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Fiddler's Creek. FL Strong Sales Prompts Builders to Begin Construction

Fiddler's Creek, FL enjoys demand for new homes.

Fiddler’s Creek, Naples, FL Strong sales activity in Fiddler’s Creek has prompted three well-respected preferred homebuilders to begin construction on several more new homes there. Pre-construction residences at Fiddler’s Creek currently start in the $300,000s and are being offered by D.R. Horton, Lennar Homes and Stock Construction. These homebuilders are building in several distinctive villages, each of which will feature new luxury homes ready for next season. Send me more information about Fiddler’s Creek!

About Fiddler's Creek

Fiddler’s Creek is an award-wining private, master-planned residential community located just off Collier Boulevard between Naples and Marco Island. Among its many accolades is its selection as the “Best Community” in the Southwest Florida Readers’ Choice Awards.

Fiddler’s Creek stretches out over nearly 4,000 acres and will ultimately have 6,000 residences. With a density of just 1.6 homes per gross acre, Fiddler’s Creek will have about 100 distinct neighborhoods upon completion. Less than a third of the land will be developed, while the rest is dedicated to nature reserves, lakes, parks, golf courses and recreational areas.

Golf & Beach Club

Amenities at Fiddler’s Creek include the 54,000-sf club & spa, fitness center, multi-pool swimming complex, tennis courts, tot lot and restaurants as well as an extensive social calendar for the entire family.

Residents also have an opportunity to join The Golf Club, ranked in Golfweek‘s ’100 Best Residential Golf Courses’ in the United States for the eighth consecutive year, and The Tarpon Club, offering a desirable beach and boating lifestyle. Fiddler’s Creek has also been awarded the 2012 Sand
Dollar Award as “Community of the Year” by the Collier Building Industry Association (CBIA).

The Tarpon Club at Fiddler’s Creek

Residents seeking the beach and boating lifestyle can join the Tarpon Club. Located just down the road in the Isles of Capri, the Tarpon Club features a full-service marina, beach pavilion at Marco Beach Ocean Resort, luxurious resort and spa privileges and much more.

The Tarpon Club Marina is centrally located on the Isles of Capri, providing direct boating access to the Gulf of Mexico and scenic backwaters. The Tarpon Club Marina accommodates approximately 140 boats up to 36 feet in length.

A Full-Service Marina

The marina offers wet slips and a fully covered and enclosed dry storage, providing boaters with protection from the sun, rain and wind.

All wet slips within The Tarpon Club Marina are available for rental to the general public on a
first-come, first-served basis. Other services include complimentary ice and boat fuel upon request, unlimited one-hour advance pre-launch, and upon your return boat removal from water, engine flush and rinse.

Fidder’s Creek offers a wide variety of homes for sale. Send me more information about Fiddler’s Creek!

 

Boca Woods Country Club, FL Opens New Golf Complex

Boca Woods Country Club, Boca Raton FL recently held the grand opening of its brand-new golf practice and coaching complex. The new range and scoring-shot practice area are stocked with high quality Titleist NXT practice balls at no extra charge to members and guests.

The extra-wide range design features an expansive double-tier practice area seeded with lush paspalum grass. The redesigned practice putting and chipping greens feature MiniVerde ultradwarf Bermuda turfgrass and fresh sand in the practice bunker. Free clinics are offered weekly.  Send me more information about Boca Woods!

About Boca Woods Country Club

Founded in 1981, Boca Woods is a private, gated club community located in Boca Raton. Boca Woods offers an upscale and active lifestyle in a relaxed and comfortable country club setting.

Recognized for its 36 holes of newly renovated championship golf, Boca Woods also has an elegant clubhouse for dining and socializing. As a result of mandatory membership, the club has great fiscal strength and enjoys an enviable financial position among South Florida country clubs.

Challenging Golf

With only 530 golf members and two challenging 18-hole golf courses, Boca Woods offers two of the lowest-density, private courses in south Palm Beach County. Members can choose to play from six sets of tees and enjoy pristine conditions and the option to have their own golf cart. The Woods Course, designed by legendary architect, Joe Lee, and the Lakes Course designed by Karl Litten, have been completely renovated with the help of renowned golf course architect, Kipp Schulties.

The courses are quite different, but equally challenging, so that both high and low handicappers can enjoy play. The newly designed practice facilities include an expansive driving range, practice green, sand bunker and chipping area. An experienced PGA staff offers year-round tournaments, interclub competition, golf instruction and free weekly clinics.

Tennis

Members also enjoy eight championship Har Tru clay tennis courts, year-round league play, socials and
round-robin mixers all organized by the USPTA Director of Tennis. A new hitting wall, remote ball machine, complimentary weekly clinics and private and group instruction make training and learning fun.

Fitness

Members workout in the club’s fitness facility which is replete with state-of-the-art equipment, a cardio studio, and an outdoor heated swimming pool. An experienced staff, managed by a Certified TrainingDirector, helps members achieve their fitness goals with a variety of exercise options that utilize the latest equipment and fitness trends.  Send me more information about Boca Woods!

Kiawah Island, SC Announces Work on Andell Inn at Freshfields Village, w/ 100 Rooms, Dining, Retail

Kiawah Island, SC reports that Local Hotel Adventures, an independent hotel management company, has commenced construction of The Andell Inn, a boutique hotel at Freshfields Village, the mixed-use dining and retail destination located at the crossroads of Kiawah, Seabrook and Johns Islands.

Named for famous island settlers, the hotel will feature 100 rooms and is slated for completion in early 2014. Send me more information about Kiawah Island!

New Red Ledges, UT Clubhouse Will Offer Swimming, Fitness, Tennis, Grill & More

Red Ledges, Heber City UT, which has added approximately 75 new member families in the past 15 months, plans to break ground on a new clubhouse next spring.

The clubhouse will be part of the expanding Club Commons at Red Ledges which includes the Swim & Fitness Club, the Cliff  Drysdale tennis courts, the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, Jim  McLean Golf School, and the Juniper Grill. Construction is expected to  be completed in 2014. Send me more information about Red Ledges!

New Village Point Neighborhood Overlooks The Reserve Marina, Provides Easy Access to Golf

New Lakeview Neighborhood at Lake Keowee

There's a new neighborhood at The Reserve at Lake Keowee, SC, and visitors are saying it's "like having Lake Keowee and The Reserve amenities all to yourself." Fourteen new homes and sites nestle in this new The Reserve Village, where they enjoy elevated private views along its waterfront park.

The marina is nearly at your doorstep.

A full-service 200-slip marina and boardwalk provide easy access to the water and all the family-fun amenities are just a short walk or golf cart ride away. These new homes are priced from the mid-$600,000s.

View floor plans, pricing, and options for Village Point.

A favorite lake and mountain escape for residents of Atlanta's Northside (90 minutes by car), The Reserve at Lake Keowee brings together all that you love about the southern lifestyle--fun lakefront amenities, year-round golf and a multi-generational membership for the entire family.

Lake Keowee Discovery Packages from $145

You're invited to be a Guest Member and experience it all firsthand. Call 877-922-5253 (LAKE) to plan your real estate discovery visit to The Reserve. Stay on-site in the village guest house, tee off on the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and discover homes as inspiring as the lake and mountain views. Send me more information.

The Reserve at Lake Keowee, SC, Releases 14 Homes in New Lakefront Neighborhood

Village Point: Lakefront living at The Reserve.

