Highland Homes's Blog

Prime Florida Real Estate Now Available at Highland Meadows

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Thu, 24 May 2012 08:16:31 -0700

Highland Homes continues to help buyers of Florida real estate by offering a variety of new homes in the new Highland Meadows community in Davenport, Fla.

“At Highland Homes we are thrilled that our new community is providing prospective Florida homebuyers with more opportunities to find their dream home,” said Kathie McDaniel, vice president of sales and marketing for Highland Homes. “I encourage all potential buyers to come by and check out Highland Meadows.”

The Orlando home builder has currently received lots in phases 1 and 2 of the community, and construction of the Remington II model home has already begun. Highland Meadows offers its resident’s homes of great value, priced from the $116,000s, and features three to five bedrooms and two to three bathrooms.

Located near CR 547, US 27 and I-4, residents have easy access to plenty of dining, shopping and recreation including Posner Park shopping center, Heart of Florida Hospital, Walt Disney World in Orlando and LEGOLAND Florida in Winter Haven. When residents are not out exploring the town, Highland Meadows itself provides serene nature views as well as an abundant amount of conservation areas and ponds.

The Davenport area is continuing to grow, and is a popular location for prospective buyers. To help, Highland Homes is offering Florida new homes, including those in Highland Meadows, for just $99 out-of-pocket to qualified buyers.

To find out more on how to visit or purchase a home in Highland Meadows please visit the Highland Homes website or call new home sales consultant Roger Santos at 863-438-5113.

Tampa New Homes Offer Affordable Options for Buyers

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 14:10:52 -0700

Those shopping for Tampa new homes now have two more options to choose from including Southwind in Gibsonton and Tower Grove Estates in Plant City. Both communities feature new home offerings priced from the low-$100,000s by Highland Homes.

“Twenty-twelve has been a great year for Highland Homes, and we’re excited to introduce two new communities in the Tampa area,” said Kathie McDaniel, vice president of sales and marketing for Highland Homes. “Both Tower Grove Estates and Southwind offer exceptional value, with quality new homes priced from the low-$100,000s and convenient locations.”

Featuring 28 spacious home sites that range from half an acre to full acre lots, Tower Grove Estates is an intimate enclave that will feature ranch and two story homes. Highland Homes purchased 24 of those sites and will build three to five bedroom homes with two to three bathrooms and up to 3,000 square feet. The Central Florida builder will soon begin construction on the community’s model home that will feature the Williamson II design.

Southwind is located off Interstate 75 and Gibsonton Drive making it the perfect community for those who need convenient commutes to north, south and downtown Tampa. The community offers three to five bedrooms homes with a variety of popular features. Buyers have the option of choosing premium lakefront home sites.

For more information about the Florida new homes at these communities, visit the Highland Homes website.

Highland Homes Continues to be an Industry Leader, Both Locally and Internationally

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 07:27:01 -0700

The International Builder's Show was held in Orlando, Florida, the week of Feb. 6 and one local builder proved they can make a difference at the International level as well as the local level.

Highland Homes, based in Lakeland, Florida, was represented at the show by Kathie McDaniel, VP of Sales and Marketing, and Amy Cooper, Marketing Director. Highland Homes competes against some of the largest national builders in the six Central Florida counties where they build, so it is truly a success story to see the company continue to be on the Builder 100 list, published by Builder Magazine, ranking the local, independent builder against companies who build nationwide. Highland Homes’ employees are in high demand to educate others in the building industry in an effort to help companies achieve the same success.

Kathie has been recognized in the Central Florida market as an industry expert and is a national speaker, instructor and trainer for the National Association of Home Builders. At the International Builder's Show she participated in a presentation to hundreds of attendees who gathered to learn the newest trends in social media for businesses, and presented a sales management course for builders.

The social media course, titled “Blogging to Build Traffic: Online and Onsite,” was a sequel from her 2009 and 2010 presentations on social media with the company's website management team, Mitch Levinson and Carol Flammer of mRELEVANCE. For more than 3 years, this has been a course that hundreds of attendees look forward to each year.

Kathie also instructed a sales management class along with one of the leading secret shopper companies, Melinda Brody of Orlando, Florida. In the class titled “Mysteries Uncovered! Using Secret Shoppers to Prevent Problems and Boost Sales Performance,” the instructors shared their "secrets" with other business owners.

This year, Amy Cooper made her debut as an international instructor and helped hundreds of attendees learn more about using blogging and internet marketing along with the latest social media techniques for companies. Amy is considered an expert in technology, website management and all aspects of social media, and had standing room only in the class, “Successful Social Media Strategies that Work.” Amy has already been invited to teach more courses at next year’s International Builder’s Show, held in Las Vegas in January 2013.

