Ranch homes have a growing appeal

The people behind Rock Creek Development in Huntley are trail blazers. They took a chance during the recession and purchased 220 acres of land at a good price and launched a homebuilding company. Furthermore, they chose to capitalize on the popularity of Huntley with empty-nesters and retirees by primarily building semi-custom ranch homes at their Henning Estates community.

The models opened in late 2010 and they have been attracting enthusiastic homebuyers ever since, primarily ranch-enthusiasts from the Northwest suburbs, said Molly LeSueur, sales coordinator.

LeSueur is also the wife of Peter LeSueur, a former banker who co-owns Rock Creek Development with Ryan VanLue, president of the company. VanLue is a construction manager with experience in custom home and commercial contracting in both Chicago and Colorado.

Henning Estates has two decorated models and a third move-in ready home that is being shown as a model but is also available for purchase.

The community comprises 60 percent open space (wetlands, prairies and woods), as well as 103 homesites. The majority of houses in Henning Estates (69) will be semi-custom ranch homes on one-third-acre lots.

Six different efficient floor plans, ranging in size from 1,803 to 2,422 square feet, are offered with starting prices from $349,900 to $409,900. All include full basements, 9-foot ceilings and granite countertops, as well as open floor plans and top-quality materials and workmanship, LeSueur said.

Significant customization such as upgraded finishes, three-car garages, full masonry exteriors, fireplaces and other upgrades are also available.

The remaining 34 lots, at one acre or more, will feature custom two-story and ranch homes. They may be built by Rock Creek Development or by an outside builder, depending upon the buyer's wishes, and are required to be a minimum of 2,600 square feet.

"We expect to close on six homes during 2015," LeSueur said. "The fact that we are building ranch homes sets us apart. There are lots of two-story homes available, but the demand in Huntley is for ranch homes. So we set out to fill that need. We have found our niche."

Something else that sets Rock Creek Development apart is the fact that Henning Estates is the first community approved under the McHenry County Conservation Design Ordinance that specifies 50 percent of the community be dedicated open space. This allows for lots as small and economical as one-third acre, as long as the community as a whole dedicates half its land area to conservation space.

"Every homesite at Henning Estates backs to mature woods, scenic wetlands or tall grass prairie and none of the 103 homesites backs up to each other," LeSueur said. "Overall, there is an upscale community feel at Henning Estates and residents can enjoy walking paths, ponds and a peaceful setting."

Henning Estates' open space and location are perfect, she said, for those who want to enjoy the conveniences of a suburban development, yet live in a private, scenic place.

Buyers are also able to take an active part in the selection of materials and colors for their homes. They are even able to request walls be moved and rooms re-purposed, LeSueur said. "Buyers here can get exactly what they want."

Rock Creek Development is also in midst of a massive campaign to make its mark on Huntley and the surrounding communities. Henning Estates is supporting two local causes: Hoof, Woof and Meow animal rescue and the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. It will sponsor "Barkin' for Bunco" at 7 p.m. Oct. 9 at the American Legion Hall in Huntley and Rock Creek is a new corporate sponsor for the orchestra this year.

In addition, Henning Estates offers discounts for American veterans and will hold its second annual apple pie and coffee Veterans Day celebration in November.

Monthly specials and events are also offered for the general public and can be found on the www.henningestates.com website under the events tab.

"We are very excited to be getting more involved in the community and letting people know who we are," LeSueur said.

For more information about Henning Estates, visit the website or call (847) 338-3821.