Monday, December 28, 2009

Final New Homes for Sale by Shea Homes in Chino, CA

With prices starting in the mid $200,000s, Shea Homes' Tetherwind is the most affordable way to experience all of the master-planned advantages of The Preserve at Chino, but that opportunity is quickly evaporating as Tetherwind offers its final new homes for sale.

“With a fantastic recreation center, inviting trails and acres of parks, The Preserve is a wonderful place to call home,” stated Janet Benavidez, director of sales for Shea Homes Southern California. “Tetherwind makes it all attainable, but with only a few homes left, time is of the essence. Act now to avoid missing out on the exceptional value of Tetherwind.”

The fun-filled lifestyle at The Preserve revolves around The Parkhouse, the community's social and recreational hub, which features a state-of-the-art clubhouse, swimming pool, fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, theater, library and business center.

Adding to the excitement of living at The Preserve, members of the Community Service Organization Team are always busy planning imaginative get-togethers for residents, like a get-acquainted pot luck or comedy night at The Parkhouse, an Endless Summer Celebration, a Fall Harvest Festival and more. The Team can also help residents start a club, organize a team, or publicize a neighborhood event.

New Homes Builder

For families with children, there's even a K-8 school within The Preserve. The Preserve Academy makes it possible for students to walk to and from school with their neighbors and playmates.

Tetherwind puts the style in lifestyle with attached townhomes and flats that rival the spaciousness and design excellence of many single-family detached homes. Ranging from approximately 1,266 to 2,074 square feet, including two to four bedrooms and two to two and one-half baths plus a two-car attached garage, Tetherwind's five distinctive one- and two-story floor plans feature numerous detached-home amenities, which vary by plan. Among them are covered porches, private courtyards, inviting decks and gourmet island kitchens. Select designs also offer an airy loft, a handy tech center, a comfortable retreat adjoining the kitchen or an optional office. In addition, fireplace-warmed great rooms are spacious enough for entertaining yet intimate enough for family activities.

In addition to all of The Preserve's amenities, the city of Chino offers numerous advantages for Tetherwind new home residents. They include the educational excellence of the Chino Valley Unified School District; abundant nearby shopping, dining and theaters at Eastvale Gateway and other major centers; and a freeway-close location that makes it easy to commute to both Los Angeles and Orange Counties as well as to destinations throughout the Inland Empire.

Decorated model homes are open Thursday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Monday and Tuesday. Additional information is available by calling 909-393-0133.

For more information on new homes at Tetherwind, visit http://www.sheahomes.com/main.cfm?dir=findahome&sec=none&subsec=models&temp=communityother&communityid=261&planid=1896

Information for this post provided by dbusinessnews.com.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

NEW HOMES SALES RISE

The Commerce Department may report on Dec. 23 that new homes sales rose 1.7 percent in November to a 438,000 annual pace, according to the Bloomberg survey.

Existing home sales reached a 4.49 million pace in January, their lowest level since comparable records began in 1999.

Purchases of existing homes rose 44 percent in November compared with a year earlier, the biggest increase on record. The median price fell to $172,600.

The number of previously owned unsold homes on the market fell 1.3 percent to 3.52 million. At the current sales pace, it would take 6.5 months to sell those houses compared with 7 months at the end of October. The ratio is the lowest since December 2006.

The share of homes sold as foreclosures or otherwise distressed properties was 33 percent, Yun said.

Grand Opening at SPACES at Seville

Saturday, January 16, 2010

Spaces at Seville
Join us for the Public Unveiling
Saturday, January 16, 2010
10AM - 5PM

Sign up today to receive updates and event details. Be the first to witness the next generation of form and function. Smart. Cool. Modern. Efficient Homes. The first 200 people in attendance will receive cool prize giveaways and be entered to win an iMac!

new homes seville

Monday, December 21, 2009

New Homes Builder To Begin Construction in San Diego

Shea Homes of San Diego, buoyed by news of a nearly 9 percent increase in housing starts, has announced it will begin construction of 32 new homes in five San Diego neighborhoods this week.

According to news announced December 16th by the U.S. Commerce Department, new residential construction permits rose 6.0 percent in November and housing starts increased 8.9 percent, in both cases exceeding market expectations. Permits have risen 17.3 percent above their low in April, and starts have advanced 19.8 percent above their April low point. These gains reflected increases in single-family activity, while multi-family starts have increased modestly.

“November was a promising month, our best this year, and it’s great to see December looking equally strong,” said Vanessa Linn, vice president of sales and marketing for Shea Homes San Diego. “The demand for homes is proving to be consistent, and we are prepared to meet that ongoing demand. There’s still a sense of urgency to take advantage of value pricing, low interest rates and tax credits.”

New home construction is now under way in five Shea Homes neighborhoods:

• Clover at Windingwalk in Chula Vista features two- and three-story condominium homes priced from the mid $300,000s. Clover floor plans range from approximately 1,579 to 1,891 square feet and have two to four bedrooms, two to three bathrooms and two-car garage. Call 619-397-0964 for information.

