Couple leaves suburbs, finds friends downtown

Greg and Annette Shaver have lived in the suburbs of Las Vegas for more than 30 years, but it wasn't until just recently they discovered the culture of living downtown in the heart of the city. Just three months ago, the Shavers bought a home in The Ogden.

"We lived in our last home for 22 years and only truly made a handful of friends who also lived nearby," Annette said. "We've been at The Ogden for less than three months and have already made dozens of friends with other residents, staff and local regulars who frequent the area's bars and restaurants. Everyone downtown is so warm and welcoming."

Annette, a practicing veterinarian, and Greg, a business owner, saw their youngest child move out and attend the University of Nevada, Las Vegas about two years ago. At that time, they started considering their next steps, keeping a close eye on the valley's real estate growth and economic changes. Their home was too large to maintain and they longed for a change of scenery.

After many visits to other high-rises and condominium developments, the Shavers found The Ogden and immediately fell in love with the floor plans and high ceilings. They were attracted to the rooftop pool and terrace, where they hosted a Fourth of July party with about 25 friends. The Shavers were also drawn to The Ogden's level of round-the clock, live security.

Along with their two cats, they live in a 1,600-square-foot, two-bedroom residence that features a balcony overlooking the Las Vegas city lights. The couple has relished in downtown's revival and eating at new restaurants, walking to the outlet mall and doing most of their grocery shopping at The Market just a block away. Their family and friends, who initially doubted their decision to move downtown, now visit frequently and stay in The Shavers' guest bedroom.

"We thought we'd rent for a little while before buying another home, but we found everything we needed at The Ogden, so we decided to make the investment," Greg said. "This is definitely more than we expected, and we are very happy."

Homes at The Ogden range from a one-bedroom, 815-square-foot residence for $229,000 to a three-bedroom, plus den 2,044-square-foot home for $629,000. Residences feature private balconies and expansive views of downtown Las Vegas, The Strip and the mountains that frame the valley.

The Ogden's single-story, open floor plans offer flex spaces that can serve as a home office, den or yoga room, extra bedrooms for accommodating multigenerational family and guests, and spacious windows that fill interiors with natural light.

For more information, visit The Ogden's onsite sales center at 150 Las Vegas Blvd. North or online at Ogdenlv.com.