Located between the Bellevue Terrace and Pinecraft districts, Forest Lakes in Sarasota is an established neighborhood that just happens to double as a country club. Development of Forest Lakes dates back to the 1960s, a time when the thought of a relaxed and family-friendly country club in Southwest Florida was an untried idea. Instead of projecting an exclusive image, Forest Lakes presents itself as a modest community that welcomes all home buyers.

With more than 700 residences arranged in various sections surrounding the golf course, you would think that Forest Lakes would be a neighborhood with high levels of real estate activity; however, homeowners here are known to keep their properties for a long time. The lots and floor plans at Forest Lakes are very generous in terms of square footage, thus explaining why listed properties do not stay on the market very long.

In early 2019, a three-bedroom Florida ranch with two full bathrooms and 1,688 square feet of interior was listed for $309K. A four-bedroom home with three bathrooms and more than 2,106 square feet of living space was listed for $415K. Many of the properties at Forest Lakes have been remodeled and upgraded with extras over the years, and quite a few feature swimming pools as well as views of lakes and ponds.

The 18-hole golf course at Forest Lakes was renovated in recent years, and it offers technical challenges for seasoned players; if you enjoy being able to use every club in your bag, you will certainly like this course and its very affordable summer and annual memberships. The clubhouse is being remodeled, but a section is actively used by the homeowners association for meetings, yoga, social events, and community activities.

As for suburban comforts, Forest Lakes is just five minutes away from the Sarasota Village Plaza shopping center, where you can find a Publix supermarket, fast-food restaurants, gyms, banks, an electric vehicle charging station, and more. Nearby Bee Ridge Road is your connection to Siesta Key Beach, located less than 30 minutes away.