• Chaparral Ridge in Escondido is a single-family detached home neighborhood priced from the low $500,000s. The floor plans range from approximately 2,653 to 3,564 square feet and have three to five bedrooms, 3.5 to 4.5 bathrooms, and three- and four-car garages. Call 760-233-5769 for information.

• Mandolin at Del Sur in San Diego is a condominium community priced from the high $400,000s. The homes range from approximately 1,643 to 2,333 square feet and have two to five bedrooms, 2.5 to four bathrooms and two-car garages. For more information, call 858-832-1368.

• Estrella in San Miguel Ranch in Chula Vista features single-family homes on lots averaging 7,500 square feet. Priced from the high $500,000s, Estrella homes have approximately 3,132 to 3,811 square feet, four to six bedrooms, 3.5 to 4.5 bathrooms and two- and three-car garages. For information, call 619-267-2310.

• Sapphire at Windingwalk in Chula Vista is priced from the high $400,000s and offers floor plans spanning from approximately 2,606 to 3,046 square feet. Sapphire homes offer four to five bedrooms, three to four baths and two- and three-car tandem garages. For information, call 619-216-4531.

Among San Diego’s biggest builders, Shea Homes (http://www.sheahomes.com/) offer new homes ranging from affordably priced condominiums and townhomes to traditional single-family detached homes and magnificent luxury residences.

Shea Homes can be contacted at 858-526-6500.

Information in this post provided by http://www.scribecommunications.com/2009/12/shea-homes-begins-construction-on-32-new-homes/.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

View Your New Home Virtually with Shea Homes

Technology is amazing...Imagine buying your next new home from the comfort of your current home!

Today's struggling economy is driving the use of innovative technologies in new home sales and marketing. A growing trend is the use of Virtual Model Home Tours to replace the use of expensive model home complexes in communities across America.

America's homebuilders are uncovering new ways to cost-effectively market new homes to a new price-sensitive homebuyer: Virtual model homes!

These highly-detailed 3D videos create the spatial experience of walking through a model home and visualizing every detail, before the home is even built. Though the price to create these tours is far less than their physical counterpart, high quality tours can easily cost $10,000 or more. "If you are going to replace the tactile experience of walking through a real model home with a virtual home, it had better be astoundingly realistic or you might have the reverse effect and turn off your prospective homebuyer," said Steve Ormonde, Co-founder of Focus 360, and the inventor of this technology.

The cost of this level of quality and detail has been out of reach of many homebuilders. This is why this week Focus 360 introduced a new more affordable "Value Line" that addresses this price/quality issue head-on. "The biggest obstacle to builders' use of virtual model homes in the past has been the price tag associated with high quality tours," said Ormonde. "Our goal is to provide builders with a solution that is not only more affordable, but one that provides the high quality needed to engage home shoppers and present a builder's product in the best possible light."

Can virtual model tour videos drive sales while decreasing a builder's investment in model homes? "Absolutely!" stated Adam Hieb, Director, Sales and Marketing for Shea Homes. "The days are gone when we could afford to put up multi-million dollar model complexes. Every new Shea home community is different but in general, our use of high quality virtual model tours will greatly reduce the number of model homes needed. Instead of four models for instance, we might be able to get away with one, with the remaining models represented in 3D virtual reality. In some lower profile communities, virtual tours may eliminate models completely - a sales office might suffice. And while we have used Focus 360 for many years for our bigger budget, high profile projects, we are excited that we can now afford them for all our projects."

For more information on Shea Homes visit www.SheaHomes.com.

Excerpts for this post provided by EarthTimes.Org. The full article can be viewed at http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/homebuilders-are-increasing-the-use,1087301.shtml

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Green Homes are Red Hot!

New Homes Builder

According to Kevin Morrow of the National Association of Home Builders, green certifications of homes have jumped from 99 last year to at least 564 this year. "The interest in green building is driven by consumers. More people are doing it to save money on their heating bills," states Morrow in a recent USAToday article.

Shea Homes is a builder of new homes that are eco-friendly and energy-wise.

Whenever possible, Shea Homes uses certified wood products from sustainable forests, recyles construction materials and incorporates water-conserving appliances and fixtures into new homes in an effort to help reduce the carbon footprint of the home as well as benefit generations to come by helping reduce America's carbon footprint.

In addition, Shea Homes includes energy-saving insulation, energy-saving heating and air-conditioning systems, Energy Star appliances at most communities, efficient water heaters and dual pane windows with low-E glass.

To learn more about Shea Homes and their vision to help you live happier, safer and healthier lives, visit http://www.sheahomes.com/.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Chula Vista New Homes - Tapestry at Lomas Verdes

New Homes in Chula Vista
by Shea Homes

The inviting new master-planned community of Lomas Verdes at Otay Ranch in Chula Vista is the setting for Tapestry, a collection of uniquely designed tri-level detached condominium homes ranging from approximately 1,822 to 2,253 square feet with three to four bedrooms, three baths and a two-car garage. Most plans also features a loft on the third floor, and select plans offer kitchen islands and handy tech centers.