Kathie and Amy are also members of the Professional Women in Building (PWB) council of the National Association of Home Builders. This year both received an award from national sponsors for their participation in the PWB council.

Kathie was awarded a Travel Grant and was elected as the Trustee for District 5 of the PWB. The PWB and SMC councils have applauded her efforts in educating others about the industry for continued growth, as well as offering her educational courses free of charge to those who want to learn and earn designations in the building industry. Congratulations to Kathie McDaniel for striving to grow and educate the industry when others are fleeing to new careers.

Amy received a Merillat-sponsored "Women of the Future" education grant for her continuation in earning the prestigious MIRM designation. Amy takes her career seriously, and is motivated to learn more about marketing for the building industry and become one of just a few hundred individuals worldwide who have earned the MIRM designation.

Highland Homes is instrumental in the local, regional and national marketplace for new home builders. They are setting the pace for another remarkable year and this remarkable company is looking forward to a very successful 2012. For more information, visit the Highland Homes website.

Congratulations to Highland Homes’ 2011 Top Sales Agents

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 13:32:15 -0700

Highland Homes recognized their top selling agents and other outstanding employees earlier this month at their Annual Sales Awards Banquet.

The following employees received honors:

Top Three Sales Agents with the Highest Net Dollar Volume

Gene Kucher, Imperial Lakes, sold 39 homes totaling $6,275,550
Cheryl Gonzalez, The Greens and Ten Oaks, sold 30 homes totaling $5,129,505
Jennifer Maul, Stonewood and Blackwater Creek, sold 22 homes totaling $4,220,342

Top Three Sales Agents with the Most Florida Real Estate Closed

Gene Kucher, Imperial Lakes, 29 homes
Ed Velasquez, Winchester Estates, 17 homes
Doug Pike, Wind Meadows, 14 homes

Top Three Sales Agents for Highest Closing Dollar Volume

Gene Kucher, Imperial Lakes, $4,779,868
Ed Velasquez, Winchester Estates, $2,810,537
Doug Pike, Wind Meadows, $2,249,823

Highest GB Shelter Mortgage (Highland Homes’ Preferred Lender Partner) Capture Rates

Roger Santos, Andover and Mystery Ridge, 100%
Doug Pike, Wind Meadows, 79%
Denise Abercrombie, Mandolin II, 70%

The Central Florida home builder also presented the following achievements:

Rookie of the Year: Randi Golemme, St. James Crossing
Sales Counselors of the Year: Stacey Pouliot and Carmen Arbizu
Design Studio Manager of the Year: Stacey Antonakos-Perez
Studio Designer of the Year: Linda Samhoury

The banquet also included an address by guest speaker JP Peterson, president and founder of Tampa Bay Sports Central and host of the popular sports radio show, “Happy Hour with JP.” Peterson discussed the importance of teamwork in a competitive environment.

Highland Homes has new home communities throughout Central Florida, including Bartow, Dade City, Davenport, Ellenton, Lakeland, Leesburg, Mulberry, Plant City, St. Cloud, Winter Haven and Zephyrhills. For more information about their recent awards ceremony, a complete list of their new home communities and more, visit the Highland Homes website at www.highlandhomes.org or call 863-619-7103.

New Home Sites Coming Soon at Deer Creek

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:48:03 -0800

Just when we were about to sellout of our Orlando new homes at Deer Creek, this closeout community gets a reprieve! We’re excited to announce that we recently purchased 28 more home sites at this popular community, giving buyers more opportunities to purchase the home of their dreams.

Deer Creek is located in the St. Cloud area, giving it easy access to tons of recreational activities. Whether you want to play on the community’s playgrounds or take a stroll on the walking paths, or want to get out and explore nearby Orlando’s theme parks, lakes, parks and golf courses, you’ll love living here.

The community boasts homes with three to five bedrooms, two to three bathrooms and 1,210 to 2,827 square feet. So, whether you’re a first time buyer, an empty nester or need to accommodate a growing family, we have the perfect floor plan for you.

In addition to Deer Creek, we’re close to selling out of our new homes at Andover in Davenport, and we’re looking into other land prospects for a new community in that area as well. Keep a lookout for more information coming soon about these future opportunities from your favorite Orlando home builder.

For more information about Deer Creek, visit the Highland Homes website.

Highland Homes Announces Two New Communities of Tampa New Homes

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:58:40 -0800

With the New Year comes new opportunities, and Highland Homes is excited to announce that the builder is now offering Tampa new homes at two new communities, Trapnell Ridge in Plant City and Sunset Hills in Dade City. Both of these new home communities are exciting additions to the Highland Homes portfolio of new home communities.

