Chance to customize homes in store at Amber Shores
Affordable semicustom homes that can be personalized for each homeowner attract buyers to Amber Shores, a new community of 31 homes in Lake Villa.
The Modern Homes' community offers both ranch and two-story plans. A family-owned business representing four generations of builders, Modern Homes specializes in ranch designs and has built more than 2,000 residences in Lake County.
Every home can be fully customized, which is a rare amenity at a $250,000 price tag, said Beth Van Dyke, sales manager.
"We pride ourselves in complete customization and allow our customers to change anything that will better suit their lifestyle," she said.
Some buyers have closed off a second-story loft and made it into a fourth bedroom or playroom. Others have enlarged bedrooms and redesigned their kitchens, Van Dyke said.
Located on Route 59 a half mile south of Route 132, Amber Shores offers a picnic area with tables, basketball court and playground within the community.
With 16 homes backing up to a wooded conservation area, many homeowners can enjoy walking trails and natural beauty in their own backyards.
Amber Shores features two models including the Auburn. priced from $272,500 with 1,764 square feet, three bedrooms, two baths, basement and two-car garage.
There's plenty of room for guests to gather in the open floor plan designed for the active adult couple who likes to entertain.
Decorated with browns, tans and deep red accents, the home features hardwood oak floors with decorative borders in the dining room and great room.
The dining room stands out with its deep red Venetian plaster walls and coffered ceiling. A rectangular wood table is set with woven place mats, while a mirror hangs above the credenza.
In the great room, a black leather sofa and two matching chairs provide seating. The stone fireplace with wood mantel is flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows. The den, furnished with a desk and bookshelves, is located in the front of the home.
The well-equipped kitchen features granite countertops, ceramic tile backsplash, pantry and stainless steel appliances. An overhang serves as a breakfast bar. In the bayed breakfast area, a round glass-topped table is set with a fruit centerpiece and matching plates.
Situated in its own wing, the master suite has a separate entry niche, bay window and tray ceiling with rope lighting. A brown paisley print spread covers the bed. The private master bath features two sinks, a corner soaking tub with ceramic surround and walk-in shower. There are two secondary bedrooms.
The Camden, priced from $303,400, has 2,532 square feet, three bedrooms, 2½ baths, basement and two-car garage.
Loaded with upgrades, this model priced at $369,900 is available for immediate delivery.
The entry leads into the combination living and dining room separated by pillars. Both rooms feature crown molding and multicolored draperies. The dining room's oval wood table is set with place mats.
The open kitchen features glazed maple cabinets, upgraded Corian countertops with a tumble marble backsplash and stainless steel appliances. A center island provides extra work space, storage and shelves for cookbooks. A wood table sits in the breakfast area, which leads to the outdoor paver patio.
Topped with crown molding, the two-story family room features a brown leather sofa and love seat, media center, and fireplace with maple mantel. There is also a first-floor study or play room.
Upstairs in its own private wing, the master suite has a tray ceiling, walk-in closet, light wood furnishings and sitting area. The bath has two sinks, whirlpool tub, custom ceramic walk-in shower and private commode.
Two secondary bedrooms include a guest room and a nursery done in red and blue with a Winnie the Pooh theme.
Other ranch designs include the Geneva, from $241,500 with 1,334 square feet; the Hanover, not yet priced with 1,516 square feet; and the Fairfax, from $269,500 with 1,614 square feet.
Other two-story designs include the Bridgeport, from $284,900 with 2,297 square feet; the Davenport, from $285,800 with 2,066 square feet; and the Englewood from $298,200 with 2,286 square feet.
To visit Amber Shores, take I-294 north, exit at Route 132 west and travel 10 miles to Route 59. Turn left for a half mile to the entrance on the right. Amber Shores is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends or by appointment.
Call (847) 973-8886 or visit www.modern-homes.com.
Price range: $241,500 to $303,400
Square footage: 1,334 to 2,532
Schools: Gavin Central and Gavin South Junior High schools in Gavin Elementary District 37 and Grant Community High School in Grant Community High School District 124
Parks: Lake Villa Parks and Recreation