Jacob's Edge Condominiums

Going, going, gone

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:20:00 +0000

A recent Open House visitor laughed and commented, "Wow, there sure are a lot of sold signs here. Are they all really sold, or do you just put the signs out?"

We were pleased to assure the visitor that the signs are indeed real and showed him our updated plot plan which identifies the status of the new construction and sold homes here at the Jacob's Edge community. All signs are pointing to an upswing in the housing industry this spring as buyer confidence grows and interest rates remain low.

One thing that hasn't decreased is the cost of building, unfortunately. We will be increasing the base price on our Brittany and Brianna models as of March 1st. Now is the time to buy, BEFORE prices increase. Call for more information or for a private showing.

View Plot Plan

Phase VI Moving Right Along

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 12:12:00 +0000

Phase VI is coming along very well and planned for fall move-in availability. The construction consisting of the Brittany and Brianna models includes two light-filled homes featuring an open floor plan with cathedral ceilings, two bedrooms, two full baths, hardwood floors, home office or study and full unfinished lower level. The kitchen is complete with Energy Star appliances, a breakfast bar and plenty of cabinet storage. Walk directly from the two-car attached garage into a mudroom area with laundry area and pantry closet. Each home will feature a patio or deck and include energy saving features like on-demand hot water. Come take a look.

Private Well Is Cost Saver For Jacob's Edge Owners

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 11 May 2011 13:23:00 +0000

We successfully drilled our well this week - 208' deep, pumping 10 gallons of water per minute to provide ample irrigation for our common grounds. Using the well eliminates the need to rely on the town water supply and reduces extra cost for our home owners. This is just one of our many energy-saving features at Jacob's Edge Condominiums.

Phase VI Has Begun

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 04 May 2011 13:08:00 +0000

Spring is here and that means we are breaking ground on Phase VI of Jacob's Edge Condominiums.

If you've driven past our community recently you may have noticed a lot of activity. The foundation is in on a new duplex and construction is moving along right on schedule.

Let The Sun Shine In

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 11:57:00 +0000

Our latest homes are located at the very back of our community, nestled along the border of the Black Stevens Conservation Area. Some will offer walk-out lower levels and/or feature four-season sun rooms. Each sun room is bathed in natural sunlight and will allow access to a deck or patio --perfect for entertaining. The cathedral ceiling will be equipped with energy-saving ceiling fans which control air flow on days when central air conditioning is not needed. Imagine relaxing with your morning cup of coffee, listening to the birds chirping and the gentle breezes flowing through the windows. As with all our homes, the sun room area may be customized to meet your needs, and may be an extension of the great room or accessed through double French doors for added privacy. Now is the time to reserve your new home!

Happy Thanksgiving!

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 12:33:00 +0000

Brrrr. Temperatures are dropping as we head into the Thanksgiving week. We are trying hard to button things up before a big taste of New England weather makes its way to South Hadley. Lately the wind has been a factor, making it difficult to do roof work safely. We are still on schedule however.

There is a great picture of what the fire wall looks like in this post. As you may know, firewalls are now code for any 3-family dwelling. We hope that you and your family are able to be together to enjoy the holiday.

If you're in the neighborhood, stop by to see the progress in person and bring the family along. We'll be open Friday, Saturday and Sunday this week (Nov. 26, 27 & 28) from 1 - 3 each day for our Holiday Open House.

Phase IV Progress - Fall Arrives

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 01:08:00 +0000

It's always amazing to see how quickly we can move from a hole in the ground to something that actually looks like a home. Now that the walls are being framed, window placements are taking shape and roof trusses are ready to be added, it's easy to see what our newest homes will look like. We are still on track for a Spring occupancy. If you're ideal location is along the rear of our community directly abutting the Black Stevens Conservation Area, (see our Extreme Bridge Makeover), now is the time to act.

Last week we held off positioning the trusses due to some pretty high wind warnings. We "battened down the hatches" for a couple of days until the weather cooperated once again.

