A local investment group composed of about 17 entities has worked over the past four years to develop a two-phase project with 53 lots on about 10 acres northeast of the San Juan Country Club.
Scott Bird, who spearheaded the effort, said that after a round of golf with Mike Hamilton they talked about the development idea, which became Sandstone at San Juan Country Club development.
In phone conversation Tuesday with Tri-City Record, Bird said, “Yeah, I think it speaks to the in-migration into the county.”
“One of the things I've heard is … people will call, for instance, a chamber of commerce or the convention and visitors bureau and say, send me everything you have on a gated community. And we don't have one. And so I think it becomes somewhat of a calling card,” Bird said.
He said there are a few condos in Farmington that are gated, but this will be the first actual gated community with proximity – a short golf cart ride – to the San Juan Country Club.
“I think the key thing is just having housing available for a unique community,” Bird emphasized. “It’s gated, it’s by the country club, which has all the amenities.”
Each lot will have a minimal country club membership, which is part of the homeowners association dues. Homeowners can upgrade to a full membership if they choose.
Bird said the development will be a boost for the economy by attracting retirees, remote workers and other people moving into the community.
SJ Gabaldon Construction & Realty has been developing the retirement subdivision since 2020. The community will be restricted to ages 55 and above.
“We actually started moving bird last spring,” Bird said, adding, “It took us 3½ years just to get approvals and plots and so on.”
The first phase will offer 22 lots priced between $75,000 and $95,000, with home dimensions that begin at 1,800 square feet. Construction of 31 lots is expected to begin during Phase 2 in spring 2025.
Two parcels are under contract, with marketing efforts that began Sept. 3. The homes will begin at about $600,000, he said.
“We have always considered doing a spec home, although we don't have anything planned yet. So it's, it's mostly going to be the presold,” he said.
The Sandstone at San Juan Country Club homeowner’s association has been developed, with covenants, conditions and restrictions in place.
Bird said that two parcels are under contract, with marketing efforts that began Sept. 3.
The first home is ready to be built, with the builder awaiting a permit from the city of Farmington, according to Bird.
“You know, it will be a strong influx of folks that want to live closer to the temple,” Bird said about the projected increase of Latter-day Saints coming to Farmington because of the temple nearing completion.
Bird is optimistic that the development will enhance the community, given the attractive elements of outdoor recreation opportunities and beautiful weather.
“We hope for it to be an active, 55 plus golf cart community. Every home is either going to have a golf cart garage or golf cart room so they can buzz over the club for dinner. So … that’s our vision.”
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