Chatham Hill a Record-Breaker for Universal Homes

Chatham Hill a Record-Breaker for Universal Homes

When Universal Homes' architects began designing houses for the company's new site at Chatham Hill in Gulf Harbour, Whangaparaoa, they were hoping to come up with something special. Now, as the project begins to take shape, they are confident they have succeeded.

From the outset, the architects' aim was to design houses that would complement, rather than detract from, the area's beautiful scenery and unique marine character.

Their resulting work – a development of Cape Cod-style homes – has proved so popular that the company has received a record number of enquiries, and sales are almost outpacing supply. Ten homes have already been snapped up; five of these during the past four weeks. Another three are under contract. And, with values in the area continuing to rise, the trend seems likely to continue.

"It's very exciting," says Universal Homes' Sales and Marketing Manager Mike Pearce. "We knew we had something special with Chatham Hill; we were fairly confident that these homes would be popular – we just didn't realise how great that popularity would be!"

Mike Pearce says the Cape Cod design is a first for Universal, but has been an immediate hit with house-hunters. "I think it's because the Cape Cod house represents what most of us think of as a real home," he explains. "These are substantial houses. They're built to endure – and their weatherboards and steep, gabled roofs reflect that. The design is timeless, so it will always be stylish. And we've given them a nautical theme, in keeping with their setting, which adds an extra special feature to their style."

All homes at Chatham Hill are free-standing in landscaped grounds. They have either two or three storeys, and are within walking distance of the proposed eastern boat harbour and country club. Sizes range from 166 to 222 square metres, with prices from $499,000 to $639,000. Some plans include a double-sided fireplace.

There are 49 homes in stage one, some with sea views, and some backing on to the prestigious Gulf Harbour golf course. There are a wide variety of designs, all constructed to a very high set of specifications.
Designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, with a focus on relaxed family life and entertaining, each has a large, elegant kitchen, an open-plan living-dining area – some with an additional family room and/or office - and three to five generously proportioned bedrooms. All homes will be decorated throughout in light marine colours.

"Chatham Hill is one of the most attractive developments we've ever undertaken," says Mike Pearce. "It's really got everything going for it, and the interest we've received so far is a firm indicator that most people agree."

Interest in Chatham Hill is not confined to buyers in the Auckland region, and real estate company Bayleys is now marketing the development nationwide.
To meet demand, the two show homes are open three afternoons a week: from 1pm to 3pm on Wednesdays, and 1pm to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

ENDS

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