David Clough, founder of Waterford Homes and current president of the Greater Atlanta Home Builders Association, talks to Newcomer about his 32 years in residential construction and how he hopes to contribute to Atlanta real estate development as president of the GAHBA.
Tell us briefly about your homebuilding experience and your company.
When I graduated from Princeton in 1975, I immediately entered the homebuilding business and learned the industry by working with several national homebuilders. Then, in 1991, Don Shanks and I founded Waterford Homes. Since then, Waterford Homes has built more than 2,100 homes and was deemed one of the top 25 builders in Atlanta in 1999, just eight years after its inception.
Waterford Homes dedicates itself to building homes with quality craftsmanship, superior architectural design and the best warranties available. Everyone at Waterford Homes, from builders to trade contractors to suppliers, is an integral part of the team, and all are instrumental in building and maintaining the reputation of a knowledgeable company that constructs high-quality homes.
Who, or what, inspires your building designs?
The homebuyer absolutely is the inspiration for Waterford Homes’ designs. While there are many plans to choose from, all homes are personalized to fit the buyer’s lifestyle. The company listens carefully to the ideas and suggestions of buyers and follows their wishes as closely as possible.
With a mix of traditional Atlanta architecture, many of our homes are brick coupled with Hardiplank siding, adding a definite Southern flair. The interiors of Waterford homes are similar to older plantation homes of the South, complete with open and flowing floorplans that feature dramatic foyers and high-volume ceilings with treys.
Can you describe a few of your current projects?
Current projects include Highlands at Sawnee Mountain, Sienna and Lake Forest. The Highlands offers homes with panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sienna offers homeowners the country living feel but with convenience to restaurants, shopping, golf and schools. At Lake Forest, homeowners can enjoy the 5,000-square-foot clubhouse, the resort-style pool, or a game of volleyball or tennis.
As president of the GAHBA, how will you influence homebuilding in Atlanta?
I truly understand the homebuilding business from the inside-out. I have a deep understanding of what buyers are looking for and what they expect from their homebuilder. Buyers want confidence in the purchase they’re making. They have become much more knowledgeable and sophisticated when purchasing a new home, and they demand quality service and great value from their builder.
Knowing this, along with understanding what the builders want, will be highly beneficial as I implement new programs and criteria. It can be a tough business, but I think with the right leadership and ideas, both builders and homebuyers will benefit.
For more information on Waterford Homes and its developments, call 770-448-2175 or visit www.waterfordhomes. com.