The Tampa builder recently acquired six inventory homes as well as several home sites from a previous builder at Trapnell Ridge in Hillsborough County. Priced from just $119,900, Trapnell Ridge offers three and four bedroom inventory homes and three to five bedroom to-be-built homes priced. Buyers will love this community’s location near historic, downtown Plant City known for its annual Strawberry Festival.

In Pasco County, Highland Homes has some of its most exciting news yet: through the help of the Pasco County Neighborhood Stabilization Program, eligible buyers at Sunset Hills will receive $50,000 in down payment assistance! Priced from the $130,000s, floor plans feature up to 2,179 square feet, three or four bedrooms, and offer many move-in ready features such as refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, washers and dryers and window blinds.

Start your New Year off with a bang by visiting one or both of these spectacular new communities to find out how you can have the home of your dreams in 2012.

For more information about Highland Homes and what makes us a top Tampa home builder, visit our website.

Central Florida Home Builder Still Optimistic Despite Economy

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:37:50 -0800

As America still faces tough economic times, many builders are finding it difficult to remain recession proof. However, this is not the case for Central Florida home builder Highland Homes. Recently, the president of Highland Homes, Bob Adams, was interviewed in the Builder Magazine article, “One Step Ahead.” In the article, the Lakeland-based builder explained why he still sees a profit in the face of a harsh economy.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to share our story with Builder Magazine,” says Bob Adams, owner and president of Highland Homes. “For more than a decade, we have strived to be a leading homebuilder in Florida by constructing quality homes in the best locations throughout Central Florida, always putting buyers first with our focus on customer service and offering customer-friendly mortgage programs.”

The article highlights Bob Adam’s career in the home building industry and notes the following as Highland Homes’ keys to success:

Excellent customer service
The use of social media to connect with homeowners and buyers
Extensive, on-going employee training
Commitment to building quality Lakeland, Orlando and Tampa new homes at affordable prices
Focus on family values

Highland Homes’ dedication, strong leadership and personal commitment to providing homeowners with the best homes at the best price have made the builder a Value Leader in Central Florida.

To read more about Highland Homes in Builder Magazine, visit the website.

Don't Miss the Realtor Grand Opening at Overlook Ridge

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 15:34:01 -0800

With our recent Polk County Parade of Homes win, there is a lot of excitement around Highland Homes as we prepare for our Grand Opening Celebration at Overlook Ridge, a community of fabulous Winter Haven homes. And, we’ve reserved a special day to showcase our new model home for agents! On Monday, Nov. 14 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., we’re inviting all real estate agents to our Realtor Grand Opening.

At the Realtor Grand Opening, you’ll get a chance to tour our new model home, the Edinburgh II. Professionally designed and decorated by our own Personal Selection Studio consultants, Stacey Antonakos-Perez and Linda Samhoury, this home showcases a popular split-plan layout. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and 1,488 square feet and features such as volume ceilings, a large great room, covered lanai and spacious master suite with luxury bathroom and his and hers closets, you’ll find that this home is perfect for entertaining family and friends this holiday season.

In addition to the Edinburgh II, Overlook Ridge is composed of affordable new homes priced from the $115,000s. Plus, buyers will appreciate the community’s convenient location near the new Legoland Florida, shopping and dining on Cypress Gardens Blvd., historic downtown Winter Haven and U.S. Highway 27.

And, everyone will love the community’s convenient Pasco County location on Eiland Blvd. with easy access to the city and everyday necessities.

So, remember to mark your calendars for Nov. 14 to visit this amazing community and see what makes us a leading Winter Haven home builder.

For more information about Ten Oaks, visit the Highland Homes website.

Don’t Miss Overlook Ridge Grand Opening this Weekend

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 17:01:28 -0800

This weekend, Highland Homes will celebrate the Grand Opening of its professionally decorated and designed model home at Overlook Ridge in Winter Haven. On Nov. 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 13 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. visitors will have a chance to tour the Edinburgh II as well as the community’s other Winter Haven homes and find out about the builder’s amazing incentives including the signature $99 Moves You In offer and $5,000 to use towards upgrades or closing cost assistance.

Buyers will love Overlook Ridge’s new model home. The Edinburgh II boasts three bedrooms, two bathrooms and 1,488 square foot with many popular features including convenient single-level living, volume ceilings, spacious great room, breakfast bar, inside utility room, covered lanai and luxurious master suite with dual closets and luxury bathroom that’s just perfect for relaxing in at the end of a hard day.

In addition to the Edinburgh II model, Overlook Ridge features three to five bedroom homes priced from the $115,000s. The community is conveniently located off of Dundee Road and Overlook Ridge Drive near many exciting destinations including Legoland Florida, the shopping and dining offered on Cypress Gardens Blvd., historic downtown Winter Haven and U.S. Highway 27.