The Reserve at Lake Keowee has announced the release of 14 homes in its new Village Point neighborhood. Set along an area known as Marina Park, Village Point is just a stone’s throw from the community’s amenity filled waterfront Village.

Just as important, the release signals that The Reserve is “officially back in the development business,” says Chuck Pigg, community manager of the community and vice president of Greenwood Communities and Resorts (the community’s development partner).

“It feels great,” he continued,” to bring this new product to market after prudent dormancy during the real estate recession. Second, we are releasing our most compelling home packages to date. Never have we been able to sell property so close to the water at this price point.”

Community officials say the Village Point homes present a “trifecta of what second-home buyers are seeking: remarkable beauty and quality, flexible floor plans, and value.” Send me more information about Village Point at The Reserve

Value & Flexible Floor Plans

Village Point features three home plans, ranging in size from approximately 2,650 to 3,750 square feet, each of which may be customized by adding terrace levels, garages, and upper levels. 

Pricing for homes in Village Point begin in the mid-$600,000s, and the homes qualify for entry into the community’s residential rental program.

The neighborhood is located within five minutes or less by foot or golf cart from 10 of The Reserve’s most popular amenities. Inside the grounds, Village Point is a haven on the water, featuring pedestrian pathways accented by statuary and manicured landscaping.

The Quintessential Lake Cottage

“The architecture of the Village Point at The Reserve at Lake Keowee will be, in essence, the quintessential summer lake cottage,” says Lew Oliver, architect of the project.

“Found in lake districts and coastal villages of the Eastern Seaboard, the homes are free-form vernacular and shingle styled, with asymmetrical gables, ribbon windows, and rambling porches. 

“Designed for capturing the summer breezes, the designs are open and casual. Interiors will be comfortable and non-pretentious, but with a nod to style. 

The finish palette includes mountain rock, handmade brick, wood shingles and siding, with Arts and Crafts period colors. 

Clustered on the most prominent peninsula in The Reserve, the village will be entirely pedestrian friendly, convenient to the Town Center, with boat slips, clubhouse and amenities only minutes away on foot.

“We already have a handful of reservations for specific homes and feel that the neighborhood is being very well received,” says Rutledge Livingston, The Reserve at Lake Keowee’s Director of Sales. Send me more information about Village Point at The Reserve

Renaissance Club, Scotland, Announces Improvements to Expand Course & Clubhouse

Renaissance Golf Club, Scotland: Rugged coastal beauty.

The 300-acre Renaissance Golf Club, which looks out from an internationally known coastal golf location in East Lothian, Scotland, has announced a £5million investment in new course facilities.

Improvements will include the creation of an iconic clubhouse and the construction of a three-hole extension to the golf course which runs along a stunning peninsula overlooking the Firth of Forth. 

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The Clubhouse will open in summer 2013 before
the British Open Championship at nearby Muirfield
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The Renaissance Club which opened in 2008, has almost 200 domestic and international members from counties across Europe, Asia and the USA.  The new investment and facilities at the club are expected to attract considerable new membership interest.

The latest developments at the Renaissance Club will take the total investment to date to over £20 million, all of which has been funded by the owners - the Sarvadi family, private members and individual investors.

The Clubhouse is expected to be completed in early summer of 2013 in advance of the British Open Championship at nearby Muirfield. The new facility, which will cover 34,000 square feet over four floors, will feature extensive hospitality, accommodation and leisure facilities.  Key features include private dining, a wine cellar and tasting area, snug bar, international business centre alongside private gym and treatment rooms. 

The clubhouse will have a number of viewing areas and terraces overlooking the 9^th hole, 18^th green and 8^th green and fairway.  The upper floor of the new clubhouse will feature six luxury bedroom apartments to complement the existing 14 luxury suites in the club’s existing upscale lodge accommodation. 

The golf course extension which is being designed by award winning US golf architect, Tom Doak, who originally worked with the owners to create the Renaissance course, will be ready for play from early summer 2013.  The extension features three new holes 9, 10 and 11 which will have dramatic new views overlooking the Firth of Forth and will add considerably to both the course features and playing challenge.

Beyond the clubhouse development and course extension, the Renaissance owners are also considering the creation of a stand-alone, 20-bedroom luxury lodge in the longer term. This would add to the Club’s accommodation and leisure facilities for international guests and their families.

Immediately adjacent to the west of The Renaissance Club is the world famous Muirfield golf course owned by the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers (HCEG). To the east are 36 holes of golf known as Archerfield Links designed by European Senior Tour professional David J. Russell. Slightly further east is another world-renowned golf course named North Berwick West Links.

Owen Glen Announces New Home Construction, Model Home to Open by Spring

Owen Glen, a 350-acre master-planned community located between Blairsville, GA, and Murphy, NC, has announced plans to build a new furnished model home and a built-for-sale home.  

The new model home is a farm house featuring 2,280 sq. ft. with a wrap-around porch on three sides. Across the back is a screened porch with a handsome outdoor stone fireplace. The 3-bedroom, 3-bath home is located on a one-acre homesite with panoramic views of mountains and beautiful North Georgia landscape. Send me more information.

Luxury Appointments
Luxury appointments and finishes will include granite countertops, wood floors, high ceilings and detailed mouldings.  A spacious two-car garage will easily accommodate a work bench.  

Paul Gibson Construction from Blairsville is building the home.  Construction is planned to start this month. The professionally decorated and fully furnished home is planned to open for tours next spring.

This farm house-style home features wrap-around porch and cozy fireplace.

On-Your-Lot Home
America’s Home Place, the nation’s No. 1 on-your-lot custom home builder, has also announced plans to build a new home in Owen Glen. This will be the fifth home built in the private community by America’s Home Place and the second built for sale. Their first home was purchased this year by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gellinger, who were among Owen Glen’s first permanent residents. 

The new America’s Home Place residence will command excellent views from a mountain-view homesite. Current plans call for a traditional farm-house design with a wide wrap-around porch, with 2,250 heated sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 2-car garage. Send me more information.

Custom Crafted
Custom-crafted features will include a spacious great room with coffered ceiling, eat-in kitchen with granite countertops, hardwood floors, stacked-stone fireplace, spacious master suite, covered porches and deck.  Construction will begin after the first of the year and should take about 90 days to complete. The home is expected to be priced about $315,000. An early buyer would have the opportunity to make personal selections and customize the home.

In addition to these new homes, Barbic stated that several Owen Glen property owners are now in the design and planning stages and will be finalizing plans to build custom homes in early spring.

Homesites with Views
Homesites at Owen Glen include golf, woodland and mountain views, range in size from .75 acre to over 5 acres and are priced from $40,000, with special bank financing available from United Community Bank.

At the heart of the community is Old Union golf course, a 7,667-yard championship length course designed and owned by renowned architect Denis Griffiths, the only American asked to design a golf course in St. Andrews, Scotland. The course, which is open to the public, offers a variety of affordable membership programs. Owen Glen’s property owners also enjoy fishing in stocked creeks, picnic and play areas, and tennis courts. Send me more information.

Top 20 Healthiest Real Estate Markets Signal the Start of Long-Awaited Recovery

Horn Rapids in Richland, WA, a Top 20 Hottest Market.

Rising home prices, job gains, and improvement in median incomes will drive the healthiest markets over the next year and a half, says Builder.com. To see the Top 20 Healthiest Markets in 2012, see below.

