HEATHERFIELDS TOWNHOMES
Frequently Asked Questions
How many townhomes are you building?
Homestead Design is building 83 townhomes at Heatherfield.
[Back to top]
What do I have to do to secure a townhome?
Please read the contract that we include in our marketing packet. The details of the purchase and sale process are there. Generally: The initial deposit is $10,000. This money is non-refundable except in the event that Homestead Design defaults or cannot provide you with a clear title to the property or the property is destroyed, as in a fire, and you decide to void the sale. There is an additional non-refundable deposit due of 50% of any options that you choose. For example, if you choose an option and the price is $5,000 there would be an additional non-refundable deposit due of $2,500. All deposit monies are applied to purchase price or returned at closing, depending on financing.
[Back to top]
What do you estimate taxes to be?
Based on discussions with the City of South Burlington Tax Department, the formula for determining the property taxes at Heatherfield is the following: Purchase Price ___/ 100 x $1.7767 (2010-2011 tax rate) = estimated 2010-2011 taxes. Therefore, a home with a value of $350,000 would have estimated annual property taxes of $6,200. We strongly recommend that any prospective buyer contact the South Burlington tax department at 802-846-4109 for more information.
[Back to top]
How much are the association fees?
The current monthly association fee payable to Heatherfield Owner's Association, Inc. is $221. This fee includes:
- Removal of trash and recyclables
- Hazard insurance on the condominium
- Exterior maintenance
- Snow removal from driveways and walkways
- Lawn mowing and landscaping maintenance (excluding the maintenance of plantings installed by Buyer).
- Maintenance of the storm water run-off system
There is an additional charge of $9.00 per month for homes with decks. The amount of $200 shall also be due from each Buyer at closing and shall go towards the cash reserve fund only. This amount is not an association dues payment. Homestead Design is not in charge of the Homeowner’s Association and does not warranty these fees.
[Back to top]
What is standard and what is an upgrade in the model
There are sheets specifically outlining what the upgrades are in the model.
[Back to top]
Do you offer any options?
Yes. We have information on all the options we offer and the prices. Only options offered by Seller will be allowed. Homestead Design is pleased to offer our Heatherfield customers a wide range of options which allow you to customize your new home according to your tastes and preferences. We have selected a far ranging array of choices which still allow us to meet scheduling and marketing requirements. Modifications to the floor plans will not be allowed. Scheduling, among a myriad of reasons, ranks high as to why it is not permitted.
[Back to top]
Can I do any work on my own in the townhome while it is under construction?
Custom interior work may be done after the closing. No such work will be permitted prior to closing. Exterior modifications must receive design approval from the Heatherfield Owner's Association.
[Back to top]
Why is the hot water heater rented?
The domestic hot waters are extremely efficient and therefore costly. By renting from Vermont Gas, if there is a problem with them, they will be repaired or replaced by Vermont Gas. The rental fee ranges from $22 to $32 per month, depending on the home design and series. The tanks are initially leased for a three year period and can be upgraded at any time during this period. The homeowner will not have the option of replacing the water heater with one from an outside vendor and having Vermont Gas take back the leased tank/heater until the three year commitment is fulfilled.
[Back to top]
Is there a bicycle or recreation path nearby?
Yes, there is a paved recreation path connecting Heatherfield to the South Burlington recreation path system. For more details see the City of South Burlington Recreation Department web site at www.sburlrecdept.com or you can call them at 802-846-4108.
[Back to top]
Do you have any information concerning the South Burlington school system?
The internet is a great source of information on schools. The South Burlington school district has its own web site at http://www.sbschools.net. Another great independent site is Great Schools. Their web address is http://www.greatschools.net/modperl/browse_school/vt/353. You can also call the South Burlington school district at 802-652-7273
[Back to top]
Any information on the City of South Burlington?
South Burlington is the 3rd largest community in the state with a population of 17,500. The following web sites provide some great info on the city: http://www.sburl.com/, http://www.virtualvermont.com/towns/southburlington.html.
[Back to top]
What is the relationship between Homestead Design, Inc. and HDI Real Estate?
Home Design Inceptions Real Estate (HDI R.E.) handles the marketing of Heatherfield for Homestead Design, Inc. Agents of Homestead Design and HDI Real Estate represent the interests of the Seller only.
[Back to top]
Is there any warranty on our new townhome?
Yes, there is a warranty on your new home. You will receive a detailed copy in your new home packet but the basics are as follows: Homestead Design, Inc. covers for one year problems with excavating and backfilling, site drainage, leaks in basement or roof, foundation walls, basement floors, garage floors, interior floors, interior walls, interior trim, exterior siding, exterior trim, roof, doors, windows, cabinets, countertops, plumbing, heating, water, septic, appliances, fireplace, electrical. Please see and be sure to thoroughly review the actual warranty for more detail.
[Back to top]
What if I have a house to sell?
Homestead Design will not hold a Heatherfield Townhome off the market while you attempt to sell a home. If you have a home to sell, we would be happy to recommend a number of qualified area real estate brokers that could assist you.
[Back to top]
What is the relationship between Heatherfield and the Vermont National Country Club?
Vermont National Country Club is offering a Free Social Membership to Heatherfield homeowners. When you purchase at Heatherfield, Vermont National Country Club will waive the $2,700 social membership initiation fee. You are still responsible for the annual dues. This initiation fee may be applied to a full golf membership as well. Social Membership includes:
- Use of the tennis, swimming pool and clubhouse facilities
- Participation in "members only" tennis, swimming and social events
- Up to six rounds of golf at the member/guest rate
- Limited use of the practice facilities – driving range, pitching and putting greens
[Back to top]
How do I know my new townhome will be totally finished before I actually close?
A week before your closing you will have a "walk-through" with Homestead's customer service representative. He will explain many of the features of your new home with you and together inspect the home for items that may have been missed during the final clean up. This one week period gives Homestead time to take care of most punch list items before closing.
[Back to top]
Can I move any items into the home before I close?
Absolutely no items may be moved into any portion of the home, including the garage, before closing. No exceptions will be considered.
[Back to top]
Information contained herein is believed to be accurate but is not warranted.
|
