Homebuilder's average sale price surges 42%

LAKEWOOD RANCH — Nelson Homes, an independently owned Arthur Rutenberg Homes franchise that builds in Sarasota and Manatee counties, is having its best year since it launched operations in 2009.

The firm, run by longtime local homebuilder Derek Nelson, has sold 10 homes this year at an average price of a little more than $1.2 million per house, according to a release. The franchisee's average price per sale of a home is up 42% over 2013, when it had 30 closings at an average of $850,000 per home.

“We are definitely seeing the return of the luxury custom home market,” Nelson says in the release. “Our average sales price continues to rise as more buyers are feeling confident in the marketplace.”

The franchise unit, which Nelson started on two lots in Lakewood Ranch for $700,000 he bought at the height of the downturn in 2009, also recently opened a new model. The model, The Modena, is at The Concession in east Manatee County. It's a 4,228-square- foot home that includes a home management center, an entry courtyard and a putting green.

“Arthur Rutenberg has always specialized in the finest architectural detail and upscale features,” Nelson says. “This new model truly highlights that specialty, with several features that really emphasize the Florida lifestyle including fire pits in the pool, a large kitchen island with extra seating, and wide, open outdoor spaces.”

Nelson Homes builds in Lakewood Ranch, The Concession, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key and on customer-owned home sites.