Learn more online at http://www.sheahomes.com

Now is a fantastic time to buy in CA. Government tax incentives for first time home buyers and existing owners exist! Visit a community representative today to learn more.

Sunday, November 29, 2009

New Homes in Escondido - No Mello Roos!









Only Two Move-In Ready Homes Remain in Escondido, CA!

Chaparral Ridge is a place not far away where the pleasures of country living can be yours, luxuriously. Set against the hills of Escondido and located off of newly improved El Norte Parkway, this intimate neighborhood of new homes in Escondido is close to nature and still close to everything you desire with open space jewel Daley Ranch and sparkling Dixon Lake just minutes away. The neighborhood also enjoys nearness to an abundance of entertainment venues and shopping opportunities.

Setting the scene for elegant living, choices include an impressive single-story floorplan and three spacious two-story designs. Living areas range from 2,653 to 3,564, feature 3 to 5 bedrooms and every home features a gourmet island kitchen and a three- or four-car garage. Experience the perfect combination of country comfort and city convenience at Chaparral Ridge.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Shea Homes is the First National Builder to Launch Applications for iPhone and iPod Touch

Shea Homes, the nation's largest private home builder, is introducing an "App" for Apple's iPhone and iPod Touch. Shea Homes is the first national home builder to introduce an iPhone Application. The home builder is also working on Applications which would be available to other mobile device users and expect to have them by year-end.

(PRWEB) November 18, 2009 -- As the Apple iPhone continues to gain market share and more and more people are turning to their smartphones for information, Shea Homes, the nation’s largest private home builder, is introducing an “App” for Apple’s iPhone and iPod Touch. The Shea Homes App is a free download from the iTunes AppStore. Apps are available for the Shea Homes family communities located in Arizona, Colorado, Northern California, San Diego, and Southern California. Shea Homes is the first national home builder to introduce an iPhone Application. The home builder is also working on Applications which would be available to other mobile device users and expect to have them by year-end.

New Homes Builder

“We have always tried to be at the forefront of technological advances both in our products and how we communicate information to the marketplace. We have had success with Facebook, Twitter and blogs and we expect our iPhone App will do the same,” said Bert Selva, President and CEO of Shea Homes. “Our customers continue to embrace new technology. With our new App, customers will be able to find detailed information about all of our communities,” added Selva.

With over 50 million iPhone and iPod Touch customers and over 100,000 applications available, Apple far exceeds any of their competitors and garners 70% of the smart phone web access. To date there have been over two billion AppStore downloads with availability in 81 countries. All this is amazing considering the iPhone has only been available since the summer of 2008.

“Our app acts as a robust digital and interactive green brochure. With the increased use of mobile technology and the popularity of Apple’s iPhone and iPod Touch, this was a natural transition that allows us to instantly share information any place, any time, and best of all, it’s free,” concluded Selva.

For more information about the Shea Homes iPhone or iPod Touch App visit http://itunes.com/sheahomeslimitedpartnership.

About Shea Homes
Shea Homes
is an independent member of the Shea family of companies. Over the past 128 years, members of the Shea family and their companies have accomplished many extraordinary milestones, including completing work on the foundation of the landmark Golden Gate Bridge, working on San Francisco’s Bay Area Rapid Transit System (BART) and serving as a managing partner for the construction of the Hoover Dam. Trilogy Active Lifestyle Communities is also part of Shea Homes. For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.SheaHomes.com or contact us at 866-696-7432.

###

MG Public Relations
MARY GARRETT
602-432-2010
E-mail Information

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Shea Homes Arizona Earns SRP’s PowerWise Homes™ Classification for Energy Efficiency

Shea Homes is proud to announce as of December 1, 2009 many communities will meet SRP’s PowerWise Homes™ energy efficient designation meeting the criteria established by SRP, reducing energy use and lowering utility bills by up to $550 per year.
Shea Homes is proud to announce that many of their new home communities as of December 1, 2009 will meet SRP’s PowerWise Homes™ energy efficient designation. These homes will meet the criteria established by SRP, reducing energy consumption on a kilowatt-hour per square foot basis, thereby lowering utility bills by up to $550 per year. All Shea Homes communities on the PowerWise homes program are also ENERGY STAR rated as per the standards put forth by the Environmental Protection Agency.


To reach the SRP PowerWise Home™ designation, an in depth analysis is conducted using the Home Energy Rating System, or HERS. This rating system enables a homebuyer to compare predicted energy costs for each home they are considering. This program furthers Shea Homes’ dedication to developing energy efficient new homes which reduce energy consumption in an effort to save homeowners money on utility bills.