Builder.com works with Hanley Wood Market Intelligence to compile a list of the healthiest housing markets in the U.S., based on forward projections for the metrics that drive housing production--jobs, price appreciation, population growth and income growth.

The projections come from Moody's Economy.com. Moody's projects that building permit activity may double in some of the very hottest of these markets, as the long-awaited housing recovery takes hold.

We've added to this list GCH Network-featured golf and waterview communities that may benefit from these healthier markets. The benefit to you is a head's up that the prices you are seeing at these communities may soon be going up as the market improves and that now is the time to get your best value.

Top 20 Healthiest Housing Markets in the U.S.

1. Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington Minn.-Wisc.  Health Index: 91.6

2. Fort Collins-Loveland, Colo.  Health Index: 89.4

3. Salt Lake City, Utah  Health Index: 88.9

Red Ledges, Heber City,  45 miles

4. Jacksonville, Fla.  Health Index: 84.0

World Golf Village, St. Augustine, 39 miles

Glenmoor, St. Augustine

Grand Haven, Palm Coast, 62 miles

 5. Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach, Fla.  Health Index: 82.0

Boca Woods Country Club, Boca Raton, 45 miles

 

 6. Charlottesville, Va.  Health Index: 81.0

 7. Colorado Springs, Colo.  Health Index: 80.9

 8. Oklahoma City, Okla. Health Index: 80.5

 9. Bradenton-Sarasota-Venice, Fla.  Health Index: 79.5

10. Denver, Colo.  Health Index: 76.7

 

11. San Antonio, Texas  Health Index: 76.3

12. Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, Va.-N.C.  Health Index: 75.8

Colonial Heritage, Williamsburg, Virginia – 20.8 miles

Ford's Colony, Williamsburg, Virginia

Governors Land at Two Rivers, Williamsburg, Virginia

Greensprings West, Williamsburg, Virginia

Kiln Creek, Newport News, Virginia

Kingsmill, Williamsburg, Virginia

13. Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C.-Va.-Md.-W.Va.  Health Index: 74.7

Dominion Valley Country Club, Haymarket,

Regency at Dominion Valley, Haymarket, Virginia

14. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, Wisc.  Health Index: 73.8

15. Richmond, Va.  Health Index: 73.8

Viniterra, New Kent 28 miles

16. Lexington-Fayette, Ky.  Health Index: 73.4

17. Kennewick-Richland-Pasco, Wash.  Health Index: 73.1

Horn Rapids, Richland

18. Austin-Round Rock, Texas  Health Index: 72.2

Barton Creek Resort & Spa, Austin, Texas

19. Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown, Texas   Health Index: 72.1

20. Greeley, Colo.  Health Index: 72

See the complete story at Builder.com.

 

ICI Homes Starts Construction at Plantation Bay, FL for 2012 Parade of Homes

Plantation Bay, FL: Design for 2012 Parade of Homes house. 

ICI Homes has started construction of the “Showcase Home” for the 2012 Volusia Building Industry Association’s Parade of Homes at Plantation Bay Golf & Country Club in Ormond Beach.

Rosemary Messina, vice president of sales and marketing for ICI Homes, said the home builder is building a customized version of the Valverde model home at Plantation Bay to serve as the coveted “Showcase Home.”

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The Parade of Homes is scheduled
for March 24 to April 8, 2012
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The 2012 Volusia Home Builders Association’s Parade of Homes is scheduled from March 24 through April 8 next year.

Messina said the Valverde model home offers a one-story design with four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths in more than 3,000 square feet of living space.

Featuring an open floor plan, the Valverde model home offers grand foyer and gallery, a huge kitchen designed and equipped for entertaining, spacious great room and master suite with many designer touches.

The Valverde will also feature EFACTOR standards which is ICI’s Energy Wise Program.

The “Showcase Home” is located at Woodbridge Estates at Plantation Bay in Ormond Beach, FL.

Floorplan for the Showcase Home at Plantation Bay.

 

 

New Hospital to Be Built Across from Active Adult Community Solivita, FL

Solivita, FL: Medical facilities to add to resident amenities.

Avatar Holdings Inc. has completed the sale of a 45-acre parcel of land across from its Solivita active adult community in Poinciana to Hospital Corporation of America. The company plans to build an emergency medical facility, medical office building and an initial 60-bed hospital.

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Medical resources will include emergency
facilities, offices and a 60-bed hospital
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The 45-acre site is located on Cypress Parkway, just west of Solivita Boulevard. The price of the transaction was not disclosed. Request more information.

Avatar Chief Executive Officer Allen J. Anderson said the sale puts quality healthcare literally across the street from Solivita’s 10,000 residents. Anderson said he expects the construction of the new hospital to have a positive effect on both the local economy and Solivita sales.

“This project will bring new employment opportunities to Poinciana residents. That will translate into a much more prosperous local economy and likely create many new business opportunities,” he said. “I know that the presence of a new, technologically advanced hospital right across the street from Solivita will create new interest in our community and certainly serve as a catalyst for new sales,” he added. Request more information.

Treasure Lake, PA Announces Completion of Its First Arts & Crafts Bungalow

Treasure Lake, DuBbois, PA: New Bungalow is ready.

Treasure Lake in DuBbois, PA, has finished its first re-built bungalow--a year in the making--and it is now available for purchase.

"There is no home more American than the Arts & Crafts Bungalow," says Elaine Rhodes, the realtor who is marketing the bungalows at Treasure Lake, "which is why it is known as the "American" Bungalow."

Living room, Treasure Lake Bungalow.

In the 19th century the bungalow became America's first national home design and could be found in every region of the country, enjoying its greatest popularity from the end of the 19th century through the 1930s. It is known for its "simply" beautiful style, its ability to blend in with the environment and its enduring representation of strong family values. Send me more info.

Bedroom, Treasure Lake Bungalow.

Bungalows are usually one or one-and-a-half story with at least one bedroom on the first floor and have a large front porch. Rafter tails, decorative brackets and natural materials such as stone, wood clapboard and shake shingles grace their exteriors.

Living room and kitchen, Treasure Lake Bungalow.

Porch columns are often tapered (smaller at the top and wider at the bottom) giving them the appearance of anchoring the home to the earth. They may have pergolas with vining ivy or flowers that bond the bungalow even more with its natural surroundings.

As Gustav Stickley said, bungalows are based on the "fundamental principals of honesty, simplicity and usefulness--the kind of houses that children will rejoice all their lives to remember as home."

This bungalow, which is now for sale, will be featured in 'Cottages and Bungalows' magazine later this year.

For more information, contact Elaine Rhodes, or visit the Treasure Lake page to learn more about the community.

Savannah Quarters Holds Grand Opening for Maintenance-Free Villas, Townhomes

Savannah Quarters, GA: New one-story living.

Close to 50 potential buyers attended the Grand Opening of Savannah Quarters' new maintenance-free Westbrook Villas at Savannah Quarters this past weekend. The spotlight was on new floor plans featured in two models and the special pricing being offered on the first three pre-sales. Send me more information.

The Habersham, a new plan to the Savannah golf community, offers three bedrooms and two baths in a single-story design. This plan also includes a newly designed kitchen with a spacious island for casual dining.

The Oglethorpe is the current Villa floor plan, but can now be built as a single-story maintenance-free home with two bedrooms and two baths. Send me more information.

