Michael and Stephanie Phillips wanted a home with more room for their young children, and they looked for a friendly neighborhood.
The Phillips say they got all they wanted and more when they moved in August from their 1,400-square-foot starter home into a 2,400-square-foot home in Bergen Place West, a new community off Country Club Road in North Augusta.
Mr. Phillips wanted a ranch-style home, and the open floor plan drew their attention. The living room, kitchen and breakfast nook flow together.
"The other house was closed off," said Mrs. Phillips.
She could only peek around the corners in their old home to speak to her husband if she was working in the kitchen. Now she can prepare food or wash dishes at the island, which looks into the living room.
With its granite countertop, the island was a selling point for the Phillips.
"We've been into other neighbors' homes and haven't seen another one," said Mrs. Phillips.
While there were overall features the Phillips liked, the details sealed it for them.
A door separates the sleeping area from the common area, so when baby Caleb is asleep, they don't have to tiptoe around or keep the television volume set really low, said Mrs. Phillips.
There's a double-door pantry in the kitchen, and the home is energy efficient.
"Everything is green and low maintenance," she said.
Not only was the house exactly what they wanted, they are happy with their neighborhood.
"Our neighbors are very friendly,"' said Mr. Phillips, who added there are several children in the neighborhood for their daughter and son to play with.
The family enjoys the location, which is away from busy thoroughfares and is at the border of Edgefield and Aiken counties. The neighborhood has lots of sidewalks, and there's a nearby walking trail.
THE FAMILY: Michael and Stephanie Phillips and their children, Shyla, 4, and Caleb, 1
THE HOUSE: 2,400-square-foot ranch with four bedrooms and 21/2 bathrooms
IT'S A FACT: The living room walls are decorated with Scripture that makes reference to every great thing in life being a gift from God.[CAPTION]
When developed: New; under development
Where: Off Country Club Hills Drive, North Augusta
Prices: Prices begin in the $240,000s
Schools: North Augusta Elementary, Middle and High schools
Nearby amenities: Interstate-20. Shopping about five minutes away
Neighborhood special events: Progressive dinners, Christmas cookie swap, Spooky to Be Hungry Food Drive, Fourth of July community barbecue
Sources: Michael and Stephanie Phillips, Aiken County school locator Web site, Prudential Beazley Web site
The Augusta Chronicle ©2010 Morris Communications, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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