Decades ago, most commuters only considered moving within a 30-minute drive or so of where they worked. These days, it is not unusual for people to drive an hour or two to get to their offices. Yet some workers have the option to telecommute or split their work hours between the office and home.

These shifting work and commuter patterns, combined with the high cost of housing in the Washington area, have encouraged many former residents of Washington and its close-in suburbs to seek residence elsewhere. While Loudoun County and Charles County once seemed too distant to be part of the Washington region, these counties and others are now routinely counted as "suburban Washington." Residents of West Virginia and parts of Pennsylvania now commute to jobs in Washington and its suburban employment centers.

For those who enjoy an urban environment but want to spend less money on housing, Baltimore has become the "suburb" of choice for some Washingtonians. The median price for a home in the city of Baltimore in November 2008 was $137,450, while the median price for a condominium in the District was more than double that price at $360,000. Furthermore, single-family homes within the District's borders had a median price of $515,000 in November 2008.

It's easy to see why Baltimore appeals to urban dwellers. Not only can they afford to buy a condominium, town home or even a single-family home within the city limits, but they can also enjoy the cultural, entertainment and culinary amenities of Baltimore. The attractions and work locations in the District are less than one hour south (depending on the time of day the trek is made).

While the above prices reflect resale homes in both cities, Baltimore is also experiencing continued new residential development, including condominiums, town homes and single-family homes. These homes come with a higher price tag than the median price, but they also offer buyers the chance to customize their homes and take advantage of builder incentives. Most of these new homes are also designed to be energy-efficient.

At Silo Point, a 24-story condominium tower rises above Baltimore's waterfront. Originally a 290-foot-tall grain terminal constructed for the B&O Railroad in 1923, this site has been transformed into luxury condominiums by Turner Development Group.

The mixed-use development will include retail shops, full-service and cafe-style restaurants and a wine club. Residents may enjoy entertaining in the Style Sky Lounge, a 19th-floor club with 360-degree views of Baltimore's harbor and a fireplace. Other on-site amenities include a billiards room, conference rooms, a fitness center and controlled-access garage parking.

A 24-hour doorman and concierge services will be available for residents, who can arrange for dry cleaning and laundry pick-up, dog-walking services, maid services and room service.

Over 30 different floor plans are available, with 1,100 to 5,000 square feet and prices from the upper $200,000s to $4,500,000 for a penthouse home. Condominium fees average $380 per month for one-bedroom homes and are about $550 per month for two-bedroom homes.

The homes have hardwood floors, walk-in closets, custom window treatments, a balcony or terrace, 10- to 20-foot ceilings, a full-size washer and dryer, a luxury master bath with an oversized soaking tub and a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters. For more information, call 410/539-7456 or visit www.silopoint.com