SANDPOINT — The geese were flying overhead, dirt was moving in the background and a million dollar view acted as the backdrop.

Seasons at Sandpoint came one step closer to reality Thursday morning as local dignitaries broke ground on an ambitious development on the banks of Lake Pend Oreille that will "enhance but not change Sandpoint."

"We are good neighbors and we want to be an important part of what goes on in Sandpoint," said developer Jae Heinberg.

The Seasons is located north of the Edgewater on nine acres of prime waterfront property. It will feature 10 buildings, including 12 townhouses that could each sell for $1 million. The lowest-price residence is listed at $350,000.

Two buildings are currently under construction — the clubhouse and one residence. Heinberg hopes to have one or both buildings completed by July 4.

There have been 27 sales for $18 million since last July. Heinberg called the sales activity "phenomenal" and reported all goals have been exceeded.

"And we are still selling," he said with a smile to the 50 or so people at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Tomlinson Black is the local real estate office representing the first luxury lakefront condominium project in downtown Sandpoint.

TB broker Jeff Bond said Seasons is "raising the level of quality in our downtown without sacrificing our Sandpoint charm and way of life."

"It's fun to be a part of a project that melds the ideals of great community planning with a great developer's vision," he said. "Seasons at Sandpoint has stepped up the level of expectation in our real estate market by providing the amenities you could expect in the best resorts in the world."