Harry Shore and Tommy Blanton of Shore-Blanton Construction, custom home builders at Westbrook Villas,  are offering standard features in the new designs including true custom cabinetry, granite counters in the kitchen; granite or marble counters in the baths, #1 and select-grade, high-quality hardwood flooring and tile in the master bath shower, plus energy efficient windows and optional spray foam insulation with variable speed air handlers.

Special pricing is now available for a limited time on the first three pre-sales--$249,000 plus $11,000 in select free upgrades. Send me more information.

PGA Village Verano Announces Phase II Construction Begins This Month

Exciting news from the world of PGA Village Verano. Construction begins this month on Phase II of this welcoming and affordable Port St. Lucie golf community, one of the most popular new home developments on the Treasure Coast.

Like Phase I, Phase II will have a range of floor plans available in varying sizes at a varying price points. There will also be two new floorplans available in Phase II - the Bella Sera and the Collina models. Send more more information now.

Spacious single family homes, the Bella Sera and the Collina will round out an already extensive portfolio of offerings at Verano. Phase II will be offering the same golf amenities, high-end finishes and upgrades as Phase I, as well as use of the elegant clubhouse, pool, fitness center, bocce courts and more. Send more more information now.

Kiawah Island to Celebrate Earth Day & Newest Neighborhood on April 22nd

Sample home at Kiawah Island's newest neighborhood, Indigo Park.

You're invited to join Kiawah Island Real Estate on Earth Day, April 22nd from 10am - 4pm as the community celebrates the launch of Kiawah's newest neighborhood, Indigo Park.

Guests will enjoy light island fare and live entertainment while they take in the expansive marsh views from the viewing platform at the Interpretative Center and learn more about Indigo Park's living options, eco-conscious materials and construction techniques.

A collection of 16 green-conscious homes, Indigo Park is aiming to become the first LEED Certified community within a residential resort. Located just beyond the second gate, Indigo Park is the vision of Dyal Compass, LLC and is coming to fruition with the help of Christopher Rose Architects and Royal Indigo Construction. Learn more here.

Anderson Creek Club, NC, Celebrates 'Open House' Month w/ Incentives to $25K

Anderson Creek Club, NC: Home to Davis Love III course.

April is Open House month at Anderson Creek Club and the first week is kicking off with special discounts and incentives provided by the Spring Lake, NC, community's new home builders.

Select move-in ready homes have been either discounted in price or given a special Buyer’s Incentive allowance of anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000. The incentive can be used in any way the buyer wishes except to receive cash back at closing.

Two new model homes are open for showings and six new homes were sold the first week. New condos and townhomes are available from $139,900 to $269,900.

New homes range from $229,900 for Carriage Homes, and go up to $699,000 for conventional homes. Custom homes are priced from $350,000 to $1M. Request more information.


Craftsman Bungalows, New & Renewed, Now Offered at Treasure Lake, PA

Craftsman Bungalow at Treasure Lake, PA.

Treasure Lake, Pennsylvania, a gated community approximately 2 hours from Pittsburgh and 1 hour and 15 minutes from State College, home of Penn State University, announces a new real estate offering in the building and re-building of Craftsman Bungalows. Send me more information.

The antithesis of plastic (vinyl) homes without character and brimming with warmth and unity with nature, the American Bungalow has come to the forefront of popuarlity again.

The bungalow became America's first national house design from 1880 to 1930 and could be found in every region of the country. Bungalows are usually one or one-and-a-half story with at least one bedroom on the first floor and have a large front porch.

Charming front door.

Rafter tails, decorative brackets and natural materials such as stone, wood clapboard and shake shingles grace their exteriors. Porch columns are often tapered (smaller at the top and wider at the bottom) giving them the appearance of anchoring the home to the earth.

They may have pergolas with vining ivy or flowers that bond the bungalow even more with its natural surroundings. They are usually seen in a natural setting but can also be found in more urban environments in walking distance to town conveniences. Send me more information.

As Gustav Stickley, one of the leaders of the American Arts and Crafts movement in the early 20th century said, bungalows are based on the "fundamental principals of honesty, simplicity and usefulness--the kind of houses that children will rejoice all their lives to remember as home."

Buyers Only Realty Treasure Lake Properties is marketing bungalow designs that you can build or are available for purchase through its website, http://www.lakegolfproperties.com. The company will also be adding links to other websites that display handcrafted furniture, textiles and bungalow accessories.

If you would like more information about buying or building a bungalow in Treasure Lake, please contact Elaine Rhodes. The first bungalow, which has has been re-built from the studs up, will be available for purchase this spring. Ask about the Open House that will be held this spring before the bungalow goes on the market.

Forty-Six 18-Hole Equivalent Golf Courses Opened in 2010 as Golf Tries to Rebound

The National Golf Foundation NGF tracked 46 18-hole equivalent golf course openings in 29 states in 2010 with Pennsylvania, Illinois, Florida, North Carolina and Texas hosting the most openings.

The openings were opposed by 107 closures, making 2010 the fifth consecutive year that closures have outpaced openings.

However, the total net loss of 220 18-hole courses from 2006-2010 represents just 1.5% of the total supply. And the 2010 net loss of 61 courses in 2010 represents less than one half of one percent of total supply. Considering the severity of the recession, one could argue that golf has held its ground reasonably well.

Here are some of the details emerging from NGF’s newly released Golf Facilities in the U.S. report, 2011 edition:

    * There were openings in 29 states.

    * Of the 46 openings, more than 60% were daily fee

    * There are currently more than 80 U.S. golf course projects under construction (excluding renovations)

    * States with the most openings in 2010 were Pennsylvania, Illinois, Florida, North Carolina and Texas

    * The region with the most courses currently under construction is the South Atlantic with 16.5 courses.

    * The total facility count at the end of 2010 stood at 15,890, 167 less than the all-time high of 16,057 in 2004. And the current number of 18-hole equivalents is 14,904.5, which is less than the number of facilities due to the large number of stand-alone 9-holers (4,382).

Reserve at Lake Keowee, SC, Breaks Ground on New Guest House Cottage

The Reserve at Lake Keowee, SC, recently celebrated the groundbreaking of its new Guest House Cottages neighborhood, a collection of retreat homes located in the heart of the community’s Village.

Plans for four Guest House Cottages were announced in December 2010. Within in a matter of weeks, at a time when real estate sales traditionally lag, three of the four Guest House Cottages on the market were sold.

Tucked among stately pine trees that border The Reserve’s Guest House--a six-suite, custom-built  bed and breakfast style inn--these Mill Creek-designed cottages feature a post and beam construction, an open floor plan with vaulted ceilings, and an abundance of natural materials and natural light, giving them a much larger feel than their average 1,860 heated square feet.

Each cottage is actually 2,250 square feet when including a screen room with fireplace and various decks. The average price is $488,650. Request more information.

