If you drove by Waverley West's newest housing development six months ago, there was little evidence of its existence, save a large expanse of rough landscaping.
Drive by today, and you'll see a host of homes going up in the vicinity of John Angus Drive and beyond.
David Borger, vice-president of land development for Ladco Company Limited, says he's very happy with the progress made to date.
"Despite some of the horrible weather we experienced in the spring and early summer, there are about 40 homes being built right now," he says. "Everything appears to be on schedule (for having show homes ready for the Fall Parade of Homes). We're very happy with the progress to date. Approximately 130 of the 150 made available to builders have been sold. That's very good news in these challenging economic times."
Now that the good weather has hit, Borger says activity in the area will be kicked up another notch, or two.
"It's going to be a real beehive," he says. "We'll be starting to do the landscaping, as well as the entrance into the area. The creek system is largely complete, as well. As the summer progresses, people will see the changes and get a better idea of what South Pointe is going to look like. Even with the area far from completion, there's been a lot of interest and sales have been going very well. We're very pleased."
So too are the builders, says Huntington Homes' Rob Swan.
"What you see now when you drive out to the area is pretty amazing," he says. "Not long ago, it was essentially an empty field. Now, with the landscaping due to start, it's going to look great. People haven't seen anything yet."
Hilton Homes' Spencer Curtis concurs.
"It's nice to see all the houses going up -- considering the slow start due to the poor weather, the progress made to date is very good. Sales have also been good, too," he says. "The area should fill in quickly this summer and fall now that we're able to go full bore."
Lori Thorsteinson of Parkhill Homes adds that she's pleased with the way public interest in the area is developing.
"Even though we've basically just gotten started, interest has been high. South Pointe is really going to complement Bridgwater Forest -- the designs and (larger) lot sizes will be more reminiscent of Royalwood, (another Ladco development)," she says. "Consumers only stand to benefit."
Swan agrees.
"The fact that there will be two significantly difference developments next door to each other is great news for consumers -- they'll be able to find the home that best fits them, all in the same geographic area," he says. "Ladco has been in the development business for a long time. They know what consumers are looking for, and want to do all they can to meet their needs. As builders, we feel fortunate we can offer consumers two great options in the same area."
With the present 150 lots due to sell out anytime soon, Borger says an additional 60 lots will be brought on slowly, followed by another 57 lots when demand dictates the need to release them.
"When phase one is complete, it will total 267 lots," he says. "But right now, we're focusing on what's in front of us, which is getting the 150 existing lots ready. So far, the results have been excellent for us, the builders and the city. We're going full steam ahead, and are looking forward to seeing how things look come the fall."
