Author: Rachel Gray

M/I Homes Raises $141,000 for Cancer Research Through Sweetwater at Lakewood Ranch Benefit Home

SARASOTA, FL — In a powerful demonstration of community collaboration and corporate philanthropy, M/I Homes has announced a $141,000 donation to Pelotonia, a nonprofit organization committed to funding life-saving cancer research. The funds were raised through the sale of a specially designated Benefit Home in the Sweetwater at Lakewood Ranch community.

This year’s initiative brought together builders, vendors, and developers in a shared mission to support groundbreaking cancer research. A key contributor was Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Inc., developer of Lakewood Ranch, which donated more than $15,000 toward the effort.

“We’re honored to be part of a cause that touches so many lives,” said Sandy Shahinian Levins, VP of Marketing for Schroeder-Manatee Ranch. “Cancer research is a cause close to our hearts, and we’re proud to join M/I Homes in making a difference.”

The donation was formally presented at a recognition event held on October 6, where Erika Walker, Pelotonia’s Philanthropy & Stewardship Manager, 

accepted the check on behalf of the organization. “This generous contribution from M/I Homes and its partners continues to fuel our mission to end cancer,” said Walker. “Their commitment not only provides critical funding but also raises awareness and inspires others to get involved.”

Greg Crawford, president of M/I Homes Sarasota division, emphasized the collective nature of the achievement: “This donation represents the heart of our community. It’s the result of countless hours, generous contributions, and a shared belief that together, we can make a difference.”

The benefit home program is part of M/I Homes’ broader national partnership with Pelotonia, reinforcing the company’s dedication to causes that improve lives and strengthen communities.

To learn more about M/I Homes’ partnership with Pelotonia, visit www.mihomes.com/pelotonia/overview.

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (August 18, 2025) – The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) is pleased to announce it awarded $60,255 total to 16 grant recipients in the first and second quarters of 2025.

LWRCF’s grants committee meets quarterly to assess the applications received and thoroughly examines each request. The foundation’s board of directors is extremely grateful to have the ability, through donations, to fund the requests of local organizations.

These nonprofit organizations received funding to support various programs, purchases, and projects: Avenue 941 Inc., Bailes Consulting, Boys and Girls Club, Children’s Guardian Fund, Epilepsy Services, Forty Carrots, Hope Family Services, Local Relief, Manatee Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels Plus-Manatee, Meals on Wheels Sarasota, One Stop Cares, Samaritan Counseling Services, Sarasota Orchestra, State College of Florida Foundation, and Take Stock in Children Manatee.

Grant applications may be requested at any time and are reviewed by the grants committee on a quarterly basis. Visit LWRCF.org to view eligibility requirements and the process for applications.

LWRCF is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year with a goal to raise $250,000. The next major event is Soirée at the Ranch, November 13, 2025 at the Lakewood Ranch Country Club. For more information about LWRCF and upcoming events, visit LWRCF.org, email info@LWRCF.org, or call 941-208-6799.

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The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit devoted to enhancing the quality of life in and near the Lakewood Ranch, Florida community by responding to needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. Since its founding in 2000, the fund has granted over $1.5 million to more than 140 nonprofit organizations to directly improve the lives of Lakewood Ranch residents. Let us “Open the Door.”

Lakewood Ranch, FL – July 28, 2025 – Lakewood Ranch once again holds the top spot as the nation’s best-selling multigenerational community. In its latest mid-year report, RCLCO, the nation’s leading real estate advisory firm, which has tracked master-planned community sales since 1994, recognizes Lakewood Ranch for its resilience and sustained demand.

With 1,185 new home sales through June, the community saw only a modest 4% dip year-over-year—far outperforming the nearly 7% average decline among the broader new home market and the nation’s top 50 master-planned communities.

Homebuyers continue to express confidence in the stability and long-term value of Lakewood Ranch, a community developed over the past 31 years under the stewardship of a family that has owned the land for more than a century. This enduring commitment has delivered thoughtful development, consistent quality, and meticulous design at every stage of the community’s evolution.

Trends in Lakewood Ranch from the first half of 2025 point to a continued shift in buyer preferences, particularly toward more attainable price points and diverse housing options. Attached homes, including townhomes, villas, and condominiums, accounted for 42% of total sales, a significant increase from the historical average of 12%. The buyer profile remains broad, with 42% move-up buyers, 29% entry-level, 22% active adults, and 7% in the luxury segment—reinforcing Lakewood Ranch’s appeal across life stages and price ranges.

“In times of uncertainty, there is always a flight to quality,” commented Laura Cole, senior vice president of Lakewood Ranch. “Buyers become more discerning. They don’t gamble with their home purchases—they look for places with a track record, consistency, and proven stewardship. That’s what gives them peace of mind and Lakewood Ranch fits that profile in spades.”

That trust is reflected in the steady stream of individuals and families drawn to Lakewood Ranch—not simply for homes, but for a better way of life. With 46% of the community dedicated to open space, more than 150 miles of trails, top-rated schools, vibrant town centers, and weekly events, the Ranch offers a rare mix of livability, convenience, and lasting value. Its location near I-75, as well as its proximity to world-class beaches and cultural hubs like Sarasota and Tampa, further enhances its appeal.

