Megan Felling Photos courtesy of Private Gardens

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Driving north on I-35, just past Liberty, a picturesque area of gently rolling hills and mature trees unfolds. This secluded, seemingly rural area is actually a subdivision, appropriately called Private Gardens.

This unique area allows prospective buyers to choose their lot first then hire an architect and builder to create a custom home. Buyers have 30 days after lot purchase to submit plans to developer Joe Duffy for architectural review, but they have up to two years to actually construct the residence. The subdivision is not limited to certain builders, allowing for creativity and truly custom designs. Current homes range in style from Mediterranean to Craftsman to an Aspen-inspired lodge, several built by Dobberstine Custom Homes. A few guidelines are in place, such as a preference for side-entry garages and the exclusion of above-ground pools.

Ivy McAuliffe, a sales executive with Prudential Carter-Duffy, has been a resident for about a year and is also marketing the property. Her family’s home was built by Gary Lowe of Garrett Construction. She loves that the homes are all completely different and owned by people who are proud of their neighborhood. “It is a close community with many neighborhood get-togethers,” she says.

Another builder participating in the neighborhood is Classic Design Homes, owned by Scott Krecker. Scott, who comes from a long line of family in the homebuilding industry, began as a framing carpenter at the age of 17. Joining the group is Nelson Eddy Homes, with 12 years of experience in homebuilding, specializing in custom luxury homes from $250,000 and up.

Each of the 61 lots in the subdivision radiate from the centerpiece of the neighborhood, an 11-acre spring-fed lake. “The lake is gorgeous, stocked with fish and offers amazing views,” Ivy says. Lots range from one to nine acres, each with unique characteristics, including wooded, lake-view or lakeside. Some lots accommodate walk-out basements, perfect for a reverse 1 ½-story plan, or flatter lots designed for ranches. With about half still available, buyers might choose from a variety of locations, many in cul-de-sacs. Two of the remaining lots even include a private pond. Prices range from $62,000 to $150,000 and can be reserved with a $2,000 deposit.

Home prices are expected to be between $400,000 and $1.5 million. One home recently sold for more than $530,000. At more than 5,000 square feet, the stucco ranch features four bedrooms, 4 1/2 bathrooms and a three-car garage. A covered veranda overlooking the lake is accessible from the great room and guest bedroom. No luxury was spared, including multiple fireplaces and a spectacular kitchen boasting a walk-in pantry, custom cabinetry and granite countertops. A finished walk-out basement adds to the living and entertaining space.

The subdivision has been attractive to a diverse group of homebuyers, including empty nesters, single professionals and families. Although located in unincorporated Clay County, it is within the boundaries of the award-winning Liberty schools.

“Where else can you get such a large parcel of land with amazing views at a reasonable price and yet still be so close to everything?” Ivy asks. “It’s the best of both worlds — it is as convenient a location as you’ll find in the country.”

Call 816.781.4700 for more information.