The Diplomat Homes for Sale in Palm Springs, CA

Discover The Diplomat, an iconic condominium community in South Palm Springs, known for its spacious residences, beautifully landscaped grounds, resort-style swimming pool, and dramatic mountain views.

Located near the intersection of East Palm Canyon Drive and Farrell Drive, The Diplomat offers a convenient location close to shopping, restaurants, golf, and downtown Palm Springs. The community features just 48 residences spread across approximately five acres, creating a distinctive residential setting with generous common areas.

With large condominium floor plans, elevators, secure underground parking, and a heated pool and spa, The Diplomat offers a different style of condominium living from many of the smaller developments throughout Palm Springs.

The Diplomat at a Glance

  • Location: South Palm Springs, California

  • Community Type: Condominium development

  • Number of Residences: 48

  • Development: Built in the early 1970s; records and sources vary on the exact year

  • Developer: One Hundred Eleven Inc. is identified in historical reporting

  • Architectural Firm: Hank Webber & Associates

  • Community Size: Approximately five acres

  • Common Floor Plan: Approximately 1,850 square feet

  • Typical Layout: Two bedrooms and two bathrooms

  • Amenities: Heated swimming pool, spa, pool house, changing facilities, and dry saunas

  • Parking: Secure subterranean parking

  • Additional Features: Elevators, landscaped grounds, and controlled access

  • Land Type: Leasehold

  • HOA: Yes

Welcome to The Diplomat

The Diplomat is one of South Palm Springs' recognizable condominium developments. Its low-rise buildings surround landscaped grounds and a large central pool area, giving the property a resort-inspired atmosphere.

One of its biggest attractions is the size of the residences. Commonly marketed floor plans offer approximately 1,850 square feet, providing considerably more interior space than many condominium options in Palm Springs.

The community is also known for its secure underground parking, elevators, and expansive patios and balconies. Many residences offer views of the surrounding mountains, landscaped grounds, and pool area.

Its location near the Smoke Tree shopping area makes everyday errands, dining, and shopping especially convenient.

History and Architectural Character

The Diplomat was developed in the early 1970s by One Hundred Eleven Inc., with architectural work attributed to Hank Webber & Associates.

Historical reporting describes an original development concept that envisioned eight buildings surrounding a private golf course. The project ultimately took a different direction, and the planned second phase and golf course were never completed.

The completed community contains 48 residences spread across approximately five acres. Its three-story buildings, formal entry lobbies, elevators, and underground parking give it a more urban condominium character than many of Palm Springs' low-rise midcentury developments.

The combination of large floor plans and landscaped outdoor areas has helped establish The Diplomat as a distinctive South Palm Springs address.

Homes and Floor Plans in The Diplomat

One of the most appealing features of The Diplomat is the generous interior space offered by its condominiums.

The commonly advertised floor plan is approximately 1,850 square feet, typically configured with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Individual residences may have different layouts, upgrades, and outdoor spaces.

Features found in individual homes may include:

  • Two-bedroom, two-bathroom floor plans

  • Expansive living and dining areas

  • Large formal entryways

  • Spacious primary bedroom suites

  • Walk-in closets

  • Separate dining areas

  • Large balconies and covered patios

  • Mountain, pool, and landscaped garden views

  • Updated kitchens and bathrooms in remodeled residences

  • Central heating and air conditioning

  • In-unit laundry areas

  • Assigned underground parking

Some residences feature especially large outdoor spaces, including balconies that extend along the living areas. Interior finishes and improvements vary from unit to unit.

Buyers should verify the exact floor plan, square footage, parking assignment, and outdoor space associated with each condominium.

Community Amenities and Features

The Diplomat offers a number of shared amenities that contribute to its resort-inspired atmosphere.

Community features include:

  • Large heated swimming pool

  • Heated community spa

  • Poolside building with restroom facilities

  • Changing rooms and showers

  • Dry saunas

  • Landscaped grounds

  • Secure subterranean parking

  • Controlled-access entry

  • Elevators serving upper floors

  • Community mail and lobby areas

The pool and spa are central features of the community, offering residents a place to relax and enjoy the warm Palm Springs weather.

The underground parking is another valuable feature, providing protection from the desert sun and convenient access to the residential buildings.

Location and Convenience

The Diplomat is located in South Palm Springs near East Palm Canyon Drive and Farrell Drive. Its location provides convenient access to many of the city's popular shopping, dining, and recreation destinations.

Nearby conveniences include:

  • Smoke Tree Shopping Center

  • Restaurants along East Palm Canyon Drive

  • Grocery stores and everyday services

  • South Palm Springs golf courses

  • Downtown Palm Springs

  • Palm Springs International Airport

  • Local parks and recreation facilities

The community is especially convenient for residents who enjoy walking to nearby shopping and restaurants while maintaining a private residential setting.

Nearby Attractions and Local Favorites

Smoke Tree Shopping Center

A convenient shopping destination with restaurants, everyday services, and retail options close to The Diplomat.

Downtown Palm Springs

Enjoy Palm Canyon Drive's boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, coffee shops, and entertainment. Downtown is a favorite destination for residents and visitors throughout the year.

