Courtesy of Abele Builders
By Rod Bacon
Two highly respected Saratoga County builders, Abele Builders, Inc., and Belmonte Builders, have teamed up to create a charming, family-oriented community in Halfmoon. Phase One of Juniper Ridge, a 201-lot development, is well underway.
Chris Abele, president of Clifton Park-based Abele Builders, Inc., envisions Juniper Ridge as an ideal spot for both families and empty-nesters. For Phase I, Abele Builders is constructing homeson the exterior lots, while Belmonte Builders is building on the 35 interior lots.
“I have had a long-standing relationship with Pete Belmonte over the years,” said Abele. “When my brother and I decided to partner with a complementary, high-end builder, Pete was a natural choice. Together, we can appeal to both markets. At Abele, we offer more of an empty nest product and Belmonte Builders offers more options for families.”
“Chris and I have been good friends for a while, and we have exchanged property before, so this is not the first time we’ve worked together,” said Belmonte. “However, it is the first time we’ve built simultaneously in the same neighborhood. It’s going exceptionally well. We work well together.”
Abele estimates the entire project will take five to seven years to complete, depending on the absorption rate. He noted that Saratoga County is a very desirable place to live. “This project checks all the boxes; all public utilities including gas, cable, power, sewer, and water,” he said. “It’s well situated in the Town of Halfmoon, next to the Halfmoon Town Park, part of the Shenendehowa Central School system, and has a lot of green space to provide a buffer for the community. People have said to me it’s not only beautiful, but also very quiet, yet we’re not far out in the boonies.”
Abele is offering seven floor plans in Juniper Ridge, ranging in price from the mid-$500s to the low $600s, including four ranch floor plans, one primary down, and two traditional primary up options. The floor plans range in size from 1,788 sq. ft. to 2,245 sq. ft. Abele’s lots are all maintenance-free, making them ideal for those downsizing who don’t want to worry about yard work.
Belmonte Builders is offering nine floor plans, ranging in price from the mid-$500s to the low $700s, including two ranch, three primary down, and four traditional primary up options. The floor plans range in size from 1,074 sq. ft. to 3,075 sq. ft. Belmonte’s lots are not maintenance-free, which means they are perfect for those who enjoy taking care of their yard without additional fees.
Abele Builders purchased the former 150-acre Betts Farm in 2006 with the intention of developing the land. The planning and approval process took almost eight years, and sales officially started on October 1, 2023. To date, 65 lots are what Abele terms “improved,” meaning there is a road in front of them, and they are all currently for sale. Between the two builders, 25 lots are sold, most of which are contract sales. Both builders have constructed a few “spec” houses, which they are confident will sell as well.
Juniper Ridge is a Planned Development District (PDD), granting the developer a density bonus in exchange for contributions to the municipality. Land was donated for future soccer fields and is building a concession stand for the town.
Of the 150 acres Abele purchased, 75-80 acres were approved for development by the Halfmoon town and planning boards. The one-third to one-half acre lots are interspersed with green space, including walking trails and wooded buffer areas.
Five phases are planned, with Phase Two slated to start in approximately two years, although the roads for that phase are currently under construction.
Juniper Ridge is located on Route 236, across from the Halfmoon Town Park. Abele Builders’ model home is located at 9 Magnolia Drive. Belmonte Builders’ model home is located at 13 Silver Oak Drive.
For further information about the project, visit abelehomes.com or belmontebuilders.com.