Utah’s Garbett Homes had so much success selling entry-level contemporary homes that executives decided to introduce a new series of move-up moderns, including a net-zero version selling in the $500,000s.
The new series, called Bellasol and selling in Herriman, Utah, ranges from 2,000 to 3,100 square feet. Like Garbett’s previous series, Solaris, it was designed by John Tully of KTGY Group, Inc., Architecture + Planning in Los Angeles.
Garbett says the model for the community is the first climate 5 net-zero “smart home” to achieve a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) 0 rating. The home is powered by a relatively large 10.29-killowat photovoltaic system and equipped with a smart home system that provides real-time data on energy production and consumption. The first home in the community was purchased for $570,000.
A second model includes a Green Learning Center, where visitors can view deconstructed rooms that demonstrate the energy features of the home, including including spray foam and blown-in insulation, low-E windows, compact fluorescent lighting, super high-efficiency HVAC systems, a HEPA air filtration system, solar water heating, dual-flush toilets, and low-flow faucets.
Garbett says the home will save homeowners roughly $300 a month in utility bills. The company offers four floor plans that range from three to five bedrooms. The homes start in the low $500,000s. Garbett sold about one house a month during the second half of 2013. Click here to see more pictures of the homes.