Waterside vs. Lakewood Ranch: Why Waterside is the Best Community in Sarasota
Are you considering a move to Sarasota and looking for the perfect community to call home? While Lakewood Ranch often tops the list for many homebuyers, there's an emerging community that might just be the better choice for you: Waterside. Named the Community Lifestyle of the Year, Waterside offers a unique blend of convenience, amenities, and lifestyle that sets it apart. In this article, we'll explore why Waterside should be your top choice, highlighting its prime location, diverse neighborhoods, and the exceptional quality of life it offers.
Location and Accessibility
Proximity to Beaches and Downtown Sarasota
One of the major drawbacks of Lakewood Ranch is its distance from Sarasota's famous beaches and downtown area. Located north of State Road 70, it can take 40 to 50 minutes to reach the nearest beach.
In contrast, Waterside is only about 30 minutes from Siesta Key, Lido Key Beach, and St. Armands Circle, and just 20 minutes from downtown Sarasota. This prime location makes Waterside a more attractive option for those looking to enjoy the sunny Florida lifestyle with easy access to the best parts of Sarasota.
Connectivity within the Community
Unlike the sprawling infrastructure of Lakewood Ranch, which can make it time-consuming to get from one end to the other, Waterside offers a more compact and interconnected community layout. This means less time spent driving and more time enjoying the amenities and activities available within the community.
Waterside's Award-Winning Lifestyle
Waterside Place – The Heart of the Community
Waterside Place, the community's central town center, is a hub of activity and socialization. Residents enjoy a weekly Farmers Market, live music at the plaza, and numerous dining options, including local favorites like Good Liquid Brewing Company. The town center also hosts events such as Ranch Night Market on Wednesdays, offering a vibrant and engaging community atmosphere.
Abundance of Outdoor Activities
Waterside boasts a variety of outdoor activities that cater to all ages and interests. From yoga classes and volleyball courts to a kid-friendly splash pad, there's something for everyone. Many neighborhoods also feature their own clubhouses, community pools, and exclusive amenities, making it easy to stay active and social.
Unique Neighborhoods and Home Options
Diverse Housing Options
Waterside is home to over ten distinct neighborhoods, each offering a range of housing options to suit different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for affordable townhomes starting in the high $400,000 range or luxurious custom homes that can exceed $6 million, Waterside has something for everyone. The median sales price in Waterside is currently $883,000, reflecting the high quality and desirability of the homes.
Top Neighborhoods to Consider
For those seeking a wealth of amenities and a vibrant community atmosphere, neighborhoods like Shoreview, LakeHouse Cove, and Wild Blue are top choices. These areas offer everything from fitness centers and tennis courts to water taxis that provide easy access to Waterside Place. Wild Blue, in particular, is one of the fastest-selling communities, known for its luxury homes and prime location.
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Community Services
HOA Fees and Services
HOA fees in Waterside vary depending on the neighborhood, ranging from $100 to $500 per month. Wild Blue is an exception, with fees ranging from $800 to $1,000 per month due to its extensive amenities and services. These fees cover maintenance of community facilities, landscaping, and other services that enhance the quality of life for residents.
Comprehensive Neighborhood Guide
To help prospective buyers navigate the various options, a comprehensive Waterside neighborhood comparison sheet is available. This guide breaks down all the neighborhoods, their amenities, HOA prices, and home options in a simple table, making it easy to understand the differences and choose the best fit for your needs.
Why Waterside Stands Out
Direct Access to Amenities
One of the standout features of Waterside is the direct access to amenities within each neighborhood. Unlike many communities in Lakewood Ranch, where residents may need to drive to access facilities, most Waterside neighborhoods have clubhouses, pools, and other amenities right within walking distance. This convenience enhances the overall lifestyle and community feel.
Water Taxi – A Unique Transportation Option
Waterside's innovative water taxi service is reminiscent of the ferry at Disney World's Magic Kingdom. This unique mode of transportation connects various neighborhoods to Waterside Place, making it easy and fun to get around the community. It's just one example of the thoughtful design and planning that went into creating Waterside.
Choosing Your Ideal Neighborhood
LakeHouse Cove and Wild Blue – Top Picks
Two neighborhoods that stand out for their amenities and overall appeal are LakeHouse Cove and Wild Blue. LakeHouse Cove features a water taxi service, multiple pools, fitness centers, and tennis courts, offering a resort-like living experience. Wild Blue, with its luxury homes and beachy coastal vibe, is perfect for those seeking a high-end lifestyle with all the modern conveniences.
Personalized Real Estate Services
For those considering a move to Waterside, personalized assistance is available to help navigate the various options and find the perfect home. With extensive experience in the Sarasota real estate market, local experts can provide valuable insights and support throughout the buying process.
Conclusion
Waterside offers a unique and compelling alternative to Lakewood Ranch, combining prime location, award-winning amenities, and a variety of housing options.
If you’re moving to Sarasota, Florida, and are looking for a home, reach out to me at:
Email - info@mattleicht.com
Cel - 941.256.3321
FAQs
Q1: How far is Waterside from Sarasota's beaches and downtown?
A: Waterside is approximately 30 minutes from Siesta Key, Lido Key Beach, and St. Armands Circle, and about 20 minutes from downtown Sarasota.
Q2: What types of homes are available in Waterside?
A: Waterside offers a range of housing options, including affordable townhomes starting in the high $400,000 range, single-family homes starting around $500,000, and luxury custom homes that can exceed $6 million.
Q3: What amenities are available in Waterside?
A: Waterside features a variety of amenities, including community pools, clubhouses, fitness centers, tennis courts, and a unique water taxi service that connects neighborhoods to Waterside Place.
Q4: What are the HOA fees in Waterside?
A: HOA fees in Waterside range from $100 to $500 per month, with Wild Blue being an exception at $800 to $1,000 per month due to its extensive amenities.
Q5: How can I learn more about the different neighborhoods in Waterside?
A: A comprehensive Waterside neighborhood comparison sheet is available, breaking down all the neighborhoods, their amenities, HOA prices, and home options in a simple table. This guide can be downloaded for free from the provided link.
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