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live.
Surprisingly, the most attractive projects—with narrower streets, varying architecture and, of course, trees— were also the most affordable and safe for their residents.
“According to a survey by the National Association of Realtors, the surrounding environment is the most important factor affecting market value for a house,” said McMahon.
In addressing issues affecting the Piedmont, McMahon was critical of the “golf course communities” and large-lot subdivisions being built.
He noted that many of the golf course communities— with homes clustered on small lots along the course—had failed nationally, since very few residents played golf and supported the clubs.
As a result, some courses are being converted back to open space for wildlife and outdoor enjoyment.
Locally, the large-lot subdivision is laying the groundwork for future problems, according to McMahon.
“All that large-lot subdivisions do is increase the rate at which land is consumed,” he said. “About 20 percent of the lots are consuming 80 percent of the land.”
When surveyed, more than 70 percent of the people considering moving into an area preferred “living in a nice neighborhood” to having a large lot around their house.
As an example, McMahon described the development of a 200-acre farm.
Under the first scenario, the farm was divided into 200 one-acre lots, scattered throughout the property and connected by a network of roads.
The second scenario— clearly better for a variety of reasons—showed the same lands divided into 200 halfacre lots, with the homes clustered in several “neighborhoods,” and the remaining 100 acres kept in open space.
Value what is ‘old’
“The image of a community is fundamental to its vitality and quality of life,” said McMahon. “The more Warrenton becomes like everywhere else, the less reason people have to come here.”
Older towns like Warrenton have an added advantage. “Historic preservation saves the heart and soul of a community, linking people to their past,” he said.
Noting the importance of tourism—already the biggest industry in 37 of the 50
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