New Construction Communities in Sarasota County: A Buyer's Overview
Sarasota County is experiencing a sustained wave of new residential construction, and for buyers relocating to the area, that's good news. New construction communities offer modern floor plans, energy-efficient features, builder warranties, and—in many cases—the ability to choose finishes and customize before you move in.
This guide covers the major new construction communities in Sarasota County for 2026, from master-planned developments to boutique-builder neighborhoods. For a broader overview of the area, see our complete Sarasota relocation guide.
Lakewood Ranch: Multiple Builders, Multiple Price Points
Lakewood Ranch remains the epicenter of new construction in the Sarasota-Manatee market. With multiple villages still under active development, buyers can choose from national builders including Toll Brothers, Taylor Morrison, Lennar, Pulte, and M/I Homes. Each village within Lakewood Ranch has its own identity and amenity package.
Waterside at Lakewood Ranch features lakefront living with a resort-style amenity center, kayak launches, and Waterside Place—a walkable town center with restaurants and shops. Homes from Toll Brothers and Stock Development range from the $500s to over $1 million. For families, Lakewood Ranch delivers A-rated schools and one of the most comprehensive amenity packages in Florida. Prices across the broader Lakewood Ranch community range from the mid-$400s to $800,000+, depending on the village, lot size, and builder.
For more on family-friendly areas, see our guide to the best neighborhoods in Sarasota County for families.
Wellen Park (West Villages)
Wellen Park in south Sarasota County has become one of the fastest-growing communities in America. Located near Venice, it offers a vibrant downtown district with restaurants, retail, and an outdoor concert venue called the Gran Paradiso Park. Builders active in Wellen Park include Mattamy Homes, Toll Brothers, and Pulte, with homes ranging from the $350s to the $700s.
The community is anchored by the Atlanta Braves Spring Training facility at CoolToday Park, which adds a unique entertainment option. Wellen Park appeals to both families and active adults, with separate villages catering to different demographics.
The Founders Club
For buyers seeking a more exclusive new construction option, The Founders Club is a gated, low-density community in east Sarasota featuring custom and semi-custom homes on generous lots. An 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf course anchors the community, though membership is optional. Homes range from $800,000 to well over $2 million, with buyers choosing from several approved custom builders. It's a fundamentally different product than the production-builder communities—more privacy, more customization, and a quieter atmosphere.
Artistry Sarasota
Artistry Sarasota by Kolter Homes is a newer community east of I-75 that targets the mid-market with single-family homes in the $400s to $600s. The community features a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, and park areas. It's well-positioned for buyers who want new construction at a more accessible price point than some of the premium communities.
The Lake Club
The Lake Club in Lakewood Ranch is an exclusive gated community by Stock Development featuring custom and estate homes around pristine lakes. With homes starting around $1 million and climbing to $3 million+, this is the luxury tier of new construction in the area. The community's amenity center, golf course access, and landscaped grounds set a high standard.
Venice Woodlands and Other Venice Options
Venice continues to attract new development with several smaller communities offering new construction homes in the $400s to $600s. These communities tend to be more intimate than the mega-developments like Lakewood Ranch and Wellen Park, appealing to buyers who prefer a smaller neighborhood feel with the charm of Venice's historic downtown nearby.
What Buyers Should Know About New Construction
Buying new construction in Sarasota County comes with considerations that differ from resale homes. Base prices advertised by builders typically don't include lot premiums, structural upgrades, or design center selections—which can add 10-20% to the final price. Having a buyer's agent represent you during the new construction process costs you nothing extra (the builder pays the commission) but ensures someone is looking out for your interests during the build.
Other considerations include build timelines (typically 6-12 months), CDD fees (Community Development District assessments that are common in new Florida communities and add to your annual costs), and the importance of getting independent inspections during construction—not just the builder's inspections.
For buyers also interested in gated and secured communities, see our guide to gated communities in Sarasota. Active adults should check out 55+ communities in Sarasota County.
Explore New Construction with a Local Expert
I work with buyers in new construction communities throughout Sarasota County and can help you compare builders, understand CDD structures, and negotiate upgrades. Schedule a buyer consultation to start exploring your options.
