Luxury condos to be built in Sandpoint

Construction will begin this summer on a $90 million luxury condo project on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille in Sandpoint.

“Seasons at Sandpoint” is Sandpoint’s largest new residential development in the past two decades, according to City Planner Will Herrington. Florida-based Bella Vista Group plans to build 105 condo units, priced from $390,000 to $990,000. The development will also include 12 townhouses and a $2 million clubhouse.

Bella Vista Group hopes to complete the permitting for the project this month, said Jae Heinberg, company president. Thirty condo units were planned for the development’s first phase, but interest has been so strong that Heinberg said he may build up to 60 units this year.

Most of the customers are from California, Seattle and Spokane. Many already vacation in Sandpoint and have had trouble finding vacation rentals in the past, or wanted the ease of condo-style living, Heinberg said. Recent articles about Sandpoint in Sunset and Outdoor magazines also spurred interest in the project, he said.

Seasons at Sandpoint will be located on nine acres on the eastern edge of downtown. Bella Vista Group bought the land this spring from the Cox family, longtime area residents. Heinberg’s other development projects include $500 million in residential real estate on Florida’s west coast.

A public road will be built through the nine acres so city residents can reach the old Humbird mill site, which is now a public beach. Heinberg said the roadwork and utility upgrades will be completed this summer. Construction of the three-story clubhouse, which includes a spa, fitness center and concierge service, also is to begin this summer.

“It’s a resort atmosphere,” Heinberg said. “Sandpoint doesn’t have anything quite like this.”

A pool and a private marina are also planned for the development. The first condos should be ready for occupancy in mid- to late 2005, Heinberg said.