LAKE CHARLES, LA (KPLC) –

A massive new $200 million housing project planned in Calcasieu Parish was announced Thursday night. The Sugarcane Townes will be located near Iowa, and the development will bring in 600 new homes.

Sharel Hebert, a realtor at Century 21 in Lake Charles, said the planned housing development is a much-needed addition to the housing market in Calcasieu Parish.

“With the influx of people, we’re going to need that type of price range subdivision for new homeowners,” said Hebert. “The way the market is today, here in the area on rentals, for the amount you can rent a house you just about can afford a house note.”

She said this means there couldn’t be a better time to buy a home, whether it’s new or pre-owned.

“It’s great for families coming into the area, or even those selling what they have now, or moving from apartments and becoming a homeowner, and there’s pride that comes with that,” said Hebert.

The Sugarcane Townes subdivision is supposed to focus on affordability, something many say the parish needs because of rising apartment prices.

Hebert said, however, that houses for sale in the median price range, like the ones being built, only stay on the market about 10 days, sometimes even less.

“It’s hard to keep a good one on the market,” said Hebert. “The houses on the market right now, if they’re priced right, they’re going to sell.”

You can visit Realtor.com for the most up-to-date and accurate real estate listings in our area.

Copyright 2017 KPLC. All rights reserved.

LAKE CHARLES, LA (KPLC) –

Touted as one of the biggest developments in Calcasieu Parish, Sugarcane Townes subdivision is being built near Iowa.

Mausan Developments, LLC announced the plans for its second Louisiana endeavor Thursday night.

The subdivision is located a few miles west of Iowa, just off I-10 Frontage Road.

“We officially launch the $200 million project Sugarcane Townes in Calcasieu Parish,” said Amy Jones, spokesperson for the development. “We are looking at over 600 individual units in the development by the time it’s all finished.”

While the housing market is booming, and prices in the lake area seem to be on the rise, Sugarcane Townes will have a focus on affordability.

“The whole point of this is to be able to have affordable luxury,” said Jones. “We are looking to make sure that people are able to enjoy the amenities of new home ownership and at the same time keep the price point down so it’s really accessible as well.”

The subdivision’s location just outside city limits will also help with the price of homes, allowing buyers to get low or no down payment loans.

“Those who are looking for the rural development financing will be able to talk to their lenders about that, and the project will certainly qualify,” said Jones.

The first steps of construction are underway now, and Jones expects to see the first homes being built by early 2018.

Copyright 2017 KPLC. All rights reserved.