Tetherow . . . Green on the Greens

by John and Sandy Kohlmoos

Tetherow’s Commitment

Building on a commitment to ensure environmentally sound philosophies and practices, Tetherow is not only one of the area’s only environmentally friendly golf courses, but it has extended that “green” mentality to the new custom homes under construction.  “Our vision from the onset was to create a world class golf experience that was in harmony with nature,”

stated Tetherow managing partner, Chris van der Velde.  Tetherow is the only Audubon Signature Sanctuary Certified golf course in Oregon, and was also recently recognized for environmental stewardship by the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America (GCSAA). “The homes we are building at Tetherow mirror that vision,” said van der Velde.

The new homes being built at Tetherow within the Glen neighborhood  will be certified as both Earth Advantage and ENERGY STAR.  They earn that certification by ensuring increased energy efficiency, limited impact on land, thoughtful land use practices, use of safe and durable materials, and reduced water consumption.

“My vision is to create a neighborhood that is built using sustainable practices,” remarked Erin van der Velde, project manager.  “We want to create a community that is mindful of our surroundings and more considerate of our resources.  In fact, we are working towards being the first Earth Advantage certified community in the state of Oregon.”

Homes at Tetherow

One home at Tetherow, expected to be completed by April, sits on a corner home site amongst tall Ponderosa Pines. The urban-ranch home has three bedrooms, 3.5 baths and a den.

It was specifically designed to enhance the features of its location and the outdoors.  The home at Tetherow offers three terraces for outdoor living: a summer terrace, a winter terrace with a kitchen garden, and a terrace with a built-in fireplace. The home at Tetherow is 2618 square feet and is offered at $699,000.

Another home is located on a cul-de-sac lot with spectacular mountain and golf course views facing west/southwest. This updated lodge-style home is nestled in a stand of mature Ponderosa Pines.

This home lends itself to a feeling of openness with a large great room, spacious dining area with serving bar and a chef-style gourmet kitchen.  There are two patios for outdoor living and entertaining.  This home is offered at $879,000.

Tetherow . . . Earth Advantage

Being Earth Advantage certified means a home has met the criteria Earth Advantage sets forth for insulation, building materials and methods, and energy and water conservation.  Recent market studies have shown that in many areas, certified new homes sell for up to ten percent more than conventional homes.  Even in a slow economy, the market share of certified homes versus conventional homes has continued to rise.  Combining these benefits with the energy efficiency standards of ENERGY STAR ensures these homes exhibit superior performance and environmental responsibility.

“Sustainability is important to many of our clients,” opined Deb Tebbs, owner at Cascade Sotheby’s International Realty.  Tetherow is seeing a lot more traffic and interest in purchasing and building custom homes.  In fact, three home sites are currently under contract.  “Tetherow is a special community within Bend.  Our onsite sales team is super  excited about the growth and changes the new year will bring.”

Schedule a tour of new homes and available home sites at Tetherow.