Recreational opportunities abound as part of the built-in lifestyle at Highlands Ranch. There will be two parks within the community itself, as well as the adjacent Southern Highlands features that include parks, walking trails and bicycle paths for public use, Grundy said.

Home buyers have 20 choices collectively at the four American West Highlands Ranch neighborhoods: Windsor, Fairmont, Castlebay and Kensington. Plans offer two- and three-story layouts ranging from 1,486 to 4,039 square feet.

"Included features like granite countertops, significantly sized backyards and paving stones give the homes personalized individuality and built-in value," Grundy said.

"Highlands Ranch buyers don't have to pay for features that are usually considered builder upgrades."

American West's Windsor presents home buyers with five two- and three-story floor plans measuring 2,222 to 3,727 square feet, priced from $419,500.

"Windsor's new three-story home design astonishes buyers, especially when they see it comes with its very own included elevator," Grundy said.

Dubbed "The Tyler," this home design has five bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, storage or children's playroom and an extended two-car garage - which leaves space for a hobby or work area, Grundy said.

"The value of this home is unmatched at only $128 per square foot," he said.

The Tyler starts at $478,500.

Across the street, the Fairmont offers six home plans ranging from 1,486 to 2,544 square feet with as many as four bedrooms and 3 1/2 baths.

Floor plans have two stories with the exception of "The Taylor," Fairmont's three-story design. Prices start at $321,500.

Home designs measure 1,612 to 1,946 square feet at Castlebay. Five two-story offerings offer formal dining rooms, game rooms, optional studies and up to four bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. Prices start at $299,500.

Kensington offers the largest homes in the Highlands Ranch development.

This neighborhood's two-story floor plans stretch from 3,435 to 4,039 square feet. With up to six bedrooms, four baths and standard three-car garages, Kensington's four plans are big on space, Grundy said.

Some layouts include a great room, library, study or game room. Homes are priced from $536,950.

Richmond has been building homes across the country for more than 25 years, Grundy said.

"Highlands Ranch really reflects the essence of the hometown home builder that we are at American West," he said. "Many buyers feel right at home from the moment they turn in to our streets, which is apparent by how many purchase on their first visit."

Model homes are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. To visit, take Interstate 15 south to Blue Diamond Road and exit west. Turn south on Decatur Boulevard and follow the signs. For more information, call 308-1111 or visit AmericanWestHomes.com.