Whispering Canyon Opening Phase 5

Whispering Canyon, a master-planned rural community, is attracting homebuyers wanting to escape crowded metropolitan areas for more open space and a better quality of life.
Di Ann Norkus, a Realtor affiliated with Better Homes and Gardens Bloomtree Realty in Prescott, said low mortgage interest rates and a less frantic lifestyle are driving the market up for luxury homes in scenic rural settings. 
Whispering Canyon is about 15 miles north of Prescott on Williamson Valley Road in rolling terrain with rock outcroppings and arroyos where scrub oak, juniper and pinon pine trees abound. 
Norkus estimated 75% of potential buyers were from out of state: “Eastern buyers want out of cold climates, while West Coast buyers want some open space, sunshine and blue skies.” Other buyers are typically from Tucson or Phoenix. 
Norkus said most residents are full-time, though some are second-home or seasonal owners. She said most are considered “early retirement” age.
Homes range from 2,027 to 2,527 square feet; most on half-acre lots. Larger lots are available, some in gated areas. All have large three-car garages. 
Four floor plans for one-story homes are available, which include a variety of exterior styles and combinations of stucco, architectural stone and timber, combined with tile rooftops.
 “Our homes are definitely a cut above mass production line construction,” Norkus said. 
Prices start in the low $600,000s and go up, contingent on floor plan and lot selected. Costs in gated communities or available custom lots in different phases are higher, Norkus said. 
Current phases in the development are nearing closeout. Owner-developer Cole Johnson from Prescott has authorized construction of Phase 5, currently underway. 
Johnson said Whispering Canyon had appeal because of the amount of land and size of home buyers can get for their dollar: “It’s where they can enjoy the privacy they desire. It’s a great way to downsize a mortgage and home costs while simultaneously increasing acreage and all the benefits of a new home.”
One of Johnson’s pledges is to keep at least 40% of the 900-acre community dedicated to open space with developed hiking trails.
Water for Whispering Canyons and other nearby developments is provided by ICR Water Users Assoc., a private company. Before the property began development, water availability had to meet established guidelines. 
Appointments at the model home are available by calling 928-710-0146. Daily office hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. See www.whisperingcanyon.com for more details.