Condominiums and apartments are driving urban renewal as a younger generation and empty-nesters seek homes where they can live, work and play, according to the National Association of Home Builders. The condo market in particular has been thriving as more people opt for a lifestyle that allows them to live near their jobs as well as restaurants, entertainment and public transportation. Gary Bensen, president of Chicago-based Garrison Partners, said that condos made up 30 percent of new multifamily starts in 2004, a record-high percentage.