🏡 Today Amy McLeod of The McLeod Group/Keller Williams and Elizabeth Smith of The Smith Mortgage Team introduced listeners to a fresh approach to homeownership with South Haven Cottages, a unique new development coming to Salem’s highly desirable Candalaria neighborhood.
Unlike traditional subdivisions, South Haven Cottages is built around the concept of a “pocket neighborhood”—11 thoughtfully designed cottage homes centered around a shared green space that encourages connection, community, and quality of life.
🌳 Inspired by the work of architect Ross Chapin, the project focuses on right-sized living rather than oversized homes and oversized maintenance. These brand-new cottages will feature quality finishes, efficient floorplans, and the opportunity to own a home in one of Salem’s most sought-after neighborhoods at a price point that is increasingly difficult to find in today’s market.
🏠 We discussed why South Haven Cottages may be ideal for:
• First-time homebuyers
• Retirees and downsizers
• Single-parent households
• Anyone seeking lower maintenance and a stronger sense of community
💰 Elizabeth Smith also discussed financing opportunities, including potential zero-down and zero-closing-cost options through Down Payment Assistance Programs, making homeownership more attainable for qualified buyers.
📈 Another key topic was The Cost of Waiting. As home prices, rents, and interest rates continue to fluctuate, buyers who postpone purchasing often find themselves paying more later. Building equity sooner can be one of the most powerful long-term financial decisions a family makes.
The overall message: affordable housing solutions don’t always require larger government programs—they can come from thoughtful design, innovative development, and creating neighborhoods built around people rather than just property lines.
