Real Estate Forecast from Andy Fremento

What kind of year did you have in 2004?

Record-setting. Our fiscal year ended Sept. 30, and we closed 1,502 new homes. Even more exciting, our customer satisfaction ratings were consistently over 90 percent. To close as many homes as we do and keep everyone happy can only be achieved if the entire company is customer focused.

How do you anticipate the market will be in 2005?

Again, record-setting. We expect to close 2.000 homes, and we'll do it by expanding south. In fact, we already have construction under way in Port Orange and Melbourne, in Brevard County. We've also had a very successful year in our new Palm Coast Division, and will expand operations there by developing more new communities.

What are the top three most important things buyers are looking for when they visit a new home?

Number one, a sense of community. That's why master-planned communities are so successful. We've almost sold out of Julington Creek Plantation in St. Johns County, and we know its success can be summed up in its slogan: "Where Families are First." We offered affordable homes in a community with schools, recreation and neighborhoods that offer an instant social life.

Number two, value. Everyone wants a good buy, and we've built a reputation for giving our customers more for their money and by including standard features that many builders consider options.

Number three, functionality. Floorplans need to change with the times and complement the way people live. We continually evaluate the market to see how we need to adapt our plans to meet the needs of our customers.

What is the most notable trend in new home design and construction you've noticed this past year?

The increasing toward multifamily housing, such as town homes and condominiums. Three years ago we were building one multifamily community. Today we have four under construction and two more soon to start. Other notable trends are the re-emergence of the two-story home, which allows the buyer to get more square footage on a lot, and low-country and neoclassical elevations.