By Elizabeth RobertsCrowds of people braved the rain yesterday to look around the Bermuda Housing Corporation’s new Grand Atlantic apartments.More than 150 families viewed the development on South Road, Warwick, and 16 out of the first 24 units have already been sold.The first phase of the development, which is billed as “affordable housing”, is due to open at the end of next month. Prices start at $495,000 for a two-bedroom unit and $600,000 for a three-bedroom.The apartments are housed in three-storey buildings with traditional Bermuda roofs and views of the South Shore. Residents will have access to the Southlands beach and national park.Barrett Dill, general manager of the Bermuda Housing Corporation, was on hand to answer questions as people toured the apartments.“There has been a roaring crowd it’s been standing room only,” reported Major Dill. “The feedback has all been positive and people have been keen to ask some interesting questions. They have been extremely impressed with the landscaping and location. We’ve had all types of families; young professional couples, seniors looking to downsize all sectors of society.”The two show apartments were fitted out with furniture from the Big Savings Zone to give an idea what they will look like when occupied. Along with the usual beds, chairs and lampshades there was an added feature to make people feel at home a small stuffed toy cat sleeping on the couch.Lending agents from banks were on hand to discuss financing with those interested in purchasing the units, and the majority of people who toured the property declared themselves impressed.Keema and Darren Perry, from Devonshire, viewed the apartments because Mr Perry’s mother is interested in buying one.“It’s lovely,” said 44-year-old Mr Perry. “I like the size of the bedrooms.”Mrs Perry, 37, said she felt the price was affordable, and was impressed by how spacious the apartments are.“There’s even a space for a dining table,” she noted.A 32-year-old mother-of-two, from Smith’s, explained she is looking for a new three-bedroom home for herself and her children.“I love it; it’s very nice,” she said. “The rooms are a good size and it’s a good price. I am thinking about buying one. I’m very interested.”A 56-year-old lady from Devonshire, who said she was looking “out of curiosity”, declared the apartments to be “amazing”.“The water views look pretty and it is convenient in terms of a grocery store, gas station and bus stop nearby,” she noted.However, not everyone was impressed. A 62-year-old woman from Warwick, who was also looking out of curiosity, said: “It’s nicely laid out except for the living room area and master bedroom as there’s a wall blocking the light and the windows are so tiny you can’t really enjoy the view. The entrances are also too close together. For the price, I think they could have done a little better and offered a little bit more.”The second and third phases of the development comprise of an additional 54 units, kitted out with green features including solar panels. They will be completed over the course of 2012.Useful website: www.bhc.bm.