Models are stars of show

Summerlin plans to host its America's Biggest Open House March 21 and 22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

The semi-annual event features more than 60 model homes in several neighborhoods throughout Summerlin.

A complete listing of participating neighborhoods and a suggested driving map is available online at AmericasBiggestOpenHouse.com, which is also accessible on Summerlin.com. Both Web sites are designed to assist buyers with information, including price range, location, style and details on the community's home builders.

According to Nikkole Liesse, director of marketing for The Howard Hughes Corp., developer of Summerlin, America's Biggest Open House provides prospective homebuyers with a convenient way to see and tour available homes in Summerlin that match their needs and budget, all while enjoying a festive atmosphere and special builder incentives.

"We want to make the home-buying process as productive and convenient as possible," Liesse said. "We encourage everyone to visit the Web site first to map out which neighborhoods and homes they want to visit."

Liesse suggested prospective homebuyers make a day of their visit to Summerlin.

Coupons from Mark Rich's New York Style Pizza & Pasta and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf are included on a special America's Biggest Open House driving map that can be downloaded from AmericasBiggestOpenHouse.com.

"Visitors can stop for a piece of pizza or a quick cup of coffee while on their self-guided Summerlin tour," she said.

Incentive packages, balloons, refreshments, prize drawings and visits with community mascot -- Summerlin Sam -- are among the perks offered at America's Biggest Open House, according to Liesse.

Incentive offers vary per neighborhood so prospective buyers are encouraged to contact the home builder directly for specific details, she said.

Prize drawings include a General Growth Properties $500 American Express Gift Card redeemable at Fashion Show, The Grand Canal Shoppes, The Shoppes at The Palazzo, Meadows Mall, The Boulevard Mall and anywhere else American Express is accepted. Also include is a chance to win the Dream Day in Summerlin package that includes a $200 gift certificate to use at Red Rock Casino Resort and Spa for room and/or spa services; a $150 gift certificate to Vintner Grill; a membership to Friends of Red Rock Canyon, including an annual pass and a guided hike in Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area sponsored by the Friends of Red Rock Canyon and the Bureau of Land Management.

Howard Hughes Corp., which is an affiliate of General Growth Properties Inc., began building Summerlin in 1990.

It is located along the western rim of the Las Vegas Valley and encompasses 22,500 acres. The master plan has about 9,000 acres left for future growth, including its urban core of Summerlin Centre.

The community is currently home to more than 95,000 residents.

For more information on Summerlin, visit summerlin.com or call 888-898-5015.