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University Park Homes

University Park is a planned, gated golf community on the north side of University Parkway, the border between Sarasota and Manatee Counties west of I-75. The approximately 1,200 homes range from around 1,500 to over 6,000 square feet, with an average square footage of about 2,500 square feet. The homes are concrete-block constructions and are of high-quality construction.

The community offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes and maintenance-free villas. The homes in University Park are known for their high quality and upscale features, such as private pools, spacious yards, and gourmet kitchens.

Many mature golf communities compete with each other for recreational income from golfers, which can present issues as older courses are faced with large economic outlays to update and upgrade facilities to remain current. Without the ability to compete with newer golf courses, many golf communities have been forced to sell the facilities to developers who, in turn, develop fairways into town homes or villa communities. 

Available land is becoming scarce each year, so west of I-75 values continue to rise faster than new homes 'out east.' communities like University Park, and The Meadows have been able to get ahead of this trend by purchasing the golf course where the original homes were built so that homeowners own and control the golf course. The most significant benefit to homeowners is that club ownership protects their homes' values. Open spaces, views of nature, and the golf course are much more desirable than looking at villas and other new development. This is true, especially in communities with wide-open green spaces like University Park.

The University Park Country Club was founded in 1991 and has since become one of the premier country clubs in the Sarasota area. The club is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and commitment to providing exceptional service to its members. In addition to the golf course, the club offers a variety of amenities, including tennis courts, a fitness center, a pool, and dining facilities.

The University Park courses were acquired in 2019 for $16.75mm. The purchase included 27 holes, all lakes, roads, infrastructure, recreation facilities, a clubhouse, a restaurant, and buildings owned by the original developers, including John Neal.

Ron Garl designed the award-winning 27-hole championship golf course. The course features a unique layout with three distinctive nine-hole courses that can be played in different combinations to create various playing experiences. There is also a range of tee options, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels. It also offers a variety of amenities, including a driving range, putting green, and chipping area, as well as a pro shop and clubhouse.

The golf course is known for its scenic beauty and challenging play. It is set amidst natural preserves, towering pines, sparkling lakes, and lush fairways. Golfers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife as they play.

The community is divided into several distinct neighborhoods with character and style. Some of the areas feature homes that are situated around the golf course, while others offer views of natural preserves or lakes.

University Park in the Sarasota area has some key areas that would make it a nice place to live from a home buyer's perspective:

1. Location: University Park is located in Sarasota, Florida, which is known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant cultural scene. The area also has a low crime rate, making it a safe place to live.

2. Community: University Park is a planned community that offers a variety of amenities for residents, including dining facilities, golf courses, tennis courts, a pool, and a fitness center. The community also hosts regular and private events and activities, which can help residents feel connected to their neighbors.

3. Real Estate: Values are protected from an insolvent golf course becoming a target for development. The community features established canopy streets with quick access to shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and transportation.

4. Schools: The Sarasota area has several highly rated public and private schools, which can be a draw for families with children.

5. Lifestyle: Sarasota has a laid-back lifestyle that many people find appealing. The area is known for its arts and culture scene, with numerous theaters, museums, and galleries. There are also plenty of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Mote Marine is in the process of building an internationally renowned visitor center adjacent to the rowing facilities.

Overall, University Park in Sarasota may be an excellent place for home buyers who value a safe community, attractive homes, access to amenities, good schools, and a relaxed lifestyle. However, every person's preferences and priorities may differ, so it's essential to research and consider your needs when deciding where to live.

A great place to find more information is University Park's website. There is loads of information, photos, and other videos of the community that are highly informative and helpful.  

In addition to the golf course, University Park offers a variety of other recreational amenities, including tennis courts, a fitness center, and a pool. These amenities make it a popular destination for golfers and non-golfers alike.

See the latest on the University Park website.