Guest House Cottages Features

• Mill Creek Post & Beam Design
• Approximately 1,800 sq. ft. Rustic Style Cottage
• Rough sawn wood siding with natural stone accents and cedar shake roof
• Located in The Reserve’s Village, adjacent to the Guest House, within easy walk to the Orchard House Clubhouse and all amenities
• Two floor plans, each with three bedrooms, including a generous master suite
• Spacious, open great room with vaulted ceilings and a bank of windows allowing for plenty of natural light
• Kitchen with custom cabinetry, granite counter tops
• Two natural stone fireplaces (in great room and on screened porch)
• Hardwood floors in all main living areas
• Laundry room, pantry storage and owner’s closet
• Screened porch with outdoor fireplace
• Professionally landscaped grounds maintained by the neighborhood association
• Rental program available through The Reserve’s club concierge services, including guest privileges to breakfast and evening wine and cheese served daily in the Guest House

The Guest House Cottages are a collaborative effort between The Reserve at Lake Keowee and Pyramid Construction, Inc., the builder and general contractor of the project. Led by Karl Knauff, an owner and resident of The Reserve at Lake Keowee since 2003, Pyramid Construction has more than a decade’s history building first-class facilities at The Reserve, including the community’s pool complex, tennis facilities, main gate Greeter’s Cottage, and halfway house on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.

Two of the three sold Guest House Cottages will be completed this summer, on a six-month build schedule, while the third cottage will be completed in the early fall. Request more information.

About The Reserve at Lake Keowee 

The Reserve spans 30 miles of shoreline on Lake Keowee with convenient access to Greenville, Asheville, and Clemson University, and more than $100 million in completed family amenities including a 200-slip Marina and Village Center, Guest House, Pool Complex and Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course.

The community has approximately 650 members from 30 different states.  Members and their extended families—including parents, grandparents, children, and grandchildren – enjoy club privileges under the new, multi-generational Legacy Membership program.

The Reserve was created in 2000 by Greenwood Communities and Resorts, and features 3,900 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains including 1,400 acres of parks, preserves, trails and green space. Homesites begin in the $100,000s. Request more information.

Carolina Colours, NC Announces New Release of Affordable Lakefront Homesites

Carolina Colours features a 7,100-yard championship golf course by William R Love

Carolina Colours, New Bern, NC, has announced its newest neighborhood, Waterleaf. The new enclave features 13 homesites, nine of which front 25-acre Carolina Lake which sits at the heart of the community. Three of the homesites have already been sold.

The first residence, a custom home, is going under constructiion the first week of February. All homesites
cover more than half an acre, with most between .6 and .74 acres. Request more information.

All lots have access from a cul-de-sac and all roads and utilities to Waterleaf are in. Homesite prices range from $49,500 to $159,500.

Approved builders are available who have purchased lots and are selling a constructed home and the lot to qualified buyers. Home and lot prices, depending on the home, range from $225,000 to $425,000 on the least expensive site. Request more information.

Upbeat Stats Tell the Story of St. James Plantation's 20 Years of Solid Growth

The Reserve Clubhouse, as it looked last April, is now nearing completion.

St. James Properties, LLC and St. James Plantation is celebrating 20 years of continuing accomplishments as a growing and top-quality golf and waterfront community in Southport, NC. Despite the overall tough real estate environment in 2010, the community emerged from the year with plenty to cheer about.

Here are the stats:

    *   In 2010, St. James Plantation welcomed more than 170 families and now boasts nearly 4,000 property owners

    *   Real estate sales totaled more than $42.9 million in 2010, helping the community to retain its No. 1 selling position in the Coastal Carolinas--a perch it has maintained for the past 20 years

    *   St. James Plantation continues to be the top real estate company in the area for total listings and sold property

    *   First-class amenities continue to be a top priority--The Reserve Clubhouse and The SeaSide Club will be both be opening in 2011

Click here to request more information about St. James Plantation

Solivita, FL, Unveils Plans for New Model Park of New and Updated Model Homes

Solivita, FL: Updating model homes, adding new ones.

Solivita®, an award-winning active adult (55+) community located in Central Florida, recently unveiled plans for a new model park in which the luxury homebuilder will debut new and refreshed models in two phases.

The first phase is the updating and reconfiguring several floorplans that are no longer offered in Solivita. The reconfigured model homes will be named the Cordoba, the Madrid, the Aragon, the Marseille and the Tangier. Solivita has engaged Masterpiece Interiors to help with the conversion of these models. Send me more info.

Discovery Days Visit Program
Solivita is also releasing an additional five model homes targeted for use in its well-received Discovery Days program. This program allows people to stay on-site for three days and two nights in one of the community’s fully furnished homes. Send me more info.

Due to the overwhelming popularity of the Discovery Days program, these five models will be updated to ensure availability for potential Solivita residents who would like to immerse themselves in the community before they buy.

The second phase of the model park will involve the construction and development of five brand new model homes.

The model park will be closed while construction is underway. Interested homebuyers will have the option to tour completed field models of the majority of these new floorplans in addition to the community’s sophisticated floorplan gallery and extensive collateral materials alongside experienced and dedicated sales staff.

For more information about any of the model homes located within the model park, please call 1-877-889-7060. Send me more info. Model homes are being constructed in phases, with Phase I scheduled to open in late 2010 and Phase II scheduled to open in Spring 2011.

Champion Hills, NC, Announces Start of New Maintenance-Free Townhomes

Champion Hills, NC: Mountain views, maintenance-free living.

Champion Hills, home to a celebrated Tom Fazio championship golf course located five miles from downtown Hendersonville, N.C., announces the planned start of construction later this month on Azalea Ridge, a new 20-unit, maintenance-free townhome development set within the community. Request more information.

The Asheville-based real estate development firm and contractor Lifestyle Homes of Distinction will be constructing the new neighborhood.

Azalea Ridge will feature 20 maintenance-free, Arts & Crafts-influenced townhomes, some with mountain views and others overlooking the 5^th hole and 6^th tee of the Champion Hills course, ranked by Golf Digest as one of the top five courses in North Carolina. Thanks to the area’s temperate climate, the course is playable during all four seasons.

Azalea Ridge is the first new maintenance-free offering at Champion Hills in more than 10 years.

Champion Hills offers amenities such as a lodge-style clubhouse and dining room with spectacular views, heated pool and hydro-spa, soft-surface tennis courts and instruction, fitness center with personal trainer and an extensive system of walking trails.

Azalea Ridge presales have just begun, and construction starts this month. Prudential Lifestyle Realty, the third-largest real estate firm in Western North Carolina and sister company to Lifestyle Homes of Distinction, maintains an on-site sales consultant team at Champion Hills. For more information, please call Joe Pelletiere or Derek Hawkins at 828-693-0072.

New Communities Newsletter, October 26: Forest Dunes Golf Club Joins GCH Network

    ~  GolfCourseHome®Network ~
   NEW COMMUNITIES Newsletter 
Vol. 12, No. 557 Tuesday, October 26, 2010 Circulation: 30,000

   ---------------------------------------------------

Forest Dunes Golf Club, MI: Fishing, hiking, great golf.

 Today's Headlines

    *  Forest Dunes Golf Club Joins GolfCourseHome
    *  Deals and Specials of the Week
    *  Community News and Updates
    *  Special Community Events
    *  Best Real Estate Deals of 2010
    *  Best Stay 'n Play Deals of 2010 
    *  Golf Magazine's Top 100 Courses You Can Play (& Live On)
    *  Recently Added to GolfCourseHome & WaterviewHome  
    *  This Month's Spotlighted Communities 
    *  New Communities Coming Online Soon!  
    *  Watch for our next issue, coming Friday, October 29th!

 Good Morning! We are pleased to announce the addition of Forest Dunes Golf Club, an environmentally progressive community in upper Michigan, to the GolfCourseHome Network.

Home to a Tom Weiskopf Signature golf course that has earned the elusive Signature Golf Sanctuary status from Audubon International, the community is presided over by a grand Adirondack lodge-style clubhouse.

