TAMARIND LANE AT ROSEDALE IN AZUSA IS A BIG HIT WITH HOME BUYERS

AZUSA, CA – Just two months after its grand opening, TRI Pointe Homes’ Tamarind Lane at Rosedale in Azusa is a big hit with home buyers. More than 1,000 groups of home seekers have given the community an enthusiastic round of applause, and the community’s first phase of impressive single-family detached homes has already attracted several buyers.

Credit for Tamarind Lane’s success goes to several advantages, including its prime location in the San Gabriel Valley’s newest and most desirable master-planned community, an array of exceptional price-included appointments and prices that make it among one of Rosedale’s best values.

 

Those value-enhancing appointments are led by gourmet island kitchens in most plans, elegant master suites with walk-in closets and separate tub and shower, convenient upstairs laundry rooms with optional utility sinks, spacious covered front porches and attached two-car garages with extra storage space and insulated steel roll-up doors. In the largest plan, two of the secondary bedrooms also feature walk-in closets, and buyers may choose an optional fireplace in the living room.

Kitchens enhance mealtime activities with granite countertops, European-style white Thermofoil cabinets and a complete collection of stainless steel Whirlpool® appliances. Achieving the perfect combination of spaciousness and stylishness, Tamarind Lane’s three inspired two-story floor plans range from approximately 2,008 to 2,092 square feet, including three to four bedrooms and two and one-half baths. Select plans take on the added dimension of a versatile loft or quiet study.

Environmental friendliness is built into each home with an extensive array of energy-saving and money-saving features. Heading the list are Energy Star® dishwashers, Low-E window glass, radiant barrier roof sheathing, tankless water heaters and heating and air-conditioning systems controlled by digital set-back thermostats.

Tamarind Lane is ideally located a short walk from The Resort, Rosedale’s two-acre recreation center, where amenities include a junior-Olympic-length swimming pool, spa, children’s wading pool, picnic areas, barbecue grills, and a spacious clubhouse with fitness center, multipurpose room and fully equipped kitchen. Tamarind Lane also offers residents added fun at its own private recreation area with pool, spa and cabana.

The Resort is just one of many community enhancements that make Rosedale a sought-after address. It will be joined by 10 parks, sports fields, scenic trails that are woven throughout the community and acres of permanently preserved natural hillsides. For families with children, the Azusa Unified School District offers educational excellence from kindergarten through high school. Post-secondary education is also available nearby at Citrus Community College and Azusa Pacific University.

Tamarind Lane joins a growing number of TRI Pointe Homes communities throughout California. In Southern California, the company is currently building Sagebluff and Topazridge at Riverwalk Vista in Riverside, Los Arboles in Simi Valley and Cantera in San Marcos. In Northern California, Chantrea at Silver Creek in San Jose and Ironhorse in Morgan Hill recently celebrated successful grand openings.

Inspired by the past with its focus on the future, Rosedale is the newest and finest master planned community for brand-new home living in the San Gabriel Valley. For more details, please visit www.LiveRosedale.com.

For additional information on Tamarind Lane, please call 626-334-0033 or visit www.TRIPointeHomes.com.

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BACK TO SCHOOL MEANS EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE FOR KIDS AT RIVERPARK IN OXNARD

OXNARD, CA – All over America, kids have gone back to school, and at the popular master-planned community of RiverPark in Oxnard, they're getting the best possible educational experience. 

That’s because they live within walking or biking distance of two brand-new schools in the Rio School District, which boasts an average of fewer than 20 students per classroom in kindergarten through third grade and only 26-30 students in fourth through eighth grade. And the district already has plans to add a third school within the RiverPark community.

At Rio Del Mar Elementary School and Rio Vista Middle School, the latest technology is integrated into every classroom, with a computer for each student. State-of-the-art libraries and multipurpose rooms are equipped with high-tech sound systems. The curriculum and teaching professionals at those schools prepare young students to excel when they advance to Rio Mesa High School, where 88% of graduates continue their studies in colleges or universities, and their athletic teams have won the most Pacific View League championships in seven of the last eight years.

At RiverPark, the opportunity to share those educational advantages has been made possible by two of America’s most highly regarded builders, Shea Homes and Standard Pacific Homes, which have joined forces to create a diverse range of home designs with something for every buyer. Shea Homes is presenting Reflections and Boardwalk while Standard Pacific's neighborhoods include The Landing, Waypointe, Collage, Pacific Crossing and The Avenue.

For residents of all these neighborhoods, RiverPark is thoughtfully planned to make sure that there’s someplace outdoorsy and fun to walk to within moments of home. Each of the community’s parks has its own personality and a variety of amenities and activity areas. Whether you’re in the mood for an afternoon of tennis or basketball, playtime with the kids, an evening picnic or a morning jog, there are plenty of places to enjoy it.

An added convenience for RiverPark families is The Collection, RiverPark’s  600,000-square-foot open-air specialty center, which is expected to open by the end of the year with a wide range of specialty stores and restaurants. Target, Whole Foods, REI, Starbucks Coffee, Panera Bread and a 16-screen cineplex are among the many favorite retailers that will soon serve the community and coastal Ventura County residents.

