Calico Ridge vs Inspirada: Established Custom vs Modern Master-Planned
Two Henderson communities representing different eras of development. Calico Ridge is established custom homes from the late 1990s. Inspirada is modern master-planned living with new construction still available. Here's how they compare.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Calico Ridge | Inspirada |
|---|---|---|
| Development Era | Late 1990s - Early 2000s | 2010s - Present |
| New Construction | None available | Yes, multiple builders |
| Median Price | $600K - $673K | $500K - $700K |
| HOA (Annual) | $175 | $1,800 - $2,400+ |
| Lot Sizes | 1/4 to 1/3 acre | Typically smaller (4,000-7,000 sq ft) |
| Amenities | None included | Pools, parks, fitness, trails |
The Age Factor
This is the fundamental difference. Calico Ridge homes are 20-25+ years old. Inspirada offers brand new construction with modern floor plans, current building codes, and builder warranties.
New construction means no deferred maintenance, updated electrical and plumbing, energy-efficient systems, and contemporary layouts. Older homes offer character but may need updates.
Lot Sizes: The Big Gap
Calico Ridge delivers quarter to third-acre lots. Inspirada's typical lots run 4,000 to 7,000 square feet, sometimes smaller. That's a significant difference in outdoor space, privacy, and room for pools.
If yard size matters, Calico Ridge wins convincingly. If you prefer less maintenance and more community amenities, Inspirada's smaller lots might suit you better.
HOA and Amenities
| Amenity | Calico Ridge | Inspirada |
|---|---|---|
| Community Pools | None | Multiple |
| Fitness Centers | None | Yes |
| Parks | Adjacent Wetlands Park | Multiple community parks |
| Trail System | Wetlands/River Mountains access | Internal trail network |
| Annual HOA Cost | $175 | $1,800 - $2,400+ |
The $1,600 to $2,200 annual difference adds up. Over a decade, that's $16,000 to $22,000. Inspirada delivers amenities for that money. Calico Ridge leaves it in your pocket.
Home Character
Calico Ridge homes are custom and semi-custom with Mediterranean architecture. Each home has individual character. Mature landscaping provides shade and privacy.
Inspirada offers production homes from multiple builders. Modern designs, open floor plans, and current finishes. But many homes look similar, and landscaping is still maturing.
Schools
Inspirada has newer schools built to serve the community, including highly-rated options. Calico Ridge feeds into established Henderson schools with more varied ratings, particularly at the secondary level.
For families where school ratings drive decisions, research specific attendance zones for both communities.
Who Should Choose Which
Choose Calico Ridge if you: Want larger lots and custom character. Prefer minimal HOA costs. Value established landscaping and mature community feel. Don't need community amenities. Like the idea of scarcity and limited inventory.
Choose Inspirada if you: Want new construction with warranties. Prefer modern floor plans and finishes. Value community amenities (pools, fitness, parks). Don't mind higher monthly fees. Need more inventory options including new builds.
The Math on Value
Similar-priced homes in each community deliver different value propositions. In Calico Ridge, you're paying for lot size, custom architecture, and established character. In Inspirada, you're paying for newness, amenities, and modern design.
Neither is objectively better. They serve different priorities.
The Bottom Line
Calico Ridge and Inspirada represent different philosophies of Henderson living. Established custom versus modern master-planned. Large lots versus community amenities. Character versus newness. Your priorities determine the right choice.
Want to tour both and compare? Let's set up showings in each community. Ready to see your options? Get your current home's value to understand your buying power.
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