For many young, growing families, a new home can seem unattainable. That's why Ventura Custom Homes has put together a collection of four different new single-detached family-home plans at Prairie Place in La Salle, said Ventura's sales representative for the project, Sutton-Kilkenny Real Estate's Blake Vasko.
"The idea behind Prairie Place is to offer people attainably priced family homes that are affordable, yet still well-appointed," he said. "While the goal is to produce affordable homes, the interiors won't be drab or lacking in space. Finishes will be very nice, and the homes will come with nine-foot ceilings to increase the feeling of space inside."
He added the lots on which the homes are situated are generous in their dimensions. "Even though the homes are affordably priced -- they will start at $269,900 for the 1,213 sq. ft. Tache model -- lot sizes won't be small. On average, they will be 42 feet by 108 feet, and will offer front drive access to an optional rear detached garage."
In total, there will be four models to choose from: the Tache, as well as the Cormier, Lagace, and Manness. Each model -- all four are two-storey designs -- will increase in square footage after the entry-level, 1,213 sq. ft Tache -- the Cormier will be 1,311 sq. ft., the Lagace 1,424 sq. ft. and the Manness 1,552 sq. ft..
"The first three homes will come with three bedrooms and one-and-a-half baths," said Vasko. "Then, the Manness, the largest of the four models, will come with three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths (two upstairs, plus a main-floor powder room); each model comes standard with a main-floor powder room off its rear entry."
All four models will be notable for their style, which will start outside and be woven smartly into each home's functional, open-concept interior. "The homes won't be bare bones outside or inside -- they'll be very nicely appointed," said Vasko. "Exteriors will feature low-maintenance siding -- there will be six standard colours along with four upgrades to choose from -- and front elevations will also feature cultured stone trim."
Meanwhile, interiors will also be nicely decked out. "The standard finishing package looks awesome with thermofoil cabinets, luxury vinyl flooring, high-grade carpeting and laminate countertops. If they want, buyers can upgrade to the silver package -- maple cabinets, granite countertops and laminate flooring -- for a reasonable upcharge."
If there were one word that could be used to describe the four different home styles -- each plan comes with two different elevations -- it would be character, he added. "A real effort has been made to make each home unique to avoid that cookie-cutter look that you can get when you look at homes in so many developments. Each home will have a covered front porch and nice detailing to give it great curb appeal. Most importantly, folks who buy the homes will have their own front and backyard and a detached garage out back to enjoy."
Not only will the homes be affordable and well-appointed, but they will also be well-located, said Vasko. "You'll be just a short drive from the city (less than 20 minutes to shops, restaurants and services on Kenaston Boulevard, for example), yet you'll be living in a safe, quiet community with a relaxing country ambience -- a growing community with more amenities coming on stream all the time. Property taxes are 25 per cent lower than in the city, and you've got a K-8 school, new community centre, stores, services and restaurants in town to use and enjoy."
More than anything, Prairie Place (visit prairieplace.ca for more information) gives families a chance to achieve something they might not be able to achieve in the city.
"It gives families a real chance to own a well-appointed, functional home for a very affordable price -- one that can be tailored to fit their budget," he said. "We've already sold several homes, and our show home is available for viewing. Come out to La Salle to see all Prairie Place has to offer."
lewys@mymts.net