RiverPark is being developed by Shea Homes and Standard Pacific Homes, working in concert with the city of Oxnard and other public entities.

To find out more about the great schools and all the other advantages that make RiverPark Oxnard’s most desirable new address, RiverPark visit www.riverparklife.com.

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BUYERS DISCOVER CONVINCING HOME VALUEIN THE VIBRANT BLACKSTONE COMMUNITY IN BREA

BREA, CA –  The recent Summer at the Park event at Blackstone in the hills above Brea created more than happy memories for residents and visitors. Home buyers in the crowd discovered that home values at Blackstone’s three beautiful neighborhoods were above and beyond the ordinary, prompting a rise in sales. 

Blackstone homebuilders, Standard Pacific Homes and Shea Homes welcomed hundreds of visitors to their new neighborhoods, Sorano, Amber and Jade. Coupling today’s historic low interest rates and outstanding summer pricing, all three saw sales increase, and interest in upcoming phases climb. Blackstone’s ultra convenient and spectacularly scenic setting has also awakened buyers to the fact that it’s definitely time to make their move up.

To discover the incomparable value and irresistible lifestyle of Blackstone, take the 57 freeway and exit at Lambert Road. Proceed east on Lambert Road and turn left at Kraemer Boulevard into the Blackstone community. Further details are also available by visiting www.blackstonelife.com or calling each community:  Sorano 714-223-0700, Amber 714-961-6011 and Jade 714-223-6908.

Blackstone is a development of Shea Tonner Hills, LLC and Standard Pacific of Tonner Hills, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company.

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SUMMERTIME FUN IS JUST WALKING DISTANCE FOR RESIDENTS OF RIVERPARK IN OXNARD

OXNARD, CA – Residents are never far from summer refreshment at the flourishing master-planned community of RiverPark in Oxnard. More than one-third of this 700-acre community is devoted to open-space, recreation, healthful living and natural beauty. The community is thoughtfully planned to make sure that there’s someplace outdoorsy and fun to walk to within moments of home. Once the car is in the garage, life keeps moving on foot, bike and stroller.

RiverPark’s open space plan encompasses 14 parks, with several already being enjoyed by residents. Each one has its own personality and variety of amenities and activity areas. Whether you’re in the mood for an afternoon of swimming, an evening picnic or a morning jog, there are places to enjoy it. When school days return, there are even new walk or bike to campuses alongside the community.

Another new destination is underway at RiverPark. The Collection, a 600,000 square foot open-air specialty center plans to open by the end of the year. For homebuyers, that will mean everything from dining to cinemas, bakeries and salons, burgers to hiking boots will enrich the value of their RiverPark lifestyle. Target, Whole Foods and REI, Starbucks Coffee, Panera and a 16-screen cineplex are among the many favorite retailers that will soon serve the community and coastal Ventura County residents.

Seven RiverPark neighborhoods are now featuring great summer values. Two of America’s most highly regarded builders, Shea Homes and Standard Pacific Homes have created a diverse range of home designs with something for every buyer. Shea Homes is presenting Reflections and Boardwalk while Standard Pacific's neighborhoods include The Landing, Waypointe, Collage, Pacific Crossing and The Avenue.

For more information on the homes at RiverPark, visit www.riverparklife.com.

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MARKET CONDITIONS AND PRICING CREATE OPPORTUNITYFOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS AT BROOKFIELD HOMES IN ONTARIO

ONTARIO, CA – All 139 garden court townhomes and condominiums in the stylish neighborhood of Belcourt at Edenglen in Ontario are now home to residents like first-time home buyer Claire Peng, who felt the time was right for her, and Brookfield Homes presented her with the right place to live for style, warmth and value.

Peng is not alone. The Commerce Department recently stated that sales of new homes increased 7.6 percent in May from April, the best pace since April 2010, which was the last month that buyers could qualify for a federal home-buying tax credit. This increase follows other signs that show the housing market is improving with mortgage interest rates that are the lowest on record.

“Now that I am living on my own, this is a big change for me,” Claire explained, “and Brookfield Homes has made it both affordable and exciting.”

Even though Belcourt is sold out, there are still opportunities to share the joys of Edenglen at the community’s newest neighborhood, GreenDoor, which offers new single-family detached homes from the low $300,000s.

For more information about GreenDoor at Edenglen, visit the sales office at 3228 S. Edenglen Avenue in Ontario or call 800-599-3906, or visit www.LiveGreenDoor.com.

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JWILLIAMS STAFFING PUBLISHES SECOND ANNUAL GUIDE ON BUILDING INDUSTRY COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

IRVINE, CA – With home-buying activity the highest it has been in two years and interest rates at record lows, home builders are requesting the most permits in years, and as new construction increases, new jobs are being created. As California builders step up their hiring, they will find indispensable information in the newly-published 2012 Building Industry Compensation and Benefits Guide from Irvine-based JWilliams Staffing, Inc. 

Featuring data on more than 100 relevant industry positions, the guide is designed to aid both companies and employees as they reevaluate work and assignments. Contributions from builders and developers throughout California helped assure timely and relevant data, according to JWilliams Staffing founder and CEO, JoAnne Williams.