Indian Canyons

Explore beautiful desert landscapes, palm oases, hiking trails, and the cultural history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. Visit Indian Canyons for visitor information.

Tahquitz Canyon

Enjoy hiking trails, dramatic desert scenery, and the seasonal waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon.

Palm Springs Art Museum

Explore modern and contemporary art, architecture, photography, and special exhibitions at the Palm Springs Art Museum.

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Take a spectacular ride from the desert floor into the alpine environment of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for schedules and visitor information.

Outdoor Recreation

South Palm Springs offers an excellent location for enjoying the desert's outdoor lifestyle.

Nearby activities include:

  • Swimming and relaxing at the community pool

  • Golf at nearby public and private courses

  • Hiking at Indian Canyons

  • Exploring Tahquitz Canyon

  • Cycling through Palm Springs

  • Tennis and pickleball at local facilities

  • Scenic drives through the Coachella Valley

  • Enjoying nearby parks and outdoor spaces

For additional information about local activities and attractions, visit Visit Palm Springs.

Schools

The Diplomat is served by the Palm Springs Unified School District. School assignments depend on the property's exact address and current district boundaries.

Buyers with school-age children should verify attendance areas, enrollment requirements, and available programs directly with the Palm Springs Unified School District.

Who Might Enjoy Living in The Diplomat?

The Diplomat may appeal to buyers who want a spacious condominium in a convenient South Palm Springs location.

It may be especially attractive to:

  • Buyers looking for larger condominium floor plans

  • Seasonal residents seeking a lock-and-leave property

  • Full-time residents who prefer condominium living

  • Buyers who appreciate underground parking

  • People who enjoy a heated pool and spa

  • Buyers who want convenient access to shopping and restaurants

  • Those who appreciate mountain views and landscaped grounds

  • Buyers looking for a second home in South Palm Springs

Important Things to Consider for Buyers

The Diplomat has several features that make it distinctive, but buyers should pay particular attention to its land lease and condominium association obligations.

  • Leasehold land: The Diplomat is located on leased tribal land. Ownership of the condominium does not mean ownership of the underlying land.

  • Lease expiration: Published property information conflicts on the remaining lease term. Some sources report expiration around 2041–2042, while others advertise an extension through 2089. Buyers should obtain the actual current master lease, amendments, and unit-specific lease information from the association and title company.

  • Land lease payments: Annual land lease charges have been reported separately from HOA assessments. Confirm the current amount and how payments are allocated.

  • HOA fees: Recent property listings show varying monthly assessments, with reported amounts from approximately $740 to more than $1,000. Verify the current assessment for the specific unit.

  • HOA inclusions: Some listings report that assessments include services such as water, sewer, trash, cable television, landscaping, and earthquake insurance. Confirm the current budget and exact inclusions.

  • Special assessments: Review association meeting minutes, financial statements, reserve studies, and any planned building improvements.

  • Parking: Confirm the assigned underground parking space and any additional storage rights.

  • Rental policies: Obtain the current CC&Rs and rental regulations before purchasing for investment purposes.

  • Pet policies: Review the association's current pet rules.

  • Building condition: Review the condition of elevators, plumbing, electrical systems, roofing, pool equipment, and common areas.

Because of the leasehold arrangement, buyers should carefully evaluate the remaining lease term, renewal provisions, financing implications, and future ownership costs before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Diplomat

Where is The Diplomat located?

The Diplomat is located in South Palm Springs near East Palm Canyon Drive and Farrell Drive, close to Smoke Tree Shopping Center.

How many residences are in The Diplomat?

The community has 48 condominium residences spread across approximately five acres.

When was The Diplomat built?

Historical reporting identifies development in the early 1970s, with sources commonly listing 1971, 1972, or 1977. Buyers should use the applicable building and property records for a particular residence.

How large are the condominiums?

The commonly advertised floor plan is approximately 1,850 square feet, generally with two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Does The Diplomat have a swimming pool?

Yes. The community features a large heated swimming pool and heated spa.

What other amenities are available?

Residents enjoy a poolside building with restrooms and showers, dry saunas, elevators, landscaped grounds, and secure underground parking.

Does The Diplomat have an HOA?

Yes. The community has a homeowners association. Monthly assessments vary, and buyers should verify the current amount and included services.

Is The Diplomat on leased land?

Yes. The Diplomat is on leased tribal land. Buyers should carefully review the current lease documents before purchasing.

When does the land lease expire?

Publicly available sources conflict, with some reporting an expiration around 2041–2042 and others reporting 2089. The current legal lease and any extensions should be verified through the association and title company.

Is The Diplomat close to shopping and restaurants?

Yes. Its location near Smoke Tree Shopping Center and East Palm Canyon Drive provides convenient access to shopping, restaurants, and everyday services.

Explore Homes for Sale in The Diplomat

If you are considering buying or selling at The Diplomat, explore the available condominiums and discover the appeal of this distinctive South Palm Springs community.

With spacious residences, a heated pool and spa, underground parking, landscaped grounds, and convenient access to shopping and restaurants, The Diplomat offers a unique condominium lifestyle.

Explore current homes for sale at The Diplomat and discover the possibilities of living in this established Palm Springs community.

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