Astoria opens sales center at Independence

In the wake of the recent debut of Independence in the southwestern valley, Astoria Homes has opened the neighborhood's information center. Models are scheduled to open Nov. 8.

The neighborhood is the second part of the builder's "Triumph Neighborhoods" series and includes features associated with higher priced homes, according to Geoff Gorman, vice president of sales. The other Triumph neighborhood is Silverado Place, which is located in Silverado Ranch.

"Our `Triumph Neighborhoods' concept allows individuals and families to purchase entry-level homes in premium areas," Gorman said. "With Independence, home buyers will be surprised to find many features they would normally see only in homes priced much higher."

Five floor plans are available, ranging from 1,246 to 1,421 square feet. The two-story designs feature two or three bedrooms, exterior iron detailing, shutters, decks and courtyards.

Each home includes appliances, miniblinds, landscaped yards and home buyers' warranties.

The homes have earned the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star label and are at least 30 percent more energy efficient than homes built to the Model Energy Code.

Homes are priced from the $120,000s.

Neighborhood amenities include two parks with playgrounds, covered picnic tables, pools with cabanas, and grass areas.

To visit, take Interstate 215 to Durango Drive, go south to Warm Springs Road and go west. The sales office is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily except Friday, when it opens at noon.

The builder is also developing Ironwood Estates in Centennial Hills, Auburn Hills and Canyon Trails in the southwestern valley, and Villa Villagio in Seven Hills.

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