New Technology, New Homes Helping Drive Midtown Sacramento Housing Boom

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Brand new homes are getting bought up as soon as they hit the market in midtown Sacramento, but it's more than just the area that's getting buyers' attention.

Ten homes on 25th and R Streets in midtown sold in just one day.

"Midtown has seen a major resurgence," said homebuyer James Renard.

Renard is one of those homebuyers who wanted to live in midtown.

"I can walk out of my house, go to restaurant, get a cup of coffee; I can actually walk to get my groceries," he said.

With light rail nearby and easy travel by bike, real estate broker Ron Mellon says it's a definite draw for buyers.

"Midtown is where all the energy is," said Mellon.

And, the homes are energy efficient.

"We're anticipating really low energy bills," said Mellon.

This is because of a new solar technology system offered in Northern California for the first time.

"It has a battery pack where the solar creates the energy and stores it for future use," said Mellon. "The home itself will produce more energy than it uses throughout the year."

"The fact you can help the environment but lower your bills, I thought that was a big driver for me," said Renard.

It's not just homes that are going. Condos at 18th and L Streets are also hot on the market, as well as new homes at 20th and T Streets.

As for Renard, he's counting down the days until he can move in to his new home.

"I hope to see more things like this popping up," he said. "I think it's great."

Ten more brand new homes will be released at 25th and R Streets in about a month, and will be priced in the mid $300,000 range.