In recent years, floor plans that feature extra bedrooms and generous living space have been enjoying higher demand; for this reason, developers such as Lennar have been introducing multi-generational home models ideal for extended families. Long before these floor plans became popular, developers of The Hammocks in Sarasota envisioned the need for more spacious properties sought by home buyers whose adult children or elderly parents live under the same roof.

Located near the end of Bee Ridge Road, The Hammocks is a collection of about 200 single-family residences that have an interesting deed restriction: no home can offer interiors smaller than 2,500 square feet, thus the majority of properties here have four, five or six bedrooms. The home sites, which are also generous, range between 11,000 and 15,000 square feet.

The predominant architectural style at The Hammocks combines Mediterranean and Tuscan design; the elegant homes are adorned by manicured landscaping, and there is a large nature preserve in the community. Another deed restriction calls for planting at least four trees in each lot, which gives the neighborhood a pleasant countryside feel.

Most of the properties at The Hammocks are custom-built; some feature upgrades such as swimming pools, summer kitchens and backyard playgrounds. Pricing started at $575K for a four-bedroom house with four full bathrooms; a six-bedroom estate with a three-car garage was listed for less than $700K in September, and this is a very reasonable price of a property built on 4,280 square feet of interior. Some of the homes enjoy lake views, and there are a few green areas that are perfect for picnics.

Residents of The Hammocks enjoy living in a very convenient location; a shopping center right across Bee Ridge Road is anchored by a Publix supermarket, and there is also a Chinese restaurant, UPS Store and even a pet salon. A Walmart Supercenter is less than two miles away. A few golf courses are close to The Hammocks, and driving to the beach at Siesta Key takes about 30 minutes on Bee Ridge Road.