With new villages coming online and a range of home options available, Lakewood Ranch remains well-prepared to meet evolving buyer demand through the remainder of the year.

ABOUT LAKEWOOD RANCH
Developed by Schroeder-Manatee Ranch, Lakewood Ranch is the 55-square-mile, award-winning master-planned community located in Sarasota and Manatee counties on Florida’s west coast. Just a few miles from the region’s white-sand beaches and offering a robust mix of cultural assets, Lakewood Ranch is home to more than 74,000 residents. It has ranked as the nation’s top-selling multigenerational master-planned community for seven consecutive years and serves as a major economic engine for the region, with more than 22,000 people employed across a growing mix of businesses, healthcare facilities, and commercial centers. The community also features top-rated schools, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, Sarasota Polo Club, and three vibrant town centers with shopping, dining, and entertainment. Lakewood Ranch is a place where individuals and families can put down roots, build careers, and find community. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 8, 2025

Lakewood Ranch Starts 2025 Strong with Steady Sales and Strategic Momentum

Lakewood Ranch, FL — Lakewood Ranch reported 613 new home sales in the first quarter of 2025, a 2.5% increase over Q1 last year—outpacing broader market trends and underscoring the community’s continued strength in a shifting housing landscape.

Despite softer consumer sentiment and economic headwinds, buyers continue to choose Lakewood Ranch for its thoughtful planning, diverse housing options, and commitment to long-term livability. The nation’s top-selling multigenerational master-planned community since 2018, Lakewood Ranch recently launched four new villages that appeal to a wide range of market segments, with additional neighborhoods on the horizon for 2026.

Interest in attached homes grew this quarter, particularly in well-amenitized villages offering accessible price points. Homes in the $300,000–$500,000 range made up the largest share of sales, while luxury homes over $1 million held steady. Active adult buyers also increased 10% year-over-year, aligning with seasonal patterns and national trends, and tied to the launch of two new active adult communities, Del Webb Catalina (Pulte) and Calusa National (Lennar).

Incentives like rate buy downs and closing cost assistance boosted new home sales to 66% of total sales in Lakewood Ranch—well above the historical average.

“We’re encouraged by these results and remain focused on delivering lasting value,” said Laura Cole, Senior Vice President. “Lakewood Ranch has weathered changing markets before, and our track record of strategic growth and community-first planning puts us in a strong position as we look ahead.”

About Lakewood Ranch

Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Lakewood Ranch is a 55-square-mile, award-winning master-planned community three decades in the making. A family legacy project, the Ranch is known for its innovative design, diverse neighborhoods, and enduring sense of place. It also serves as a major job center for the Sarasota-Manatee region, with thriving business parks, medical hubs, and a growing base of employers. With top-rated schools, miles of trails, expansive parks, and vibrant town centers, Lakewood Ranch offers a dynamic and connected lifestyle for all ages—and has held the distinction of being the nation’s best-selling multigenerational community for seven consecutive years

For more information, visit www.LakewoodRanch.com

Media Contact:

Sandy Shahinian

VP, Sales & Marketing

LWR Communities

Sandy.Shahinian@LakewoodRanch.com

#941-757-1658

Lakewood Ranch, FL – January 29, 2025 – Schroeder-Manatee Ranch (SMR) has successfully defended its right to extend the vision of Lakewood Ranch, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality neighborhoods, infrastructure, and amenities that have defined its success for over 30 years. The final ruling by the 2^nd District Court of Appeal clears the way for Lakewood Ranch Southeast (LWRSE) to be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the #1 multigenerational community in the United States since 2018.

The approval allows for the creation of up to seven distinctive villages, offering a range of price points and lifestyle options while maintaining the quality, design excellence, and sense of place that have made Lakewood Ranch a national leader in community development. As with all areas of Lakewood Ranch, this new addition will feature a comprehensive network of greenways, parks, and trails, along with services that enhance outdoor recreation, fire and emergency services and connectivity.

Demonstrating its continued commitment to responsible planning, SMR is funding over $200 million in master infrastructure improvements to support new development, including:

~ A four-lane arterial roadway extending Bourneside Boulevard to Fruitville Road (4.8 miles)

~ Expansion of University Parkway to four lanes between Lorraine Road and Bourneside Boulevard (2.8 miles)

~ An expanded trail system that will connect seamlessly to the Florida Gulf Coast Trail

“Florida and our region will continue to grow, and that growth must be met with responsible, well-executed planning,” said Rex Jensen, president & CEO of SMR. “Lakewood Ranch has always set the standard for thoughtful, high-quality community development—delivering infrastructure, amenities, and neighborhoods that enhance quality of life while supporting the broader region.

“When our rights and proven approach are unreasonably challenged, we will stand firm in defending our track record, and our commitment to building a community that serves both present and future generations,” Jensen said.