All Shea Homes’ PowerWise homes must also meet the following criteria:
  • Home design shall equal 84 or less on the Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Index.
  • Comply with the International Residential Code (IRC) as adopted by local municipalities.
  • Water heaters may consume either natural gas or electricity and comply with IRC table N1104.1.
  • Electric heat pumps must be nominally rated at 13 SEER/8.0 HSPF or better.
  • If an electric air conditioner and a natural gas furnace are installed, the air conditioner must be nominally rated at 13 SEER or better and the furnace must be manually rated at 80% AFUE or better.
  • During construction, various inspections and performance tests will be performed by a third party on selected homes. The following inspections and tests will be performed:
  1. Duct sealing and leakage inspection
  2. Insulation inspection for Grade I installation
  3. Confirmation of energy-efficiency ratings on all heating and cooling appliances
“Our recent partnership with the EPA’s ENERGY STAR program, our association with Shasta Pools BLU-eQ program as well as our newest affiliation with the SRP PowerWise Home™ program solidifies our ongoing commitment to reducing our carbon footprint. All these efforts go hand in hand with Shea’s initiative of Superiology, to build homes which are energy wiser, eco-friendlier, designed smarter and built better,” said Ken Peterson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Shea Homes.
SRP PowerWise and ENERGY STAR rated homes will be available in the following communities: Escala, La Mirada, Santiago and La Quintana at Seville located in Gilbert; Cabrillo Canyon at Laredo Ranch located in San Tan Valley; and Copper Hills, Painted Trails and Wild Horse at Old Stone Ranch located in Chandler. Homes which are only Energy Star rated include: Granite Ridge and Mountain Shadows at Arroyo Mountain Estates located in Litchfield Park; Entrada and Mountain View Estates at Vistancia located in Peoria; and Sierra Pointe at Canyon Trails located in Goodyear.

About Shea Homes
Shea Homes Arizona is driven by a passion to build the finest-crafted homes and communities in America and to make dreams of home ownership come true. We care passionately about design, workmanship, customer service, and the needs and wants of our customers. In fact, Shea Homes ranks highest in customer satisfaction with new home builders in the Phoenix market, according to the J.D. Power and Associates New Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Study. Shea Homes is committed to creating neighborhoods that age gracefully and mature over time to create a community atmosphere and an enhanced quality of life for all its valued customers. More information about Shea Homes is available by visiting www.sheahomes.com/azfamily or calling 480-348-6000.
# # #

About Shea Homes
Shea Homes Arizona is driven by a passion to build the finest-crafted homes and communities in America and to make dreams of home ownership come true. We care passionately about design, workmanship, customer service, and the needs and wants of our customers. In fact, Shea Homes ranks highest in customer satisfaction with new home builders in the Phoenix market, according to the J.D. Power and Associates New Home Builder Customer Satisfaction Study. Shea Homes is committed to creating neighborhoods that age gracefully and mature over time to create a community atmosphere and an enhanced quality of life for all its valued customers. More information about Shea Homes is available by visiting www.sheahomes.com/azfamily or calling 480-348-6000.

Glenwood, CA. New Homes


New Homes in Aliso Viejo

Pasadera offers single-family detached homes graced with Cottage, Monterey, Spanish and Italianate architecture. Floorplans will range in size from approximately 2,652 to 3,163 square feet, with 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and attached 2-car garages.

Glenwood is the new golf course master-planned community taking shape adjacent to the Jack Nicklaus-designed Aliso Viejo Country Club. With more than $20 million of community amenities, residents of Glenwood will experience a resort-inspired lifestyle. The 10,000 square foot Aliso Viejo Conference Center is planned to offer state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, three banquet rooms, three private meeting rooms and a romantic, view-enhanced wedding lawn with intimate gazebo. Glenwood residents will also enjoy 6.4 acres of public parks, two tot lots and trails with fitness stations.

Home Buyer Tax Credit - Extension.

Great News for homebuyers - It’s now official, President Obama has signed the home buyer tax credit extension and expansion into law. Here are the facts directly from the National Association of Home Builders (Click Here for Details).

Shea Homes a new homes builder which builds in California, Arizona, Colorado, North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida and Washington have new homes available NOW - learn more today. Learn about how Shea Homes is leading the industry in green new homes building

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Home Buyer Tax Credit 3.0 - is Real... How does this affect Arizona new homes

Arizona new homes builders received welcome news Wednesday that the federal first-time homebuyer tax credit is being not only extended but expanded to include buyers who already own homes.

President Barack Obama is expected to sign into law a bill that extends the $8,000, first-time homebuyer tax credit set to expire Nov. 30. It also creates a tax credit up to $6,500 for buyers who have owned their current homes at least five years.

To qualify, buyers in both groups have to sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010, and close by June 30.

"In our view, that's the kind of government action that needed to occur to continue to stimulate the housing market," said Greg Burger, co-principal of RL Brown Housing Reports. "We believe it will be a positive catalyst in the market moving forward through the end of this year and into next year. Prices are at historical lows ... and this would be some added incentive to go ahead and make the move sooner rather than later."

The first-time homebuyer tax credit has meant higher sales for Taylor Morrison, which has houses under construction at its Stratland Estates community in Gilbert.

"We've had a number of people who are taking advantage of it, and I think our closing numbers for the month of November reflect that," said Pierrette Tierney, vice president of sales and marketing. "Our largest month of the year, which typically is December, by far is going to be November this year ... with everybody trying to get in there before that Nov. 30 deadline."

The expansion opens the new homes market for more people, she said.

"There's a lot of people who are recognizing that right now, even outside of the tax credit, is a great time to buy, and then the tax credit is just the cherry on the top," Tierney said. "Our sales volume has remained quite steady into a longer period of time than we typically see in our kind of seasonal industry."

