Affordable Downtown Condos Find Strong Market

Coachyard Square, the new development on the former Reynolds Transfer site, is nearing completion. Since last spring when construction began, passers-by have been able to watch the three buildings take shape in the 600 block between Dayton and Mifflin Streets.

The 23-condominium project is a joint venture of the Wisconsin Partnership for Housing Development and Movin' Out, Inc. (Movin' Out is a Madison-based housing organization that creates opportunities for low and moderate-income people with disabilities to find housing of their choice, with an emphasis on home purchase.)

According to project manager Dave Porterfield, the Wisconsin Partnership already has accepted offers on 19 of the 23 condos. "There's a great market for affordable condos near the downtown," he said.

Coachyard homes offer either one or two bedrooms in a mixture of townhouse and single-level styles. Some incorporate attached garages and in-unit laundry facilities. The homes are priced to attract a range of income levels to the downtown. In addition, the project is designed to be compatible with the surrounding neighborhood and offers good access to public transportation and downtown Madison amenities.

"We're committed to developing housing that creates value, protects the environment and meets the test of the market," Porterfield said. He emphasized that "green" building techniques and materials are being used in the project to the greatest extent possible.

The four remaining Coachyard homes are priced from $118,900 to $154,900. For more information contact Don Knutson at First Weber Realty (278-4167).