EPHRAIM—Sagebrush Homes, a single-family community of 50 home sites located in the Estates at Ephraim Crossing, has appointed a new construction team.
Ephraim Crossing is a 90-acre mixed-used development located west of U.S. 89 and south of McDonalds. Plans call for a mix of single-family and multi-family housing, offices and stores. Sagebrush Homes, consisting of 50 single-family homes, is the first phase of the overall project.
Todd Alder Construction of Ephraim has taken over from Timberhawk Homes of Ephraim as the home builder, with four homes under construction and more scheduled to begin by the end of March.
Under the new arrangement, Alder will take charge not only of home building, but also of putting in infrastructure such as water, sewer and sidewalks.
“Like every homebuilder in the country, we experienced challenges in our construction process. From delays due to unavailable materials to the impacts of a country-wide labor shortage, homebuilding has had to adjust to continue building,” said Rob Peccole, Sagebrush president.
“While these challenges don’t change the value of the homes, they do affect the time it takes to build them. With strong local partners, we are now in a much better position to continue building these much-needed homes in Ephraim.”
Owner Todd Alder has a long career of constructing both residential and commercial buildings. “His involvement now in our vertical construction was a natural fit,” Peccole said.
All homes in the community are projected to be completed within two years, with home sales being managed by Tiffany Alder-Bown, broker with Sanpete Valley Realty of Ephraim.
Financing was completed by Casey Dyreng of Gunnison Valley Branch of State Bank of Southern Utah. Home loans are being facilitated by Kris Jorgensen of Security National Mortgage Co. of Ephraim. Title services are being offered through Central Utah Title and Professional Title, both of Manti.
“There’s no question that there is a huge housing shortage in Sanpete County and Central Utah,” Dyreng said. “We have more jobs here than we’ve ever had, due in part to people working from home, but also new manufacturing companies. Our labor force just hasn’t kept up, and a big reason why is we don’t have adequate housing.
“The project is much needed, and we need selection for our buyers. It empowers them as we get a bigger selection of homes. I also found the developers very honest and forthright. They are not afraid to ask questions and get input. They have been great partners and are providing much needed services for Sanpete County.”
Dyreng also pointed to community improvements growing out of Ephraim Crossing. “The overall plan with Ephraim Crossing involves a stop light and a road to Ephraim Canyon,” he said. “Right now, that road is a bit of a mess and goes through neighborhoods and school areas.
“The development will bring more of a straight shot to Ephraim Canyon and the Manti-La Sal National Forest. It’s notable that the developers are committed to make improvements in the city that make Ephraim a better place.”