Buddy Satterfield, president of Shea Homes, said the tax credit increased his sales by 20 to 25 percent. Shea has numerous homes under construction across the East Valley.

"We saw a big drop-off in sales when we couldn't deliver (in time for the deadline)," he said. "That's the big problem for builders. You have to sell it and start the house, and deliver it by a certain date, unlike the resale market, where you can take it right up to the wire."

The tax credit has been good for the economy and helped create jobs in the construction industry, Satterfield said.

"I think (the expansion) will help," he said. "I think there's folks out there who, maybe this will be just enough stimulus for them to say 'we need that extra bedroom' or 'we want a different floor plan,' or 'a different location,' and it could spur them to make a purchase. We'll have to wait and see.

Obviously we prefer it to have been a larger amount, but we're grateful for it."

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

New Homes - $8,000 federal housing tax credit - Learn More.

There is still time to take advantage of the $8,000 federal housing tax credit for first-time home buyers, according to Shea Homes. The builder of new homes in San Diego has an available inventory to meet the Dec. 1 deadline to apply. 

“Current low interest rates and the limited-time availability of the federal housing tax credit create excellent conditions right now for first-time home buyers,” said Vanessa Linn, vice president of sales and marketing for Shea Homes San Diego. “We have new homes throughout San Diego County that are available to close soon. Visit our new home neighborhoods for the most up-to-date information.” 

According to Linn, there are several homes available for quick move-in. 
  • Two new homes in San Diego are available to close soon at Mandolin at Del Sur, a motorcourt condominium neighborhood by Shea Homes. For information, call 858-832-1368. 
  1. Lot 12, Plan 1A, 1,643 square feet, two bedrooms, loft, 2.5 bathroom, $481,289 including $35,000 value package to help buyers with closing costs, upgraded flooring, or to buy down the interest rate. 
  2. Lot 19, Plan 1B, 1,643 square feet, three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, $473,705 including $35,000 value package. 
  • One new home in Escondido is available to close soon. It is a single-family detached home at Chaparral Ridge by Shea Homes. For additional information, call 760-233-5769. 
  1. Lot 51, Plan 1A, 2,653 square feet, four bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, $504,310 including $20,000 value package that may be used by buyers to help pay closing costs, buy down interest rates or upgrade flooring. 
  • One new home in Chula Vista is available for quick move-in at Amber at Windingwalk. The single-family home by Shea Homes is: Lot 85, Plan 1C, 2,342 square feet, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, $479,608, including $30,000 value package. Call 619-216-1869. 
  • Tapestry at Lomas Verdes in Chula Vista offers one single-family detached home for quick move-in.  Lot 41, Plan 2A, 2,097 square feet, four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, $418,150, including $30,000 value package. Call 619-482-0720. 
Among San Diego’s biggest builders, Shea Homes is selling at new-home neighborhoods throughout San Diego County, including La Costa, Escondido, Del Sur and Chula Vista. Choices range from affordably priced condominiums and townhomes to traditional single-family detached homes and magnificent luxury residences. 

About Shea Homes 

Shea Homes, an independent member of the Shea family of companies, recently ranked No.1 among San Diego County homebuilders, according to MarketPointe Realty Advisors. Honored in 2005 as one of “America’s Best Builders” by the National Association of Home Builders, and as “2007 Builder of the Year” by Professional Builder Magazine, Shea Homes is also investing in the future of children and communities across America by sponsoring a multi-faceted literacy awareness program that urges parents to “Read With Your Child 15 Minutes a Day.” For more information, please visit the company’s website at http://www.SheaHomes.com. 

Shea Homes is located at 9990 Mesa Rim Road in San Diego. To contact Shea Homes, please call 858-526-6500.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Arizona New Homes - 1 Home Remains

Arizona New HomesARIZONA NEW HOMES

Only 1 remaining home! Contact the Mesquite Canyon community for information at 623-572-7599!

Desert Vista at Sonoran Foothills is a beautiful new desert community. It is a quiet enclave rising with the foothills adjacent to the proposed northern mountain preserve. This beautiful Phoenix, Arizona real estate, when combined with the Sonoran Foothills presents a rare opportunity to live in harmony with the desert.

4-5 Bedrooms / 2.5 Baths 
2,825 Sq. Ft.
3 Car Tandem plus Separate Single Car Garage

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Colorado New Homes - Metro District to own mansion

With historic Highlands Ranch site comes haunted lore

The Highlands Ranch Metro District Board of Directors recently voted to pursue ownership of the Highlands Ranch Mansion, a historic estate that housed some of the area's first settlers.

The metro district will negotiate with Shea Homes to acquire the mansion, with plans to renovate and operate it for the benefit of the community, said Tom Hoby, director of parks, recreation and open space.

Shea Homes is a new homes builder in the Colorado region - click here for Colorado new homes

The decision follows a year-long effort to gather feedback from residents on ownership of the mansion and how it should be operated. According to a citizen survey conducted by the metro district, 88 percent of respondents support the district owning the mansion.

