In the ever-evolving landscape of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, one community stands out as a true gem – Windward by Neal Communities. This classic neighborhood, nestled within the prestigious multi-generational master-planned community, offers a perfect blend of location, homes, amenities, and affordability. Join us as we embark on an A-to-Z exploration of this remarkable development, uncovering the reasons why it continues to captivate homebuyers even in the face of newer, flashier communities.

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Location / Geography

Windward at Lakewood Ranch enjoys a prime location that is both convenient and desirable. Situated at the intersection of Lorraine Road and Fruitville Road, this community is the southernmost and easternmost of all the new construction developments in Lakewood Ranch. This strategic positioning grants residents easy access to a plethora of amenities and attractions.

Just 10 minutes away lies the bustling University Town Center, a hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment. With its expansive mall, diverse restaurants, and department stores, this area caters to every need and whim. Closer to home, downtown Lakewood Ranch Main Street is a mere 5-7 minute drive, offering a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, and community events.

For those seeking a taste of urban life, downtown Sarasota is just 25-30 minutes away via Fruitville Road. This charming city boasts a rich cultural scene, historic architecture, and the tranquil beauty of St. Armands Circle. Beach lovers will delight in the fact that Siesta Key Beach, one of the area's most renowned stretches of sand, is also within a 30-minute drive.

The Homes

Windward at Lakewood Ranch offers a diverse range of housing options to suit every lifestyle and budget. Across the 780 homes and 17 different floor plans, buyers can choose between villas and single-family residences.

The villa collection, aptly named the Coral series, presents three floor plans ranging from 1,430 to 1,530 square feet, with prices starting in the high $400,000s to the low $500,000s. These low-maintenance homes are perfect for those seeking a lock-and-leave lifestyle without sacrificing space or comfort.

For those in search of more spacious accommodations, the single-family home collection is divided into three distinct series: Cruise, Celebration, and Coastal.

The Cruise series offers four floor plans on 33-foot lots, ranging from 1,530 to 2,430 square feet, with prices starting in the high $500,000s to the mid $700,000s for two-story options.

The Celebration series, designed for 40-foot lots, boasts six floor plans spanning 2,000 to 3,000 square feet, with prices starting in the low $700,000s to the mid $800,000s, depending on upgrades and additions like pools.

Finally, the Coastal series represents the pinnacle of luxury at Windward. With four floor plans on larger lots, these homes offer a minimum of 2,500 square feet and can reach up to 3,000 square feet. Prices start in the low $900,000s and can exceed $1.4 million for the most lavish configurations, complete with pools, spas, and second-story options.

The Amenities

Windward at Lakewood Ranch boasts an impressive array of amenities that cater to residents of all ages and interests. At the heart of the community lies a resort-style pool with lap lanes and a spa, perfect for those seeking relaxation or a refreshing dip. Families with children can enjoy the dedicated kids' pool with a splash pad and playground, ensuring hours of fun and laughter.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the community's tennis and pickleball courts, while fitness buffs can maintain their workout routines at the 24-hour fitness center. For those seeking outdoor recreation, the event lawn and sports lawn provide ample space for activities and gatherings.

Pet owners will delight in the two dog parks, ensuring their furry companions have dedicated spaces to exercise and socialize. Additionally, the entire community is gated and secured with 24-hour entry, providing peace of mind and a sense of exclusivity.

One of the standout features of Windward at Lakewood Ranch is the lawn maintenance assistance offered for both villa and single-family homes, alleviating the burden of yard work and allowing residents more time to enjoy the community's amenities.

HOA Fees

Like many master-planned communities, Windward at Lakewood Ranch has fees associated with maintaining its prestigious standard of living. The Homeowners' Association (HOA) fees range from $235 per month for villas to $431 per month for the luxurious Coastal series homes.

In addition to the HOA fees, residents also pay a Community Development District (CDD) fee, which covers the cost of maintaining the community's infrastructure and amenities. The CDD fee starts at $1,800 annually for villas and can reach up to $3,450 for the larger Coastal series homes.

It's important to note that these fees are subject to change and may vary based on the specific home and its features. Prospective buyers should carefully review the fee structure and budget accordingly to ensure they can comfortably afford the associated costs.

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Windward at Lakewood Ranch is a true gem in the heart of one of Florida's most sought-after master-planned communities. With its prime location, diverse housing options, world-class amenities, and reasonable fees, it's no wonder this community continues to captivate homebuyers. Whether you're a family seeking a spacious single-family home or an active adult in search of a low-maintenance villa, Windward has something to offer everyone. As Lakewood Ranch continues to evolve and expand, this classic community remains a timeless choice for those seeking the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and affordability.