Welcome to our 2024 Sarasota, Florida A-to-Z Guide. Your ultimate resource for everything this vibrant city has to offer. From the luxurious, golf-centered neighborhoods to the energetic pulse of urban condos, we dive deep into Sarasota’s diverse communities. Discover with us the unique lifestyles, opportunities, and real estate gems that make Sarasota a magnetic destination for home buyers.

#1) Waterside at Lakewood Ranch, FL

Waterside in Lakewood Ranch is a community that exemplifies elegance and an active lifestyle. This area, known for its scenic lakes and vibrant atmosphere, offers a variety of upscale living options. With 9+ neighborhood options currently, residents can choose from affordable villas, unique townhomes, luxurious waterfront homes and a range of other sophisticated housing styles.

The heart of this district collides into Waterside Place. Adynamic town center, bustling with shops, restaurants, and weekly events. This community hub is designed for leisure and socialization, making it a perfect place for families and individuals who enjoy a lively social scene.

#2) North/Mid Lakewood Ranch, FL

North and Mid Lakewood Ranch embody a perfect blend of community living and convenient amenities, characterized by a family-friendly atmosphere. Neighborhoods like Greenbrook, Summerfield, Sapphire Point, Lorraine Lakes, Sweet Water, and Star Farms offer a range of housing options that cater to diverse needs.

The area's development has been carefully planned, balancing residential comfort with accessibility to Lakewood Ranch’s extensive amenities, including shopping centers, parks, and recreational facilities.

This harmonious combination of community spirit and modern conveniences makes North and Mid Lakewood Ranch a sought-after location for those seeking a fulfilling and well-rounded lifestyle in Sarasota.

#3) Wellen Park South Venice, FL

Situated just 40 minutes from downtown Sarasota in South Venice, Wellen Park offers a more intimate suburban experience. Its walkable neighborhoods, surprising affordability, it's own downtown, foster a strong sense of community.

The vibrant downtown Wellen is complete with shops, dining, and much more! A perfect place for cultivating social connections. The area's golf cart-friendly streets, scenic nature trails, and convenient kayak launch points further promote community interaction.

Renowned builders like Toll Brothers, Neal Communities, Sam Rodgers, Mattamy Homes, and Lennar offer a range of housing options, from townhomes to custom estates, all at prices more competitive than other communities in southwest Florida. Additionally, residents enjoy easy access to the three picturesque beaches of Venice.

#4) North Venice to Nokomis

The once overlooked towns of Nokomis and Osprey are now attracting buyers who seek new construction that's somewhat under the radar, nestled between Venice and Sarasota. North Venice and Nokomis are particularly appealing for their central proximity, just minutes from everything the Sarasota Metro has at its disposal.

Neighborhoods such as Vistera, Vinterra, Magnolia Bay, and Talon Preserve are being developed with a focus on family dynamic, central proximity, affordability, and housing diversity.

The blend of medical facilities, retail offerings, and infrastructure improvements maintains the area's charming character while supporting luxury development. This zone is increasingly recognized by savvy buyers for its hidden potential.

#5) Mid/Central Sarasota, FL

Communities in Central Sarasota, located along I75/parallel to Siesta Key offer an interesting balance of accessibility to the North, West, and South without feeling secluded. Diverse neighborhoods like Skye Ranch, Grand Park, Artistry or the array of mature neighborhoods...provide a range of housing options to suit various budgets.

Residents enjoy the convenience of reaching the pristine Siesta Key beaches in just 15-ish minutes, while also being close to the other districts like University Town Center, Fruitville Commons, Waterside, Downtown Sarasota, etc.

The overall area is primed for new developments, including a forthcoming K-8 school, shopping centers, healthcare facilities, and the planned master community High Hat Ranch, which promises to enrich future amenities. 

#6) Golf Enthusiast

In Sarasota, the golf community real estate market is currently dominated by resale homes, wait lists, and scarcity. On the new construction front, the current players are mainly just Esplanade Azario (Lakewood Ranch) and Wellen Park Golf & CC (Venice).

Beyond that, their are some really exciting happenings coming to the forefront:

- Lakewood Ranch Golf & CC: Currently up for sale. Possibly going to expand from 3 courses to 5 and add 900+ membership availability.

- Soleta Golf Club: 530-acre community will be home to a Nick Price-designed 18-hole golf course and a David Leadbetter training facility, plus 93 luxury home sites next to the Myakka River.

-Miakka Golf Club: Paul Azinger partnership with an 18-hole championship golf course, a 12-hole short course, a rustic and expansive clubhouse, luxury cabins and a limited membership are just a few of the elements that combine to create this one-of-a-kind club focused on the fun, passion, and camaraderie inherent in the game of golf.

With the future developments additions and the smattering of resale homes that sell each year, hopefully availability will loose quite a bit over the next 12-24 months!

#7) Urban/Condo Living

In the heart of Sarasota, the urban condo market is a highlight of the real estate landscape, appealing to those seeking a sophisticated, modern lifestyle. Downtown Sarasota's high-rise condos offer the pinnacle of luxury living, with panoramic views of the city and waterfront.

If condos are not quite your jam, the surrounding historic neighborhoods, such as the Burns Court, Laurel Park,  Towels Court and the Rosemary District could offer a single family bungalow that is rich in character and primely located.

These areas grant residents close access to everything Downtown Sarasota offers, bay adjacent and the beautiful beaches nearby. This diverse mix of urban elegance, historical charm, and beachside proximity makes these neighborhoods highly desirable for those looking for an engaging urban lifestyle.

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In Sarasota, the real estate market is as diverse as it is dynamic, offering a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Whether you seek the serenity of golf course living or the excitement of urban condo life, Sarasota is a city where every preference is catered to, making it the perfect destination for your next home.