Where to Buy in 2013 - Why We Like Them
Northeast Florida homebuyers are fortunate to have an array of choices when shopping for an ideal new-home community.
The region still boasts plenty of open space where self-contained, master-planned developments can take shape. Indeed, the First Coast has become something of a mecca for impressive mixed-use projects incorporating live/work/play elements.
In addition, there are numerous creatively themed boutique communities that are rich in amenities and ambience. And several exciting developments that are just getting under way promise to raise the bar even further this year and beyond.
How do you choose a community just right for you and your family? Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville recently reviewed projects in the Jacksonville area and selected what we consider to be the best based on the following criteria:
• Planning. If the community is a mixed-use project, is it well-designed, incorporating an appropriate balance of residential, commercial, recreational and natural elements?
• Theming. Do the individual elements of the community combine to form a cohesive whole, from the architecture of the homes to the design of the amenities and common areas?
• Amenities. Are the amenities creative, inviting and adequate for the size of the community? Are they in keeping with the community’s overall ambience? Are any of the amenities unusual?
• Value. Are prices reasonable considering the location, the amenities packages and the home styles offered? Does it seem likely that an investment in the community will be a solid one?
• Variety. If the community offers multiple neighborhoods, are a variety of price ranges and home styles offered? And if so, is the overall impression still of a well-planned community in which the elements work together?
• Quality. Is the developer reputable with a track record of success? Are the participating builders well-regarded? If the community is new or relatively new, is the master plan you’re buying into likely to unfold as it’s been advertised?
Using these criteria, the editors compiled their annual Where to Buy list. It isn’t definitive, of course, and what you consider essential others might find superfluous.
But we can say this much—it would be hard to go wrong in any of the communities listed in this section.
TOP 10
Here are Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville’s selections for its annual Where to Buy compilation. Some have been on the list for years, a couple are newcomers. But all are outstanding and are indicative of the incredible variety available to local buyers. Many of the communities selected have opted to send a special message to Florida Homebuyer Jacksonville readers through more comprehensive profiles on the following pages.
WHY WE LIKE IT: A traditional upscale country club community...terrific Tom Fazio-designed golf course...French Provincial clubhouse is the prettiest in Northeast Florida...surprisingly affordable considering the exclusive ambience. Single-family homes from the low $300s.
WHY WE LIKE IT: Master-planned community with two amenity centers ... planned village center ... most homesites back up to nature preserves or lakes ... new K-8 school opening on-site in 2014. Single-family homes from the $200s.
EAGLE LANDING AT OAKLEAF PLANTATION
WHY WE LIKE IT: Amenities are over the top, including a fully-equipped gymnasium and a Kids’ Clubhouse ... Clyde Johnston-designed golf course is one of the best in the region ..., amphitheater hosts outdoor movies and concerts. Single-family homes from the $200s - $1 million-plus.
WHY WE LIKE IT: This isn’t just a community, it’s a self-contained town ... beautiful Ponte Vedra location ... can traverse the roadways and trails in golf carts ... Town Center and Splash Water Park are among endless amenities. Single-family homes from the high $100s; condominiums from the $100s.
PABLO CREEK RESERVE
WHY WE LIKE IT: An uncompromising, old-school luxury development ... stunning custom homes on large lots ... nice variety of architecture, some of it unusual for the area ... 24-hour security ... nature preserve with wildlife. Single-family homes from the $700s.
PALENCIA
WHY WE LIKE IT: Winner of the Best in American Living Award for Best Smart Growth Community... beautifully themed Spanish-style architecture in the Village Center ... incredible amenities package ... new elementary school on site. Single-family homes from the $200s-$3 million; condominiums from the high $200s.
PARADISE KEY SOUTH BEACH
WHY WE LIKE IT: With its meticulous adherence to a Key West theme, this community is notable for its coastal beach vernacular architecture ... blocks from Jacksonville Beach ... laid-back ambience ... all streets are cul de sacs ... HGTV Smart Home will be built here later in 2013. Single-family homes from the $500s.
SAN SAVINO AT THE VILLAGES OF TUSCANY
WHY WE LIKE IT: Located in master-planned St. Augustine Shores ... no Community Development District (CDD) fees ... numerous amenities including a semi-private golf course, recreational clubhouse, tennis courts, a swim facility, ball fields and large open areas. Single-family homes from the $230s.
YELLOW BLUFF LANDING
WHY WE LIKE IT: $3.5 million amenities complex has fitness center, tennis courts, basketball courts, sand volleyball, a playground and a dog park ... convenient Northside location ... CDD designation ensures ongoing quality and upkeep ... value-packed homes. Single-family homes from the $100s.
WORLD GOLF VILLAGE
WHY WE LIKE IT: A mecca for golf fanatics but just as appealing for those who don’t play ... two world-class golf courses ... resort-style amenities ... World Golf Hall of Fame and IMAX Theater on site ... 20-plus neighborhoods from which to choose. Single-family homes from the mid-$100s-to $1 million-plus; condominiums from the $100s-$250s.