“Our second annual edition couldn’t come at a more auspicious time,” Williams says. “It will give both employers and job seekers an understanding of current, competitive salary and benefit packages that will enable them to make informed decisions as the industry accelerates the pace of home building activity.”

Williams and her team worked with the California Building Industry Association in compiling the Building Industry Compensation and Benefits Guide. In future editions, they would also like to incorporate information from other building industry associations around the country, providing the industry with a reliable assessment standard.

The Guide is available through JWilliams Staffing, Inc., at www.jwilliamsstaffing.com.  Substantial discounts are available to BIA members and to those builders who participated in the survey. Find more information at www.jwilliamsstaffing.com. You can also call (949) 250-1923 or (866) 597-8367.

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GRAND OPENING THIS SATURDAY AT TAMARIND LANE AT ROSEDALE IN AZUSA

AZUSA, CA – The newest addition to the master-planned community of Rosedale in Azusa will be unveiled this Saturday, July 7^th as TRI Pointe Homes celebrates the grand opening of decorated models at Tamarind Lane, a collection of impressive single-family detached homes that are value-priced from the mid $400,000s.

Adding to the festivities, Carl’s Jr. will be serving up juicy charbroiled hamburgers and beverages from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Everyone who tours the models will also get a taste of design excellence in three stylish two-story floor plans ranging from approximately 2,008 to 2,098 square feet, including three to four bedrooms and two and one-half baths. Select plans take on the added dimension of a versatile loft or quiet study.

For additional information on Tamarind Lane, please visit www.TRIPointeHomes.com or call 626.334.0033.

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GRAND OPENING OF MODELS THIS SATURDAY AT TRI POINTE HOMES’ CANDERA IN SAN MARCOS

SAN MARCOS, CA – Brand-new decorated model homes, affordable prices and a super-convenient location in North San Diego County will share the spotlight this Saturday, July 7, as TRI Pointe Homes celebrates the grand opening of the new community of Candera in San Marcos.

Adding to the festivities, Rubio’s Taco Truck will be on hand from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. serving fish and chicken tacos and refreshing beverages to hungry home buyers.

Along with satisfying their hunger, Candera will satisfy everyone’s appetite for design excellence with models that showcase two distinctive residential collections: attached townhomes starting in the low $300,000s and detached homes priced from the low $400,000s.

Four distinctive two-story floor plans distinguish Candera’s townhome collection, where spacious living areas range from approximately 1,524 to 2,014 square feet, including three to four bedrooms and two and one-half to three baths. Varying plans offer a versatile loft or optional den, and every home  provides a two-car attached garage.

To join in the grand opening celebration at Candera, take the 78 Freeway and exit at Twin Oaks Valley Road. Drive north and turn right on East Mission Road. Continue past Woodlands Parkway and turn left on Bougher Road. The Candera models will be on the left. For additional information on Candera, please visit www.TRIPointeHomes.

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CELEBRATE SUMMER AT THE PARK THIS SATURDAY AT BLACKSTONE IN BREA

BREA, CA –   It’s the third day of summer, and everyone can be among the first to celebrate the season on Saturday, June 23rd, as Blackstone in the hills above Brea hosts Summer at the Park featuring food, fun, music and refreshments for the whole family.

Highlighting the event will be an all-American BBQ with hot dogs and sausages served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and an old-fashioned lemonade stand serving strawberry and classic flavors and lemon water pitchers. For dessert, Farrell’s will be offering a variety of ice cream treats and toppings.

Throughout the day, a steel-drum trio will lend a festive ambiance and as an added bonus, everyone will receive a special passport to a valuable prize. When they have their passport stamped at all three of Blackstone’s great neighborhoods, they’ll be entered to win an Apple iPad.

The builders at Blackstone, Standard Pacific Homes and Shea Homes, are also encouraging home owners to bring their friends and relatives to Summer at the Park and learn about Blackstone’s Friends and Families Referral Program.

Summer at the Park commemorates the first anniversary of the opening of Blackstone’s community recreation center and welcomes the more than 150 new homeowners who have made Blackstone their community of choice for its exceptional value and unbeatable lifestyle.

Further details are also available by visiting www.blackstonelife.com or calling each community:  Sorano 714-223-0700, Amber 714-961-6011 and Jade 714-223-6908.

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13 DECORATED MODELS FOR SALE AT BRIGHTWATER IN HUNTINGTON BEACH

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – Living in a professionally decorated model home is an experience that many aspire to. Living in a stunning model within walking distance of the beach is even more alluring. Thirteen lucky families will have the opportunity to fulfill that dream beginning Saturday, June 23rd, as the model sales gets under way at Brightwater in Huntington Beach.

Showcasing all three of Brightwater’s remaining neighborhoods – The Sands, The Cliffs and The Breakers -- these award-winning homes have it all: designer upgrades, decorated-selected furnishings and accessories, custom cabinetry, complete front- and rear-yard landscaping and more. The models will be released for sale on a first-come, first-served basis on Saturday, June 23^rd. All potential buyers must prequalify with one of Brightwater’s preferred lenders. Please contact the sales office for more details.

