Prime Real Estate

Prime Real Estate

"You're Mikey, you can sell anything!"
Contest ended 5 years ago 8/4/2006 12:00:00 AM EDT

Contest Info

  • Cost: 5 credits
  • Jackpot: 100 credits

Contest Options

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First Place
# 1
By theLimeyBrit (Score: 6.85)
5

What price can you put on a home located on the doorstep of heaven? Who among us would not give away the world for the chance to live where angels dream to tread?

If you have always dreamed of living where the sky is a deeper shade of blue, the opportunity of a lifetime has arrived with the recent unveiling of Canyon View Condos!

Built high above the spectacular mesas of Utah's Monument Valley, Canyon View Condos offers breathtaking views in every direction. The apartments' graceful curves flow through the rugged lines of Eagle Butte, creating a symbiotic arrangement between the ancient architecture of nature and humanity's most modern construction.

We admit without shame that Canyon View Condos are delightfully exclusive. The complex has no road access to the outside world; residents are saved the headaches associated with automobile ownership, but we do recommend that prospective buyers own a timeshare on a helicopter. That said, we understand that the hike from Canyon View to the valley floor is a most breathtaking experience!

Each apartment occupies its own level of the building. Floor plans are spacious and elegant, and each living area is plushly appointed to the buyer's specifications. At the pinnacle of the complex (and indeed, at the very peak of Eagle Butte) is located the Eyrie Penthouse. This elite apartment takes up five storeys and gives new meaning to opulence and luxury.

Monument Valley's majestic vistas provide Canyon View's visual foundation during the day. After night falls, the crystal-clear canopy over the high-desert plateau lights up with all the stars of the Milky Way. There are no nearby cities to dim the glories of the night sky. At Canyon View, the galaxy lies just beyond your doorstep and heaven is just outside your window.

What price can you put on such a home? Who would not give away the world for the opportunity to live here? Call Canyon View Condos and find out that you won't have to.

Word count: 333
 
Second Place
# 2
By Vercingetorix (Score: 6.519)
3

chillin with mc by solipsism

“All right Mr. Coen, here we are,” said Vicki Starr, the leading real-estate agent in the area. “You’ve told me that you want a unique house, something wild and different, yet livable. Well, I looked into the market and found the house you now see before you.”

She pulled her white Neon to the head of the driveway and stopped there. Both her and Mr. Coen gazed at the house through the windshield.

“This is a 19h century house, built primarily of brick. It possesses the simplicity of pure, red brick while still being both comfortable and hospitable. There’s a single car garage and storage area connected to the rest of the building complex, which includes the main house, a wrap around deck, and small guesthouse. It also throws in many complex and enjoyable flourishes that almost clash with the simple brick, creating a unique feeling around the building. At the top of those pillars, you see two incredible sculptures made by the house’s architect, Michael Hersec. As an added bonus, this house isn’t on the city power grid. The power for the whole house is provided by the watermill attached to the house. Inside…”

“Holy crap,” Mr. Coen interrupted, “I feel sick just looking at it.”

“Well, I think it’s a beautiful home,” Vicky responded curtly, “but we can see the next house if…”

Mr. Coen interrupted again, “No, the water mill. Don’t you see what’s wrong with it?”

Vicki looked over at the turning wheel for several moments. “Well, the wood color doesn’t match very well with the house, but it works fine and can be painted easily. It makes a little noise, but it’s more reminiscent of the beach than it is annoying.”

“No, look,” Mr. Coen said, his irritation building. “The water falls down from the ledge up there, turns the wheel, and hits the pool.”

Vicki looked at him skeptically. “I don’t see what you’re getting at.”

“That same pool flows downward to the ledge from where it drops back into the pool. It defies the laws of physics.”

“Rules were meant to be broken,” Vicki joked. Mr. Coen glared at her, stopping the laughter. “I still don’t understand though.”

“How does the water keep flowing down like that?”

“It runs along a brick pathway, the little walls along the side keep the water on the path.”

“No! The water is always flowing downward!”

“Water has the tendency to do that, sir.”

“Don’t be sarcastic with me, that’s not what I meant, this thing defies logic. It flows down back up to where it started.”

Vicki peeked again at the water wheel, then back at Mr. Coen to give him another funny look. “If you don’t like it, just say so, you don’t have to make up reasons.”

