Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1543067
W W W. M A I N E B I Z . B I Z 19 F E B R UA R Y 9 , 2 0 2 6 F O C U S C O M M E R C I A L D E V E L O P M E N T "Modular homebuilding has many benefits, such as allowing us to build consistently year-round regardless of the weather outside," says Mattie Bamman, Zero Energy's communications coordinator. Zero Energy Homes, founded and led by Caroline Pryor and located in the Hancock County town of Mount Desert, completed its first home in Searsport in 2025. It aims to show that modular construction combined with "net zero energy" features — such as wood-fiber insulation and triple-glazed windows — can be priced for the afford- able housing market. Open houses for the Searsport house attracted at least 200 people. "We've gotten amazing feedback," says Bamman. Class A Pennsylvania-based A.R. Building Co. is developing Mount Auburn Apartments, a 101-unit, market-rate complex in two four-story buildings at 138 and 142 Mount Auburn Ave. in Auburn. One building opened last summer and is over halfway leased. e second should open this coming summer. C O N T I N U E D O N F O L L OW I N G PA G E » 207.774.2635 | PERKINSTHOMPSON.COM | 200 MIDDLE STREET, SUITE 901, PORTLAND, ME 04101 Your Success is Our Legacy. Trusted Counsel for Complex Development Perkins Thompson works with real estate professionals across Maine to navigate legal complexity and support responsible ownership and development. We partner closely with our clients to bring clarity and sound judgment throughout a project. Our team combines deep experience in Maine real estate law with a collaborative approach, offering steady guidance on complex developments and supporting thoughtful planning and risk management. P H O T O S / C O U R T E S Y Z E RO E N E R G Y H O M E S Knickerbocker Group built units for a Trenton house, developed by Zero Energy Homes, at its Wiscasset manufacturing facility. The units for Zero Energy's first modular build in Trenton, prefabricated by Knickerbocker Group, are set on a foundation. The units came prefabricated with cabinetry, appliances, drywall and flooring. The second unit is lowered into place.