“The release of our Brightwater models brings an opportunity to live in one of the last new community of its kind along the north coast of Orange County,” stated Todd Cunningham, President of Woodbridge Pacific Group, which is overseeing construction, marketing, sales and customer service at Brightwater. “They are in prime locations and are move-in ready.”

The last community of its kind along the north coast of Orange County, Brightwater is a distinctive master-planned community that offers a unique opportunity to experience Southern California coastal living at its best. With its prime location in world-famous Huntington Beach, Brightwater is close to the renowned beaches and historic pier that inspired the name Surf City USA.

Brightwater's closest neighbor, Bolsa Chica State Beach, is one of three beaches that stretch for 8.5 seamless miles along the Huntington Beach coastline. For traditional family outings, there's also Huntington State Beach, on the city's southern end, which is popular with swimmers, bodysurfers and body boarders. In the heart of town, Huntington City Beach, anchored by the historic Huntington Beach Pier, is the favorite of surfers and is also the site of such international sports competitions as the US Open of Surfing.

Prospective buyers are also encouraged to visit the website at www.brightwaterhb.com.  

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BRISK SALES CONTINUE AT PACIFIC SHORES IN HUNTINGTON BEACH

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA – Summer’s arrival spotlights the irresistible appeal of Christopher Homes’ Pacific Shores in Huntington Beach, a private, gated community just three blocks from the waves where you can enjoy your home and your vacation…year-round. Large numbers of home buyers have already realized that, propelling a brisk sales pace at Pacific Shores.

The vacation lifestyle goes hand in hand with a Pacific Shores address, and it is shared by residents of both of the community’s neighborhoods – the casual townhomes of The Bungalows and the luxury attached courtyard homes of The Villas. The Bungalows, which has just introduced a brand-new floor plan, is already selling its fourth phase, and ocean-view homes are now selling in the fourth phase at The Villas.

The Bungalows meets the needs of a broad spectrum of home buyers, from single households to growing families, with five additional two- and three-story townhome plans that range from approximately 1,481 to 2,606 square feet, including two, three or four bedrooms and up to 4.5 baths.

Each plan embodies the relaxed contemporary feeling of today’s beach lifestyle. Spacious gourmet kitchens combine style and convenience, and versatility is maximized by a variety of flex spaces, including a super loft spanning more than 500 square feet, a private master suite retreat or a multipurpose room. Prices currently start in the high $500,000s and range up to the high $700,000s. Residences Two, Three and Four offer both two- and three-story designs. The two-story homes are value-priced from the low $700,000s.

The Bungalows shares the private, gated environs of Pacific Shores with The Villas, where luxury soars to dramatic heights while offering residents the carefree convenience of attached-home living. Winner of two prestigious national awards, The Villas is a collection of three-story floor plans spanning approximately 3,527 to 4,142 square feet, including four to five bedrooms, 4.5 to 5.5 baths, plus loft space for entertainment and parties and a three-car attached garage. Two of the plans are enhanced by a first-floor bedroom and adjoining bath, and architectural styles feature Coastal, Andalusian and Spanish designs. Prices start in the low $1 Millions.

Pacific Shores even has its own vacation destination: a 60-foot-long resort-style heated pool that offers residents the opportunity for swimming, sunbathing and exercising in a private setting as well as at the nearby beach.

Residents of Pacific Shores will also enjoy convenient access to a number of local amenities. An inviting two-acre public park is right next door, and the world-renowned Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, Huntington Central Park and Library and Huntington Beach's excellent public schools are all nearby.

Propective buyers may obtain additional information, join the interest lists and download e-brochures by visiting www.pacificshoreshb.com. Further details are also available by calling The Bungalows sales information at 714-594-3254 and The Villas at 714-960-2900. Home buyers can keep up to date on all the latest news and goings-on by visiting www.facebook.com/pacificshoreshb or follow them on twitter @pacificshoreshb.

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SHEA HOMES’ VERANDA GRAND OPENING THIS SATURDAY, JUNE 16; JOIN THE CELEBRATION

Join the celebration this Saturday, June 16, for the much-anticipated grand opening of Veranda at Glenwood in Aliso Viejo, Shea Homes’ collection of elegant single-family residences that promise to make staying at home feel like getting away. Highlighting the event will be food and fun for everyone and the debut of beautifully decorated models that showcase the principles of holistic living, which combines all of the elements of the perfect residential environment, inside and out.

Veranda will reward residents with a resort-inspired lifestyle, and the grand opening will showcase many facets of that lifestyle, including special tastings from executive chefs of Aliso Viejo Country Club, and yoga demonstrations and a relaxing shoulder massage courtesy of Renaissance ClubSport. In addition, everyone who attends will also have the chance to enter a drawing to win a foursome of golf at the Aliso Viejo Country Club Golf Couse, free room rental at the Aliso Viejo Country Club and a one-month family fitness pass and one-night weekend stay at the Renaissance ClubSport.

In Veranda’s impressive residences, everyday household activities will unfold in the comfort of free-flowing great rooms, and guest suites will welcome visiting friends and relatives. Spacious lofts will accommodate everything from a quiet hideaway to a media space to a home office. For outdoor enjoyment and entertaining, private courtyards will be a natural extension of the spacious interiors.

