By Appointment Only

Sales traffic data suggest that high-end home buyers are taking a wait-and-see approach during these days of economic uncertainty. But some new luxury communities are bucking that trend.

At Taylor Woodrow’s Villas at Shady Canyon in Orange County, Calif., the 3,900- to 4,500-square-foot homes start at $1.5 million but are expected to sell so fast that the developer, The Irvine Co., stipulated that the builder offer tours of the models by appointment only.

About 600 people toured the models during the community’s opening weekend, Sept. 29-30, says Taylor Woodrow marketing manager Jessica Fabricant.

The near-coastal location on one of The Irvine Co.’s last large undeveloped parcels provides strong buyer appeal. There’s also perceived urgency deriving from Taylor Woodrow’s small supply of lots - 24. Through late November, 15 had sold.

Such exclusivity often provides marketing advantages. Taylor Woodrow’s vice president of sales and marketing, Barbara Stowers, says appointments "enable discriminating home buyers the opportunity to gain a true appreciation" of the models.