Open space surrounds homes
The Enclave at the Reserve at the Merit Club, a new section of semi-custom ranch and two-story homes in the Libertyville community, features plenty of open space.
Some of the 17 new homes will overlook the fairways of the Merit Club golf course or groves of mature trees. The area is nestled among rolling hills, trees and protected views.
"When creating this community, we envisioned that our gracious homes would take advantage of the spectacular views and cater to those who want to be surrounded by natural beauty and improve their quality of life," said Jeri Szatko, director of sales and marketing.
Merit Homes guarantees buyers that the natural setting will remain a conservation area forever. There will be no future development, as the site is protected by a conservation easement.
The Enclave is part of a gated community called the Reserve at the Merit Club, comprised of 102 semi-custom homes and 26 one-acre custom homes on 100 acres of rolling land.
Designed as a grounds maintenance-free community, homeowners pay a nominal monthly maintenance fee, covering individual lawn maintenance, snow removal, upkeep of streets, common areas, ponds and the front entrance and guard house.
There are seven homes to choose from, including five ranch plans and two two-story designs featuring first-floor master bedrooms. With 1,800 to 3,000 square feet, homes have two to four bedrooms and up to 3 baths, and are priced from $655,000 to $800,000.
Homes may be fully customized. Buyers start with a plan and may change the footprint of the house or eliminate or add rooms.
The ranch plans cater mostly to empty nesters and young professionals. Under construction is the Forrester, a ranch with three bedrooms and 2 baths. "Visitors can enjoy guided tours through our model home prior to completion," said Szatko.
A great room with vaulted ceiling and fireplace has floor-to-ceiling windows and access to an oversized patio. The kitchen, with center island and eating nook, has a large breakfast room and faces an optional screened porch. To the left is the master bedroom suite with a walk-in closet and deluxe master bath.
On the other side of the home, there are two bedrooms providing privacy for owners and guests. Bedrooms two and three share a Jack-and-Jill bath, while the media room converts into a study, living room or fourth bedroom.
To visit the community, take I-94 to Route 137, west to Route 21, north 1 miles to the entrance. Follow signs to the sales center, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). For information, call (847) 680-0090 or visit www.merithomes.net.