“Veranda brings everything into harmony,” stated Janet Benavidez, vice president, sales and marketing, for Shea Homes Southern California. “It begins with you, setting the stage, planning for the future and gathering all the parts of your perfect home. Plus it’s the last golf course community in Aliso Viejo, so don’t miss out. Come to the grand opening celebration, where you’ll discover the many choices that await you at Veranda.”

The model tour will spotlight three distinctive single-family floor plans spanning approximately 3,167 to 3,758 square feet, including three to five bedrooms and four to four and one-half baths, with prices starting in the $800,000s. In each home, every room is a solution, and every detail adds to the whole. Wide-open designs expand the opportunities for shared moments, family time and casual entertaining. State-of-the-art kitchens achieve the perfect balance of style and convenience. Master baths evoke a sense of serene opulence. Everything about Veranda is designed to surpass buyers’ expectations.

For more informatin and driving directions to Veranda, please visit www.sheahomes.com.

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EXCITEMENT BUILDING IN OXNARD; SEVEN GREAT NEIGHBORHOODS AT RIVERPARK

OXNARD, CA – For residents of the highly desirable and immensely popular master-planned community of RiverPark in Oxnard, the dream of being able to walk to shopping, dining and entertainment is about to become reality. Excitement is building for the opening of The Collection, RiverPark’s 600,000-square-foot open-air specialty center, by the end of this year. The Collection will serve as a vibrant town center for RiverPark families as well as a new shopping and dining destination for all of coastal Ventura County.

Among the many well-known retailers that will soon be serving customers are Target, Whole Foods and REI. Dinging choices will range from Starbucks Coffee and Menchies Frozen Yogurt to Five Guys Burgers and Fries and Panera Bread. Personal service businesses will include Massage Envy and Color Me Mine. Close-to-home family entertainment will be provided by a multi-screen cinema complex.

The opportunity to live within walking distance of all the attractions at The Collection is featured at seven RiverPark neighborhoods by two of America’s most highly regarded builders, Shea Homes and Standard Pacific Homes. Shea Homes is presenting Reflections and Boardwalk while Standard Pacific's neighborhoods include The Landing, Waypointe, Collage, Pacific Crossing and The Avenue.

Reflections introduces uniquely designed two-story attached homes that are a perfect fit for the lifestyles and budgets of first-time home buyers. Living areas range from approximately 1,338 to 1,475 square feet, including two to four bedrooms and two and one-half baths plus a covered porch or balcony and a two-car garage. Varying plans feature a versatile loft or a gourmet kitchen island, and every residence is enhanced by fine appointments, including granite kitchen countertops and European Thermafoil cabinets in a choice of three colors. Six Reflections homes are currently under construction for October move-ins, and demonstrating buyers’ belief that NOW is the time and RiverPark is the place, two of those have already been sold. Prices start in the low $200,000s.

At Boardwalk, spacious two-story courtyard residences are ideal for young families. With prices beginning in the mid $200,000s, the homes extend from approximately 1,800 to 2,124 square feet and encompass three to five bedrooms and two and one-half baths. Varying plans take on the added dimension of a master-suite retreat, bonus room or secluded study. Touches of luxury extend throughout the homes, from granite kitchen countertops and stainless steel appliances to sleek mirrored wardrobe doors in secondary bedrooms and a laundry room with utility sink.

Now selling final two homes, the Landing is designed and priced for first-time home buyers. This neighborhood's distinctive two-story townhomes measure up to approximately 1,033 square feet, including two bedrooms and two baths. Private patios or decks are featured on each plan. Attached two-car garages lend added convenience, and prices begin in the $200,000s.

Waypointe is a charming collection of paired homes that encompass approximately 1,388 to 1,864 square feet of stylish living area plus a two-car garage. With five floor plans to choose from, Waypointe is sure to meet the needs of just about any family. Featuring up to three bedrooms, three and one-half baths and private decks, the residences are priced from the upper $200,000s.

The two-story courtyard townhomes of Collage are introduced by inviting entry courtyards, while living areas approximately 1,747 square feet with three bedrooms and two and one-half baths plus a two-car attached garage. Kitchens are enhanced by generous pantries and breakfast bars. Collage is now selling its three final homes at prices starting in the high $200,000s.

Pacific Crossing is the only RiverPark neighborhood that offers the added privacy of a detached residence, and that privacy is attainable with prices beginning in the $300,000s. With up to approximately 2,097 square feet, four bedrooms and three and one-half baths, these lovely courtyard-style single-family homes feature private courtyards, open floor plans and gourmet kitchens. Plans 2 and 3 offer an optional fourth bedroom with a bathroom and kitchenette which is an ideal living space for an extended family member.

The Avenue presents impressively spacious townhomes ranging from approximately 2,137 to 2,327 square feet with up to four bedrooms and two or three baths plus a two-car attached garage. Spacious great rooms accommodate everyday living and casual entertaining. Both Plan1 and 2 feature a secondary master suite on the first floor. And a secluded loft with adjoining alcove gives Plan 2 a great study area for kids. Prices start in the $300,000s.

RiverPark is being developed by Shea Homes and Standard Pacific Homes, working in concert with the city of Oxnard and other public entities.

For more information on the homes at RiverPark, visit www.RiverParkLife.com. 

