Duane Hicks
More and more of the lots at the new Huffman Court subdivision here are being snatched up, with only six of the 16 still available.
Lot sales really picked up this year after only two lots had been sold as of last January.
But as of last week, eight lot sales had closed (i.e., the property has changed hands), with two more expected to close Dec. 15, town clerk Lisa Slomke told the Times.
Of the remaining six lots, five of them front Williams Avenue while the other one is within Huffman Court.
Work on the first home on the subdivision (Lot 16) began this summer and nearly is complete.
Three foundations also have been poured, with framing going up on one of them.
“It’s very exciting,” enthused Slomke.
“I’m anticipating the next couple months will be somewhat quiet,” she added.
“And then I would expect, once the snow starts to melt in the spring—March or so—we’re probably going to pick up again because there’s not many lots around town.
“These are desired lots,” Slomke stressed. “It’s in a nice neighbourhood—I think they’ll be going.”
The lots are being offered for sale “over the counter” on a first-come, first-served basis.
Offers received that meet the conditions established by town council can be signed off and closed within 45 days.
“Once a person puts in an offer, which if it’s accepted, it’s gone—unless the deal falls through, but that hasn’t happened yet,” noted Slomke.
“And I don’t anticipate that happening, to be honest with you.”
Purchasers of lots will have five building seasons to construct.
The lots are fully-serviced with water, sewer, power, natural gas, telephone, and cable.
As noted, the town has more information about the lots on its website, including pricing and which ones already have been bought.
Just look under “Town,” then “Planning & Development,” and then “Surplus Town Properties for Sale.”
You also can contact Slomke at 274-5323 ext. 1215 or via e-mail at lslomke@fort-frances.com
Slomke maintains a list of people interested in the lots, and sends out regular updates indicating any new sales.
Plans for the subdivision have been in the works for at least the past four years.
Discussions regarding conditions of sale of lots, lot prices, and procedures to sell the lots first began in 2012.
Construction of Huffman Court, including services, landscaping, and roadways, was completed in 2014.