Q&A with Frank Batson
How has the updated plan been received?
We have been very pleased by the response of potential buyers and realtors. In a recent open house, so many have been impressed by how much this plan has to offer. One particular prospect has been drawn to the flexibility of using the formal dining as a home office. Since the oversized breakfast nook can accommodate both daily living and entertaining, it creates a more flexible use of the front room formally used solely for dining. Also, many people have commented on the way this plan does not have wasted space. It seems that it is more important than ever to homeowners that each square foot be utilized in a way that will most efficiently accommodate their needs. Another common praise to this plan is the owner’s entrance from the garage which includes a spacious mud area, a private laundry room and a half bath. The potential convenience of this area of the home has received much acclamation.
Is there a particular demographic you’re trying to target?
Initially, we felt this community would appeal to second-time homeowners, and particularly families with young children. While that demographic has been attracted to the homes in this community, empty nesters have also been drawn here. We have found that many empty nesters may be looking to downsize in square footage, but are not ready to forego all the luxuries that these single family homes can offer. Over the past year, we have really joined forces with Frank Betz Associates to offer eight new plans for this community. The plan offerings include main level masters with and without an additional bedroom on the main level, one-level plans, and two stories. Incorporating outdoor living, accommodating owner’s entrances, spacious breakfast nooks, home offices, and private bedrooms seems to be appreciated by multiple demographics.
What are your lot sizes/challenges?
Land seems to be the current common challenge among builders. In order to make the land in this community work effectively, the lots had to be developed more narrowly than those of similar pricing five to ten years ago. Even though we knew we were working with more narrow lots and front-entrance garages, we were not willing to forego the curb appeal that we have always strived to offer. In fact, over the past five years, we have worked even more extensively on the front elevation of the homes. The curb appeal of the home is often the invitation factor to which prospective buyers are initially drawn and it can ultimately continue to offer homeowners that desire to “come home”.
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