Being stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord affords Servicemembers the opportunity to live in a metropolitan area without adding too much time to their daily commute. In downtown Tacoma there are a variety of waterfront views, urban lofts and amenities worth checking out.

The Roberson at Ledger Square has homes for sale right in the middle of the Tacoma theater district. The building houses 39 units with multiple floor plans. Units have soaking tubs, stainless appliances, floor to ceiling windows and some also have private decks, gas fireplaces or both. The traditional brick structure surrounds an interior courtyard, complete with a fountain. Prices start at $299k.

[708 Market Street, (253) 617-8546, theroberson.com]

The Harmon Lofts are just part of a large, nine-story building that combines residential with commercial right downtown, including the noted Harmon Brewery, which occupies the first floor. One parking spot is included with each lease (parking is on the fourth and fifth floors) with additional spots priced at $85 per month, per spot.

There are 56 loft apartments available for rent, most of which are 1200 sq ft, have either one or two bedrooms with amenities like hardwood floors, washer/dryers, jetted bathtubs and gourmet kitchens. Monthly rents range from $1,325 to $1,625.

[1944 Pacific Avenue, (253) 779-8779, www.officesandlofts.com/harmonlofts.html] 

In Ruston, check out The Commencement, which has four different condo floor plans, ranging from 1681 to 2334 sq ft. Every unit has a gas fireplace - open to both the master bedroom and living room, hardwood floors and views of Mt. Rainier and the Sound. The property offers residents and owners the use of a theater with multimedia systems and conference rooms in the Dalco Lounge and a Sky Lounge area complete with a bar, kitchen, library, walk around fireplace and deck. Call or stop in for pricing.

[Sales Gallery 5219 N. Shirley Street, (800) 681- VIEW, www.thecommencement.com]

Interested buyers can also buy a condo within The Esplanade high-rise, located along the Thea Foss Waterway. Floor plans start at 725 sq ft with one bedroom and one bathroom and go up to a 2025 sq ft penthouse. Condos have large picture windows, glass-railed decks and granite countertops.

All residents have access to the underground parking garage, onsite mailroom, fitness center and community lounge. Prices start at $185k and special military pricing deals are available.

 [1515 Dock Street (877) 433-3677, esplanadetacoma.com]

The Metropolitan Apartments offer studios, one and two bedroom apartments with rent starting at $1089. They also offer some of the best amenities for renters, including an indoor and outdoor pool, indoor putting green, rooftop Jacuzzi, two complimentary tanning salons, a 39-seat grand cinema and onsite fitness classes, not to mention concierge service.

To top that all off, property manager Hallie Waddell shared another convenience available to residents - a floor devoted entirely to Executive Suites, which are available to guests of military residents for just $108 per night.

"This is meant to be all-inclusive, resort-style living," Waddell said. "You get a lot more for your rent than just the apartment!"

[245 St Helens, (253) 830-3430, www.themetropolitantacoma.com]