INTRODUCTION

In the Sarasota-Manatee region of Southwest Florida, new construction neighborhoods are constantly evolving. Market shifts, infrastructure updates, and completed amenities have put several communities back in the spotlight this year. Some of these neighborhoods were once easy to overlook—maybe they were stuck in construction for years, or the amenities weren’t complete—but now they’re showing their full potential.

Here’s a look at five master-planned communities that stand out in 2025.

1. Skye Ranch Sarasota

Skye Ranch offers something unique in central Sarasota: a true master-planned feel without having to live far north in Lakewood Ranch or far south in Wellen Park. Located just 10–11 miles from Siesta Key, this Taylor Morrison community has developed into a vibrant hub with multiple sections, each offering a range of amenities.

One of the biggest updates this year is The Hub, a fully operational amenity center. It features a clubhouse, resort-style pool, junior Olympic pool, splash pad, fitness center, locker rooms, a movement studio, basketball courts, rock climbing, and even a quick-service café. Unlike many neighborhoods, Skye Ranch provides real food options onsite, making it feel more like a social club than just a housing community.

The neighborhood is also expanding offerings like tennis and pickleball clinics, athletic programs for toddlers, fitness classes, and personal training. Certain sections, like Esplanade at Skye Ranch, bring exclusive perks such as private pools, cabanas, bocce ball, and the upcoming Bahama Bar, a swim-up bar with food and drink service. Rumors are also swirling about a second large amenity center that may even include a lazy river.

Perhaps the most exciting addition is Skye Ranch School, opening in 2025. This K–8 school will feature STEM programs and partnerships with Mote Marine Aquarium, giving families an incredible educational option right within the community. Combined with diverse housing—from townhomes to luxury single-family homes—Skye Ranch is now one of Sarasota’s most compelling options.

2. Beachwalk by Manasota Key

When BeachWalk first launched, its location in northern Englewood raised eyebrows. At just 2.5 miles from Manasota Key, it offered a rare chance to live close to the beach in new construction—but at the time, the surrounding area felt too disconnected. Many buyers hesitated, especially since pricing wasn’t discounted to match Englewood’s slower reputation.

Fast forward to today, and things have changed dramatically. Wellen Park’s Playmore District has built out nearby, filling the gap between Venice and Englewood. Suddenly, BeachWalk doesn’t feel isolated—it feels strategically positioned. Residents now enjoy both proximity to downtown Wellen Park and golf-cart access to the beach, a combination almost unheard of for new construction in Florida.

The homes, built under Pulte’s DiVosta brand, deliver resort-style living with beautiful pools, full-service restaurants, and a true coastal aesthetic. For those who still want a balance between Sarasota’s access and Venice’s charm, the sister community Talon Preserve in Nokomis offers a middle ground, just 7–8 miles from key attractions.

3. Windward by Neal Communities

Located in Lakewood Ranch’s Waterside District, Windward benefits from being just 9–12 miles from downtown Sarasota. This makes it one of the closest master-planned options to both the city and the beaches while still offering suburban amenities and newer homes.

When Windward first opened, it was one of only three neighborhoods in Waterside. Neal Communities offered a wide variety of floor plans—from affordable villas to large family homes—alongside amenities like a clubhouse and pool. Pricing started in the $200Ks for villas, with larger homes in the $700Ks.

Over the years, Waterside has blossomed into a destination with a lakefront downtown, restaurants, and events. Windward is no longer just another new construction site—it’s now part of a thriving district that delivers both lifestyle and convenience. Families, retirees, and out-of-state buyers alike are rediscovering its appeal.

4. Seaflower (Western Bradenton)

SeaFlower represents a major shift for western Bradenton, transforming a once eclectic and inconsistent area into something cohesive and appealing for out-of-state buyers. Built on the site of a former flower farm, this community introduces a master-planned approach to an area that historically lacked uniformity.

What makes SeaFlower stand out is scale and vision. Instead of a single neighborhood, it’s a multi-builder development with options ranging from affordable homes to fully custom builds. Builders like Cardel Homes, David Weekley, ISA Homes, and M/I Homes are all contributing, allowing buyers to find the right fit across different price points.

SeaFlower also offers true coastal proximity, rivaling Beachwalk, with easy access to Anna Maria Island, Holmes Beach, and Cortez. Beyond residential options, over 200,000 square feet of commercial space is planned, including grocery stores, restaurants, and a central town square that will host farmers markets and community events. By insulating itself from the inconsistencies of surrounding streets and providing modern amenities, SeaFlower has unlocked one of the region’s most desirable coastal locations.

5. Solstice at Wellen Park

When Wellen Park first took off, it leaned toward affordable and mid-range communities rather than luxury. That’s why Solstice by Toll Brothers felt so significant—it offered higher-end designs without pushing into ultra-custom, million-plus territory.

Early on, buyers struggled to grasp its value, since downtown Wellen and the Playmore District weren’t yet complete. But in 2025, with a fully built-out downtown, CoolToday Park, and nearby amenities, Solstice has become one of the most appealing neighborhoods in Wellen Park. Buyers can now enjoy luxury Toll Brothers homes in a walkable, thriving district.

What makes 2025 especially interesting are the huge incentives and discounts currently offered. Quick move-in homes that once cost $850K are now selling closer to $680K, creating a rare opportunity for buyers to secure a Toll Brothers property at a steep discount. Plus, the release of Oakbend, a new Toll Brothers community adjacent to downtown Wellen, gives buyers even more options for luxury living in Venice.

With well-designed floor plans, strong brand reputation, and a prime location, Solstice now represents one of the best luxury values in Southwest Florida.

Final Thoughts

These communities prove that timing and development matter. What once felt like risky or unfinished neighborhoods are now some of the most exciting places to buy in Sarasota-Manatee. With completed amenities, stronger infrastructure, and better location context, buyers today can enjoy a much clearer picture of what life will look like after moving in.

Whether you’re seeking central convenience at Skye Ranch, beach proximity at Beachwalk, urban-suburban balance at Windward, coastal charm at SeaFlower, or luxury value at Solstice, there’s something for everyone in Southwest Florida’s evolving master-planned landscape.

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