One of the biggest Thatcher developments started in 1979 when three men bought land just west of Thatcher, intending to turn around and sell it for more. Instead, they held it for 17 years before deciding to develop the property themselves, thus bringing Quail Ridge to Thatcher.

John Martin, president of Quail Ridge Construction Company, said the subdivision opened in 1996 with only two homes and has evolved into 180 homes since then. He said there is enough land to build 150 more homes.

Something unique about the business, Martin said, is that it doesn’t build speculation homes— the builders typically begin building upon customer request. “We develop and build,” Martin said. The business offers semi-custom and custom homes.

John Martin, president of Quail Ridge Construction Company, has been in business since 1996. Photo by Keri Lunt

Customers can choose from Quail Ridge’s already designed layouts and modify them or bring in layouts of their own. Quail Ridge will build on lots purchased within the subdivision or on customers’ privately owned land.

Another unique trait of the business is the variety of choices given to customers, Martin said. Colors, countertops, cabinets and floor coverings are choices the customer makes.

“We build what people want, not what we want them to have,” Martin said.

Homes range from 1,600 square feet to 2,400 square feet, but Quail Ridge will build larger homes upon customer request. All homes are provided with an insulated garage with remote entry, a side door and patio.

Martin said Quail Ridge was designed to be a safe neighborhood with quality homes. None of the homes faces a through street, and all homes are required to have outside lights on from dusk to dawn to provide safety. The homes are built to be energy efficient within an affordable price range.