Amenities play key role in attracting buyers

The pool and clubhouse at Windstone has been a popular addition this summer.

By AMY STUMPFL
For Brentwood Home Page
It wasn’t long ago that neighborhood amenities, such as swimming pools and playgrounds, were treated almost as an afterthought – tucked away on an empty lot or quiet side street. But today’s homeowners expect more from their surroundings. And whether they’re looking for family-friendly luxury or more of a lock-and-go lifestyle, amenities play a key role in attracting buyers.

“We’re strong believers in the importance of well-designed amenities,” says Rob Pease, project manager with CPS Land, developer of neighborhoods such as Montclair and Annandale. “It all starts with the site plan, trying to incorporate and preserve as many natural features as possible, while placing beautiful facilities right in the heart of the community.”

Pease points to Annandale as a prime example. With its 14-acre, tree-lined park and a walking trail that leads residents around scenic lakes and fountains, this 180-home subdivision is widely known for its natural beauty.

Annandale features a 14-acre, tree-lined park, an extensive walking trail, two pools and more. This is a view of the clubhouse that overlooks one of the community's lakes.

 “We have found that walkability is very important to our residents,” Pease says. “We believe in building pedestrian-friendly communities, with walking trails and sidewalks throughout.” 

But Annandale residents also enjoy resort-style facilities, including two pools, a cabana and a children’s play area – all of which overlook one of the community’s lakes.

“The pool area is amazing with a lot of emphasis on landscaping and a great outdoor fireplace, so residents can enjoy all kinds of events three seasons out of the year. This is really the signature piece – a central gathering spot that is integral to the community.”

Residents of Windstone enjoy a similar sense of community with its elegant Resident’s Club, state-of-the-art fitness facilities and sparkling salt-water pool. Developed by Southern Land Company, LLC, Windstone offers several categories of housing, including everything from town homes and village homes to hilltop estates.

“We’ve found amenities are a big part of the buyer’s decision,” says Mary Lee Bennett, marketing manager for Southern Land. “Fitness is a big priority, and so we have included sidewalks and trails, and our fitness facilities are excellent. But the clubhouse also offers the perfect place to host community events and private parties. There’s a gathering room, a catering kitchen and great views of the pond and water features.” 

For Mac and Nancy Musgrove, living in Windstone “feels like vacation,” with luxury amenities and plenty of social opportunities.

“We purchased this lot several years ago when they first developed the neighborhood, but just built our home and moved in last year,” Nancy says. “We were downsizing and wanted a smaller yard, little upkeep, but still a fabulous home. We are living the dream.”

Musgrove says she sees Windstone’s amenities as an extension to her own home.

"The clubhouse is lovely, and a great central meeting place for small groups and also community events. ...We set up an event for the first Friday of each month called Wine Down Windstone. ... It’s a lot of fun, without all the hassle of entertaining at home. -- Nancy Musgrove Windstone resident

“We love the pool for when our grandchildren visit, and yet we don’t have to care for it. The clubhouse is lovely, and a great central meeting place for small groups and also community events. For example, we set up an event for the first Friday of each month called Wine Down Windstone. Everyone brings what they want to drink and a small dish to share. It’s a lot of fun, without all the hassle of entertaining at home.

“And the neighborhood is gated and small enough that we can walk with other neighbors,” she adds. “I think this is the first place we’ve ever lived where neighbors stop to say hello and really get to know each other. It’s a wonderful lifestyle – about as close to Mayberry as you can get in these fast-paced times.”

On the other side of town, Taramore offers a dynamic lifestyle as well. Developed by John Wieland Homes, this newer community provides a mix of carriage homes and executive homes, along with a gated section of estate homes. Amenities include a competition-size pool with water slide, lap lanes and a toddler pool, lighted tennis courts, a 5-acre park, and bike trails that tie into the city’s trail system.

And while the community’s clubhouse features ultra-modern facilities such as a kitchen, media room and fitness center, it’s actually housed in a restored antebellum mansion, says Michelle Crews, broker for John Wieland Homes.

“The James Sayers house was built in the 1800s, and we renovated it to serve as the neighborhood’s clubhouse,” Crews says. “It’s just beautiful, and adds a very unique element to the community.”

For Kathleen Doulin – who recently moved into Taramore with her two teenage daughters and her mother – the community provides “an amazing atmosphere that’s hard to beat.”

“It’s really fantastic what they’ve got going here,” she says. “The homes are gorgeous, and the carriage home in particular offered a garage apartment, which is perfect for my mom. Everything is very well-maintained with tons of green space and amenities. I love the tennis courts, and my daughters appreciate the freedom they have here. They can hop on the bike trails, walk to the pool or go work out. Plus everyone is so friendly – we feel like we’ve got it all.”