Sarasota Real Estate Blog

The Sarasota, Florida real estate market is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by the surge in new construction homes, particularly in areas like Parrish and Lakewood Ranch. This influx of newly built homes is reshaping the dynamics between new and resale properties, offering both opportunities and challenges for buyers and sellers.

Emerging Neighborhoods in Parrish and Lakewood Ranch

Parrish and Lakewood Ranch have become hotspots for new residential developments, attracting homebuyers with modern amenities and diverse housing options. Notable communities include:

• North River Ranch in Parrish: Developed by Del Webb, this community offers a range of home styles and sizes to cater to various preferences. 

• Sawgrass Lakes I in Parrish: Featuring multiple floor plans and price points, this KB Home development appeals to a broad spectrum of buyers.

• Esplanade at Azario in Lakewood Ranch: A Taylor Morrison project, this community provides resort-style amenities and a variety of home designs. 

• Sapphire Point at Lakewood Ranch: Developed by Pulte Homes, offering contemporary designs and family-friendly features.

Impact on the Resale Market

The proliferation of new construction homes influences the resale market in several ways:

• Increased Competition: New homes built to current building codes, equipped with the latest features and energy-efficient technologies create competition for existing homes, potentially impacting their marketability.

• Pricing Dynamics: The availability of new homes can influence pricing strategies for resale properties, necessitating competitive pricing and potential upgrades to attract buyers.

• Market Inventory: An increase in new construction contributes to overall housing inventory, which, according to recent data, has been rising in the Sarasota area. In February 2025, the market had approximately 7.2 months of housing supply, indicating a shift towards a buyer’s market.

Navigating the MLS and New Construction Listings

It’s important for buyers to note that many new construction homes may not be listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Builders often market their properties directly or through specialized platforms, which means these homes might not appear in standard MLS searches. To ensure access to the full spectrum of available properties, collaborating with a real estate professional experienced in both resale and new construction markets is advisable.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of Sarasota’s real estate market, marked by the emergence of new neighborhoods in Parrish and Lakewood Ranch, presents a dynamic environment for buyers and sellers. Understanding the interplay between new construction and resale homes is crucial for making informed decisions. Partnering with a knowledgeable real estate professional can provide valuable insights and guidance in navigating this changing market. Call or text me and we can drill down on the stats in your neighborhood.