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TOPAZRIDGE AT RIVERWALK VISTA IN RIVERSIDE RECENTLY RELEASES NEW PHASE WITH MONEY-SAVING BONUS

RIVERSIDE, CA, June 2012 – TRI Pointe Homes’ Topazridge at Riverwalk Vista, one of the Inland Empire’s most popular residential communities with sweeping mountain and city light views, has recently released a new phase of one and two-story homes.  Topazridge is ideal for homebuyers who are seeking larger homes, gated privacy and enhanced recreational amenities.

TRI Pointe Homes is also giving homebuyers the ability to customize their home-buying experience when they purchase at Riverwalk Vista at either Topazridge or Sagebluff. The money-saving bonus can be used towards the following choices: closing cost; OR upgraded flooring; OR upgraded interior finishes: OR window coverings, washer, dryer and refrigerator.

“Our money-saving bonus was designed so families could pick the options or upgrades that works best for them,” comments Sheila Travers, Sales Counselor at TRI Pointe Homes. “This is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of Riverwalk Vista’s value and with today’s low interest rates, buyers will discover that TRI Pointe Homes at Riverwalk Vista is one of the Inland Empire’s best new real estate values.”  Pricing for the size floor plans begin in the mid $300,000s at the resort-style community.

Nestled in a bluff-top setting, Topazridge’s expansive home floor plans range from approximately 2,567 to 3,773 square feet, including popular single level plans and two story designs with up to six bedrooms and four baths.  Topazridge residences are appointed with gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, custom interior paint colors, upgraded master baths and keyless entry at the garage.  Each home provides ample parking and storage space with a three car garage.  Pricing for Topazridge homes begins in the low $400,000s.

Homebuyers can keep up on the latest news by “liking” Riverwalk Vista on Facebook, where photos and floor plans of the decorated models and more are featured. To access the Facebook page, visit www.facebook.com/RiverwalkVistaRiverside.

 Additional information is available by calling Topazridge at 951-688-0874 or by visiting www.TRIPointeHomes.com 

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR – VERANDA IN ALISO VIEJO TO CELEBRATE GRAND OPENING JUNE 16TH

Only two weeks remain until the much-anticipated grand opening of Veranda at Glenwood in Aliso Viejo, Shea Homes’ collection of elegant single-family residences that promise to make staying at home feel like getting away.

Highlighting the grand opening on Saturday, June 16th, will be the debut of beautifully decorated models that showcase the principles of holistic living, which combines all of the elements of the perfect residential environment, inside and out. Everyday household activities will unfold in the comfort of free-flowing great rooms, and guest suites will welcome visiting friends and relatives. Spacious lofts will accommodate everything from a quiet hideaway to a media space to a home office. For outdoor enjoyment and entertaining, private courtyards will be a natural extension of the spacious interiors.

“Veranda brings everything into harmony,” stated Janet Benavidez, vice president, sales and marketing, for Shea Homes Southern California. “It begins with you, setting the stage, planning for the future and gathering all the parts of your perfect home. Plus it’s the last golf course community in Aliso Viejo, so don’t miss out. Join the interest list now and mark your calendar for our June 16th grand opening, where you’ll discover the many choices that await you at Veranda.”

The model tour will spotlight three distinctive single-family floor plans spanning approximately 3,167 to 3,758 square feet, including three to five bedrooms and four to four and one-half baths, with prices starting in the $800,000s. In each home, every room is a solution, and every detail adds to the whole. Wide-open designs expand the opportunities for shared moments, family time and casual entertaining. State-of-the-art kitchens achieve the perfect balance of style and convenience. Master baths evoke a sense of serene opulence. Everything about Veranda is designed to surpass buyers’ expectations.

Veranda’s value will be enhanced by the riches of Glenwood and its centerpiece, a Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course. There’s a genuine sense of abundance at Glenwood, and for good reason. From parks and pools to sports fields and golf, the world expands exponentially for residents, who are free to balance work and play, life and growth, family and friends in the superb Orange County address that has set the standard for master-planned excellence.

Additional advantages will be Veranda’s convenient proximity to the stores, restaurants and movie theaters at Aliso Viejo Town Center and the excellent education opportunities at Aliso Viejo’s top-rated schools. To join the interest list and get additional information about Veranda, please visit www.sheahomes.com or call 866-OWN SHEA.

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LUXURY LIFESTYLE + ATTACHED-HOME CONVENIENCE --PACIFIC SHORES OFFERS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Christopher Homes’ Pacific Shores in Huntington Beach offers the best of both worlds, the luxurious lifestyle of owning a residence in a private, gated community just three blocks from the beach and the convenience of maintenance-free attached living.

Luxury is an everyday experience at both of Pacific Shores’ neighborhoods, The Bungalows and The Villas, where all of the homes abound with today’s most sought-after amenities. The added benefits include advantages that single-family homes can’t match: No outdoor maintenance and the peace of mind that comes with being able to “lock and leave,” when travel is on the agenda.

For luxury on a grand scale, The Villas presents a trio of imaginatively designed three-story floor plans ranging from approximately 3,527 to 4,142 square feet, including four to five bedrooms, 4.5 to 5.5 baths, plus loft space for entertainment and parties and a three-car attached garage. Two of the plans are enhanced by a first-floor bedroom and adjoining bath, and architectural styles feature Coastal, Andalusian and Spanish designs. Prices start in the low $1 Millions.

