Building Innovation for Homeownership
Award Winners: North Dakota
PROJECT: Richmond, Fargo, North Dakota
SUBMITTER: Gerald D. Eid, President, Eid-Co. Buildings, Inc., Fargo, North Dakota
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Richmond development consists of 35 energy-efficient
townhomes, including some specifically designed for elderly buyers or people with physical
disabilities. The homes feature innovative foundation systems that save money for the
homebuyer on both the purchase price and operating costs. The shallow foundation, used
extensively in Europe for many years, replaces a deeper, more costly foundation typically
found in the United States. In addition to saving construction and energy costs, shallow
foundations allow the placement of homes closer to the ground, eliminating the need for
entrance steps that are a barrier for some people. Floor plans incorporate other universal
design features to make the home more comfortable and accessible for older residents and
people with certain physical disabilities -- extra-wide doorways and halls, no steps from
attached garage into the home, wide accessible bathroom with optional roll-in shower, and
large kitchen.
The 980 to 1700 square foot townhomes have sold at an average price of $80,270 to date,
well below median for Fargo. Annual heating costs are estimated at under $200.
PROJECT PARTICIPANTS: Gerald D. Eid, President, Eid-Co. Buildings, Inc., Fargo,
ND
Content Archived: January 20, 2009