New Property Trends in Spring 2018
The Resurgence of the “pocket neighborhood” in the Midwest
Do you remember a time when communities were built to last? Where houses and cottages were developed around common areas in such a way that people actually got to know each other, and families became lifelong friends simply because they shared a block or a garden or a driveway? Do you know that neighborhoods used to be walkable, secure and clean? If you do, and all of the above are favorable in your eyes, then you’ll be happy to hear that “pocket communities” are coming back into vogue.
No, we’re not talking about the tiny house trend
Okay, let’s face it – tiny houses are…tiny! And while the tiny house trend is serving those among us who prioritize travel and other lifestyle experiences over property investment, tiny houses aren’t really, well, big enough, to satisfy everyone.
And no, you don’t live “in your neighbor’s pockets” in a pocket neighborhood, either
We’re talking, here, about “a type of planned community” (thanks Wikipedia) that is made up of homes that are built around a common area. This is done with one primary goal: to promote the growth and development of close-knit communities, where residents actually connect on an authentic, meaningful level. Because, if we’re honest, we’ve lost the strength that comes with a healthy community – and instead we’re breathing auto fumes and living isolated lives in towns and cities that were built more for cars than for people.
Walkable towns and pleasant memories
Tom Heimsoth, Developer of Heritage Harbor in Ottawa, Illinois (a tastefully designed marina development made up of waterfront pocket neighborhoods) remarks that “…memories made in one’s earlier years in the context of close-knit communities, especially in nature, and on or near open water, are doubtless the most cherished memories in life. People are showing that fast-paced, isolated, overly consumeristic lives make for a depressed, anxious and lonely society. Walkable, secure and people-centric neighborhoods are a vital key for us to regain the lifestyle our souls were designed to live and enjoy”.
Spring Builds at Heritage Harbor in 2018
Situated along the Illinois Waterway in Ottawa IL, Heritage Harbor is breaking new ground (if you will) in rebuilding that close-knit, beautiful community that was commonplace in time past.
It’s most recent feature, and the big attraction for Spring 2018, is the introduction of Port Place, the Harbor’s newest pocket neighborhood. Port Place is located in the West Peninsula neighborhood of the development. Heritage Harbor’s architectural designer (and the developer of the project), Kevin Donovan, says that the pocket neighborhood will include fourteen residential lots spread along Port Place drive. These lots will be made up of 10 single-family homes and four duplex townhome units.
The pocket neighborhood is built around a purely delightful common area, and is situated just a few steps from the riverfront park, neighborhood pool, and harbor boat slips. The center of this charming area will take the form of an intimate park space, complete with a fire pit and dining platform.
Cottage-style designs for pocket-style neighborhoods
Pocket neighborhoods, while not being anywhere near as small as the tiny house configuration, are typically made up of compact housing that resembles more of a cottage theme. At Port Place, residents have the option of either ranch-style or two-story cottage units. Both plans offer optional basements and first floor master bedrooms, and all fourteen homes will boast two-car garages.
What to expect from your pocket neighborhood cottage this Spring
These high-quality homes, which have been designed for maximum spatial and energy efficiency, are graced with many unique features. The two-story model unit, which will showcase many of the options available to buyers of new homes in Port Place, will be completed by Mid Summer 2018. The home will have 1,700 SF between the first and second levels, with an additional 1,000 SF in a 9’ finished basement. It will also have three bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms, with an additional double bunk bed nook on the second level. The property will also come with a central private courtyard, and will possess the upgraded finishes, fireplace, built-in bar, Sonos sound system, and upgraded Miele appliances that will be on offer to home owners in the pocket neighborhood.
To get in on the pocket-place magic, we suggest that you hop on over to Heritage Harbor and book your discovery tour!
Retirees Hit the Jackpot at Heritage Harbor
“Count your age by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears.”—John Lennon
Make new friends and celebrate with old at the resort community of Heritage Harbor. Find a place where people still smile and warmly greet each other and cherish the small town feel of Ottawa. See why Heritage Harbor may be just the retirement investment that you are looking for.
People are Talking
Heritage Harbor and the surrounding Ottawa area hosts lively events year round with plenty of outdoor activities for active individuals. The lapping water of the Illinois River and sights of nature soothe souls when they need a time out. Heritage Harbor offers the perfect balance. U.S. News and World Report shares insights about the benefits of Heritage Harbor for retirees. Tammy Barry, director of sales and marketing for Heritage Harbor Ottawa, believes that the resort community offers many of the desired features of an age-restricted development. Resort amenities include lawn maintenance, on onsite restaurant, a pool and various gathering places. The all-ages development allows parents to live near their children and enjoy a roster of events suitable for an active lifestyle. Barry said:
“I consider us a stroller to walker community. I think having an age variety has brought a lot of energy to the community.”
Seniors appreciate the diversity of families and retirees in the community and many find that it helps them feel young and vibrant. The homes at Heritage Harbor can be customized for less mobile adults. You won’t feel alone in this community. Builder online magazine shared that many Midwestern retirees are flocking to the marina setting right outside of Chicago. Boomers are loving the active lifestyle, with Heritage Harbor’s 32-acre harbor, marina services, low-maintenance homes inside the prime recreational destination of Starved Rock County, and easy accessibility for friends and family. Consider finding the best environment that supports your current lifestyle and changing needs.
An Ideal Lifestyle for Retirees
Embrace the small luxuries of modern living surrounded by the natural beauty of the Illinois River area. Heritage Harbor in Ottawa is a resort community that offers activities for all ages and activity levels. Owners and visitors enjoy the picturesque marina with over 450 boat slips, accessible boat ramps and dry stack storage. Through Quest Express at the marina you can experience all the joys of boating without the hassles of owning and maintaining a boat. Pick up necessities and enjoy a bite out by the water at the ship’s store and marina-side bar & grill, The Red Dog Grill.
Make independent living a joy. Charming single story ranch-style home models are available and many floor plans have spacious first floor master bedrooms with additional room for visiting guests. Homes can be customized to individual preferences and needs. View the highlights of the homes and lifestyle available for those that dream of waterfront living.
Heritage Harbor resort living is ideal for retirees that want to smile and do more. Heritage Harbor, the Ottawa area and beyond are free to explore for the young at heart. Contact a friendly associate for additional details on waterfront living residences at (815) 433-5000.