The centerpiece of every Villas residence is an extra-spacious courtyard that will enable residents to share all the advantages of coastal living, from outdoor relaxation to al fresco entertaining.  And each home is topped off with a third-floor bedroom suite that may be selected as an optional loft with wet bar in most plans. 

The Villas are joined at Pacific Shores by The Bungalows, where five spacious two- and three-story townhome plans range from approximately 1,481 to 2,606 square feet, including two, three or four bedrooms and up to 4.5 baths.

The newest addition to The Bungalows collection also provides exceptional luxury and convenience. The Residence Four is highlighted by dual master suites, including one on the first floor. A spacious loft or optional bedroom enhance the home’s versatility, and select versions of Residence Four feature a secluded third floor with bedroom, bath and loft. Prices currently start in the high $500,000s and range up to the high $700,000s. Residences Two, Three and Four offer both two- and three-story designs. The two-story homes are value-priced from the low $700,000s.

The Villas Residence Three was honored with a coveted Platinum Award at the first annual Professional Builder Design Awards, and Residence Three was also the Gold Award winner for Architectural Design – Attached Home Plan at The Nationals at the International Builders Show presented by the National Association of Home Builders.

Both The Bungalows and The Villas offer a variety of customizing opportunities, including upgraded cabinet stain finishes and door styles, upgraded granite and tile selections and such state-of-the-art technology as home theater, intercom, security alarm and central vacuum systems. At The Villas, optional Wolf® appliances are joined by such additional available upgrades as Sub-Zero® refrigerator/freezers and Bertazzoni® ranges.

Models at both The Bungalows and The Villas are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and prospective buyers may obtain additional information, join the interest lists and download e-brochures by visiting www.pacificshoreshb.com. Further details are also available by calling The Bungalows sales information at 714-594-3254 and The Villas sales information at 714-960-2900. Home buyers can keep up to date on all the latest news and goings-on by visiting www.facebook.com/pacificshoreshb  or follow them on twitter @pacificshoreshb.

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PHASE TWO NOW SELLING AND GRAND OPENING SPELLS SUCCESS FOR CHANTREA AT SILVER CREEK IN SAN JOSE

Reflecting the accelerating demand for luxury homes in Silicon Valley, scores of enthusiastic home seekers turned out for the grand opening of TRI Pointe Homes’ Chantrea at Silver Creek in San Jose. Due to the continued high demand, Chantrea at Silver Creek has released a new phase of homes to satisfy the demand. Highlighting the event was the debut of three exquisite model homes that showcase the innovative designs of Chantrea’s limited edition of 38 prestigious estate residences, which are priced starting in the $1 millions.

Situated on generously sized homesites with a minimum of 10,000 square feet, Chantrea’s floor plans span approximately 3,390 to 4,250 square feet, including up to five bedrooms and up to four and one-half baths with first- and second-floor master suites.  Everyone who toured the models was impressed by expansive family spaces and a variety of enhanced room options, such as gourmet preparation kitchens, multipurpose dens and covered outdoor rooms designed for al fresco entertaining. 

Matching the upscale designs of Chantrea, each home is distinguished by a gourmet kitchen featuring professional-caliber Thermador® stainless steel appliances, including Masterpiece Series 5-burner gas cooktop, double oven and built-in microwave. The kitchens are also highlighted by extra-large islands with ample storage and Euro-style cabinets in a variety of stains.

Built with the environment and energy efficiency in mind, each home will be equipped with SunPower® solar energy panels in keeping with the TRI Pointe Homes philosophy of treading lightly and building wisely.

"Because Chantrea at Silver Creek is our first Northern California community, TRI Pointe Homes is truly gratified by the enthusiastic reception we received,” said Carrie Newbery, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at TRI Pointe Homes. “We are delighted that Chantrea was recognized for offering an exceptional level of luxury in a highly desirable setting that is in close proximity to the social media and technology epicenter of Silicon Valley.” 

Just off of Nieman Boulevard in San Jose, Chantrea at Silver Creek is conveniently located near San Jose’s numerous parks, cultural attractions and museums, as well as shopping, dining and entertainment. The San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, San Jose Civic Auditorium, and San Jose Museum of Art are among the many nearby cultural venues. Among the area’s popular local parks, Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a favorite of families with children and provides conservation-oriented outdoor adventure.  For local shopping needs, the Eastridge Shopping Center offers an array of specialty retailers.

To discover all the reasons behind the resounding success of the grand opening celebration at Chantrea, from the US-101 freeway, exit Yerba Buena Road, head east to Nieman Boulevard and turn left. Proceed to Cirelli Drive and the models are on the left-hand side. The sales office and decorated models are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information about Chantrea, call 408-531-8881 or visit www.TRIPointeHomes.com. Homebuyers can keep up to date on Chantrea news at www.facebook.com/ChantreaSanJose.

