Modern basements are real living space

Spooky basements are the main hub of activity in many older homes -- but not in new ones. Contemporary basements are more likely to be the scene of raucous football parties than disgruntled spirits.

Folklore suggest that ghosts like spaces that are dark, musty and underground. Apparently, that's where they feel most comfortable.

So it's not surprising that new basements, most of which feature drier air and as much light as first-floor rooms, are welcoming to everyone except ghosts.

"The basements in our homes are an important part of the living space," said Gail Payonk, director of marketing for Wiseman-Hughes Enterprises. "Buyers should expect a well-constructed, smartly planned area that blends seamlessly into the home."

Wiseman-Hughes includes basements in all of its homes -- even townhouses. Basement options include adding a bonus room and bath, extra bedroom/den and bath, home office, etc. Even with these improvements, most basements have ample space for storage.

Wiseman-Hughes focuses on bringing as much daylight into its basements as possible.

An English or "look-out" basement is the norm -- basement walls extend sufficiently above ground level to allow the windows to sit above grade.

Depending on the terrain of the home site, a walkout basement is an option. The home is built on a slope and part of the basement is above ground. Occupants can walk directly out of the basement into the yard.

Even today's basements that are constructed mostly underground have deep window wells and oversized windows that allow daylight to stream in.

Randall Highlands in North Aurora features townhouses with sunny basements and a host of options.

The 186-townhouse community is just a short drive to Chicago Premium Outlets and the shopping on Randall Road. It is also in the middle of a technology corridor that includes some of the fastest growing employers in the area.

The townhouse designs are reminiscent of Chicago's trendy neighborhoods with brick exteriors, varied rooflines, and porches with colonnades.

There are four, maintenance-free models including the 1,895 square-foot Cameron, priced at $263,300. This home rises to 3½ stories and includes a 1½-story living room, two-bedrooms, 2½ baths, a two-car garage.

It features a master suite with a walk-in closet, an island kitchen with a breakfast bar, a spacious breakfast room with pantry, and options for a tray ceiling in the master bedroom and a finished lower-level bonus room. There is also a second-floor laundry room.

Three other townhouse plans, with two to three bedrooms, two to 2½ baths, and two-car garages are base priced from $247,900 to $269,900.

To visit, take I-88 to Orchard Road north. Continue to the community on the south side of the street. For more information call (630) 907-2930.

The sales center is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday.

For more information on all townhouses and single-family home Wiseman-Hughes communities, visit www.wisemanhughes.com.