At Forest Dunes, sporting residents enjoy not only great golf but also fishing on the 27-acre Lake AuSable and outdoor pursuits such as hiking, hunting and bird-watching. See more details and new deals below!

NEW THIS WEEK ON GOLFCOURSEHOME.NET

MICHIGAN
=> Forest Dunes Country Club, Roscommon
Lodge-style clubhouse, Tom Weiskopf Signature golf course, fishing, homes from $259,000

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DEALS AND SPECIALS OF THE WEEK

> Hills Quarter, VA has reduced the price of its Featured Home to $399,000 from $432,000. Located In  The Adams in St. John’s section of the community, this warm, inviting home has beautiful views of a large natural pond on the 7th fairway of King Carter Golf Club. The Adams design features vaulted ceilings and a gas fireplace in the living room, two extra bedrooms and a large attached garage. Relax on the cozy covered front porch and an inviting back deck with excellent views. Click here for more information about Hills Quarter

> Sunset Dunes, Prince Edward Island, Canada, has reduced the price on its show beach home by $30,000 to $269,000, plus GST. This Craftsman Collection Home is encircled by private beach and sand dunes and features 3 main-level bedrooms, large sleeping loft with sitting and observation area, 2 baths with 1860 s.f. of interior living, plus 144 s.f. exterior screened room. A maintenance- and worry-free retreat, the home's furnishings and appliances can be included for an additional $22,000.00 or 4 appliances for $7,500. Click here for more information about Sunset Dunes.

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COMMUNITY NEWS AND UPDATES 

> Windmill Harbour, SC homes continue to move at a steady pace. In recent weeks two properties went from pending to closed. This activity follows up three new sales in September and four new sales in August. Other activity includes the arrival of two new listings on the market and seven listings undergoing price reductions--further evidence that sellers are heeding the market and adjusting prices appropriately. Click here for more information about Windmill Harbour

> St. James Plantation, NC reports that its Reserve Clubhouse is under construction and set for an on-schedule spring 2011 opening. The 24,000-sf beauty, to be the first LEED certified clubhouse in its region, was designed by award-winning Chapman Coyle Chapman Architects. It overlooks No. 18 green of the Nicklaus Design Reserve course and will offer members and guests multiple dining venues, including a Tuscan-style wine room for private parties. Click here for more information about St. James Plantation!

> The Landings on Skidaway Island, GA congratulates community resident Landon Trust, age 16, who finished rehabbing two significant injuries, to his foot and shoulder, and competed brilliantly in the Sea Island Tennis Championships to finish runner-up in the Boys 16s division. Click here for more information about The Landings!

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COMMUNITY SPECIAL EVENTS

> Daniel Island, SC claims a fair amount of the credit as Charleston, SC, takes home the title of ‘America’s Best Tennis Town.’ Enjoyed year-round, tennis hits the local spotlight each year with the Family Circle Cup tournament at Daniel Island Club’s spectacular 18-court tennis center. Not to be outdone, golf is big as well at Daniel Island with the start yesterday of the Nationwide Tour Championship. Click here for more information about Daniel Island

> The Bay Club, MA is hosting a fall series of evenings titled Exploring Healthy Living with noted author Dr. Lilian Cheung to discuss her new book "Savor--A Mindful Approach to Fitness, Eating and Life which she co-authored with Zen Buddhist master, Thich Nhat Hanh. Also this month, there will be a special viewing of the documentary film Food, Inc. which examines corporate farming in the U.S. and its attendant problems.  Click here for more information about The Bay Club

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GOLF MAGAZINE'S TOP 100 COURSES YOU CAN PLAY (& Live On)

> Golf Magazine's list of the "Top 100 Courses You Can Play" tabs several golf communities with public courses that are featured on GolfCourseHome.

While some people would rather not have the course open to the public, the big positive is that greens fees and other expenditures contribute to the operation of the course and the community, saving money for residents. As a buyer, you can visit and play the course and the community without introduction.

Rank  Previous  Name    Designer   Year Opened   Location

#14   14  Harbour Town, Pete Dye, Jack Nicklaus, 1969, Sea Pines Plantation, Hilton Head Island, SC

#24   17 The Homestead (Cascades), William Flynn, 1923, Hot Springs, VA

#45 NEW  Forest Dunes Golf Club , Tom Weiskopf, 2002, Roscommon, MI

#57   58  Reynolds Plantation (Oconee), Rees Jones, 2001, Greensboro, GA

#62   52  May River Golf Club at Palmetto Bluff, Jack Nicklaus, 2004, Bluffton, SC

#76   95  Resorts of Tullymore and St. Ives (Tullymore), Jim Engh, 2002, Stanwood, MI

#77   71  Barton Creek Resort (Fazio Foothills), Tom Fazio, 1986, Austin, TX

#82   76  Branson Creek Golf Club, Tom Fazio, 2000, Hollister, MO

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BEST DEALS OF 2010  

   >> Real Estate Deals

> GlenLakes Golf & Country Club, FL's “Steal of a Deal” featuring home price reductions below builder cost. Savings of up to 40% on brand new builder inventory homes with many luxury features.  Homes are located throughout our GlenLakes' landscaped neighborhoods and are available for immediate occupancy. Send me more info....

> Anderson Creek Club, NC's $25,000 Buyer’s Incentive runs thru the end of October on all Caviness & Cates homes. Apply the $25,000 toward closing costs, upgrades or anything else. Homes under this incentive range from $255,000 to $379,900 on the fairway. Send me more info...

> Willoughby Golf Club, FL’s price reduction to $345,000 from $399,000 on a 3BR/3-bath home that features a spacious living room which opens onto a large covered lanai. Also included is a built-in entertainment center and swimming pool.  Send me more info….

> Brickshire, VA’s price cut on a Milestone Custom Homes model down to $499,900. Home has fine golf views plus maintenance-free porch and deck. Fully upgraded, this model provides one-level living with top-grade appliances & granite plus luxury baths. Send me more info…

> SummerGlen, FL's $5,000 in free options and up to one year to start construction on your new home for any new homes sold in October, 2010. Free option and upgrade choices would include granite countertops, upgraded kitchen cabinetry, garage extension, hardwood flooring and a golf cart garage. Send me more info...

> PGA Village Verano, FL’s move-in-ready villa for $149,990. Featuring 2 BR/2 BAs and a 2-car garage in a single-story layout, this Amelia design villa has 10-foot ceilings, walk-in closets and gourmet kitchen. Send me more info.....

> The Communities at Branson Creek, MO’s outstanding values in the The Cliffs at Murder Rock golf course neighborhood. Two condos are each available for $349,900. Floor plans feature a combined living-dining-kitchen space, large master bedroom suites and more. Send me more info.…

> Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, FL's waiver from paying dues for 12  months--an $8,800 value--for the first 10 purchasers of property at the community after Oct. 1. A new purchaser will also have the option of paying the membership equity fee over time with no interest. Send me more info.....

> Oyster Bay Harbour, FL's attractive Lot & Boat Slip Special, priced at $199,000. The price includes a beautiful Live Oak wooded lot and a 40-foot boat slip in the marina, plus free membership to the Oyster Bay Yacht Club, a $3,500 value. Favorable financing terms are an added incentive—put 25 percent down and pay only 3 percent interest for 3 years... Send me more info...

