dues, the sub-metered units lower the overall cost for individual homeowners and allows them to control their own pocketbooks. Owners at Washington Square never pay for their neighbor’s 30-minute showers.

At Washington Square, efficiency is key. “Two years of operational history coupled with a practical philosophy toward top-notch services and amenities, has allowed us to keep our HOA dues lower than our competitors,” says Mike Nielson, Chief Operating Officer at Washington Square.

And his residents couldn’t agree with him more.

“Washington Square has managed to keep the quality of living high, and the stress down, all the while not over-charging their residents,” says Danielson. She adds: “And that, in my opinion, is true value.”

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