Mark Refosco, franchise owner of Marcus Allen Homes, and Bill Goreschak, building company president, received the award at a ceremony in Clearwater, Fla.

Arthur Rutenberg Homes, the premier luxury builder in St. Augustine's newest master-planned community, has been named "Builder of the Year" by Arthur Rutenberg Homes Franchisor. Mark Refosco, franchise owner of Marcus Allen Homes, and Bill Goreschak, building company president, received the award at a ceremony in Clearwater, Fla. They were up against 28 other building companies in the southern United States.

"We are honored to receive this recognition," said Mark Refosco, franchise owner, Arthur Rutenberg Homes. "Our mission is to provide the best customer service with the highest quality homes to our clients in Northeast Florida. We are grateful for the positive feedback that our customers provide, helping us offer even better homes for buyers."

To win Builder of the Year, franchises are rated on a number of criteria, including quality of organization, financial management, construction quality, customer satisfaction and special efforts.

"We have greatly enjoyed working with Marcus Allen Homes in Madeira," said Sally Hall, project developer, Stokes Land Group. "Residents rave about their fantastic customer service and dedication to excellence, as well as the luxurious, quality designs that they create."

Arthur Rutenberg Homes boasts floorplans in Madeira with a starting price point in the $200s. As in all Arthur Rutenberg homes, the designs at Madeira feature the highly popular Arthur Rutenberg trademark disappearing walls, bringing the beautiful Florida weather indoors and enjoying the natural beauty of the area without stepping outside.

The Tradewinds and the Seabrook model homes, both open daily in Madeira, also demonstrate the high level of finishes offered in an Arthur Rutenberg Home. All homes are Energy Star Certified and feature low e-glass windows and doors, tankless hot water heaters, GE Energy Star appliances including the refrigerator and washer and dryer. Its accents like these that set Arthur Rutenberg Homes apart from the competition. With intricate designs and a strong attention to detail, Arthur Rutenberg Homes specializes in providing homebuyers with luxurious, livable designs at an affordable price.

Madeira, located in historic St. Augustine and near metropolitan Jacksonville, encompasses 1,006 acres, including 600 acres of unspoiled marsh wetlands, a tidal creek, numerous lakes and preserved natural areas laced with ancient live oaks and blossoming magnolias. Stokes Land Group, one of the oldest and most respected developers in the Southeast, is taking great strides to preserve much of the natural beauty of the property.

Residents of Madeira will enjoy the privacy of a gated community with an abundance of state-of-the-art amenities. The centerpiece of Madeira will be the 8,700-square-foot amenity center providing a central gathering place for residents. Featuring an expansive fitness center, two large social rooms, library/computer room, card room and media area, the amenity center will provide entertainment and relaxation for everyone. A spacious catering kitchen and bar will offer the perfect location for social gatherings and parties. The lap pool and zero entry pool with interactive water features will both be just steps away from the covered veranda, providing a cool escape on even the hottest days. Nearby, the putting green and two lighted tennis courts will offer relaxing fun for residents of all ages.

When residents wish to escape the peaceful living environment in Madeira, historical St. Augustine is only minutes away with entertainment, dining and shopping that attracts visitors from around the world. The most beautiful beaches and perfectly manicured golf courses of Florida are just minutes away. Additionally, easy access via US-1 and/or I-95 provides a short commute to the nightlife and entertainment in Jacksonville.

For more information about Madeira, please visit http://www.Madeira-StAug.com or call 904-819-9500.

About Madeira: Located in St. Augustine just north of the city gates, Madeira offers both convenience and peaceful, secluded living in some of the most beautiful and historic nature in Northeast Florida. To visit Madeira from Jacksonville, travel south on US-1 (Philips Hwy.). Madeira is located approximately one half mile south of Lewis Speedway on the east side of US-1. To visit Madeira from the south, travel north on US-1 (Philips Hwy.). Madeira is on the east side of US-1 just past the St. Augustine city gates.