For more than a decade, Highland Homes has brought affordable new homes to buyers in Central Florida. The Winter Haven home builder is excited to offer this new addition at Overlook Ridge.

For more information about Highland Homes, visit the website or call 863-421-2458.

Highland Homes Announces New Job Openings

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 09:09:05 -0700

Florida home builder hiring for several positions in six counties

Independently owned, Top 100 Builder Highland Homes is now hiring for a variety of new positions in several locations including Polk, Pasco, East Hillsborough, Manatee, Lake and Osceola counties. Applicants should enjoy working with people, possess a positive attitude and have a desire to work in the Florida real estate industry.

“We are expanding and have many new exciting opportunities at Highland Homes,” said Kathie McDaniel, vice president of sales and marketing for Highland Homes. “The market is looking up, home prices are on the rise and our Lakeland, Orlando and Tampa new homes are selling fast. It’s a great time to join our team.”

Qualified applicants who are interested in joining the Highland Homes’ sales team should meet the following criteria:

Experienced in working with the public in sales or a similar customer-centric environment

New home sales experience a plus but not necessary – we will train the right person

Must be good with computers and technology

Must be goal oriented and have a drive to succeed

Must have a good attitude and be positive about the Florida real estate market

Spanish speaking a plus

To submit your resume, visit http://www.highlandhomes.org/resume.php.

For more information about Highland Homes, visit http://www.highlandhomes.org or call 863-619-7103.

Highland Homes has been Central Florida's value leader for more than a decade. When it comes to building your new home, you can trust the Highland Homes team to deliver the best in new home choice, quality, value and satisfaction. Highland Homes has new home communities throughout Central Florida - for a complete list of new home communities and more information, visit the Highland Homes website at http://www.highlandhomes.org or call 863-619-7103.

Lynford II Model Now Open at Ten Oaks

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 14:09:36 -0700

Recently, we announced the Grand Opening of the Lynford II model home at Ten Oaks, a community of Tampa new homes in Pasco County. The professionally designed and decorated home boasts neo-traditional styling and is a nice addition to this lovely community in Zephyrhills.

“Buyers will love this wonderful home designed and decorated by our Selection Studio consultants, Stacey Antonakos-Perez and Linda Samhoury,” said Kathie McDaniel, vice president of sales and marketing for Highland Homes. “The Lynford II features a front porch and styling which give the community a nostalgic feeling of old Florida.”

Ten Oaks is a unique community with peaceful, flourishing landscapes that includes a lake and nature trail. Buyers have the option of purchasing a lakefront home site and all Ten Oaks residents enjoy convenient access to downtown Tampa. It’s the perfect setting for the Lynford II.

The Ten Oaks model home is a three bedroom, two bath plan that encompasses a spacious 1,599 square feet. The home features a large front porch, great room with cathedral ceiling and a luxury bathroom in the master suite.

The Lynford II is a nice addition to the beautiful three, four and five bedroom homes at Ten Oaks. The community is priced from the $130,000s and is composed of new homes that range from 1,250 to 2,031 square feet with gourmet kitchens, volume ceilings and master baths with garden tubs.

This is a unique, affordable community that you have to see to believe. Come out and visit the Lynford II today to discover what makes us a leading Tampa home builder.

For more information about Highland Homes, visit our website.

Consider a Career with Florida Real Estate Value Leader Highland Homes

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 11:12:18 -0700

For more than a decade, Highland Homes has built a strong reputation as the value leader in the Central Florida real estate market. Plus, as an independently owned Top 100 builder with a focus on financing, the builder has helped thousands of families find the new home of their dreams at an affordable price.

Those who consider themselves people persons, with a positive attitude and a desire to work in the real estate industry and help families achieve the dream of homeownership should consider a career with Highland Homes!

The Central Florida home builder is expanding and has job opportunities in Dade City in Pasco County and the Bradenton area in Manatee County. Qualified applicants should meet the following criteria:

Experienced in working with the public in sales or a similar customer-centric environment
New home sales experience a plus but not necessary – we will train the right person
Must be good with computers and technology
Must be goal oriented and have a drive to succeed
Must have a good attitude and be positive about the Florida real estate market
Spanish speaking a plus

The market is looking up, home prices are on the rise and the builder's Lakeland, Orlando and Tampa new homes are selling fast. Don’t miss your chance to join this amazing team.

To submit your resume, visit http://www.highlandhomes.org/resume.php. For more information about Highland Homes, visit the website.

