The newly developed Blatz Condominiums on Highland Avenue and Broadway are now completed. What was built in the 1800s as a building for the former Blatz Brewery became the site of Downtown's first industrial-to-residential conversion when it was refurbished into The Blatz Apartments in 1988.

Now, as a joint venture between Milwaukee's Ruvin Development, Inc. and Fiduciary Real Estate Development Inc., the Blatz Condos comprise 169 studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units, half of which have sold in three months.

"The speed at which the condos are selling is simply unheard of in the real estate industry," says co-developer Rick Ruvin. "Some might even call it Milwaukee's fastest-selling condo development."

Still, Ruvin has launched a summertime promotion to garner even more attention for his development: he's giving away a Vespa. From now until August 31, anyone willing to visit The Blatz Web site can enter the Win-a-Vespa Contest. The winner, who chooses his or her own Vespa color, is selected on Sept. 1.

"We decided we wanted to give away a Vespa because they are fun and I think they complement the lifestyle of our target demographic," says Ruvin. "Plus, you don't need to get a motorcycle license to drive them."

Ruvin says that The Blatz Condos are a huge draw for young professionals seeking an exciting and sleek urban dwelling.

"It's an unparalleled combination of location, affordability and amenities that really place The Blatz Condos in their own class," he says. "We've got a professionally staffed health club, a private screening theater, a 12th floor roof terrace and The Blatz Café, which will be completed by the end of July."

Most of the units are priced at under $200,000, with studios starting in the $120s, one-bedroom units starting in the $130s, two-bedroom units starting in the $180s and three-bedroom units starting in the $340s. Every unit includes a parking space, and people can tour the models every day except Monday.

With the Milwaukee festival season now in full swing, Ruvin and crew have plans to get involved with their community by making appearances at Jazz in the Park and Bastille Days.

"We believe that you need to be visible and we just want to put a face to the project for people."

The Blatz Condominiums are located at 270 E. Highland Ave., and the Web site is www.theblatz.com.

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