Developing Relationships

Builders have yet to be selected for the 2,043-acre Canyons South golf and residential community south of Denver in Douglas County. Lots for the 400-home first phase won't be offered until the second half of 2006, but John Waggoner, president of developer Lowe Enterprises' Central division, was in contact with builders months before the January 25 land closing.

He expects to select two or three larger production builders and eight or 10 custom builders with a track record of success in the $500,000 to $1-million range, possibly higher. These builders are needed for up to six product lines ranging from detached homes on half-acre lots to low-maintenance golf villas, the latter depending on Waggoner's finding a suitable builder. But time is limited now that plat submission and architectural guidelines are in progress.

What information should prospective builders provide the developer? Waggoner says there will be "some process involved," but the selection process is primarily "a matter of getting to know one another."

"It is not too late to call," he adds.

Canyons South is approved for 968 single-family homes. Golf amenities are built around an 18-hole championship golf course, and open space amenities include the addition of 448 acres to the regional park system.

Interested builders may contact the developer at jwaggoner@loweenterprises.com.