L
aurie Bachelder, owner of Freedom Wealth Advisors in Falmouth, began her career as a financial advisor focused on self‑directed retirement accounts that include real‑estate options. Two years ago she founded Maine Development & Excavation Group so clients could invest locally. Her first venture, Deacon Hayes Commons, a 12‑unit townhouse subdivision at 7 Parsonage Road, North Yarmouth, was built on speculation; the last unit is nearly finished. She also completed a $3 million spec single‑family home in Cape Elizabeth.

    Her newest project, Edgewood Estates, is a six‑lot subdivision on 14 acres of open space in Windham. Town approval came in late 2024 and construction began in early 2025. Bachelder invested roughly $1.1 million in land and infrastructure. Three lots are sold to buyers who will hire their own builders; two are being built on speculation, with one near completion and the other starting soon; the sixth lot is under contract for a custom home. Homes average 2,800 sq ft and range from $900,000 to $1.1 million. Dan Meyer of Meyer Development Solutions is the general contractor; Stephen Roberge of SJR Engineering handles engineering.

    Edgewood targets high‑end buyers, including those upgrading or relocating from out of state. Bachelder is also moving a second six‑lot subdivision, Monty Way, through permitting, with ground‑breaking expected shortly. A 10‑lot sketch plan for a new subdivision is slated for Gray’s planning board in about a month.

    Financing comes from Bachelder’s own capital, short‑term private loans, and investors seeking non‑traditional retirement assets. She looks for parcels in southern Maine, especially Windham, which she praises for its openness to development. Other towns of interest include Gray, North Yarmouth, Standish, and Gorham, where she prefers small, community‑focused subdivisions that provide ample open space and convenience for families.

    “Building a house is just the start,” she says. “I consider location, community appeal, and the possibility of creating a welcoming environment. Profit matters, but I’m willing to accept lower margins to foster neighborhoods where families can thrive.” As a woman and mother, she believes her perspective adds emotional insight to her projects.

    Bachelder partners with Andrea Page of Keller Williams Realty to scout parcels and market units. Their current focus is on denser developments that can support more affordable homes. “Million‑dollar houses don’t help people get into the market,” she notes. “We’re actively seeking tracts where we can build $400,000 homes.”