For nearly four decades, Sam Leone has built homes across Southeast Michigan. But these days, he’s building something different.
After years of large-scale production homebuilding — more than 400 homes in Macomb and Oakland counties — Leone has shifted his focus to a more personal approach through Stonecrest II Building (stonecrest2building.com). His newest project, the Avon Collection in Rochester Hills, reflects that evolution: five thoughtfully designed homesites, including two completed custom homes and three available lots where buyers can choose from Stonecrest plans or bring their own vision.
“I wanted to get back to building homes that have meaning,” Leone says. “Every home is different, every family is different, and that’s what makes this exciting.”
Leone’s career began in 1986, inspired by family friends in the construction business. Over the years, he built hundreds of homes, but he found himself wanting to spend more time on craftsmanship, relationships and the details that make a house feel like home.
That philosophy is evident throughout the Avon Collection, where Stonecrest’s slogan — ”Luxury Comes Standard” — is especially fitting. Quartzite countertops, custom cabinetry, detailed woodworking and spacious, open-concept interiors give the homes an elevated look. Prep kitchens provide additional room for cooking and entertaining, while generous bedrooms and closets address the practical needs of everyday living.
Situated on spacious three-quarter-acre lots just east of John R Road, the development offers something increasingly rare in today’s new-home market: space, flexibility and individuality. There is no homeowners’ association, allowing homeowners the freedom to install a pool, build a privacy fence, store a boat or simply enjoy their property without restrictive neighborhood rules.
The collection also reflects the ways homeowners’ expectations have changed over the years. Open floor plans remain in demand, Leone says, while buyers are also looking for larger closets, spacious bedrooms, upgraded cabinetry and room for entertaining.
Associate Broker Nicole Ulewicz, vice president of builder sales for Vanguard Realty Group, says what impressed her immediately was the level of care that went into the homes.
”What makes these so special is that they’re not production specs,” she says. ”They’re custom homes that just happen to be available for purchase.”
Professional designers selected every finish — from cabinetry and color palettes to exterior details — creating homes that feel carefully curated rather than assembled from a standard package.
Another advantage is timing. While many custom homes require 15 to 18 months to build, these two residences are move-in ready, replete with landscaping, sprinklers and premium appliances.
”It’s incredibly rare to find a home of this caliber that’s finished and turnkey,” Ulewicz says. ”Someone could move in almost immediately.”
For buyers interested in one of the remaining homesites, Stonecrest offers flexibility. Homeowners can select from proposed floor plans or work directly with Leone through an architectural design consultation to create something uniquely their own.
Ulewicz says the Avon Collection also reflects a new chapter for Leone personally. After years of high-volume construction, he now has the opportunity to build exactly the way he wants.
”Now he’s doing it his way,” she says. ”There’s much more intention behind every decision, and buyers get to know the person building their home. It’s a much more personal experience.”
For Leone, that’s exactly the point.
”I look at the house like I’m going to live in it,” says Leone. ”Quality and doing it the right way are what’s important.”
“Every home is different, every family is different, and that’s what makes this exciting.” — Sam Leone