One Sarasota area community that keeps coming up over and over again in conversations with buyers relocating to Florida? Waterside at Lakewood Ranch.
In 2026, buyers are prioritizing lifestyle more than ever and Waterside has quickly become one of the most desirable areas in the Sarasota region because it delivers exactly that.
Located close to both Sarasota and UTC, Waterside offers a newer, walkable, lifestyle focused environment that feels modern, connected, and convenient.
What buyers love most:
Waterfront restaurants and cafes
Walking trails and outdoor spaces
Community events and farmers markets
Proximity to shopping and dining
Newer construction homes
Resort style amenities
Easy access to Sarasota attractions and beaches
For many relocations buyers, the appeal is simple:
It feels like living in a vacation destination year round.
The area around Waterside Place continues to grow with new restaurants, entertainment, and wellness focused businesses, making it especially attractive for both full time residents and second home buyers.
Other Sarasota area neighborhoods also seeing major attention right now include:
Palmer Ranch
Wellen Park
Downtown Venice
Lakewood National
Skye Ranch
The Isles
Star Farms
Esplanade communities
One of the biggest real estate trends in 2026 is buyers prioritizing community feel, outdoor living, and convenience over simply having the biggest home possible.
That’s exactly why lifestyle driven neighborhoods like Waterside continue to dominate buyer interest throughout Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. Read more HERE.
With 8+ years of experience, I’m a multi-million-dollar top producer and trusted Sarasota real estate agent serving Sarasota and Manatee counties. As a high-performing local Realtor®, I combine strategic marketing, expert negotiation, and deep neighborhood knowledge to help buyers, sellers, and relocations succeed. As a second-generation Sarasotan, I know Sarasota’s communities inside and out and guide clients through every step of the buying or selling process. Call or text 941-284-0283 to discuss your real estate goals.