Framing Begins

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:50:00 +0000

The mild weather we've been having has been a big boost to keeping Phase IV right on schedule. The foundations were poured in late September and the framing is now well underway.

The first photo is the new four-season sun room that will be a featured part of many homes. The second photo shows the full lower walkout which will add an additional 1,450+ of usable space ready to customize for our new homeowner.
The Black Stevens Conservation area displaying its fall colors is shown in the background. Our community enjoys direct access to this beautiful natural habitat. We recently coordinated Extreme Bridge Makeover, as we reconstructed a footbridge that crosses one of the streams located in the area.

We were joined by Count Me In, a new volunteer organization in South Hadley. Materials were graciously donated by 84 Lumber, one of our suppliers.

Watch the movie on YouTube.

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 16:19:00 +0000

Our Isabella Model is now open and available to view. The Isabella is a 1,325 sq. ft. 2 bedroom, 2 bath home that includes a one-car attached garage and full 1,325 sq. ft. lower level that is ready for your personal touches.

The living room features a cathedral ceiling and the kitchen and dining area face the private patio area which is accessed through a slider.
The energy-efficient design includes water "on demand" tankless water heater (never heat water you don't need - great for travelers!), low-e glass windows, and Energy-Star appliances. You'll be amazed at how much you will save to heat and cool your new home at Jacob's Edge. Ask us for a Cost Comparison Worksheet and weigh your present costs against a brand new home at Jacob's Edge.

Phase IV begins

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 15:27:00 +0000

It was a beautiful September morning when the "big rigs" moved in to begin pouring the foundation for three new homes at Jacob's Edge.

The second of five tri-plexes is located at the back of the community bordering the Black Stevens Conservation Area. This beautiful natural habitat provides passive recreational opportunities for Jacob's Edge homeowners.

Homes located in this phase of construction may offer full walk-out lower levels and four-season sunrooms that feature cathedral ceilings and access to either a deck or patio. Homes in this phase will be ready for occupancy in the spring of 2011 and reservations are being made now.

Phase II - Trusses Arrive

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Tue, 11 May 2010 14:46:00 +0000

Activity was in full swing on a beautiful spring morning as the trusses were delivered began being placed on homes #22 and #23.

Once the trusses were positioned the roofing began. The construction teams work quickly and efficiently to minimize disruption and are very courteous to neighbors who are coming and going throughout the day. Before long the shingles are applied and we're ready for siding. Interior work will begin shortly.

New Homes Nearing Completion at Jacob's Edge, South Hadley MA

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 23:28:00 +0000

The first tri-plex at Jacob's Edge is moving along swiftly as the sheetrock is in and hardwood floors are installed during a rainy week in early April. The tri-plex, a series of three attached homes, includes the first of only five Isabella models.

The Isabella features 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, FULL basement and a one car garage. It is fully customizable.

We are looking forward to giving tours of Isabella during our Spring Fling Grand Opening on April 18th. If you would like to join us for this event and have not received an invitation, please give our office a call at 413-536-8322.

New Homes Being Built at Jacob's Edge, South Hadley

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 23:16:00 +0000

Phase III begins at Jacob's Edge in South Hadley as the foundation of our next duplex is poured. Despite some rainy weather during digging, everything proceeded according to schedule and we're on our way, ready for early fall occupancy.

The big rigs were in and out quickly and framing is progressing quickly. Because of the foresight in laying all the under-structure during the initial excavation, including sewer lines, street installation, etc., residents feel very little disruption due to ongoing construction as each new phase is begun.

The Jacob's Edge Lifestyle

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 20:53:00 +0000

What do people say when they visit Jacob's Edge? Aside from commenting on the spaciousness and quality of the design and craftsmanship, they often say that it feels like home here.

Imagine having a brand new kitchen with plenty of room to prepare your favorite holiday meal for your family, or be able to entertain friends and watch the big game. Maybe a quiet dinner for two on the patio listening to the sounds of nature is more your style.

Whatever it is, you can rest assured that your new life at Jacob's Edge will be worry free and maintenance free as well. That's the beauty of "brand new". You can customize your new home to fit your personality. With a whole lower level that's ready to finish, you can make the space your very own -- a home office, state of the art media room, craft or workshop area, or just great private storage space.

