Homes designed to take the maintenance out of ownership are expected to be the focus of an upcoming 132-unit neighborhood outside Denver.
National homebuilder Landsea Homes plans to soon build 132 townhouses in Firestone, Colorado, in what it calls a “lock-and-leave” project. These new residences, located 30 miles north of the Mile High City, will include smaller floor plans, a sized-down backyard, security technology and automated smart home features.
It’s an approach the Dallas-based firm says is growing for wanderlust buyers who leave home for extended travel periods, both professional and personal. Aging adults often desire low-maintenance homes, as less yard work and repairs are required; however, Landsea is aiming the neighborhood, called Cordovan, at first-time buyers and first-time move-up buyers, said the company.
“The lock-and-leave lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular with homebuyers. Residents can own a new paired home while enjoying having fewer maintenance responsibilities,” said Lisa Wiebelhaus, Colorado division president of Landsea. “Buyers are able to travel, visit family or leave their homes for an extended period of time without having to worry about the maintenance of a very large yard.”
A smaller yard means fewer concerns about mowing the lawn or watering plants, for example. The homes will also include alarm systems, video doorbells and phone-controlled lighting for peace of mind when out of town.
Landsea has built two other lock-and-leave developments in Colorado, in Johnstown and Longmont, both of which are similar to Cordovan, near Boulder and Denver. Both developments broke ground in 2024.
The developer has completed other lock-and-leave homes in California.
The homebuilder said Cordovan builds off the demand for housing in Boulder and Denver, specifically for young families and professionals. A September report from a regional planning agency found Boulder has a deficit of 10,700 housing units.
"Firestone is a great place to live. It offers a small-town feel with access to larger cities, and a robust economy, while also providing easy access to outdoor recreation," said Wiebelhaus. "It's ideally situated between Denver and Boulder and is a desirable area for young families and professionals looking for a family-friendly community feel."
The new homes will range between 1,384 and 2,445 square feet with single- and two-story homes. Sales will begin this summer, but Landsea did not confirm price ranges. The developer's homes in nearby Johnstown and Longmont begin in the $300,000s and $400,000s.