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   >> Discovery & Stay'n Play Deals

> Reynolds Plantation, GA’s Cottage Getaway, valid thru Dec. 31, starts at $330 per night. Stay in a cottage on Lake Oconee or other luxury lodgings. Enjoy daily breakfast at the Plantation Grille, and dining in multiples fine venues. Daily housekeeping included. Send me more info …

> Ballyhack Golf Club, VA invites you to take advantage of its Stay & Play at Ballyhack special. Package includes an overnight stay in one of the club’s well-appointed golf course cottages, with two days of unlimited golf, dinner and a membership information package. Up to 4 people in a group permitted. Package price: $399/pp. Send me more info....

>  Casa Del Lago, Dominican Republic's  current featured role on Golf Channel’s Destination Golf and “The Big Break DOM” inspires a Big Break Stay' n Play  package, with two nights lodging at Casa Del Lago, two rounds of golf plus a day pass at the Costa Caribe beach hotel and casino. Send me more info...

>  Anderson Creek Club, NC’s Vacation Inspection Program lets visitors tour the community and play its Davis Love III-designed golf course. Priced from just $94 per night, package includes deluxe accommodations, breakfast, property tour and golf for two. Send me more info...

> Casa Del Lago, Dominican Republic's  Big Break DOM.'   Package includes 2 night's accommodation, 2 rounds of golf and Day Pass at the nearby Costa Caribe beach hotel and Casino (food & drinks included. Click Here for More Information about Casa Del Lago

> Cummings Cove Golf & Country Club, NC’s Autumn Golf Special in time for prime foliage viewing. Four can play for the price of three and enjoy 50-mile Blue Ridge Mountain views with fall colors in the higher elevations. Send me more info…

> Brunswick Forest, NC’s 3-day/2-night $179 Getaway Packages include luxury accommodations for two, golf at Cape Fear National, privileges at the community’s 18,000-sf Fitness and Wellness Center and FallFest food and fun events. Tour the community to see limited-time incentives for homesites beginning at $75,000. Send me more info…

> Indian River Colony Club, FL's Getaway Package for 3 days/2 nights, just $99, includes a round of golf for two and dinner at the community’s private At Ease Club. Tour will be hosted by an Indian River Colony Club resident. Send me more info....

> Harbour Ridge Yacht & Country Club, FL's new Stay & Play. For $450/couple, the package includes 2 nights in a fully equipped condominium or patio home, 2 rounds of golf for two, tennis, fitness center usage, 2 lunches, dinner and more. Send me more info....

> The Cliffs Communities, SC's 2-night ($229) or a 3-night Discovery Package ($299), including accommodations at the award-winning Bed & Breakfast Inn, La Bastide or at one of the private community homes. Call 888-750-4035 today to schedule your fall visit. Click here for more information about The Cliffs Communities!

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NEW THIS WEEK ON GOLFCOURSEHOME.NET

MICHIGAN
=> Forest Dunes Country Club, Roscommon
Lodge-style clubhouse, Tom Weiskopf Signature golf course, fishing, homes from $259,000

Forest Dunes Golf Club, centered in naturally beautiful Northern Michigan, is a 1,200-acre golf community recognized for environmental awareness--it is one of just 16 Audubon International Signature Gold Sanctuaries world-wide.

The community’s Tom Weiskopf signature golf course is 7,104-yards of beautiful fairways and greens ringed by the Huron National Forest and wends through dunes and towering pine trees. It was ranked No. 3 among all public-access golf courses in Michigan by Golfweek magazine.

The community's centerpiece is the 15,000-square-foot clubhouse. Inspired by Adirondack lodge architecture, it houses a private members' lounge, full-service locker rooms, spa and a formal lodge room, a private dining room and a an informal grill, meeting rooms and resort-style golf shop.

A View on Value with Lake Lots: Its 28-foot depth makes Lake AuSable tranquil as well as beautiful. A limited number of custom homesites along the golf course, on Lake AuSable and within the pine woods have been released for sale starting as low as $59,000.

Real Estate: Forest Dunes Golf Club, MI

• Custom homesites
• Priced from $59,000 to $250,000+
• Golf course, lake and wooded views
• Click here for more information about Forest Dunes!

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RECENTLY ADDED TO GOLFCOURSEHOME.NET  

MASSACHUSETTS
=> The Villages at Brookside, Bourne
Championship golf, clubhouse and grille, Cape beaches, “green” construction homes from $345,000

FLORIDA
=>  Solivita. Poinciana
55+ community, 36 holes, two clubhouses, fitness, aquatics, homes from the mid-$100,000s

 MASSACHUSETTS
=> The Residences at Black Rock, Hingham 
Master-planned community with private golf, grand clubhouse, homes from $950,000

VIRGINIA
=> Hills Quarter, Irvington
Master-planned, 475-acre community, championship golf, affordable designer homes 

=> Ballyhack Golf Club, Roanoke
Lester George-designed golf course, 11,500-square-foot clubhouse, homesites from the $170,000s 

=> River’s Bend Golf Club, Chester 
Championship golf course, swimming and racquet club, James River riverfront pier, homes from $250,000 

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RECENTLY ADDED TO WATERVIEWHOME.NET

NORTH CAROLINA
=> River Dunes, Oriental
State-of-the-art marina complex, guest cottages, Harbor Club, trails, walking/jogging paths, homes from the $600,000s

FLORIDA
=> Bellalago, Kissimmee 
Atlantic access through 22,700-acre Lake Toho, two vast clubhouses, homes from the $100,000s 

 FLORIDA
=> Indian River Colony Club, Viera 
Championship golf, 55-plus, security, lakeside and fairway homes from the low-$100,000s 

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THIS MONTH'S SPOTLIGHTED COMMUNITIES
These communities are now featured in the GolfCourseHome Home Page Spotlight. See below for names, locations and links.

Frenchman's Reserve, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

Sailfish Point, Stuart, Florida

Brunswick Forest, Leland, North Carolina

Carolina Trace, Sanford, North Carolina

Rive Isle, Parrish, Florida

The Bridges at Preston Crossing, Gunter, Texas

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NEW COMMUNITIES COMING ONLINE SOON!

GolfCourseHome

* Rock Barn, NC
* Terravita, AZ
* Willowbend, MA
* Savannah Quarters, GA

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Reserve at Lake Keowee, SC, Announces 1st EarthCraft Certified Home Plan

The Reserve at Lake Keowee, SC, has announced that the first EarthCraft certified home plan is now available in The Reserve Builder Showcase program.

The 3,452 sq. ft. Oconee Bell, one of two new plans in The Reserve Builder Showcase program from The Berry Group, is EarthCraftTM certified and features energy-efficient architecture, geothermal HVAC, solar hot-water heaters, materials that improve indoor air quality, and authentic exterior materials like cypress siding, douglas fir timbers and fieldstone veneer. Request more information.

The 2,900 sq. ft. Highland Cottage, also new from The Berry Group, features welcoming porches, cypress siding, douglas fir timbers, and NC fieldstone veneer. Natural materials are also featured inside including wood walls and ceilings, hardwood floors, timbers, and custom cabinets. Request more information.

Lakewood Ranch Announces New Homesite Release, Big Demand for Lakefront Lots

Lakewood Ranch Communities, Sarasota, FL, announces the release of homesites in a new section of Country Club East.  The first section of “Secret Harbor” will be released in the next week for reservations.

