(Chelsea Update would like to thank Bob Milbrodt for the information in this story.)
Last Monday, Chelsea Kiwanis Club members heard from Lon Cooke and Stewart Elliot from the Right Home Company. The two men created the company, headquartered here in Chelsea, after they retired from decades in the home building/construction industry.
They recognized a need for affordable homes in the area. They reported that almost 50% of the population can’t afford an entry level house. With the average selling price of a home in Chelsea over $300,000, a starter home would sell for about $70,000, but there is nothing near that price in the area.
That absence of houses in the price range for lower- and middle-income families was the driving force behind the company’s formation. The company will concentrate on filling the need for the middle-income range.
They will build smaller homes that are very energy efficient. They will create designs to the customer’s wishes. They will provide project managers to see the project to completion. They have dedicated suppliers and have vetted builders. Customers may use any or all of their services.
They are especially interested in building auxiliary dwelling units where acreage permits.
They are designed as private spaces, yet still close, for family members to join together.
They use pre-cast foundations that can be installed in one day. They use pre-assembled floors and interior partitions. Structured insulated panels are made in a climate-controlled factory, making everything fit together perfectly. Walls with a rating of R50 keep the house warm in winter and cool in summer. Ready to assemble cabinets are featured.
Price per square foot could range from $160 to $200, depending on location and extra features wanted.
Current projects are located in Washtenaw County, Pinckney, and Ogemaw.
Monday, club members will hear from Eric McCalla, president of the Chelsea Community Fair Board. He will update us on the latest going’s on for 2020. This year’s fair runs Aug. 25-29.
Chelsea Kiwanis meets each Monday at 6:15 p.m. in the St. Joseph Mercy Chelsea Hospital cafeteria, and the speakers begin at about 6:45 p.m.
Everyone is invited to the club’s meetings to enjoy our speakers and learn about Kiwanis.
Go to www.kiwanisclubofchelsea.org for more information.
