Offering big-ticket prizes of St. Louis Cardinals season tickets, a Smart Car, jet ski, Disney vacation, and vacation getaways, McBride & Son Cos.' August "Summer of Fun Raffle" and "Take a Trip on Us" promotions have caught the attention of many area residents.

"The promotions have created tons of traffic in our 60-plus Metro-area communities," said John F. Eilermann Jr., chief executive officer of the company, which consists of McBride & Son Homes, Vantage Homes and Rockwood Homes. "Of course, everyone likes the fact that there is no purchase necessary to enter our Summer of Fun raffle, and homeshoppers sitting on the fence have decided to buy during this promotion for a free vacation getaway on us. This is the first time we've done something like this and it has been a huge success."

The promotion was born because so many people have been working harder for less these days, and the employee-owners of McBride & Son Cos. felt it was time for some fun. They also wanted to celebrate selling more than 1,100 homes in 2009 - a feat that very few homebuilders can claim nationwide. The numbers continue to grow, too, as homebuyers looking for exceptional value, company stability and quality craftsmanship put their trust in this local company.

"No matter what the economy is like, smart buyers recognize value, that's what we provide and that is a big part of our success," Eilermann said.

"McBride & Son Cos. is doing something right, and the fact that we've sold over 1,100 homes this year proves that, as well as shows that the market is starting to rebound," he added. "We're also hearing from local agents that our buyers are having an easier time selling their existing homes, so now is definitely time to buy — and take advantage of our value prices, the low interest rates, and the last week of our Summer of Fun Raffle and Take a Trip on Us promotions."

The collection of McBride & Son, Vantage and Rockwood homes includes everything from $100,000 condominiums to $500,000 single-family estate homes on both sides of the river. "There is something for everyone," Eilermann said.

For more information visit the companies online at www.mcbridehomes.com, www.vantagehomes.com, or rockwoodhomes.com.