Mountaingate at Bickford Ranch Homes Designed by Bobby Berk in Lincoln

In October 2024 I was invited to drive up to Lincoln for a tour of the new Mountaingate model homes and meet the Queer Eye famous Bobby Berk, who was the design partner with this project. During our visit we were given full range to walk around the property, ask questions and take photos. In this blog post I have included over 80 of my own photos from the homes, along with answers to all your frequently asked questions about purchasing a new home in this community.

We made ourselves right at home with fresh eats, provided by local Placer County catering company Divine Grazing by Andee Falco. All the photos of food below are from her company!

An Introduction to the Mountaingate Homes at Bickford Ranch

Tri Pointe Homes, Inc. is one of the largest home builders in the U.S. and has announced the opening of Mountaingate, an approximately 65-home new luxury gated neighborhood located in the Bickford Ranch planned community in Lincoln,California.

Two model homes, showcasing the elite talent of acclaimed design expert, author, and Queer Eye Emmy-winning TV personality Bobby Berk, are now open for tours. Home shoppers can now experience Bobby Berk’s integrated whole-home designs live and in person. Moreover, Tri Pointe’s customers will have access to 10 unique design collections curated by Bobby Berk exclusively for Tri Pointe Homes.

At full build-out, it is expected that Bickford Ranch will offer a variety of planned amenities, including over 42.8 acres of parks, highlighted by a 27.6-acre community park. The development was designed to preserve over 783 acres of open space and feature more than 11 miles of multipurpose trails, ideal for walking, hiking, and outdoor activities, as well as 14 miles of bikeways. Planned future additions include a fire station, a new school, and an equestrian staging area, all designed to enhance the community’s lifestyle and convenience.

More Details About the Mountaingate Homes

Located at 984 Oakscape Lane, Lincoln, California 95648, the first ever Bobby Berk-designed model homes in the Greater Sacramento area feature between four to five bedrooms, three to four and a half bathrooms and two-to three-bay garages. The approximate 2,887- to 3,849- square- foot residences include privately situated bedrooms, roomy entrances and soaring ceilings as well as flexible rooms for dens or additional bedrooms.

In conceptualizing the interior designs for the model homes at Mountaingate, Bobby’s approach was to infuse each space with a distinct character and essence drawn from The BB Edit,10 unique collections designed exclusively for Tri Pointe Homes. Each collection represents a different facet of his design philosophy, from the tranquil minimalism of Zen Sanctuary to the vibrant eclecticism of Luxe Bohemian.

Not sure which design style is right for you? Take the quiz!

Mountaingate House Floor Plans

Selecting the right floor plan for your home is essential to ensure it fits your lifestyle, meets your space needs, and enhances both comfort and functionality.

Floor Plan 1

Plan1, though not modeled at the neighborhood, is a beautiful two-story design featuring ground floor bedroom and bath, large prep island at kitchen, drop zone with large walk-in pantry, pocket office to work from home, luxurious primary suite with freestanding tub and sprawling walk-in closet, optional covered balcony at primary suite and a multitude of outdoor living options. It offers 2,887 square feet with four beds, three baths and a two-bay garage.

Floor Plan 2

Plan 2, inspired by Berk’s Transitional Farmhouse Collection, boasts four to five bedrooms, three and a half baths, a two-to three-bay garage and an abundance of upscale features with an upstairs loft and flex room, ranging in size from3,163 to 3,317square feet. This gorgeous plan offers a ground floor bedroom with ensuite, large prep island at kitchen, luxurious primary suite with freestanding tub and sprawling walk-in closet and a downstairs office for remote work.

Floor Plan 3

Plan 3 showcasing Berk’s Organic Modern Collection is a two-story home offering five bedrooms, three and a half to four and a half baths and a two-to three-bay garage with approximately 3,743 to 3,849 square feet of living space, and a range of included premium lifestyle features and amenities. This floor plan also includes an oversized walk-in pantry and drop zone, and an upstairs loft and study cove.

Ample Coveted Outdoor Space

The new homes in Mountaingate offer residents ample and coveted outdoor space, making them ideal for those who enjoy outdoor living and recreation. These homes are thoughtfully designed with spacious yards, perfect for entertaining or simply relaxing in the fresh Northern California air.

