One of the most accommodating neighborhoods in Southwest Florida can be found in the University Park district between Sarasota and Bradenton. University Place is a 400-home gated community that offers charm, style, convenience, and high quality of life. Whether you are looking for a place to raise a family or retire, you are bound to find something you like at University Place.

Located just north of The Mall at University Town Center, University Place was completed at a time when residential and commercial development of the University Park district was in full swing. Four sections were developed for a total of 400 units ranging between two and five bedrooms; the amenities include a swimming pool with spa, fitness center, clubhouse, playground, picnic area, and nature trails near a lake. The architectural style is Mediterranean revival, and even the coziest villas feel like single-family homes thanks to their ample square footage and independent arrangement.

Even though University Place is a large community, only a handful of listings come on the market at any given time. As of the 2018 holiday season, pricing started under $300K for a two-bedroom villa. A five-bedroom home with three bathrooms and more than 3,000 square feet of interior was listed below $500K.

The extremely attractive location of University Place tends to make this community a very active real estate market. The Mall at University Town Center is less than a mile away, and this is one of the most vibrant shopping and entertainment districts in Florida. Access to I-75 is less than three miles away, which makes University Place ideal for home buyers who need to commute to Sarasota or Bradenton. In recent years, the community upgraded to the acclaimed Envera automated security system, which has improved safety and reduced maintenance costs.

A strong sense of community is another advantage of University Place; neighborhood parties are often held during long holiday weekends, and residents are known to organize trips to the beaches of Manatee and Sarasota counties.