PORT HUENEME —When Joseph Uson, an active-duty Naval representative stationed in Port Hueneme, sought to relocate his family from Virginia, he assumed that he would find ideal accommodations within a few weeks after the start of his new, permanent assignment. Unfortunately, it wasn't that easy. Now, however roughly two years and dozens of Central Coast new-home model tours later, the Uson family has finally breathed a sigh of relief and purchased their home within John Laing Homes' new neighborhood, The Bungalows at Beach House.

"After pounding the pavement in frustration and shuffling from one new-home community to the next, my wife and I finally discovered the single-family homes of The Bungalows at Beach House," Uson said. "It was so refreshing to see reasonably priced homes with ample yard spaces and spacious living areas that were larger than the average comparisons."

For the Usons and many others, Beach House represents one of the last opportunities to purchase beautifully designed homes within walking distance of the Pacific Ocean.

The homes of this distinctive community cater to a wide variety of individuals and lifestyles: from growing families looking to soak up the 300 average days of sunshine along the Ventura coast, to second-time homebuyers searching for the perfect coastal vacation home.

Port Hueneme ("Hueneme," from the Chumash Indian word meaning "resting place") is nestled between Malibu and Santa Barbara on California's Gold Coast, just off famous Highway 1. Beach House, "the undiscovered coastal enclave in historic Port Hueneme," offers one of the last opportunities to purchase spacious single-family bungalows within walking distance of the beach in Ventura County.

Beach House offers single-family residences and attached town homes, both rendered in classic, coastal California architecture.

The first homes to be released are The Bungalows at Beach House, detached homes priced from the low $600,000s, with up to four bedrooms plus loft and three baths and up to approximately 2,578 square feet.

Also coming at Beach House is The Hideaway neighborhood — town homes with up to four bedrooms and two and one-half baths, and up to approximately 1,636 square feet.

The Hideaway's town homes, anticipated to open models early 2008, offer design details that help bring to life the natural, coastal feeling of Beach House. These include exposed rafters, tiled entries and beechwood-stained cabinetry.

During the planning phase, Beach House enjoyed wide-spread public support from the Port Hueneme community.

In appreciation of the community's support, John Laing Homes has created a special pricing program for people who live and work in Port Hueneme. This "First Light" program helps fulfill the community's need for homes where people work.

Ten detached Bungalows at Beach House will be sold to those who qualify at a special "community-pride" rate — 3 percent off the purchase price. In addition, Port Hueneme residents may receive $1,500 when they refer a friend or family member from outside the area who closes escrow at Beach House.

"I am honored to have taken part in John Laing Homes' First Light program because this concession has allowed me to comfortably afford my very own permanent vacation where I can get to work in less than 10 minutes and rest easily after a long day," Uson said.

Additionally at Beach House, John Laing Homes will create a half-acre public park and dedicate nine new town homes to the City of Port Hueneme for workforce housing.

To visit Beach House and tour The Bungalows' models, take Highway 101, exit at Vineyard Avenue and head south to Ventura Road. Take a left on Ventura Road towards the beach and turn east on Port Hueneme Road. The Beach House entrance is approximately one-half mile down on your right, just past Surfside Drive.

For more information on Beach House, the First Light program or to schedule a tour, visit www.johnlainghomes.com/beachhouse or call (805) 488-2686.

Visit www.johnlainghomes.com to join The Hideaway Interest Registry and receive future updates on the progress of these town homes.