Most properties also feature large patios, outdoor seating areas, and landscaped gardens, blending modern living with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The abundant outdoor space allows homeowners to create their own private oasis, whether they want a serene retreat or a lively gathering spot for friends and family.

House Prices for the Mountaingate at Bickford Ranch Homes

For the Floor Plan 1, the house prices start at $972,130.
For the Floor Plan 2, the house prices start at $985,645.
For the Floor Plan 3, the house prices start at $1,022,636.

The Little Town of Lincoln in Northern California

If you’re considering moving this area, you’ll definitely wan to know more about the location. The town of Lincoln is a charming and historic community located in Placer County.

Known for its rich heritage and small-town charm, Lincoln originally thrived as a key stop during the Gold Rush era. Today, it blends its historic roots with modern amenities, offering visitors and residents alike a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills and lush farmland, and it boasts a strong sense of community, highlighted by local events, farmer’s markets, and family-owned businesses.

Lincoln also features numerous parks and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its growth, Lincoln has maintained its cozy, small-town feel, making it a great place to visit or call home.

Nearly Shopping and Amenities

Lincoln offers convenient access to a variety of shopping and amenities, providing residents with all the essentials and more about 10 minutes from their doorstep. The town itself has a charming downtown area with local boutiques, restaurants, and services, creating a friendly, community-focused shopping experience.

Additionally, larger retail centers such as the Lincoln Hills Town Center and nearby shopping hubs along Highway 65 offer well-known brands, grocery stores, and dining options to meet everyday needs.

For those seeking a broader selection, the neighboring cities of Roseville and Rocklin, just a short drive away, feature major shopping malls like the Westfield Galleria and the Fountains at Roseville, along with an array of entertainment venues, theaters, and specialty stores. Lincoln’s strategic location ensures that residents enjoy both the charm of local businesses and the convenience of being close to major shopping and amenities.

The Towns of Newcastle, Penryn, Loomis and Rocklin Are Also Very Close to Lincoln

The towns of Newcastle, Penryn, Loomis, and Rocklin are all situated very close to Lincoln, creating a network of charming, historically rich communities within a short drive. Each of these towns adds its own unique flavor to the region, offering additional dining, shopping, and recreational opportunities.

Newcastle and Penryn are known for their peaceful, rural charm and historic roots in the fruit-growing industry, while Loomis retains a small-town feel with local farms, quaint shops, and community events.

Rocklin, just to the south, is more developed, featuring a wide array of modern amenities, including shopping centers, parks, and entertainment venues. The close proximity of these towns allows Lincoln residents to easily explore the diversity and vibrancy of nearby communities, making the area ideal for those who enjoy a mix of both rural and suburban lifestyles.

Close Proximity to the Capital City of Sacramento

Lincoln’s close proximity to the capital city of Sacramento, just about 30 miles to the south, offers residents and visitors the perfect balance between small-town living and easy access to the amenities of a major metropolitan area. A quick drive along Highway 65 or Interstate 80 connects Lincoln to the heart of Sacramento, where one can explore the vibrant cultural scene, government hubs, shopping, dining, and historical landmarks. This convenient location allows for the best of both worlds—enjoying Lincoln’s peaceful, scenic environment while being just a short trip away from Sacramento’s urban opportunities.

Whether it’s commuting for work, attending events, or taking advantage of the city’s nightlife and attractions, Lincoln’s location makes it an appealing destination for those who want to experience California’s capital while maintaining the charm of a smaller, close-knit community.

Placer County School Districts Assigned to the Mountaingate at Bickford Ranch Homes

Given the address of the community, these homes will be assigned to both the Placer Union High School District and the Loomis Union Elementary School District. Specifically, the assigned schools are Penryn Elementary, H-Clarke Powers Elementary School and Del Oro High School. These schools rank from 7 out of 10 to 10 out of 10, which is above average.

If you are a parent, or considering becoming a parent, keeping the assigned school district to your new home in mind is very important. It also directly impacts the value of your home.

