Clattenburg is a long time contractor from Liverpool, and has built homes up and down the South Shore. With Maple Ridge Estates though he wanted to do something a little different. The homes were to be energy efficient, and smaller for people looking to downsize. When he first proposed the idea of doing a housing development, it was also the first one to come forward in 30 years.
The development was planned to start about three years ago, however the economy dropped around the same time. With the Mersey Mill also starting its lengthy shutdowns, the development was put on hold.
On the real estate side of things, realtor Kris Snarby says there was interest in the homes, but they wanted something tangible to look at first.
“A lot of people don’t really believe it until they see it,” he says.
Soon though people will have something to view.
The first duplex going in is being built to a higher standard than required, to showcase what an energy efficient home looks like.
The walls are constructed out of Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF), which are basically hallow rigid foam insulation that concrete is then poured in to. ICF one of the newer forms of wall construction, which is mostly seen when pouring basements. However it is just as suitable for outside walls on and entire house.
ICF construction holds heat better, reduces air loss and provides a sound barrier between walls.
“There’s very little heat loss in a building like this,” says Clattenburg.
ICF usually costs a little more and is a little more time consuming to put up. However with the homes being built now new owners can look forward to a heating bill of $800 to $900, much less then a traditionally built home.
Other energy efficient bonuses include vinyl windows with low-e Argon gas panes, R-50 insulation in the attic, and a heat pump with air conditioning capabilities.
A home like this would be ideal for a person looking to settle down, since it would take a few years to see a payback on the initial investment in the efficient additions, says Clattenburg.
The development is close to Liverpool, about a minute or two drive to the downtown. However the homes are outside of town limits, which come with the lower county tax rate vs. town tax rate.
“It feels like you’re in town, but you’re also in the woods. It’s very nice,” says realtor Kris Snarby.
For future homes in the development, Clattenburg will give potential buyers to choice of energy efficient or more traditional construction. The main thing though is he wants to keep the home construction flexible, so there aren’t any restrictions on someone wanting to build their dream home.
A unit in the duplex being constructed now is going for $179,000 including taxes, and comes will fridge, stove and dishwasher.
It has about 1,300 square feet of space, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a heated garage. Heating is provided by radiant in floor hot water, heated by an electric hot water tank. Service is provided by underground wiring, with a septic and well system for water needs.
The first unit is expected to be completed in mid-May.
For more information, contact Snarby at Exit Realty at 902-646-1718.