“I’m not making…” Mr. Coen started to protest, but stopped. His mouth opened and closed several times, starting to speak. Frustrated, he gave up and said, “Forget it, let’s just move on to the next house.”

“Are you sure,” asked Vicki. “Let me take you inside first, you’ll love the architecture of all the staircases.”

Word count: 539
 
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Sponsored by icepigs
Third Place
# 3
3

You can be the proud owner of a specially constructed secret lair!

This exciting piece of real estate is being sold at auction after the untimely death of its former owner earlier this year. Unlike so many similar properties in recent years, this unique complex has survived after the owner's death, leaving this once in a lifetime opportunity to be snapped up by someone with an eye for a golden bargain.

The main property is composed of a small tropical island located in a stunning area of the South China Sea, with easy access by boat or helicopter to Hong Kong harbour and the Chinese mainland.

The buildings on the property are truly unique and among the world's most eye-catching. A team of the world's leading architects and engineers were given enormous sums of money to achieve the task of converting a lovely former Russian cruise liner into a luxury mansion sitting atop the island. With over four hundred bedrooms (all with a view to kill for), dozens of function rooms, a casino (royally appointed), and catering facilities capable of entertaining over a thousand guests, this property provides everything that today's discerning multi-billionaire could desire.

Also included is a top-of-the-range broadcast quality satelite communications array, twin heliport, and a large underground bunker. Featuring over fifty computer control consoles and capable of withstanding a twenty-megaton blast, this feature alone should ensure strong interest from any would-be super-villain. We appreciate, however, that it may scare the living daylights out of less military-minded buyers, so we have made arrangements to have it converted into a wine cellar should that be preferred by the successful bidder.

In case one island is not enough, the successful bidder will also receive preferential bidder status on a neighbouring island, to be sold at a later date.

The property comes with 162 highly loyal full-time staff, but prospective buyers should be aware that a full staff compliment should be closer to 200. However, additional labour is in plentiful supply locally, and relatively low cost. Buyers may however want to make changes to the staff uniform, as the previous owner's style choices in this regard were somewhat unorthodox.

We are currently inviting bidding applications. Viewing is essential, but please book ahead as interest is expected to be strong; you won't get a chance to buy another day. Please contact your local representative for more information.

Photograph attached here shows stunning view of property, as seen from a neighbouring island.

Word count: 413
 
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Sponsored by theLimeyBrit
4
3

Hello there. Sorry I’m a bit late.

But it will be worth the wait, I promise. I have the very thing for you. I can really assess people, you know. You need it to make it in this business and trust me, I’m the best. One look and I know everything – what do these people want, what they think they want but have to be talked out of, what they need but don’t know it yet. And how much they can afford. Seriously. I can’t remember when I got the price wrong by more than five thousand.

You’re really lucky you got me. It’s the ultimate timesaver. No need to shop around at all, because you’re going to love the first place I’m taking you to. Same time next week, you’ll be moving in.

You know what I thought the moment I clapped my eyes on you? This guy is moving up in the world and needs a place to show it. Probably works in something modern, electronics or something like that. Just got a really good promotion, he’s close to the top now. Am I right? See, I told you. I’m the best.

So, I tell myself, what does a guy like that need? Something to impress the right people. You know, a guy in your position cannot live in any old place. It just wouldn’t look right.

So here, have a look at this folder. I can’t picture you anywhere else. It’s the only way to create the impression you need. On one side someone really modern, who can afford the best in everything, but on the other hand also a bit intellectual, a guy who enjoys nature and stuff. Refined, you know. Hey, don’t look so surprised. I told you I can always tell what people need.

What do you mean, no nature? A garden? Look, you don’t need a garden. It’s not like you have time to dig around in one, do you? Exactly. Anyway, a small garden is for a small person, I always say. You need something grand. I mean, just look at those views! You will save a fortune on decorating – just open those curtains and nobody will notice you don’t have the Mona Lisa hanging on your walls. And it’s just the thing to impress the ladies, you know what I mean. Just add some lines about how the broad view allows your mind to soar and you can have any woman you fancy.