Negotiations are expected to be completed by March.

"It is the jewel in the crown of Highlands Ranch," said Caroline Smith, president of the Highlands Ranch Historical Society. "I'm delighted the metro district stepped forward to take it on."

Smith said the 22,000-square-foot mansion was home to various families throughout the early days of Highlands Ranch. It was built in 1891 by John W. Springer to reflect the style of a Russian castle.

Like many structures rich in history, the mansion has its own tales of ghostly lore. Smith said the ghost of Julia Kistler is rumored to haunt the halls of the mansion.

Julia was the daughter of Frank E. Kistler, who purchased the mansion in 1926. When Kistler divorced his first wife, she moved out with all the children except Julia, whose adoration of her father prompted her to stay behind.

Kistler remarried shortly thereafter and the story goes that he did not return his daughter's devotion and she spent many days weeping in her bedroom. The sobs of her ghost are said to echo through the mansion's halls today.

Although she has never seen the ghost herself, Smith said people have reported seeing a girl peer out of the mansion's windows when there was no one inside. Another story is that a group of visitors were startled to hear an ancient grandfather clock chime midnight.

"They were just kind of astonished, because the clock does not work," Smith said.

Smith and other historical society members lead tours of the mansion during community celebrations such as Highlands Ranch Days. On one such occasion, Smith was standing in the ballroom by herself after finishing up a presentation and smelled a strong fragrance of roses, even though all the windows were tightly shut.

"I just said to myself, 'Oh, you've been here too long,'" she said.

But later, a teacher came up to her and commented what a nice touch it was to have the rose scent in the room.

"It just sent little chills down my back!" Smith recalled. "I believe that it was Julia, and it was her way of telling me she she was happy to have children in the house."

Ghost or no, Smith said she thinks it is important to have younger generations experience the mansion.

"I want young people to feel at home there," she said, "so when they grow up, they will have fond memories and want to protect it."

Learn more about Denver New Homes


Erin Feese: 303-954-2953 or feesee@yourhub.com

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

New Homes in Chino

New Homes in Chino, CA.

Featuring 5 unique townhome and flat home plans to choose from. Perfect for a variety of lifestyles, Tetherwind’s townhomes and flats begin with 1,266 and offer as much as 2,074 square feet. With open floorplan designs that cater to flexible living, these homes offer exquisite comfort with modern kitchens and lifestyle-enhancing appointments.

Follow Shea Homes Inland Empire on Facebook today!

Shea Homes is a New Homes Builder building throughout California and other states.

Monday, October 19, 2009

$10k California Tax Credit may Return!

The $10,000 state tax credit for new-home purchases could be revived soon for a limited-run engagement.

Last week, the California Senate passed a bill 35-1 that would provide $30 million in tax credits to about 4,000 additional new-home purchases. The bill now moves to the Assembly floor, which could take it up as early as Monday.

A spokesman for Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says he "supports the idea of this bill."

In an earlier bill, the Legislature made $100 million in state tax credits available to anyone who bought a new, previously unoccupied home in California on or after March 1, 2009, and before March 1, 2010. The $10,000 credit must be spread over three years and can offset only up to $3,333 a year in state income tax.

The money was allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and it went fast. Less than four months after the effective date, the Franchise Tax Board had received 11,925 applications representing more than $100 million in credits. It shut the door on new applications at midnight July 2.

Although it doled out $100 million in credits, the tax board estimated that about $30 million would go unused because many buyers could not claim the full $10,000.

To get the entire benefit, the buyer must owe at least $3,333 in state income taxes in 2009, 2010 and 2011. A buyer who owes only $1,000 in one of those years loses the remaining $2,333 for that year - it can't be paid out in cash or carried into future years.

The original bill didn't allow the tax board to reallocate unused credits to other new-home buyers, but the new bill - SBX3-37 - essentially would.

Pushed by the home builders, it would provide $30 million in tax credits to two groups of new-home buyers.

The first is about 300 people who bought a new house and got their paperwork in to the Franchise Tax Board by July 2 but missed out on the credit because the money was gone.

The other group includes people who buy a new house after the bill is signed and before March 1 - but only until the $30 million runs out, which could be long before March.

People who buy a new home after July 2 and before the bill is signed are out of luck.

Given that only 70 percent of the home credit is typically used, about 4,285 new-home buyers would qualify for the additional $30 million.

Sponsors say the bill is necessary to "facilitate California's economic recovery, a large part of which is the maintenance of the new-home tax credit." It was written as an "emergency statute necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety."

Democrat Loni Hancock of Berkeley was the only senator to vote against the bill. She couldn't see "offering subsidies to potentially well-off people buying expensive homes while we are cutting the heart out of education," says Larry Levin, Hancock's spokesman.

She also questioned the fairness of offering a subsidy only to new-home purchases when there are so many foreclosed homes on the market.

When the bill was first introduced as AB765 by Assembly members Anna Caballero, D-Salinas, and Jose Solorio, D-Anaheim, it would have provided $200 million in additional tax credits on top of the original $100 million. But as the state's finances worsened, the increase was whittled down to $30 million.

