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North Judson, Ind. – Officials in Starke County celebrated the completion of a new apartment complex in North Judson with a Saturday ribbon cutting ceremony.
The Park Villa Apartments, located at the intersection of State and George Streets across from the town park, are the first new, multi-family housing units to be constructed in North Judson in nearly 30 years. The four duplex-style, market rate apartments each have two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an attached garage. Each unit has a full suite of appliances, including a washer and a dryer. Lawn care and snow removal are included in the monthly rent. Cats and small dogs are welcome.
The apartments are within easy walking distance of downtown, Norwayne Field, and North Judson-San Pierre Schools.
North Judson native Kirt Verhagen of Verhagen Investments, LLC, purchased the property in 2021.
“North Judson and many other small towns are an underserved market where modern, low maintenance, market-rate apartments are concerned,” Verhagen said. “Our aim is to provide these types of apartments in attractive settings close to amenities. Also, I am from North Judson, and would like to see the town attract new residents and thrive. Ensuring new housing is available helps that happen.”
Starke County Economic Development Foundation Executive Director Lisa Dan appreciates Verhagen’s efforts.
“Starke County is no different than most rural communities when it comes to a lack of housing inventory,” Dan said. “There are only 44 homes for sale countywide right now. SCEDF works closely with county, city, and town elected officials, contractors, and other shareholders to bring housing opportunities ranging from executive to market-rate to affordable to our communities. We are thrilled to see this growth in North Judson.”
So is North Judson Town Council President John Rowe.
“I am very happy that Kirt Verhagen is developing housing here,” he said. “The fact that one of our native sons has chosen to invest here is a testament to what a wonderful and unique town North Judson is.”
Verhagen plans to build additional rental units at the Park Place site. He also owns another parcel of land in downtown North Judson where he may build, depending on the response to the Park Place Villas project.
“We are already fully rented at Park Place, even before construction concluded, so things look positive for future building,” Verhagen said.
The rentals are managed by Osborne Advantage Real Estate in North Judson. They can be reached at 574-896-2567 to check on availability.