Of course it’s perfectly safe. It’s the wonder of modern engineering. Earthquakes, hurricanes, nothing will move this building. If an asteroid ever hits, this will be the only thing left standing. With you in it. And it’s safe from burglars, too. I mean, even the Spiderman could not climb up or down this wall! There is a concierge on the ground floor, cameras in the corridors, electronic keys. The garage is underground, also with cameras. Need to look after that sports car, eh? What do you mean, how did I know?

A lot of walking? Who uses staircases anymore? I mean, sure, there are some, but only because that’s the law. Nobody actually sets foot on them. The quietest, fastest, best elevators, that’s how you go up and down. Sure, exercise is good, but who needs walking when you have the huge gym and swimming pool on the top floor!

OK, I grant you, it’s not very handy for shops. But then again, you’re not the type for daily shopping runs, are you? Of course I’m right. Trust me, nobody has complained yet. They all get their food delivered. Catering is the way to go now. Handy when you want to ask some lady over for a romantic dinner, eh?

And we’re here. See what I meant? This is the impression you need. The price? Don’t worry, you can afford it. I’m never wrong about people.

Word count: 652
 
5
By Rubix510 (Score: 5.898)
1

[url="http://www.worth1000.com/view.asp?entry=279471&display=photoshop"]
Heading North by FaraZahar[/url]


God knows no boundaries, and your missionary work shouldn’t either. Here at Mobile Missionary we envision missionaries who travel far and wide to bring the word of God to all groups of people, wherever they are.

But how do you bring His vision to some of the remote places on God’s green earth? Simply sending your missionaries is a good start, but how does a missionary show those souls in need of saving His glory? That’s where Mobile Missionary comes in. Why simply send a group of His devoted when you can send an entire church to do His work?

Mobile Missionary carries an entire line of floating churches, in any style you may need. Send a small church, a monastery or a convent of nuns. Or truly show your devotion with a chapel or a recreation of a stave church. (MM Borgund Stavkirke shown above) We can even create custom orders if none of our ready made models suit your needs.

With Mobile Missionary you will be ready to convert followers as soon as you arrive. You’ll have a place to educate, a ready orphanage, and be able to administer health care in a clean, sanitary, holy place where His great work can be done.

As an added bonus, Mobile Missionary will fully stock your order with the holy works of your choice, The Holy Bible, The Old Testament, The New Testament, King James Bible, even The Ten Commandments. Mobile Missionary has them all, and will include them free with your order.

God helps those that help themselves. So come help yourselves at Mobile Missionary.

_________________________________________________________
Authors Note:
I just want to thank FaraZahar for her great entry that inspired this work.

Word count: 291
 
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Sponsored by Deschain420
6
2

Based on jobigoud's Sunrise Over Lilyville.

Imagine sitting in the cool, summer breeze, as the sun sets around you and day turns to night, all from a beautiful, hand-sculpted, cactus home. Around you there are marvelous, gigantic lilypads on which your children can play, as well as an enormous lake for your boating, fishing and swimming pleasure. Such things, though fantastic, seem out of reach for the less priveleged. However, they aren't anymore. All this and more can now be yours for the incredibly low price of $200,000.

This elegant two bedroom, one bathroom house is the perfect place for family getaways. You can experience the great outdoors while still having all the comforts of home. It comes with a state-of-the-art temperature moderation system (known to the locals as "air conditioning"), and all the necessities, such as a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and fresh, clean running water. We are certain that you will find every aspect of your new home just the way you want it.

You may think that this is just the average vacation home; just a run-of-the-mill beach house, but we have so much more to offer! You can see the sunset from the beach at any old place, but where else can you see the suset from a the inside of a cactus? Think of all the magnificent things you could do with this amazing home! You could be the envy of millions!

This amazing home is the perfect description of paradise. Secluded, beautiful, and the perfect place for relaxation, or a day of fun in the sun. You could spend the day paddling quietly on the crystal-clear waters of the stream surrounding your house, or bask in the sun as you pass the time swimming with your family. This home is the perfect way to get away from the stress of everyday life. No work, no computer, no stress; just a relaxing vacation. If such a place as paradise truly does exist, surely this is it.

Only a few houses in this community have yet to be sold, and they are going fast! So call today to get your piece of paradise before it's all gone! This offer won't last long, so call 1-800-393-2534 now!

