Frequenty Asked Questions
How many lots have been sold?
To date, nearly 180 lots have been sold. Currently, there are approximately 21 homes built, with more expected to be started soon. Approximately 18 people are full-time residents at Apple Springs, with approximately one-half of the homes being occupied full-time and the other half being vacation or rental properties.
What are the major covenants for the development?
Building styles and minimum square footage requirements vary by neighborhood within the development. House plans are subject to approval by an architectural committee. Once a homeowners association (HOA) is officially set up, the developer will transfer its authority to enforce the covenants to the HOA.
For a complete set of covenants, please click here...
How can I earn rental income on my homes if I am not a full-time resident?
Vacation rental property management services are available to residents through Apple Springs Property Management (ASPM). We can assist you in obtaining a vacation home license from the South Dakota Department of Health and will start to market your home for rentals. ASPM handles the contracts with guests, takes credit card deposits, sells accidental damage insurance, and cleans your home after the rental. Hot tub cleaning and testing services are also available. Due to the development's location, we have a high demand for rentals, particularly during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August of each year.
What services are available to homeowners?
Homeowners can choose to pay a monthly fee for lawn care and snow removal services. These fees currently run $140 - $220 per month depending on the size of the yard and driveway. Lawn care included mowing, weed control and fertilization of the yard. Snow removal is for front, paved surfaces.
What are the fees of owning a property at Apple Springs?
Homeowner's Association Dues run $30 per month - this fee helps pay for the maintenance and snow removal of common roads. Water is provided to homes from Apple Springs Waterworks and usage is billed monthly. The minimal monthly fee is $39/month, and varies by usage. Once residents start to water lawns, monthly usage typically doubles or more.
How much are real estate taxes?
Apple Springs is located in Lawrence County, but is in the Meade County School District. For owner-occupied homes, real estate taxes are calculated at $12.89 per $1,000 in combined home/land value. Taxes on bare land are taxed at $17.62 per $1,000 in value. If a home is not owner-occupied, its value is also calculated at $17.62 per $1,000 in value. Initially, this value is based on purchase price. Thereafter, market land studies are completed each year, typically starting around November 1.
What is the climate like in Boulder Canyon in the northern Black Hills?
Unlike some parts of the Hills, the Northern Hills enjoys all 4 seasons, including snow needed for winter recreation. However, due to our extremely low humidity, our temperatures are far less chilling. We enjoy beautiful sunny days in the winter months that are perfect for golfing, and some surprising April snowstorms too. Variation is the norm. Summer temps average in the high 70's, but it is not uncommon to have a few 100 degree days as well. Fortunately, there are virtually no pesky, biting insects in our area, which makes outdoor activity easy and enjoyable.
Is building required within a certain time frame?
No, there are no building time frame requirements. Many lot owners are of pre-retirement age, taking their time to plan the details of their dream retirement home.
What utility options are available to homeowners at Apple Springs?
Electric service is provided by Butte Electric; natural gas from MDU; telecommunications (TV/phone/internet) from Midcontient or Knology. Gargage service from Trash Busters. Water and sewer is provided on-site by Apple Springs Waterworks (380,000 gallon tank). Future plans include the construction of a waste water treatment plant on site (with recycled water planned to irrigate the golf course).