Chance to View Tampa New Homes at Ten Oaks Realtor Grand Opening

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:03:10 -0700

There is a lot of excitement around Highland Homes these days as we prepare for our Grand Opening Celebration at Ten Oaks, a community of fabulous Tampa new homes. And, we’ve reserved a special day to showcase our new model home for agents! On Monday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., we’re inviting all real estate agents to our Realtor Grand Opening.

At the Realtor Grand Opening, you’ll get a chance to tour our new model home, the Lynford II. Professionally designed and decorated by our own Personal Selection Studio consultants, Stacey Antonakos-Perez and Linda Samhoury, this home showcases neo-traditional styling that invokes nostalgic feelings of old Florida. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and 1,599 square feet and features such as a large front porch, spacious great room with cathedral ceiling, formal dining room and walk-in closet in the master suite, you’ll find that even the pickiest buyer will be pleased.

In addition to the Lynford II, Ten Oaks is composed of three to five bedroom homes priced from the $130,000s. Floor plans are spacious enough to accommodate any family’s needs with 1,250 to 2,031 square feet. Plus, buyers will appreciate the flourishing landscapes of this peaceful community that feature a nature trail and lake. There are even lakefront home sites available for those who want to take advantage of the calming powers of the water.

And, everyone will love the community’s convenient Pasco County location on Eiland Blvd. with easy access to the city and everyday necessities.

So, remember to mark your calendars for Sept. 12 to visit this amazing community and see what makes us one of the area’s leading Tampa home builders.

For more information about Ten Oaks, visit the Highland Homes website or call 813-395-8977.

Have Your Cake and Eat it Too with On Your Lot Program

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:55:34 -0700

Sometimes it seems that we can’t have the best of both worlds. However, with Highland Homes’ new On Your Lot program, new homebuyers can own one of the fabulous Florida new homes constructed by the Lakeland builder and have it built on their own lots. Currently, the Florida new home builder has construction teams in six Tampa area counties including Hillsborough, Lake, Manatee, Osceola, Pasco and Polk.

“Over the years, we’ve had a number of Tampa area new home shoppers who love our homes but want to build on land outside of one our neighborhoods,” said Kathie McDaniel, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Highland Homes. “We previously offered build-on-your-lot services on a limited-basis through a sister company; but now, we have launched a full-scale Central Florida Build On Your Lot program using our own construction teams and contractors.”

In the past, buyers could have a Highland Home constructed through the builder’s sister company; but now, with the launch of the full-scale On Your Lot program, new home shoppers can take advantage of the expertise of Highland Homes’ construction teams and contractors.

No matter if you already own your land or are currently looking for the perfect spot, Highland Homes can help buyers build their dream homes easily. The Florida new home builder offers more than 40 floor plan designs that buyers can choose to construct as-is or can modify to meet their families’ needs.

So, what are you waiting for? Visit the Highland Homes website today for more information about the new On Your Lot program.

Buyers Must Act Fast to Get Best Deals on Florida Real Estate

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:43:29 -0700

For a number of years, it has been a buyer’s market with Florida real estate some of its lowest prices to date. However, it won’t stay like this for long. According to Market Watch and Clear Capital’s home data index forecast, Orlando new home prices are now on the rise. But, you shouldn’t feel safe if you’re not in the market for an Orlando new home: other Florida cities will soon see the same fate. Recently, the Tampa Tribune remarked about a steady increase in the Tampa Bay area’s home prices for six straight months. With new home prices steadily increasing, buyers should stop putting off their new home purchases before it’s too late.

Those interested in finding the best deals on new Florida homes before it’s too late should contact Highland Homes. We build in a variety of Tampa and Orlando new home communities in popular locations such as Zephyrhills, Ellenton, Hudson, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Davenport, Leesburg, St Cloud and more.

Plus, with prices starting in the low-$100,000s and only $99 to move you in, you’ll find that our Orlando and Tampa new homes have always been affordable.

So, make plans to stop by this weekend for a tour of our beautiful homes and communities. We’re open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information about Highland Homes, visit our website.

Realtor Grand Opening at The Reserve at Meadow Oaks

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 11:45:13 -0700

Are your buyers looking for Tampa new homes? If so, then we have some great news for you. The Reserve at Meadow Oaks in Hudson is now open with amazing Realtor incentives. Stop by the community today for our Realtor Grand Opening to tour these new homes and find out how you can receive a 5 percent agent commission through the end of July.

Your buyers will love these new homes priced from the $130,000s. Located within a beautiful golf course community, our homes boast a variety of floor plans with access to wonderful amenities including the 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, shuffleboard, a fitness center and more.

