A relatively recent addition to Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale has been the introduction of large luxury condo developments offering outstanding amenities and a different way to enjoy desert living. The most notable developments have gone up in the new Scottsdale Waterfront area as well in the heart of the Biltmore corridor.

These luxury condo developments are perfect for local residents who want to downsize their larger homes or for seasonal visitors who want to "lock and leave" their Arizona homes. Besides the amenities onsite, many of these communities are walking distance from excellent restaurants, entertainment, shopping, cultural attractions and more.

While the list below is not exhaustive, here is a brief overview of some of the developments that have caught my attention.

Downtown Scottsdale and the Scottsdale Waterfront area feature some spectacular developments. And, with the growth of the area, there is plenty to do within walking distance to keep yourself entertained.

Optima Camelview is a collection of contemporary and visually-stunning mid-rise buildings featuring steel, glass and abundant plant life. It was designed by the award-winning architect David Hovey and has elevated condo living to a new level. It is located on Scottsdale Road just north of Camelback, adjacent to the Scottsdale Fashion Square Mall. As of March 2010, Optima Camelview is now home to an on-site dry cleaner, an organic, eco-friendly salon called Green With Envy and two fabulous restaurants. Sample "improvisational cusine" at Posh or have a healthy but delicious bite to eat at Nourish.

Another major project of note is the Scottsdale Waterfront Residences. Overlooking the waterfront and in the heart of the new dining, shopping and entertainment district, these luxury condos are right in the middle of all of the action and the views are fabulous.

The Landmark at Kierland in North Scottsdale is another outstanding luxury community. The onsite amenities are best-in-class and the Landmark is within walking distance to all of the shopping, dining and nightlife at Kierland Commons. Another option at Kierland is the Kierland Plaza Lofts. Although they are not technically condos, they should be included in this list.

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In the Biltmore Corridor (around 24th Street and Camelback Road), there are several luxury condo developments that have been attracting buyers from all over. The Biltmore is well-known for its stunning resort, the Arizona Bilmore Resort and Spa, and elegant living. Just down the street is the upscale Biltmore Fashion Park Mall and several other shopping and dining venues.

Some of the more notable communities include: The Residences at 2211 Camelback, Optima Biltmore Towers (sister property to Optima Camelview), Esplanade Place and the newest addition, 18 luxury penthouse residences available in the recently-opened W Hotel. Units at the W Hotel start around $1.2 million.

In the Biltmore resort area, Two Biltmore Estates and Fairway Lodge are adding even more luxury to an already beautiful area.

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Not to be excluded, Tempe also has three luxury condo communities that are centered around the developing Tempe Town Lake area.

The communities are Northshore at Tempe Town Lake, Edgewater at Hayden Ferry and Bridgeview at Hayden Ferry.