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TRI Pointe's Doug Bauer: 'We’re set up to be the next generation of merchant home builders'

Launched in the spring of 2009 by three former William Lyon Homes executives, Irvine, Calif.-based TRI Pointe Homes is among a small group of home-building startups led by industry veterans who are utilizing their deep relationships and clean balance sheets to make their mark in California.
TRI Pointe has quickly grown from a small, fee-based builder for the Irvine Company into a mid-sized merchant builder operating in Northern and Southern California, thanks, in part, to a $150 million equity partnership with Starwood Capital Group. Professional Builder sat down with TRI Pointe CEO Doug Bauer to discuss life as a startup.

David Barista: Given your combined 75-plus years of experience from running William Lyon Homes, what have the three partners brought to this startup?

Doug Bauer: We set up TRI Pointe to be the next generation of merchant home builders, which, for us, includes four key ingredients: having the best people on our team; focusing on real estate that is close to employment corridors; having a good capital base; and offering a great experience for our customers. None of these are revolutionary, but as a startup, it’s easier to execute on them because we’re not burdened with legacy issues. We’re not looking in the rear-view mirror at legacy assets, liabilities, and overhead. We’re not worried about some asset we bought 10 years ago that’s still weighing us down. We’re looking out the front window to grow the company and we have a profitable building platform to move forward on.

DB: When you talk about a focus on controlling land near employment corridors, how do you compete for this high-demand real estate, especially as a startup?

DB: It’s really having the right people focused on those locations and on developing the right relationships with land sellers, master developers, and the brokerage community. For instance, in Orange County we were selected by the Irvine Company as part of their executive builder program from the beginning. That was really the genesis of TRI Pointe Homes. When you have the Irvine Company call you for an opportunity like that, it only happens because you have developed strong relationships with the company.

In Northern California, we’ll be building in San Mateo at the old Bay Meadows Racetrack, which has been owned by Stockbridge and managed by Wilson Meany Sullivan — again, it’s been years of cultivating relationships. That was a very competitive bidding contest. But besides price, the sellers want to know that they’re partnering with a builder that builds an excellent product, builds on time, and is a good partner. They also want to know that the builder has the capital to perform. With our capital structure (Starwood partnership) and being small, we’re probably as nimble and competitive as any of the other privates and publics we compete against.

DB: What is your long-term growth strategy for TRI Pointe Homes?

DB: The plan is to grow the company organically to where we are building about 1,000 homes annually in Northern and Southern California. With the land we control right now — about 1,200 lots — we’ll be up to 150 sales this year and we should be over 350 sales next year, so we’re on that growth pattern.

The other part of our platform is mergers and acquisitions. We are strategically looking at markets outside of California, most notably Texas, Colorado, Phoenix, Nevada, and the Northwest. We’ve been meeting with private builders in those markets that see us as an attractive partner because we have capital.
Ultimately, our exit strategy is to take the company public, or perhaps sell it.

DB: Can you talk about some of the design innovations you are incorporating into your homes?

DB: One thing we like to do with our designs is establish what I call “memory points” — special places in the homes that help to spark buyers’ imagination of how they can live happily in our homes. For example, in Northern California, one of the buyer profiles is Asian Indian. We created two features for this group: a home-management center and a separate room off the main kitchen for their cooking-related appliances, like woks.

The other key design ingredient that we see in California is the trend of serving two masters. In both the attached and detached markets, we’re incorporating a junior master suite downstairs because the younger families that are buying our homes typically have extended family either living with them or visiting for extended periods.

Another component we’re focusing on is the green platform. For instance, we’re building million-dollar homes in San Jose that will incorporate solar as standard. We feel that consumers don’t want to pay for solar, and eventually it’s going to be a standard feature in most of our homes, including our entry-level products. We’re not quite there yet, but we’re looking at designing our homes to incorporate solar as part of the basic cost structure.

By David Barista, Editor-in-Chief, Professional Builder
Professional Builder Magazine

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Builder Confidence Rises Five Points in May

Builder confidence in the market for newly built, single-family homes gained five points in May from a downwardly revised reading in the previous month to reach a level of 29 on the National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI), released today. This is the index’s strongest reading since May of 2007.

“Builders in many markets are reporting that buyer traffic and sales have picked back up after a pause this April,” said Barry Rutenberg, chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and a home builder from Gainesville, Fla. “It seems we have resumed the gradual upward trend in confidence that started at the beginning of this year, as stabilizing prices and excellent affordability encourage more people to pursue a new-home purchase.”

“While home building still has quite a way to go toward a fully healthy market, the fact that the HMI has returned to trend is an excellent sign that firming home values, improving employment and low mortgage rates are drawing consumers back,” said NAHB Chief Economist David Crowe. “The pace of this emerging recovery could be stronger were it not for the significant impediments that the market continues to face with regard to builder and consumer access to credit, inaccurate appraisals, and more recently, rising materials prices.”

Derived from a monthly survey that NAHB has been conducting for 25 years, the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index gauges builder perceptions of current single-family home sales and sales expectations for the next six months as “good,” “fair” or “poor.” The survey also asks builders to rate traffic of prospective buyers as “high to very high,” “average” or “low to very low.” Scores from each component are then used to calculate a seasonally adjusted index where any number over 50 indicates that more builders view conditions as good than poor.

http://www.nahb.org

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