When the Senate took up the bill last week, Republicans refused to support it (and other bills that needed a two-thirds majority) unless it had a Republican as lead sponsor. So the contents of AB765 were moved into SBX3-37 with Sen. Roy Ashburn, R-Bakersfield, as the principal co-author.

Net Worth runs Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. E-mail Kathleen Pender at kpender@sfchronicle.com. Read her blog at sfgate.com/blogs/pender.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/10/19/BUQA1A7QLE.DTL&type=business#ixzz0USCJgSLI

San Diego New Homes

Shea Homes has been a new homes builder in San Diego County for years. Their developments include Chaparral Ridge New Homes in Escondido, Messina in La Costa Ridge New Homes in Carlsbad, and the current master planned community of new homes in Chula Vista - WindingWalk. Shea Homes is currently building Amber, Clover, Sapphire and Agave. Other Chula Vista new homes include: Estrella, Maravilla, Mosaic at Lomas Verdes and Tapestry at Lomas Verdes - both New Homes Communities in Chula Vista.

Shea Homes is an award winning new homes builder which has given customers high quality new homes for decades. In this message from Bert Selva, Shea Homes CEO - you can begin to understand what Shea Homes is about.

New Homes in Denver Colorado - Reunion

new homes denver

Reunion Wildgrass Collection - Encore Series
New Homes in Reunion Colorado - Denver New Homes

365 - Morning Light Plan Options
new homes colorado
3-4 Bedrooms / 3 Baths
2,103 Sq. Ft.
2 Car Garage

The Wildgrass Collection - Encore Series offers homebuyers a one-of-a-kind opportunity with four incredible floor plans, including a brand-new, two story floor plan, priced from the mid $200s. Here livability meets with style and craftsmanship pairs with quality. The Wildgrass Collection - Encore Series at Reunion, where the simple things transcend into the perfect place to call home.

Arizona New Homes

New Homes in Gilbert Arizona AZ. - Seville - Escala II

New Homes Master Planned Community in Arizona
1708 Altozano
4 Bedrooms / 3 Baths
3,420 Sq. Ft.
2 Car plus Separate Single Car Garage

New Homes in Gilbert, Arizona New Homes for sale

Arizona new homes
new homes arizona

New Homes in Indian Land South Carolina

new homes South CarolinaShea Homes features new homes in South Carolina in the beautiful Indian Land area. Learn More Today!

Shea Homes is excited to offer only ENERGY STAR certified homes in Audubon Lake! This added benefit offers home buyers all of the features they are looking for in a new home plus the energy-efficient improvements that deliver better performance, greater comfort, and lower utility bills. This provides added confidence, lower ownership costs, better performance, a smarter investment and environmental protection. Shea Homes, South Carolina, is independently owned and operated.

New Homes in Glenwood

Glenwood is the new golf course master-planned community taking shape adjacent to the Jack Nicklaus-designed Aliso Viejo Country Club. With more than $20 million of community amenities, residents of Glenwood will experience a resort-inspired lifestyle. The 10,000 square foot Aliso Viejo Conference Center is planned to offer state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, three banquet rooms, three private meeting rooms and a romantic, view-enhanced wedding lawn with intimate gazebo. Glenwood residents will also enjoy 6.4 acres of public parks, two tot lots and trails with fitness stations. Glenwood New Homes
glenwod golf new homes
Experience Golf Course & Country Club living in these brand new homes in Aliso Viejo, where the lifestyle you desire can be yours in a truly welcoming environment - an environment that blends the outdoors and indoors in grand residences of uncompromising distinction.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Saturday, October 17, 2009

New Homes in Charlotte

new homes in CharlotteNew Homes in Charlotte

Discover Riviera by Shea Homes in Charlotte, NC North Carolina. Discover all of Shea Homes in New Homes Charlotte

Discover the charm of the Riviera without leaving the comfort of home. Stroll along the extensive nature areas and through the quaint village of beautifully designed Triplex condominiums, a new concept to the Charlotte area. Here in Riviera, you’ll discover maintenance-free living in your new condo, giving you more time for your favorite activities, including lounging by the pool.

And, with the convenience of living in the Ballantyne & South Charlotte area, restaurants, shopping, spas and golf are close by. Quick access to I-485 is just around the corner, as are great schools.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

New Homes at Riverpark

new homes in oxnard
The master-planned community of RiverPark is quickly emerging as Oxnard’s new address of distinction, and Boardwalk makes it attainable for young families with spacious two-story residences ranging from 1,800 to 2,124 square feet, including three to five bedrooms and two and one-half baths, one and two patios per home plus a two-car attached garage. Varying plans take on the added dimension of a master-suite retreat, bonus room, upstairs family room or home office.
Learn about Oxnard New Homes

Monday, October 12, 2009

New Home Community in Buckeye, Arizona

New Home Community in Buckeye, Arizona

Welcome to New Homes Section’s weekly new-home community update post. Today’s community pick isBrighton at Watson Estates provided by one of Arizona’s leading home builders – Shea Homes. The information listed below is considered reliable, however, be sure to check with Shea Homes directly for the most up-to-date info on pricing and availability.

