LAKEWOOD RANCH REAL ESTATE INSIDER

May 2025 Newsletter

Lakewood Ranch Community

MARKET SNAPSHOT: LAKEWOOD RANCH CONTINUES TO THRIVE

Lakewood Ranch continues to be one of Florida's most desirable master-planned communities, with strong demand for homes across various price points. The community's thoughtful design, amenities, and Florida's favorable tax environment continue to attract buyers from across the country.

Current Market Indicators:

  • Median Home Price: $625,000 (up 4.2% year-over-year)
  • Average Days on Market: 24
  • Available Inventory: 3.2 months supply
  • New Construction: Approximately 900 homes under development

NEIGHBORHOOD SPOTLIGHT: WATERSIDE

The Waterside district represents Lakewood Ranch's exciting expansion into Sarasota County. This lakefront village offers a distinctive urban-suburban lifestyle with walkable neighborhoods surrounding multiple lakes.

Key Features:

  • 5,000 planned homes in 12 neighborhoods
  • Waterside Place town center with dining, retail, and entertainment
  • 20 miles of shoreline
  • Extensive nature trails and recreational areas
  • Regular community events and farmers markets

Waterside homes currently range from the high $400,000s to over $2 million, offering diverse options for various budgets and lifestyles.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS TO WATCH

Star Farms

This new 55+ community features resort-style amenities including a wellness center, pickleball courts, and a social director to coordinate activities. Homes start in the $500,000s.

Sweetwater

Offering larger homesites and estate-style residences, Sweetwater continues to attract luxury buyers seeking space and privacy. Custom homes begin in the $900,000s.

Azario

This community combines golf course living with modern amenities. The newest phase offers Mediterranean-inspired architecture with homes from the mid-$600,000s.

INVESTMENT CORNER: RENTAL MARKET UPDATE

Lakewood Ranch continues to show strong rental demand, particularly for single-family homes and townhomes. Current data shows:

  • Average Single-Family Rental: $3,200/month
  • Average Townhome Rental: $2,400/month
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: Under 3%
  • Average ROI for Investment Properties: 6.2%

With limited inventory and continued population growth, rental properties remain an attractive investment option in this market.

EXPERT INSIGHT: TAX BENEFITS OF FLORIDA HOMEOWNERSHIP

Florida's favorable tax environment continues to be a major draw for relocators. Homeowners benefit from:

  • No state income tax
  • Homestead exemption (up to $50,000)
  • Save Our Homes assessment cap (max 3% annual increase)
  • Portability provisions for moving within Florida

For those considering relocation, these tax benefits can result in significant long-term savings compared to higher-tax states.

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

  • May 25th: Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market at Waterside Place
  • June 1st: Summer Concert Series Kickoff at Main Street
  • June 8th: Lakewood Ranch Home & Garden Tour
  • June 15th: Community Golf Tournament at Lakewood Ranch Golf Club

Information in this newsletter is based on market data as of May 2025. Real estate conditions are subject to change.