As the Clark County housing market soars, potential buyers can preview seven homes during the annual NW Natural New Homes Tour hosted by the Building Industry Association (BIA) of Clark County.
Andrea Smith, BIA communications and education manager, said the upcoming tour will occur from June 12 to 13 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The tours launched during the first weekend in June, giving guests an opportunity to view houses equipped with natural gas features.
Six of the seven homes are available for purchase, and they range in price from $500,000 to $1.55 million. Smith said the one pre-sold house can be toured because the builder constructs custom homes and wanted to use it as an example.
The tour features homes varying in style, like single-story houses and some with outdoor living amenities. Most homes have three to four bedrooms and two to three bathrooms.
“Anyone looking for a single-level home, whether they’re downsizing or getting older in their age, might want to check these out,” Smith said. “The Generation Home that is in Battle Ground has really great outdoor living features.”
The tour spans across Clark County. Three homes are located in Ridgefield, one in Battle Ground, one in Washougal and two in Camas.
Attendees can pick and choose which houses to visit. Once they arrive at a location, a staff member from the building company can answer questions about the specific construction.
The homes can also be viewed virtually.
All of the houses use natural gas for appliances, like stovetops and fireplaces, and a select few use gas for HVAC systems. The Urban Northwest home in Ridgefield is pre-wired for solar panels and electric car charging.
“If you were to lose power, the people with those systems still have water and indoor air, when your neighbors might not,” Smith said.
COVID-19 regulations will be followed, she said. Participants should wear a mask, social distance and stay home if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
Builders affiliated with the BIA submitted applications to showcase their projects, all of which wrapped up construction by June 5.
Participants can cast their vote in different categories, including best of show, most livable floor plan and best kitchen. Categories are split for homes under $750,000 and above $750,000.
Voting closes online June 13 at 11:59 p.m. The winners will be announced during an award ceremony in October.
The tours are free for participants.
A show guide and driving directions are available on the BIA website at biaofclarkcounty.org/events/new-homes-tour.
