July 21st, 2010 // U.S. News & World Report

The Vue Charlotte: First buyers closer to moving in
by BOBBY SISK / NewsChannel 36

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- By the end of next week, Charlotte's newest high-rise should be one step closer to opening.

By then, developers of The Vue Charlotte are expecting to have the certificate of occupancy from the city, allowing access to the first 25 of 51 floors.

At that time, Monica Weymouth, a spokesperson for the developer, says closing dates will be set for those who have lower floor units under contract with move-ins scheduled for late August or early September.

There are 408 units in all, down from 409. One buyer is purchasing two condominiums and combining them. Prices range from $250,000 for a studio to around $2 million for a penthouse.

Weymouth says by the end of August, three model units will be set up for prospective buyers, who haven't yet signed a contract to get a better feel for the finishes.

Developer Dan McLean is pleased with sales so far.

"They're over half spoken for. They're approaching about 60 percent," said McLean.

McLean gave NewsChannel 36 an exclusive tour a few weeks ago. He admitted it's been difficult to get a project of this magnitude completed in this economy.

"It hasn't been easy building these things the past couple of years, so I feel great sense of pride and relief that we're almost done," he said.

The building has an amenities deck that covers 3/4 of an acre. There is a full-size tennis court and a pool, now filled with water and ready for residents. The lobby faces North Pine Street with retail space available on West Fifth Street.

McLean isn't planning any drastic price cuts and he has his reasons why.

"We anticipate pretty much everywhere you won't see any of these for at least five years," McLean said.

Across uptown, there is a smaller residential building opening soon. The Madison is a boutique condominium project with just 26 units. Pricing is still being set on this project located between the Hilton Garden Inn and Hampton Inn on East Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard.

If you'd like to see inside The Vue Charlotte or The Madison, check out our photo slideshows:

Photo tour: The view at The Vue

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