Lennar builds presence in area

Lennar plans to build nearly 200 single-family residences in northern Nevada in two new home communities over the course of the next 2-3 years.

Lennar recently unveiled the two new communities — Carson River Estates in Dayton — and Wintercreek in Somersett in Reno — to potential buyers at professionally decorated model homes.

“We are thrilled to offer our new homes at Wintercreek and Carson River Estates to buyers,” said Dustin Barker, division president for Lennar Northern Nevada. “With the expansive selection of homes we have available between these two communities, buyers are sure to find the perfect fit for their family, budget and lifestyle.

Barker said Carson River Estates will comprise 77 homes at build out. Fifteen are currently under construction. The units will be priced from the mid-$200,000s. Lennar also will build 108 homes in the Somersett master-planned community. The units will be priced from the high $300,000s. Like Carson River, about 15 homes are currently under construction.

The first phase homes will be ready for release this summer, said Barker.

Buyers looking for a rural feel with access to recreation may be drawn to the homes available at Carson River Estates in Dayton. These residences offer approximately 1,910 to 2,757 square feet of living space, three to five bedrooms and two to three bathrooms.

“These quality homes are set in a pristine location full of natural beauty and historic charm,” he said.

About 40 miles from Carson River Estates, residences at Wintercreek feature approximately 2,410 to 3,055 square feet with three to four bedrooms and two to three and one-half bathrooms. Somersett offers amenities that include 27 miles of hiking and biking trails, a golf course, aerobics studio, media room, poolside cabana, sports court and much more.

In terms of the new homeowners, Barker expected the Dayton project to draw a lot of retirees and some Carson City government employees. The buyer profile for Lennar’s project in Reno will include move-up buyers and second-home purchasers in the retiree and empty nester categories.

Barker said Lennar offers credit towards closing costs for buyers using its preferred lender. He said this helps streamline the close of the escrow process. Barker said the company has a high capture rate of over 80 percent.

In terms of business, Barker said Lennar represents about one-third of the new home market in northern Nevada. “The home building machine is up and running, Barker said. “We’ve seen a good steady pickup” as the economy improves.

When it comes to the larger job story, “It’s really exciting to be offering opportunities to trades, vendors and subcontractors. “Seeing them growing as well is exciting.”