-Worth 1000 Real Estate Agency

Word count: 378
 
7
By ElphabaFaye (Score: 5.706)
3

“You’ll notice the spiral staircase that leads up to the main entrance. This was intended to prevent water from flowing into the foyer during high tide. Most iceberg homes have a ground-floor entry, which does little to prevent periodic flooding.” The realtor started up the steps of the Arctic home we were considering buying as my husband gaped at the large dome created by the arch carved through the ice. The icicles hanging down on each side made it feel as though we were in a huge, gaping mouth.

She continued as we picked our way up the slightly slick steps after her, “This home has four bedrooms. It’s fully furnished, and you’ll notice most of the furniture is made of ice. The architects of this home were very careful to select different species of algae to include in each piece, to give subtle shading. Pay particular attention to the counter tops in the kitchen. They’re marbled.”

We walked into a large room, devoid of any embellishment except for a thin layer of frost. The room went back slightly, then opened up into a large living area. One wall was polished to a smooth, mirror-like finish. There were stairs going down on each end of the room, and another flight that went up to the left.

“In order to keep the stairs from being too slick, gravel was embedded in them. There’s a bedroom at the bottom of each flight of stairs, plus another large bedroom upstairs, along with the kitchen, bathroom, and dining room. This is the living room.” She reached out and pushed a button in the wall that we hadn’t noticed before, and the large flat screen opposite us blinked on. “This is your built-in movie screen.”

The next hour was spent going over the features of the home. It was overwhelming, dizzying even. “The technology behind the plumbing is quite new. There’s an additive in the water that’s designed to lower its freezing point, to prevent water from freezing in the pipes. It’s perfectly harmless, but it also means you can’t buy too many prepared drinks. After all, water in is water out.” She giggled a bit at the veiled reference.

I glanced around at the curved windows, the elegant curve of the staircases, and the remoteness from, well, everything. My husband appeared to be drooling over the TV screen. After a whispered conversation amongst ourselves, he turned to the realtor.

“How much?”

“$12,000.”

“$12,000! We’ll take it!” My husband and I exchanged a look of glee.

“Okay, let me just contact the owner, and we’ll get a lease drawn up.”

“Lease?” We exchanged another glance, this time one that was less-than-thrilled. “We thought this place was for sale!”

“Well, given the price, the owner would prefer rent-to-own. After all, $12,000 is a lot of money to come up with each month!”

I’ve never seen a man faint before that day.

Word count: 488
 
4

Welcome. We have been waiting just for you.

Your search for the perfect home has come to an end. We have the exact thing you need.

Anyone can sell you a house, but we give you a home. Every single building we have on offer has been designed and built to fit the requirements of a very unique person. We know your soul. We know your dreams. We know who you are.

You have the soul of an artist. You are a wild creature, a thing of nature, rigid rules stifle you, bind your wings. You need your own space where your wishes are the only rule. You need a home where you can feel safe, but at the same time you need freedom from the mundane things in life. As every wild thing, you need to feel close to nature.

We built this house just for you. We have found the perfect spot, where you can be one with nature without losing any of the modern comforts you are accustomed to. The gentle song of the stream and the mild wind in the trees will lull you to sleep at night. The birds will wake you each morning to greet the new sun. The crystal-clear water in the stream is perfect for a leisurely afternoon swim or for some vigorous splashing around. The silver fish may serve as a feast for your eyes when you gaze pensively over the calm waters at sunset or a feast for your taste buds when you wish to prove how independent you are from the comforts and ties of civilisation. The wild swans will provide you with many a moment of poetic reflection when you see them gliding majestically over the glittery waves or fuss protectively over their young. The surrounding forests will be a magnificent backdrop for your life, changing every season to a new and breathtaking display.

But remember that we know you. We know that you like your freedom, but you also like your comfort. Therefore we made sure your perfect home is not lacking in anything you might possibly need or want, the best today’s technology has to offer. Highest quality electronic systems allow you to control every aspect of your surroundings. Control the light level, the temperature, the humidity. Make sure the atmosphere suits your mood – you wish to hear the sounds of the wilderness outside and feel the smells of the forest in your home? Or maybe a tropical beach would suit you better today – the salty smell, the sound of gentle waves? A meadow high in the Alps? Just press a few buttons and the inside of your house will conform to your every wish.

Of course, your dream house may not lack in the newest audio and video equipment, the most modern kitchen, the latest in bathroom technology. Fully automated cleaning system will take care of the daily housekeeping duties, leaving you free for less mundane pursuits. The house is fully connected to the transport system, for those rare cases when you shall wish to leave it and to enable you to enjoy the exquisite company of your like-minded friends.

