What $750,000 Buys: Lakewood Ranch vs. Wellen Park Home Comparison
Bigger is not always better. The results from the last 6 months of sales may surprise you.
Lakewood Ranch Wellen Park
Total Land Area 35,000 acres 11,000 acres
Total # Homes at Build Out 40,000 22,000
Single family homes $750,000 sold
last 6 months ($725-$775K sales price) 77 29
Sold Median Sq Ft $302 $346
What? Lakewood Ranch is less expensive than Wellen Park? Yes, and here's why.
Lakewood Ranch is at least 35 years old. It's massive size, with many more resale properties than Wellen Park, contributes to lower sold prices. It's also important to remember that the newer construction homes in Wellen Park usually carry higher fees than a resale equivalent. Another way to look at it is simple economics: more inventory results in lower prices.
Since price isn't a major differentiator between the two communities, what about aspects of living in either of these communities that don't focus on price?
Schools? Both have excellent top-rated schools. Lakewood Ranch's High School sports program is highly successful in golf and track and field, while Venice High School has a longtime football tradition. A brand-new Wellen Park high school on 81 acres has just opened. Vibe? Lakewood Ranch (LWR) feels younger and active. But Wellen Park has the Atlanta Braves spring training stadium, with lots of family-friendly events. So another toss-up.
I try not to turn my real estate posts into restaurant reviews, which would favor LWR, by the way.
I'd choose LWR for it's proximity to Tampa and the Tampa airport, or if I was working in St. Petersburg. I'd choose Wellen Park if I wanted to live in a smaller overall community. Plus, it's closer to a beach.
Do you agree or disagree? Let me know what you think. Email or text : 941-993-6853
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