MEMPHIS - After 25 years as one of the largest residential building and development companies in Memphis and Shelby County, Chamberlain & McCreery has announced plans to expand its business to DeSoto County. With 250 lots in four subdivisions located in Southaven, Miss., Chamberlain & McCreery is set to make a major economic impact on the area with this initial investment of $52 million.

“The main reason we decided to take on this expansion,” explains Phil Chamberlain, vice president of Chamberlain & McCreery, “was the continuing requests we received from potential homebuyers. The market was clearly demanding that we go there.” The company had received an increase in calls to its headquarters in Cordova, Tenn., as well as additional inquiries at its Web site about building in DeSoto County. Although the company has major plans for that area, Chamberlain notes that he and his partner, Jon McCreery, also remain committed to business in Memphis and Shelby County. In addition, the company continues to seek land for further development in all areas of the Mid-South.

This venture into DeSoto County begins with development in the Chateau Pointe, Cherry Tree Park, Dickens Place, and Rosebury subdivisions, making about an $11 million investment in lots and land. This number grows to $52 million over the next two to two and a half years. After researching the area, Tim Wilson, chief financial officer of Chamberlain & McCreery, says that these four neighborhoods were pinpointed as areas with the highest demand for quality housing, especially due to the proximity of DeSoto Central High School, recognized as one of the premiere schools in the Mid-South area. “We’ve found three primary reasons for housing demand; quality of life, growth in business and quality schools. DeSoto County exceeds all three,” says Wilson. Although Southaven is the concentration area right now, Hernando, Horn Lake and Olive Branch will soon factor into the company’s future developments.

Chamberlain & McCreery is the fourth largest residential builder in Memphis and Shelby County. Located at 8195 Dexter Road in Cordova, Tenn., the 25-year-old company builds approximately 150 to 175 homes each year, in addition to development of about two residential communities and $25 million in commercial real estate property each year. For further information call (901) 794-2156 or visit online at www.cmhomes.com.