Worth It: Why Custom Homes in Master-Planned Communities Are an Investment
Real estate can be one of the most meaningful financial transactions people and families can make in the course of their lives. But the appreciation of your investment over time not only is impacted by the design of your custom home and the distinct characteristics of the homesite you build on, but also on the location you select. Usher in master-planned communities – sought-after, carefully crafted networks of neighborhoods like Lakewood Ranch and Wellen Park – that resemble small towns with world-class amenities, which are now outperforming the broader new home market, according to mid-year report published by RCLCO.
The benefits of living in a master-planned community, especially as an investment, are undoubtedly there, particularly on the Suncoast where two of the nation’s top-selling sites are situated. A Zonda report recently found that, across the country, compared to individual homesites, properties in these communities sell 9% faster – and it’s because of a range of advantages homebuyers desire, from increased security and clean aesthetics to convenient access to highly-rated schools, shopping and entertainment. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits that come with investing in a singular life in a master-planned community with a custom home, created by a trusted and preferred builder.
Amenities in Your Neighborhood – And Beyond
For homebuyers, premier amenities are among one of the most attractive aspects of living in a master-planned community. The foundation of these impeccable neighborhoods is the idea of living, working and playing within close proximity of your incomparable custom home – the “convenience” factor.
It’s exemplified in a variety of eclectic communities where Lee Wetherington Homes is a preferred builder with a longstanding local legacy, including Wild Blue and Shellstone in Waterside, which share the Midway Sports Complex – a state-of-the-art fitness center with six tennis courts, eight pickleball courts, a pro shop, two dog parks, a children’s playground, kayak launches and more. Among a host of attractive, exclusive perks for homeowners in Wild Blue are concierge services, and an expansive clubhouse complete with a resort-style pool, a putting green, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining. Shellstone, for instance, features the Summit, which offers everything from a social hall to a pool and spa, fitness center and lawn, poolside cabanas, a firepit and full-time activities director.
But with master-planned communities, amenities aren’t just confined to the neighborhood where you reside. A perfect case study is Everly at Wellen Park, located within walking distance of vibrant Downtown Wellen’s shopping, dining and entertainment, which has a number of wraparound services and breathtaking beaches that are just minutes away from home. The same can be said for 36-acre Waterside Place – a gold “Best of American Living Awards” winner – for its thoughtfully-designed district of over 300 shopping, dining and entertainment options. For homebuyers, it’s not only an investment opportunity but also the chance to experience life curated to their unique interests.
Safety and Security Is a Standard
Where you decide to design and build a custom home should exude the feeling of a sanctuary – a safe haven away from the hecticness of life and the place where exciting moments are made. And when it comes to creating a masterpiece on an individual piece of property or building on an estate homesite in a master-planned community’s neighborhood, security is among the top factors homebuyers consider before pulling the trigger on an investment. In fact, a study by John Burns Research & Consulting found that 61% of owners and single-family renters agree that master-planned communities are safer or have less crime than homes located outside of these meticulously designed destinations.
Not only are master-planned communities removed from downtown and industrial areas, but they also have an array of features intended to develop a safe environment. For example, villages like Shellstone, Wild Blue and Everly are gated and have security on site, and have well-lit streets, manicured landscaping and evoke a real sense of community. Growing districts, like Downtown Wellen, have rules of conduct and, in Lakewood Ranch as a whole, plans for amenities and infrastructure are clear and executed with one goal – residents’ peace of mind.
Master-Planned Communities May Show Resiliency
The same 2022 study by John Burns uncovered that, in a more competitive housing market, homebuyers believe the benefits of master-planned communities are worth the investment. The firm’s New Home Trends Institute team found 95% of owners and single-family renters expect custom homes in master-planned communities to hold their value as well as, if not better than others in a down market.
The draw to villages versus standalone lots is evident, and it shows in economic slumps. In fact, following the Great Recession, master-planned communities recovered stronger than the larger new home market. Homebuyers have – and continue to – seek a singular lifestyle, nearby everything needed to thrive, and these destinations aren’t just a big purchase but an appreciating investment.
