Low-Cost, Low-Emission Living

It’s been seven years since RG Building & Development began work on the Crescent Village project—for which the firm has served as owner, developer, and general contractor—and the fruits of its labor are finally starting to pay off. More than 100 of the 135 townhome units have been sold already, and interest in the project and development is continuing to grow. Glantz says the firm succeeded because of local property agents. “Having several real estate brokers buy from us was such a highlight of the project,” she says. “They are experts in their field and obviously feel we offer the right product for the right price.”

The homes, sized between 1,800 and 2,200 square feet, range in price from $359,990 to $449,900. “I would say that our units are the best value in Fairfield County,” Robik says. “All of the units have open floor plans as well as all of the bells and whistles of new construction. And all of that, including some shared amenities, are available for a fraction of what some pay for building lots in Fairfield County.”

In addition to their homes, Crescent Village residents can enjoy a beautifully designed clubhouse with a state-of-the-art gym, a full-size kitchen, and a social area with a fireplace by Fire Finesse. Outside, the clubhouse also includes a pool and a playground. “The units feel very private, and yet you get to enjoy this social aspect as well,” Glantz says. “Residents are able to benefit from things like the pool and gym equipment, and for them it’s a maintenance-free bonus.”

Right from the start, both Glantz and Robik knew they wanted to do everything possible to keep all of the floor plans affordable. “We started by negotiating a price on the project that would allow us to bring the total cost in at a sensible price,” Robik says. After purchasing the approvals, redesigning the units and site, and having those designs reapproved, the firm looked at reasonably priced options for future tenants to customize their units with. Glantz and Robik presented those options in their two model units and in their options center. Subcontractors such as KAF Construction LLC and Massamino Plumbing also helped Glantz and Robik achieve their low-cost goals by keeping the project on schedule.

“Lastly, we decided to participate in the Energy Star program with Crescent Village,” Glantz says, explaining that it lowered overall heating and energy costs. “We used high-efficiency gas furnaces and high-efficiency water heaters for the project, which help make the homes more eco-friendly at the same time as making them more efficient. It’s a win-win.” RG Building & Development also provides Energy Star-rated light bulbs to all new unit owners.

So far there have been very few bumps in the road, and despite the economic downturn that’s developed since their firm began the project, Glantz and Robik not only have been able to deliver all units on time but have actually turned a profit. “Our team of employees and subcontractors—as well as our understanding of being owners, developers, and general contractors—have made Crescent Village one of our most successful projects yet,” Glantz says. “Once we get a development approved, we know the most cost-effective way to design and build a project while appealing to our market. And we’ve certainly been able to showcase that with Crescent Village.” ABQ