Brighton at Watson Estates Cayman Home Plan - Shea Homes Buckeye, Arizona

Brighton at Watson Estates Cayman Home Plan - Shea Homes Buckeye, Arizona

Brighton is Shea Homes’ community located at Watson Estates – a master-planned community in Buckeye, Arizona. Conveniently located just south of I-10, Watson Estates was carefully planned and built around the native flora, reducing the impact on the environment. Residents enjoy open spaces, walking and jogging trails, tot-lots, and majestic views of the White Tank Mountains.

The homes located in Brighton offer an abundance of features and lifestyle options. Buyers can select from six home plans – Antigua, St. Croix, Cayman, Belize, Tortola, and St. Lucia.

Brighton at Watson Estates St. Lucia Home Plan - Shea Homes Buckeye, Arizona

Brighton at Watson Estates St. Lucia Home Plan - Shea Homes Buckeye, Arizona

Antigua is a four bedroom, two-bath, two-car garage house with 2,063 square feet of livable space, starting in the low-$150s.

St. Croix offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a two-car garage, and 2,097 square feet, also starting in the mid-$150s.

The Cayman home plan provides three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a three-car tandem garage, starting in the mid-$150s.

Belize is a four bedroom plan with three baths, a three-car garage, and 2,418 square feet of livable space from the high-$160s.

Tortola is also a four bedroom plan that provides three baths, a three-car garage, and 2,418 square feet of living space from the high-$160s.

The St. Lucia offers four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a three-car garage, and 2,952 square feet priced from the high-$180s.

Brighton at Watson Estates is located at 1913 S. 235th Drive, Buckeye, AZ., 85236. To schedule an appointment with one of the home sales specialists, call (623) 327-2050.

Source: http://www.newhomessection.com/blog/new-home-community-in-buckeye-arizona/2009/01/29/

New Homes

Come Visit Shea Homes and see our latest New Homes deals available today!

New Homes by Shea Homes - New Homes Builder

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

New Homes Chula Vista

New Homes Chula Vista

Shea Homes features 4 new homes communities located in Chula Vista, CA. near Eastlake and Otay Ranch. Located in the beautiful master planned community of Winding Walk, Shea Homes provides a wide range of floor plans starting near 1,500 square feet to over 3,000. This is a fantastic new homes community located next to the new Otay Ranch Towne Center mall and brand new shopping centers.

Take a look today at our new homes in Chula Vista.

Monday, September 28, 2009

New Home Prices and Sales are On The Rise

Guys, with all the tax incentives, discounted inventory, and the recent indication of a market upswing, sales are on the rise...and that means prices are too!

If you have been on the fence about when to move on a new home purchase, time to get it in gear. The days of discounts and free upgrades are coming to an end soon, especially at Shea Homes communities, where new home inventory is fast running out.

Get to Shea while there are still great deals to be had. And if you're an active boomer interested in a new home in an active adult resort retirement community, then check out TrilogyLife by Shea Homes, and find out what Shea Homes Active Lifestyle really means.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

New Home Buyers 101

Buying a new home is an exciting time in one's life. Because it is such a major purchase, you want to make sure that you have the knowledge to make the right decisions. It will make the home buying process much easier and will ensure that you have provided the best home for you and your family.

The following is a list of a number of tips that will help make your new home buying experience a pleasant one:

1. Make a list of what type of home will meet your current and future needs. This can include: the location, size of the property, number of bedrooms, size of the rooms, and proximity to schools, work, parks, stores, and other amenities. This will help you narrow your search. You should consider enlisting the services of a real estate agent who can help you find the right home at the right price.

2. Before you purchase a new home, you should decide if you can afford to take on such a big investment. You will be required to make a down payment. There are now 5% down payment deals available. Remember, the less money down means the higher your monthly mortgage payments. You will also be responsible for fees such as attorney fees, taxes, registration fees, closing costs...etc. You also have to make sure you can afford the monthly mortgage repayments. In order to secure a good mortgage, you must make sure you have a good credit history. Check your credit history to see if there are any errors or outstanding loans that should be paid. It is essential that you purchase a home that you can afford. There are online mortgage calculators that will help you determine how much you can afford. It is also recommended that you get pre-approved for a mortgage before you actually start searching for a home. You will then not waste your time looking at homes you can't afford.

3. If you have children or are planning to have children, research the schools in the area where you are interested in living. You want to make sure your children will get a quality education. As well, living in an area with good schools increases the value of a home.

4. Before you make an offer on a home, make sure you hire a building inspector to inspect the home for any problems. An inspector should look at the foundation, plumbing/septic system, the structural integrity of the home, roof...etc. The home inspection fee will can range from $300-650 depending on the type of house and its features.

5. It is important to have an attorney represent you for the closing. You will want to make sure that you are protected.

Purchasing a new home is a big life investment so it is important to make sure that you are familiar with all that goes into the purchase. This will help make the process run much smoother and less stressful allowing you to focus on starting a new life in your very own home.


Article Provided By: Amy_A._Nutt

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