While at the event, tour the community’s brand Casa Key II model home. You’ll love this home’s styling that was professionally decorated by our own Personal Selection Studio design consultants Stacey Antonakos-Perez and Linda Samhoury. And, if you like what you see, Stacey and Linda are available to help your buyers design the interior of their dreams.

Conveniently located off SR 50, Meadow Oaks boasts an easy drive for Tampa commuters and is just minutes from the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful Florida beaches. So, make sure to stop by today to see why we’re a leading Tampa home builder.

For more information about Meadow Oaks, or for directions to the community, visit the Highland Homes website or call 727-378-8506.

Highland Homes is Top 100 Builder on Builder Magazine List

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 16:28:36 -0700

Exceptional quality, the best values and great homes have put Lakeland home builder Highland Homes on top again! For the third year in a row, Highland Homes was recognized as one of the Top 100 Builders of 2010 by Builder Magazine.

As one of the most experienced teams in the industry, this Central Florida home builder has served more than 12,000 happy homebuyers throughout Lakeland, Tampa and Orlando.

Builder Magazine ranks builders based on their annual closing numbers. Highland Homes closed 247 homes in 2010 throughout six Florida counties. That number was enough to earn the No. 100 rank and the distinction of being ranked with national new home builders across the United States.

In 1996, Highland Homes was founded by Robert J. and Joel Adams, who placed a strong emphasis on commitment to excellence and family values. Dedication, strong leadership and personal commitment have helped Highland Homes earn a leading builder status in Central Florida and national recognitions like this one. The homebuilder has proudly maintained these important attributes since its beginning.

Highland Homes offers single-family Lakeland, Tampa and Orlando new homes featuring three to five bedrooms. With prices starting from the low-$100,000s, only $99 out-of-pocket and a variety of floor plans, Highland Homes offers homes to suit a wide variety of needs.

For more information about Highland Homes or its recognition as a Top 100 Builder of 2010, visit http://www.HighlandHomes.org or call 863-619-7103.

Highland Homes’ Sales Veteran Moves to New Community

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Fri, 13 May 2011 09:21:56 -0700

What’s the big news at Highland Homes’ Wind Meadows? Sales, Sales, Sales!

Doug Pike, one of Highland Homes’ veteran sales people, is at it again, this time at Wind Meadows in Bartow. Doug has been one of the company’s top selling sales managers for over 8 years and recently started selling at Wind Meadows. Doug was previously selling South Lakeland homes at Towne Park, where he nearly sold out of the community. With just a few remaining lots left at Towne Park, Doug moved over to Wind Meadows where he has over 150 homesites to offer to Bartow homebuyers.

With the success that Doug had at Towne Park, the company is excited by Doug’s move to Wind Meadows and is already seeing the same sales success.

Doug is committed to selling Wind Meadows and feels the location is a big draw. This community is located off of E. F. Griffin Road in Bartow, just south of 540A. The highly acclaimed Spessard P. Holland Elementary on Smith Street opened last year and several families have found this location to be a perfect fit for their school-aged children. The community provides a relaxing, rural feel, while at the same time easy access to shopping and necessities, and is just a few minutes from both the Polk Parkway and Highway 60 for an easy commute.

Additionally, Wind Meadows offers key amenities including a playground, a 2.4 mile fitness trail and outdoor living areas. With 30 plus available floor plans, there is sure to be something for everyone, and all homes include 30-year warranty architectural shingles, a full landscape package with irrigation, and more.

For more information about Wind Meadows and to speak to Doug directly please call 863-868-9408 or visit our website; and don’t forget to ask about Doug’s special incentives for his first 10 buyers.

About Highland Homes:

Highland Homes, based in Lakeland, FL, has been your hometown builder and Central Florida's value leader for over a decade. When it comes to building your new home, you can trust the Highland Homes team to deliver the best in new home choice, quality, value and satisfaction. Highland Homes was recently rated as the 2^nd largest homebuilder in Tampa Bay by the Tampa Bay Business Journal and the 73^rd largest builder in the nation by Builder Magazine. Connect with Highland Homes online at www.HighlandHomes.ORG, www.facebook.com/highlandhomes or www.twitter.com/highlandhomesfl.

South Oak Model Grand Opening Offers Incentives to Buyers and Agents

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:50:16 -0700

We're celebrating the Grand Opening of our Casa Key II model home at South Oak in Manatee County with big savings for both home buyers and agents. Visitors who attend the Grand Opening on April 30 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or May 1 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. to tour the Florida real estate at South Oak will receive special incentives including a free credit analysis and mortgage pre-qualification and $5,000 in free upgrades or closing cost assistance. Agents, there’s something for you too. We’re having a real estate agent open house on Monday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a special 5 percent broker commission throughout the month of May at South Oak.