Charter schools are also a popular choice for first-rate education at all levels. Many parents in Sacramento and Placer County opt for the charter system for their kids. Selection of alumni is often done by lottery and prerequisite testing. Your zip code does not affect your eligibility to enter a charter school.

Timeline for Construction of Your New Home

According to the website, the first batch of houses will be move-in ready in December 2024. The timeline for construction completion varies based on the stage the home is purchased at. On average, the timeline for a new home at Mountaingate can range from 1 – 2 months for designer curated homes and approximately 6 – 7 months for ground-start to-be-built homes. Weather, material availability, and other factors may also impact the timeline. The estimated completion date is shared with customers at time of purchase and confirmed approximately 45 days before closing.

For every step and milestone in the home buying journey, they’ve created a series of targeted, educational documents that explain and guide the customer through the details of the process using the Tri Pointe Homes Homebuyer App. Think of the app as a high-level overview, keeping customers informed and connected, and the library as a deep dive, to help answer customer questions. You can access these detailed documents, brochures, and visual timelines through the app to read at your leisure. Here is a link to a blog about our app.

HOA Fees

The Mountaingate at Bickford Ranch Homes are part of a HOA. The estimated HOA fees will be between $139.70 – $215.14/Month. Of course these rates are subject to change.

Estimated California Property Tax

In 2024, the estimated California property tax would be 1.056958%. For the Floor Plan 3 at the price of $1,022,636, you are looking at paying $10,808 in annual taxes.

Community Assessments Monthly Fee

According to the website, there’s a monthly community assessment fee of $662. Community assessment fees are direct levies that are included in homeowners’ property taxes, typically for infrastructure bonds that fund essential community services and improvements. These assessments are paid to the county assessor along with property taxes. Before purchasing a home, a detailed residential tax disclosure is provided and reviewed, outlining the specific assessments and their purposes to ensure full transparency for homeowners.

Conversely, the Homeowners Association fees cover the maintenance and services for shared amenities within Bickford Ranch. These include the upkeep of common areas, walking trails, landscaping, gated entrances, private streets, future parks and the enforcement of CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions). The monthly fee is a collective contribution from all residents to maintain the ongoing quality, security, and aesthetic standards of the community.

Home Financing with Tri Pointe Connect

Tri Pointe Connect is the affiliated mortgage company for Tri Pointe Homes, who are the developers of the Mountaingate at Bickford Ranch Homes. They exclusively serve Tri Pointe Home customers with the goal of getting them approved for a home in their communities. They are experts in FNMA, FHA, VA, HUD and USDA loans, along with jumbo financing and foreign national loans – all specifically for new homes.

Process for Closing Escrow on New Construction

The process can vary based on several factors, including the type of home, its stage of construction, and whether it’s new or resale. An earnest money deposit is typically required upfront, with additional deposits possible depending on the specific circumstances. The final closing, where the remaining balance is settled, takes place once the home is completed and financing is secured. At Tri Pointe Homes®, our New Home Advisors are dedicated to guiding customers through every step of the journey, offering clarity and confidence throughout the entire process.

Additional Things to Consider Before Buying in this Area

As a local homeowner myself, there’s some additional points that I’d like buyers to be aware of when considering purchasing a home in this area.

Lincoln Has a High Wildfire Risk

Lincoln faces a high wildfire risk due to its proximity to heavily forested areas and the region’s dry, hot climate during the summer and fall months. As with many parts of California, the combination of natural vegetation, rolling hills, and occasional strong winds can create the perfect conditions for wildfires to spread quickly. Homeowners in this area may be required to purchase additional homeowners insurance specifically for wildfires, or possibly wildfires are excluded from insurance coverage.

Wifi and Cell Phone Signal Are Problematic

Because this area is all new development at high elevation and there’s not much infrastructure built around it, the cell phone signal (and possibly wifi) is very weak. This may change in the future, but for anyone working from home, this could be problematic. During our visit to the area, both my friend and I did not have any cell service.

GPS Google Maps Couldn’t Find the Property

Another downside to the fact that this area has all new development is that GPS services cannot find this address. Most people attending the opening event got lost because the GPS couldn’t find the correct roads. With time, this will be corrected as Google Maps learns the location. It can just be a pain point for the first batch of homebuyers in this area.