Hot Sellers: Hail Cedar

Spanish-style architecture is almost the law in many parts of California, but Centex Homes raised the bar with CedarPointe at Northlake. Buyers have flocked to an attainable product high on interior finishes and versatile floor plans.

As part of an enormous 4,000-unit master plan called Northlake, in Castaic, Calif., CedarPointe is targeted to first-time buyers with children and to singles. The model launch was a huge success, and sales have been rapid. An 111-unit enclave located within Northlake's picturesque landscape, CedarPointe offers home sites surrounded by gently sloping natural terrain and overlooking Lake Castaic. Hundreds of acres of open space are preserved, ensuring owners of a place where they can be at home with nature.

"In addition, buyers are pleased to find that commuting from their new homes is surprisingly easy," says Carol Crandall, on-site sales representative for Centex. Northlake's uncongested streets make it quick and easy for drivers to get to the freeway, and the community is only five minutes north of Valencia.

Ample Spanish Mediterranean-style floor plans include four to six bedrooms and a three-car garage. "Buyers also love the optional sunrooms and super-sized family rooms," notes Crandall. Indeed, CedarPointe's model features gathering room-sized kitchens and two-story living spaces -- musts for many Californians.The homes are located near an elementary school, a park, and the master plan's abundant recreational opportunities. CedarPointe is expected to sell out within the year.

Project Credits
Project: CedarPointe at Northlake, Castaic, Calif.; Sales started: October 1999; Sales through May 2000: 71; Units released through February 2000: 74; Units planned: 111; Price: $305,000; Unit size: 2,900 square feet; Builder: Centex Homes, Valencia, Calif.; Architect: In-house; Interior merchandiser: Pacific Dimensions, El Segundo, Calif.; Landscape architect: Centex, San Juan Capistrano, Calif.; Ad agency: Gaudette Design, Sherman Oaks, Calif.