On a clear day you can see forever at River Ridge

One of the first things anyone notices at the Communities of River Ridge is the view. This southern Overland Park neighborhood is situated on rolling terrain high above the Blue River Valley offering expansive views in any direction.

Those views are available from all of the homes and the elevation sets River Ridge apart from other new-home communities in southern Johnson County. It is situated on Kenneth Road south of 159th Street, providing a serene ambiance without sacrificing city convenience.

River Ridge has a tranquil setting but is close to city conveniences. “Many people who visit are surprised how close River Ridge is to everything you need: highways, shopping, restaurants,” said Lettiann Southerland, who markets the community. “But it feels like it’s miles from the city. It’s peaceful here.”

River Ridge experienced an excellent Spring Parade of Homes, with hundreds showing up to view the four homes entered and nearly all of the visitors commented on the views. Parade visitors were so excited about River Ridge that five home sites were reserved.

“We even had lots of visitors on the first day, when it was pouring down rain,” Southerland said.

Those who want to build a custom home in River Ridge are running out of opportunities since home sites are available in only two of its areas: the Enclave at Sunset Hills and Sunset Hills. A new model home and sales office just opened this spring in the Enclave at Sunset Hills that showcases the quality offered in the Communities of River Ridge.

This 11/2-story Denali Chalet plan built by Tabernacle Homes is adapted specifically for its premium home site overlooking the Blue River Valley. Because of the site’s slope, all of the rooms on the main level and the lanai provide the feel of being in a treehouse.

The home’s entry flows past a flex room and curved stairway to the great room with an 18-foot ceiling and dramatic fireplace, as well as expansive windows overlooking the lanai. To the right are the island kitchen with custom cabinets, large walk-in pantry and butler’s pantry. Just beyond is the dining area that opens to the lanai. The main-floor master includes a bath with tiled shower, soaking tub and double vanities. The large walk-in closet conveniently connects to the laundry.

The dramatic staircase leads to a loft overlooking the great room as well as three additional bedrooms, each with its own bath. This home is priced at $675,000.

In the High Point neighborhood, homebuyers will find a two-story plan built by Comerio Corporation with four bedrooms, 31/2 bathrooms and 2,700 square feet, priced in the low $400,000s.

Wheeler Design Custom Homes is offering a reverse 11/2-story home in Sunset Hills that offers four bedrooms and 41/2 bathrooms. The hilltop home site backs to a private wooded area and offers sweeping views to the north. This home is priced at $589,900.

Other award-winning builders working in River Ridge include ParkView Homes, Braklow Custom Homes, Bickimer Construction, Taylored Homes, James Engle Custom Homes and Krueger Homes. Other builders are welcome with developer approval.

Amenities include a pool, tennis courts, volleyball courts, fishing ponds and playground. Students attend schools in the Blue Valley School District. Residents have quick access to Interstate 435, U.S. 69 and Missouri 150. They are within minutes of an abundance of shopping and dining venues at 135th Street and State Line Road and along 151st Street.

For information, contact Lettiann Southerland at 816-898-5477.

This story was originally published May 15, 2015 at 7:00 PM with the headline "On a clear day you can see forever at River Ridge."