In fact, if you purchase now, you can take advantage of the Home Buyer's Tax Credit and start designing your new home right now. Don't wait, though. Homes are selling quickly and now is the time to secure your location.

Our New Temporary Show Home Nears Completion

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 18:37:00 +0000

Our next three homes are coming along very well - the guys are happy to be working inside as we brace for more snow this week.

Meanwhile, we are putting the finishing paint touches on our temporary Show Home at 25 Jacob's Way. The furnishings and room colors have been chosen based upon the results of our "Design Star Challenge", held in the fall. Everyone who came to our event had a chance to decide the "new look" for our next show home, selecting paint colors, furnishing styles and window treatments. As usual, the event was a lot of fun as new residents mingled with guests. We can't wait to show you some surprises!

Tri-plex Progress - Introducing the Isabella

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:49:00 +0000

We are making very quick progress on our first Tri-plex, having broken ground in late October. There has been a lot of interest in our Tri-plex homes, largely because the design includes our Isabella model.

The Isabella boasts a slightly smaller footprint than our Brianna or Brittany styles, as it consists of 1,325 vs. 1,450 sq. ft. and offers a 1-car vs. 2 car attached garage. The home still features a full 1,325 sq. ft. unfinished lower level that may be customized to your personal taste. Floor plans and specifications may be found on our website.

Jacob's Edge, when fully developed will be a community of 25 homes, however, only 5 Isabella models are planned. The three homes pictured here will be ready in early spring, two of which are already spoken for as of this post. If you're thinking of a spring-summer move and would like to determine the right time to purchase your new home, please ask us about our Home To Home program.

Fire Separation Wall Installed

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 19:13:00 +0000

In the spring of 2009, South Hadley amended its building code to require that 3-family structures are to include a fire sprinkler system. As our "tri-plex" is considered a 3 family structure, we redesigned our plans to incorporate both the sprinkler system and a fire separation wall.

The first photo (on the right) shows how the wall is constructed, beginning with the foundation and base. The fire separation wall, or the privacy wall, is positioned between each attached home, providing an additional safety factor should a fire ever occur.

The construction is comprised of 5/8" drywall, followed by a 2 x 11" framed wall, R-15 high density insulation, a 1" air space, a 2" firewall (green fire resistant panel), and then the reverse of a 1' air space, 2 x 4" framed wall, R-15 high density insulation and the 5/8" dry wall.

The second photo shows the upper most peak with the fire separation wall in place.

Trusses Placed

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:56:00 +0000

With construction, there are many quiet days where only a few trucks dot the scene. Then there are the days that are a beehive of activity, with bulldozers, cement mixers, backhoes, etc.

It was certainly a "big rig" day at Jacob's Edge as the crane arrived to place the trusses on our brand new triplex that is currently under construction as part of Phase II. Luckily the very non-New England weather cooperated providing us with 55-degrees, sunshine and no wind, making the truss placement very smooth.

Foundation Laid in our New Tri-Plex

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:49:00 +0000

Phase II has begun! The foundation for our first tri-plex was laid this week. We are working very fast to have the structure up and enclosed before inclement weather arrives. Of course, one rarely knows when that begins in New England. We should be used to it now, after almost 25 years of building experience in the Pioneer Valley behind us.

New Homes Under Construction - Phase II

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:22:00 +0000

It was Big Rig day at Jacob's Edge as we watched the foundation being dug for our next three homes at Jacob's Edge.

With "Phase I" SOLD, we are now beginning Phase II of the development. Our first tri-plex includes the Brianna and Brittany models (2 bedrooms, 2 baths, full lower level and 2 car garage) along with our first Isabella model.

The Isabella is a slightly smaller, 1,325 sq. ft. home with 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. It features a one car garage.