“We are seeing a very high demand for our 62-ft. homesites,” said LWR Communities President Milt Flinn. “We are thrilled to be able to open up more homesites in this size range, surrounding beautiful Lake Royal, and expect some to sell and close by November of this year.”  

So far this year, there have been more than 100 lots either reserved, under contract or sold in Lakewood Ranch.  Eighty-five homes are currently under construction. Request more information about Lakewood Ranch homesites.

There are 200 single-family homes on the market in Lakewood Ranch, which amounts to less than 3 percent of the inventory, and 158 homes have sold on the resale market so far in 2010. The average price at closing of a new home in Lakewood Ranch this year was $576,710, with the average price of a resale home coming in at $434,807.

The Lake Club
At The Lake Club, Lakewood Ranch’s exclusive and private, higher-priced gated community, five builders have committed to building new models in the new section called The Vineyards. This section will cater to buyers looking for homes in the 2,500- to 3,000-square-foot range. 

The homes in the Vineyards will feature three different architectural styles and be on 84-foot-wide homesites.  John Cannon, Todd Johnston, Peregrine, Westwater and Marc Rutenberg Homes will all begin construction on their new models in the next 90 days. Request more information about Lakewood Ranch homesites.

Commercial Real Estate
In commercial real estate news, construction continues on two new restaurants coming to Main Street Lakewood Ranch—Eduardo’s Cantina and the Main Street Trattoria.  Both restaurants will open this summer. Also coming to Main Street is the popular Knot Awl Beads store, moving from its current location at Lakewood Walk. 

2008 Clubhouse Fire Sparks Carolina Trace Members to Build Back Better Then Ever

Carolina Trace Country Club clubhouse engulfed in fire.

At 7 pm on January 31, 2008, the quiet night air at Carolina Trace Country Club in Sanford, NC, was shattered by the high-pitched wail of fire engines racing through its private gates to the community’s clubhouse. Engulfed in a major fire, the clubhouse was quickly surrounded by firefighters from 12 fire departments who fought for hours to save the building, but couldn't. The next morning revealed the charred, blackened remains of the once-active community hub.

Charred remains, but the start of something new.

Now, less than two years later, proud members at Carolina Trace have cut the ribbon on a new 30,000 sq. ft. clubhouse–architecturally and aesthetically engaging, and a symbol of an active membership who used the disaster as a springboard to upgrading their amenities and to making a statement about the health of the community as a whole. To top it off, the new building was finished two months ahead of schedule and on budget. Request more information about Caroline Trace.

New building complete, no trace of the disaster remains.

Toughing Out the Recession
The new clubhouse and invigorated membership at Carolina Trace stand in stark contrast to the many golf communities that in the past 18 months have had to close their doors.

Despite temporarily losing the hub of their community amid a crippling, world-wide recession, members immediately mobilized to re-create their country club life–post-fire style.

Diners on the new veranda enjoy lake views.

Two objectives guided the initiatives: 1. Rebuild the clubhouse quickly, elegantly and fiscally responsibly and 2. Creatively continue most of the active lifestyle in temporary venues.

The new pub leads into the dining room.

Club members rose to the task from all directions. They supported planned events, the board supported aggressive marketing strategies, and the staff maintained operations at a rental home within the gates.

Activities Resume
Members opened their homes so chess, painting, bridge classes, board meetings and dinner parties could continue. Buses were chartered for cultural and sporting events. Tents provided cover for holiday celebrations and parties. And golf and tennis operations resumed immediately after the fire, enabling the club to host its 200 annual tournaments in addition to daily play.

Members listened to each other, identified their priorities, and together, figured out how to meet those needs in post-fire style while enhancing camaraderie and keeping Club membership high.

The new clubhouse encompasses 30,000 sq. ft and is used for entertainment, fitness, dining and club activities.

Today, members are playing golf on two world-class championship golf courses, playing tennis on lighted, state of the art Har-Tru® courts, kayaking or pontoon-boating on beautiful Lake Trace.

Soaring ceilings and windows accent the dining room.

And in the new clubhouse members work out in the fitness center, participate in more than 70 social clubs and more than 10 events and activities weekly, and dine casually in Jones Pub and Veranda or formally in the Hearthstone Room, Founders Room or the Grand Ballroom. While one could say life has returned to normal at Carolina Trace, it is also clear how special its country club lifestyle is. Request more information about Caroline Trace.

1st Qtr. Strong for Lakewood Ranch with 31 Sales & 85 Homes Under Construction

In the first quarter of 2010, Lakewood Ranch builders registered 31 sales and reservations with 85 homes currently under construction. The activity, say executives at the community, offers solid confirmation of the continued recovery of the real estate market.

“The construction activity is incredible,” said Milt Flinn, president of LWR Communities. “It’s refreshing to drive down the street in the La Cantera neighborhood in The Lakewood Ranch Country Club and see construction activity booming and bustling, reminiscent of what it was like back in 2005.” 

Other Construction on Tap
Flinn said LWR Communities is also looking toward the future with the selection process for builders in two new neighborhoods north of state road 70. “We are currently selecting builders for an age-targeted community and a workforce housing community. Our process is almost complete and we should have an announcement very soon.”     

Other Lakewood Ranch communities are seeing success as well.  At The Lake Club, the exclusive private gated community with multi-million dollar homes, two lots were sold in the past two weeks as part of a special Lakewood Ranch anniversary promotion.

Prices 'Slashed'
“To celebrate the first home sold in Lakewood Ranch 15 years ago, we have slashed the prices of 15 homesites in The Lake Club,” said Miranda Oswald, vice-president of sales and marketing for LWR Communities.

“As the developer, this is something we wanted to do to keep the momentum going for our builders and to say thank you to the community that has made Lakewood Ranch such a great success story over the past 15 years.” 

Construction activity is also booming in Country Club East, with the completion of the first community pool in the Hazeltine neighborhood.  The pool is scheduled to open at the end of April.

Commercial Real Estate Advances
Exciting things are happening in commercial real estate this quarter as well. Pizza Mia, a pizza delivery restaurant is set to open at Lorraine Corners at the end of April, and a new Italian restaurant is coming to Main Street! 

“We have more requests for an Italian restaurant than anything else at Main Street,” said Brian Kennelly, president of LWR Commercial Realty. 

“Restaurants are a critical traffic driver for any retail center and we could not be happier about the addition of The Main Street Trattoria.”  The restaurant will be an open kitchen, brick oven-style eatery and is slated to open this summer.

Casa del Lago Construction Update: Photos Show June Opening Day Is Drawing Near

The pictures tell the story: Casa del Lago's planned Opening Day in June is getting closer to reality. A master-planned golf community and home to what is anticipated to be the Dominican Republic’s signature golf residences, Casa del Lago features residential grounds of natural beauty in a contemporary Euro-Caribbean style and overlooks the Guavaberry Golf Course. Request more information.

You can visit Casa del Lago on a Stay 'n Play Package that comes with your first two nights at no charge--a $700 value. Stay at the nearby Embassy Suites (includes breakfast & happy hour), and play 2 rounds of golf on the Guavaberry Golf Course, plus enjoy 2 meals at the Casa del Lago golf or beach clubhouse. Buy property on your visit and take a 5% pre-construction discount. Get there via Mexicana Air round-trip from NYC, starting at $390. Request more information.

Residence views include golf course and water features.

Spring is here--look at the greening of the course!

Request more information.