The Casa Key II is a beautiful three bedroom and two bathroom home that was professionally designed and decorated by our very own Selection Studio consultants Stacey Antonakos-Perez and Linda Samhoury. The home boasts single-level living and 1,567 square feet making it perfect for both retirees and families. The floor plan features a large foyer, spacious Great Room with volume ceilings and covered lanai. The master suite with large walk-in closet and luxury master bath with garden tub, separate shower and double vanity provide a calming oasis for homeowners.

South Oak is located just off I-75 in Ellenton and just 30 minutes from Tampa. The community is composed of three to five bedroom single-family homes priced from the $120,000s, and is conveniently located near the Ellenton Prime Outlets, Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex and many recreational rivers and waterways.

As an added bonus, qualified buyers can move into their dream homes for only $99 out-of-pocket. For more information about the South Oak model home Grand Opening or the agent incentive, visit the Highland Homes website.

Top Selling Agents Honored at Annual Awards Banquet

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:02:43 -0700

Our employees are paramount to making our company productive, fun and successful. From our marketing managers and sales assistants to our top selling agents of Central Florida real estate and everything in between, our employees demonstrate outstanding achievement. That's why on March 4, we honored our shining stars of 2010 at our annual sales awards banquet at the Lakeland Yacht and Country Club.

Those honored included:

Top Three Sales Agents with the Highest Dollar Volume

Ed Velasquez and Ole Peterson Sales Team with $13,368,106
Gene Kucher with $7,709,097
Cheryl Gonzalz with $7,299,324

Top Three Sales Agents with the Most Florida Real Estate Sold

Ed Velasquez and Ole Peterson with 56 homes
Cheryl Gonzalez with 39 homes
Gene Kucher with 38 homes

Top Three Sales Agents with the Most Homes Closed

Gene Kucher with $6,049,269
Ed Velasquez and Ole Peterson Sales Team with $5,275,363
Denise Abercrombie with $3,708,117

Other Honored Employees Included:

Cheryl Gonzales: 2010 Rookie of the Year
Amy Cooper: 2010 Marketing Manager of the Year
Steve Hogg: 2010 Sales Assistant of the Year
Danny and Daysi Christian: 2010 Real Estate Team of the Year

Congratulations to all who won! We look forward to more outstanding achievement in 2011. For more information, visit the Highland Homes website.

Whitemarsh, Popular Central Florida Real Estate

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 09:09:02 -0700

The community of Whitemarsh, in Leesburg has never seen so much construction activity as you will see now. The company introduced a new sales team late in 2010 and they are having great success in selling homes for Central Florida home builder and developer of Whitemarsh, Highland Homes.

Eileen Maricle and Cheryl Chaplin have teamed up to inform the local community about the great quality and value associated with building a Highland Home. Eileen was recently recognized as the sales person of the month for November and has been averaging three to four sales per month in Whitemarsh since she started with Highland Homes last fall.

What makes Whitemarsh stand out Florida real estate? Homesites in Whitemarsh are oversized, the side yards are spacious and offer more privacy, the view of Dilly Marsh and conservation areas is breathtaking, it offers a convenient location and the HOA fee's are very low. All of this, combined with affordable pricing, a variety of floor plans, nice included features and only $99 down to purchase a home, makes this one of Leesburg's most attractive communities to live.

Homes start in the $120,000s and floor plans range from 1,100 to more than 2,700 square feet. The community boasts one-story and two-story plans, with three to five bedrooms and two or three car garage plans.

To find out how you can build in this desirable community located off Hwy 27, visit the Highland Homes website or call Eileen or Cheryl at 352-326-5405.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with Free Green Upgrades

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:53:23 -0700

Highland Homes wants to help you get into the St. Patrick’s Day spirit by offering you a little green this year during our Wear Green, Get Green, Save Green event. Throughout the month of March, buyers who purchase new Florida real estate may choose from a free Green Package or $3,500 towards Green Upgrades of their choice. OK, so you don’t really have to wear green to save (although, it may save you from a nasty pinch). However, you do have to stop by a sales center before March 31 to take advantage of these savings.

Valued at approximately $5,800, the energy-saving Green Package will have you well on your way to saving some monthly green on your energy bill. The Green Package includes Foam Injected Wall Block, Radiant Barrier, Double Pane Windows and Level 1 Mohawk® recycled carpet.

Would you rather create your own Green Package? Go right ahead with $3,500 of green upgrades at our Professional Selection Studio. While you’re there, don’t forget to pick out the countertops, lighting and flooring for your home that best fits your personality and lifestyle.

For more than a decade, we have been a Florida home builder value leader. For more information about our Wear Green, Get Green, Save Green promotion, visit our website.

