Builder sells GV homes at auction

Bringing bidders and bargains together, nine new homes at Las Campanas Village that have been sitting unsold in a sluggish home-buying market were snapped up Saturday afternoon in a hustle and bustle auction atmosphere.

All were new, never-lived-in homes and those willing to bite the bullet and make a bid mostly left with a win-win situation for both buyer and seller.

Before the bidding began Stewart Larsen of The Larsen Co., an auction firm focusing only on real estate, said he hoped people would walk away with a bargain. “In the end, we want everyone to be happy.”

Of the nine homes auctioned, four were 1,680-square-foot Casa Bella models and five were 1,757-square-foot Casa Cristals. All were offered with “quality construction, energy-saving features, deluxe kitchens, luxurious baths—and fully landscaped front and rear yards.”

Bidders began arriving at 12:15 for a 1 o’clock start; shortly before the action and auction began it was standing room only. Every seat, indoors and out, was taken and Larsen promised bidders who couldn’t be seen, “We’ll catch bids anywhere in the house.”

He told the crowd of about 200 that there are more home auctions now; but most are not new and in prime salable condition like the nine being offered. “These are beautiful homes ready for a new buyer,” he said.

After explaining the rules and auction procedures, auctioneer Dan Mercer began the bidding by doing what auctioneers are known for—“patter”—the ultra-quick rambling that keeps bidders on their toes listening intently.

Buyers were advised of the purchase policy: 10 percent down with the balance due in 30 days and a 10 percent premium over the high bid price; i.e. a home auctioned at $150,000 had $15,000 added on.

Bidding began and the mood was set. The first home went for $190,000 and was purchased by Kris Conquergood for James Call. The next three homes sold for $175,000, $159,000 and $144,000 respectively.

At the close, Larsen told the Green Valley News, “I think the buyers were a little too conservative. Homes were in $270,000 range. If we had gotten in the $180,000 to $190,000 range, it would’ve been a trigger day.

“We might end up countering on some on Monday; it’s up to the seller.”

Three of the homes were sold “absolute” meaning there was no minimum bid.

Las Campanas Village developer Mark Hughes of Hughes Development said selling three homes in this manner would tell him exactly where the home-buying market is at.

“Las Campanas Village has been a very successful community for us, but we would rather sell these remaining homes now than wait for the market to improve,” he said.

Ellen Sussman is a freelance writer in Green Valley. Contact her at ellen2414@cox.net.