RiverTowne homes have more standard features

RiverTowne homes have more standard features

By: BOB LANG    34
Originally Published on: 03/09/02
Page: G4

     A popular misconception about large-volume homebuilders is that they cater solely to entry-level buyers.
     In fact, just about all the volume builders in the Charleston area offer upscale versions of their base product. Such homes are geared toward second- and third-home buyers who desire more features but can’t afford a full custom home.
     A good example of this is what D.R. Horton is doing at RiverTowne on the Wando, a traditional family neighborhood going up along the Wando River off S.C. Highway 41.
     D.R. Horton, based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, is one of the largest builders in the Lowcountry with homes under construction in nine neighborhoods. Floor plans and standard features differ in each community, allowing the company to offer homes in a wide price range.
     The homes at RiverTowne are among Horton’s top-of-the-line “Platinum Series,” which means you won’t find any plans that include vinyl siding or textured ceilings. Prices range from $229,990 to more than $300,000.
     “These homes come so well-equipped that people don’t have to do much to them when they move in,” said community sales manager Doug Beidler. “In terms of value, the quality of construction and the amount of standard features, we set ourselves apart from our competition.”
     Homes range in size from 2,000 to about 2,900 square feet and are built either on crawl space or an elevated foundation high enough for a drive-under garage. The exterior siding is wood-grain cement fiber. All homes come with a two-terior siding is wood-grain cement fiber. All homes come with a two-car garage and a rear deck. Porches are at least 6 feet wide.
     Ceilings are smooth and are at least 9 feet high on the first floor. Walls come with plenty of trim, including crown molding in the foyer, dining room, main bedroom, family room and kitchen. Windows are encased in wood and tilt in for easy cleaning. Hardwood flooring is standard in the foyer and first-floor powder room as well as in the kitchen.
     Many plans feature large great rooms with vaulted ceilings. Where possible, passages between rooms are arched.
     D.R. Horton is one of the first volume builders in the area to offer a stainless-steel appliance package as standard. The package includes a built-in microwave oven. Kitchen cabinets come with crown molding.
     The bathroom in the owner’s suite comes with a tub and separate shower. With some plans, the toilet comes shielded by a wall.
     All homes are built with a wiring package that includes three telephone outlets, five cable outlets, and a security system. Additional customized wiring is available for such items as home theater systems and security cameras.
     Buyers can choose from nearly two dozen floor plans, including many with an optional bonus room. Garages come attached or detached, depending upon the plan. Electric door openers are included.
     Gas fuels the heating and cooling systems of each home as well as the standard ventless fireplace.
     Homes have been going up in RiverTowne on the Wando since the mid-1990s, but D.R. Horton only recently got involved. It’s the largest active builder in the community, with 111 home sites. Several homes have been completed and are available. A number of other homes are under construction.
     A handful of home sites front the Wando River, but they’ve already been sold, Beidler said. Additional lots are available that offer marsh and/or partial river views.
     Buyers have the option of purchasing a lot and choosing their own builder. Lot prices range from $46,000 to $86,000.
     D.R. Horton has already constructed its own community dock. That’s in addition to the large RiverTowne community dock located a few hundred yards down river.
     Other RiverTowne amenities include a swimming pool, tennis courts and children’s play area.
     To get to RiverTowne on the Wando from downtown Charleston, take U.S. Highway 17 north about 10 miles and take a left on to S.C. Highway 41. Go about 2.5 miles and turn left into the main entrance to RiverTowne. Go about a mile and look for the D.R. Horton sales office/model home on your right. The office is open seven days a week.

     Bob Lang covers real estate and automotive news. Contact him at blang@postandcourier.com or 937-5594.



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