Relaxing On The Patio

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:29:00 +0000

Imagine having your morning coffee or enjoying a cool late summer evening while relaxing on the patio of your new home at Jacob's Edge. Listen to the birds as they fly to and from the nature preserve located in your back yard and see the beautifully manicured landscaping (even better because you won't have to care for it!). Life is pretty quiet at Jacob's Edge.

When we first developed the plans for our community, we wanted to make sure that, as construction continues, there would be minimal disruption for residents. That's why we took the time to create the infrastructure first. In addition to the roadbeds being laid for the entire community, we also laid all the underground cables for utilities and integrated the well-fed sprinkler system. As new homes are being built, residents who purchase during Phase I will experience very little ongoing construction noise.

Curb Cuts May Not Look Like a Big Deal

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:06:00 +0000

Hazy, hot and humid - that's the official weather forecast for the month of July here in Western Mass. We thought we'd show you a bit of what is going on this week at Jacob's Edge, beginning with the installation of our curb cuts and the extension of our driveway in preparation for Phase II of construction. This photo is looking directly toward the Jacob's Brook Conservation Area which borders our community.

We felt bad for the guys working in 90-plus degree heat all day while visitors touring our Model Home were cooling off in the comfortable air conditioning. They're obviously used to these kinds of conditions, but it can't be fun.

On the other hand, the wet weather has been kind to our landscaping which is holding up very well and needing less personal attention. Residents of Jacob's Edge will enjoy the cost-effective sprinkler system. Our landscape design provides routine irrigation with the needed water being pumped from a private well rather than by consuming city water. Residents need not worry about high water bills and can enjoy green grass and flowering plants all summer long. It is one more way that living at Jacob's Edge conserves resources and makes it easier on everyone's pocketbook.

Landscaping - Phase I

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:26:00 +0000

There's nothing like green grass springing up to make you feel at home...especially when you don't have to mow it! The Spring Valley Landscaping crews have been hard at work during May and June, seeding, planting, sculpting, and mulching.

The main entrance of the community and the property border behind Phase I has been landscaped. As you walk up the sidewalk to our Model Home you now see attractive plantings surrounded by dark mulch.

To the right of these hard workers, patios are now being laid which will be the finishing touches to Phase I of Jacob's Edge Condominiums.

This has been a busy few weeks, with our road nearing completion and plans in place to move forward on our next phase. If you've been following the progress and want to make sure you don't miss out on a prime location, be sure to give us a call now.

South Hadley Granby Chamber of Commerce Visits Jacob's Edge Condominiums

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 13 May 2009 13:17:00 +0000

The temperature approached 92-degrees outside, but guests enjoyed a perfect evening inside, as Jacob's Edge hosted the April 28th's "Beyond Business" networking event at the newly completed Model Home.

Local businesses attending included many who helped in the construction and development of Jacob's Edge Condominiums, including Easthampton Savings Bank and Chap de laine's Furniture, Heritage Surveys, Atty. Mark Beauregard, Frenchie Drywall, Gerard Lachance Painting, and Michael Bullough, Electrician. Everyone loved the spread provided by Europa Restaurant, graciously served by Robin. Thanks to Europa, Grand Lumber and Chap de laine's for their contribution to our raffle as well.

With a crowd of almost 50, it's easy to say that life at Jacob's Edge won't put a damper on your ability to entertain!

View Our Slideshow

Jacob's Edge Cleans Up - So. Hadley Conservation Celebrates Earth Day 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Home Improvement Assoc. LLC) — Wed, 13 May 2009 12:56:00 +0000

Earth Day 2009 finds Alan, Ed and a large crew of volunteers hitting the trails behind Jacob's Edge Condominiums as sponsors of the South Hadley Conservation Department's spring clean up. Home Improvement Associates supplied coffee and donuts to everyone before the workday began. Thanks to the South Hadley High School student group and community volunteers for pitching in.

The nature trails are part of the Black Steven's Conservation Area, a pristine natural habitat that borders Jacob's Edge Condominiums, providing residents of the community direct, private access to the entire trail system.

Home Improvement Associates will be working with the Conservation Department throughout the year to help update the trail system map and provide assistance in maintenance of the trails where needed.