For more than five decades, the Sunrise Golf Club provided an affordable alternative to the ritzy country clubs of Sarasota County. When development of new golf communities became overly competitive in the early 21st century, the Sunrise Golf Club began experiencing legal issues that resulted in the abandonment of the course. By 2013, the course was no longer operational, but a residential redevelopment plan was taken up by Canadian builder Mattamy Homes three years later.

While the infill redevelopment of Sunrise Golf Club takes place, smart house hunters are setting their sights on the original properties built in the late 1970s and early 1980s. With two-bedroom golf villas listed under $160K, this neighborhood has become ideal for first-time home buyers in Sarasota. Single-family residences with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms can be found listed for just $290K, and a few are located on the edge of the former golf course, which means that you can enjoy views of small lakes and green areas.

The Sunrise Golf Club is divided into five small subdivisions located south of Clark Road and west of I-75. Through-traffic is minimal, and the golf course serves as a buffer zone. Living right between Twin Lakes Park and the Livingston’s Amusement Center attracts many families; another advantage is being able to drive west on Clark Road to the Stickney Point Bridge so that you can enjoy the beaches at Siesta Key in about 15 minutes. As for neighborhood conveniences, you will find many of them along Clark Road: restaurants, cafes, pubs, and grocery stores. You can get your weekly grocery shopping done at the Publix or Walmart supermarkets in Northridge Plaza.

Keep in mind that the transformation of the golf course into a residential neighborhood will likely result in future property value appreciation. Purchasing a Sunrise Golf Club home now could be a good investment for the near future.