Highland Homes Sponsored Team Wins Amateur Backyard Category at the 2011 Lakeland Pigfest

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 14:52:56 -0800

One of the most delicious events of the year is the Lakeland Pigfest, a Florida annual state barbecue championship. This year’s event took place at the Tiger Town Complex in Lakeland, Fla. on Jan. 28 and 29. Florida new home builder Highland Homes is pleased to announce that our own construction manager David McMillan and plans coordinator Charlie Laughon of Fatt Ashes BBQ were named the Publix Backyard Grand Champions.

Plus, the competition barbecue team sponsored by Highland Homes took home trophies in the brisket category and the ribs competition.

In addition to sponsoring Fatt Ashes BBQ, Highland Homes participated in the event with a booth on Friday, Jan. 28 where members of our sales staff were on hand to increase enthusiasm for the event. We handed out koozies, Mardi Gras beads and fliers. We also raffled off a barbecue tool set.

Adding to the fun at the Highland Homes booth were two disc jockeys from TCB Sound Services, Tim Parker and Harley Constant; also employees of Highland Homes.

We had a wonderful time at the event. Make sure to stop by for the 2012 Lakeland Pigfest on Jan. 27 and 28.

Congratulations Fatt Ashes BBQ team!

For more information about Tampa home builder Highland Homes, visit our website.

Highland Homes Kathie McDaniel Wins National Honor

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 15:46:01 -0800

Kathie McDaniel, Florida new homes builder Highland Homes’ vice president of sales and marketing, has recently received the National Association of Home Builder’s (NAHB) Merillat Woman of the Future Grant for the second year in a row.

The $500 award was presented by the NAHB’s Professional Women in Building Council (PWBC) to Kathie “for her range of experience and commitment to the [home building] industry.” The PWBC was created to promote professionalism, networking, education and professional/personal development. In addition to the grant, the PWBC also awarded Kathie with another $500 grant.

A strong proponent of Green Building, Kathie works to educate consumers about Tampa home builder Highland Home’s energy-efficient new homes.

This grant adds to the numerous awards and distinctions Kathie has earned throughout her 28-year career.

When not overseeing the sales and marketing program in the 25 central Florida communities where Highland Homes builds, Kathie is a trustee of the Florida Sales and Marketing Council and serves as the National Education Chair for the NAHB.

Operating as Polk County’s largest homebuilder, Highland Homes constructs new homes that range from 1,100 to more than 3,000 square feet and are priced from the high $110,000s.

Congratulations Kathie on this prestigious achievement.

For more information about Kathie or Highland Homes, visit the website.

Highland Homes Announces Special Closeout Pricing on Ready-to-Own Inventory

Highland Homes (Highland Homes) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 14:07:13 -0800

Looking for a new home in Winter Haven, Fla.? Now is the time to buy. Highland Homes is closing out last year's stock with huge price discounts until March 1, 2011 on many of their Ready-to-Own homes in several of their communities including Brenton Manor, St. James Crossing, Normandy Heights, Windchester Estates and Wind Meadows. Current pricing on these Florida new homes represents a savings of $8,750 to more than $65,000 off original home prices.

Brenton Manor has several Winter Haven new homes available, all with amazing savings. The Casa Key II is our popular three bedroom, two bath floorplan that spans 1,567 square feet. This home is now priced at $139,900; that's a savings of more than $65,000! Or, check out our model home, the Owenburg floorplan. With four bedrooms, two baths and 1,858, you'll find that this home is a steal at just $157,900; a discount of $13,985 off the original price. If you need more room to stretch out, you'll love the Townsend; a spacious 2,389 square foot home that has five bedrooms and three baths. This house has been discounted $21,000 and is now $173,900.

Nestled in the St. James Crossing community is the Rob Roy II. This floorplan offers buyers three bedrooms, two bathrooms and 1,704 square feet. The home has been modified to include a living room/den space and features a screened lania, maple wood cabinets, bathroom wall tile and volume ceilings. This house was reduced by $8,750 and is now $139,900.

Also in Winter Haven is the Normandy Heights community. This neighborhood's closeout home is the Winston II floorplan. Buyers will love the four bedroom home that boasts formal living and dining rooms, stainless steel appliances and master retreat with jetted tub, priced at $179,900; a reduction of $38,466.

In addition to these Winter Haven deals, we have the Richmond floorplan at Winchester Estates in Lakeland Fla., a professionally decorated four bedroom model home reduced by more than $25,000 to $169,700; and the Sherwood floorplan at Wind Meadows in Bartow, Fla., an open floorplan reduced by more than $25,000 and now priced at $198,900.

For more information, visit the Highland Homes website.