Chris Dufek outlines the proposed plans for the Challenge park located at 12 Shores at Ute Lake

A 50-year-old Calgary-based land development company has moved forward with developing 12 Shores at Ute Lake, a resort-style community in Quay County.

“What people need to know is 12 Shores is not a part of Ute Lake Ranch,” said Tom Morton, senior vice president of U.S. operations for Carma Developers.

Morton said Carma Developers has been developing land since 1958 and purchased 1,000 acres from Ute Lake Ranch in 2007.

“Three months ago we parted ways with Ute Lake Ranch,” Morton said. ”We were developing a 900-acre community as a joint venture with Ute Lake Ranch.”

Morton said since that time Carma has been aggressively pursuing the development of the resort community. He said the resort will feature a mix of 800 homes including fractional residences situated along Ute Lake's shoreline.

While a majority of the homes at 12 Shores will be secondary or primary residences, Carma management has also developed an affordable option of home ownership.

“Fractional ownership is an affordable option recently offered at 12 Shores,” said Chris Dufek, vice president of sales. “It will allow a person to have all the benefits of owning a second home at a fraction of the cost.”

Dufek said a series of duplexes will be built where people can purchase a 10 percent ownership. He said the shared deeded ownership includes a club membership and gives the resident access to the property for a specific number of weeks each year.

“Even with the economy rebounding, many people can still can not afford to buy a second home,” Dufek said. “This option is an amazing opportunity for those looking to purchase a second home without all the hassle.”

Dufek said the home comes completely furnished so residents just need to bring themselves and clothes. He said their property is maintained by resort staff while the owners are not there.

“The fractional owner enjoys all the services and perks a full-time owner does,” Dufek said. “Their guests pay no green fees for the golf course, or fees for accessing the other amenities.”

Dufek said only a small number of the fractional residents will be built. He said if the demand raises additional units will be considered.

Morton said the lake is the main amenity at 12 Shores. However, it also features a nine-hole Jack Nicklaus design championship golf course. Additional amenities include hiking and biking trails, sand volleyball courts, shuffleboard, a dog park, and equestrian facilities.

“Carma has invested millions into the infrastructure of 12 Shores,” Dufek said.

“In spite of today's market, there are plenty of buyers looking for unique locations that offer an opportunity to escape the frenetic pace of life these days and find an environment in which they can relax and enjoy time with family and friends," said Morton. "At 12 Shores, we will provide that special place for families to gather in a tranquil setting that provides great golf, water adventures and a variety of outdoor experiences including horseback riding, hiking and riding trails.”