Once we give you your dream, we will not allow anything to spoil it. The water of the stream will always remain crystal clear and full of silver fish, the swans will nest nearby, the deer will come down every morning to drink. The hidden climate control systems will ensure that the weather over your dream home will always be perfect and season-appropriate. If you ever feel like experiencing the extra thrill of a violent storm, all you need to do is ask. In any possible weather you might request we ensure your full safety.

Remember – with us, you get exactly what you paid for.

Now let us take you home.

Word count: 640
 
9
By Fanatic (Score: 5.637)
4

1618 Hidden Grove Trail Yosemite, California

Approx. Sq. Feet: 9420
Bedrooms: 7
Bathrooms: 9 1/2
Year Built: 794 B.C. (Extensively renovated in April 2006)

You could own this one-of-a-kind, 2800-year-old natural jewel in a hidden cathedral-like grove of unsurpassed beauty. This distinctive custom home blends seamlessly with the natural environment and is in a prime location bordering one of America's most treasured national parks. It is a peaceful and serene family retreat, perfect for the athletic lifestyle. Yosemite and Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome are just steps away! This stunning one-of-a-kind floor plan, with spiral staircases and panoramic views from every level, is perfectly compatible with a healthy lifestyle.

The Level 1 Great Room is highlighted by unique live-redwood walls, floor, and ceiling, and incorporates a built-in entertainment center, wet bar, and bountiful storage. Hand-carved moldings compliment the unrivaled beauty of the natural woodwork.

The spacious chef's kitchen on Level 2 features stainless steel appliances, including a six-burner Thermador Pro Grand range, a Sub-Zero Pro 48 refrigerator, and a Bosch dishwasher. It has been professionally designed and also includes two food preparation islands, each with multiple sinks.

A luxurious four-level master bedroom suite begins on Level 27, and includes an Italian-marble master bathroom, an infant's nursery, and a top-floor observation veranda that provides breathtaking views of majestic snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife including wolves, bison, and elk, and the lush old-growth forest all around.

Four other bedroom suites, each on separate levels, will provide your children with the space they desire and the privacy you deserve.

This spectacular home also includes:

  • Two additional guest apartments

  • Multilevel, indoor-outdoor pet exercise runs

  • Many bonus spaces below the sleeping areas

  • Family room with stone fireplace on Level 10

  • Efficient, step-saving floor plan on each level

  • Wine cellar and basement entertainment room

  • Built-in T1 internet access in every room

  • Tuck-under garage

  • Root cellar

  • Low-maintenance yard

  • Lightning protection system

  • Deeded access to public transportation and the neighborhood association-maintained private heliport.


Become the owner of this arboreal paradise, landscaped by a professional who knew what He was doing!

Call for showing information.

Word count: 353
Please do not critique my entry.
 
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Sponsored by Merbley
10
By lareneg (Score: 4.604)
2

House

Though at a first glance this house may seem rather odd, it has some very useful characteristics:

Worried about intruders? Worry not! The door and windows come with attatchable blockades similar to the walls, meaning an intruder-proof house. The many spikes will deter any people who are not welcome.

Floods are NO LONGER a worry! This house floats on water, saying goodbye to soaked belongings.

You may be asking, why shouldn't I just get a house on higher ground? Answer: Water supply. Do not rely on the expensive water supply from companies - you can use the water for drinking, and you could use it for all sorts of other things, such as cleaning, and also power generating.

There is no crime in the area, and it is a friendly neighbourhood. There is a very good school in the area, and there is even a shopping mall a few paddles down in your boat WHICH IS PROVIDED free with the house. The boat has a small motor at the back, and also an oar. Rowing is an extremely good method of excercise. The air is clean, as there are NO ROADS in the area! In the evenings, you can sit back, relax, and watch the sun set without any pollution. Mainland is only about 30 minutes row away, where you can relax in a park, or roam around in the forest. You can also hire a larger boat should you need to carry large objects to and from mainland. A delivery boat will deliver your belongings to the house free of charge when you move in.

The area is truly a nature-friendly zone, and you would be missing out on a chance of a lifetime to literally live with nature.

Word count: 293