About Lakewood Ranch

Lakewood Ranch is the 33,000+-acre award-winning master-planned community in Sarasota and Manatee counties on the West Coast of Florida. Just minutes from the Gulf Coast beaches and cultural assets in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch is already home to more than 72,000 residents and features top-rated schools, the Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, the Sarasota Polo Club, the 75-acre Premier Sports Campus, and three town centers that include theaters, shopping and dining. For more information, visit lakewoodranch.com.

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (November 11, 2024) – Heritage Golf Group, a leading owner and operator of
private country clubs and high-end daily-fee courses, proudly announces the completion of Phase
1 renovations at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club, acquired in March 2024. In less than
eight months, the club is set to unveil two fully renovated golf courses, including the addition of
its newest private course, The Legacy, which will open for Member play on November 16, along
with major updates to the club’s racquet sport and wellness amenities.

Phase 1 renovations focused on two of the four private golf courses at LWRG&CC: Cypress
Links and The Legacy courses. These courses have been enhanced with celebration
bermudagrass fairways, newly constructed tifeagle greens, refurbished cart paths, and renovated
bunkers for improved playability and aesthetics. The Legacy course now features multiple new
sets of tees, making it accessible to golfers of all skill levels.

The Legacy Golf Course, an Arnold Palmer signature course known for its distinct design and
challenging play, was previously a daily-fee course adjacent to the club. Heritage Golf Group
made the strategic decision to merge The Legacy into Lakewood Ranch as its fourth private
course. With renovations now complete, the course has been restored to its original glory,
showcasing pristine conditions, paying homage to Palmer’s vision. Cypress Links, also designed
by Arnold Palmer and opened in 2001, has similarly undergone significant improvements.

Two of the club’s three practice facilities have also undergone major renovations, featuring
upgraded amenities, new premier practice balls, laser tee boxes, and new target greens to elevate
the Member practice experience.

Luke Beardmore, Heritage Golf Group’s Senior Vice President of Agronomy, spearheaded the
course renovations. “We are thrilled with the transformations at Cypress Links and The Legacy.
Both courses, each unique in design, now feature upgraded irrigation systems, enhanced
playability, and improved aesthetics. We’re very excited to open them back up to the Lakewood
Ranch Golf & Country Club membership,” he stated.

Heritage Golf Group begun renovations within a week of acquisition, meeting an ambitious Fall
2024 opening despite challenges posed by three named weather events. With the opening of
Cypress and The Legacy, Lakewood Ranch G&CC is now the only club in the Sarasota area
offering Members access to four private golf courses. The addition of The Legacy as the club’s
fourth private golf course has allowed Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club to accommodate
new golf members from a previously existing waitlist. The club is currently accepting
memberships in all categories.

“We’re thrilled to mark a new era at Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club with the opening of
all four golf courses.” Says Jim Oliver, Chief Operating Officer at Heritage Golf Group “This
milestone reflects our dedication to enhancing the experience for our Members and guests, and
we’re eager to bring even more planned improvements to life in the future.”

Beyond the golf courses, Phase 1 improvements include enhancements to the club’s racquet
sports and wellness amenities. The future addition of three new tennis courts brings the total to
23, while new LED lighting upgrades and court resurfacing improve playability and drainage.

The 24-hour fitness center will also be equipped with new cardio and strength machines, along
with additional group fitness equipment.

Plans are already underway for Phase 2 renovations, which include a multi-million dollar
transformation of The Legacy Clubhouse. Once completed, this will become the club’s third fullservice
clubhouse, featuring a member restaurant, patio, pro shop, and more. Renovations will
continue into 2025 and 2026 with scheduled upgrades to the remaining two golf courses, Royal
Lakes, and King’s Dunes, each receiving full renovations on a rotating basis.

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About Heritage Golf Group

Since purchasing Heritage Golf Group in January 2020, the current ownership and leadership
team has grown the company to include 37 clubs across the US. With its home office in northern
Virginia, just outside Washington DC, Heritage clubs are located in Alabama, Colorado, Florida,
Georgia, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina,
Virginia, Michigan, and Wisconsin. The company continues to grow by acquiring a mix of
private country clubs in residential communities, member-owned clubs with growth potential
seeking strategic alternatives, and premium daily-fee and resort golf properties in major resort
destinations and metropolitan markets. Guided by the principle of evolving the golf experience to
the highest level, each individual club’s amenities and operational systems are tailored to
augment its unique assets. For more information, please visit www.heritagegolfgroup.com.

Media Contacts:

Mary Moore, Heritage Golf Group
Phone: 703-570-4955
mmoore@heritagegolfgroup.com

Caroline Burroughs, Heritage Golf Group
Phone: 703-909-4317
cburroughs@heritagegolfgroup.com

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. (October 13, 2024) – The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (LWRCF) announces the immediate launch of Hurricane Relief Community Match Campaign.

Our vision as the Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation is to use the power of giving to serve our community. Founded in 2000, our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our communities by responding to the needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. Over the past 20+ years, we have given more than $1.53 million to 140 deserving nonprofits. Let’s Open the Door for this special opportunity.

In difficult times such as these, we want to be the philanthropic pillar of Lakewood Ranch. We are here to help deserving nonprofits seeking grants to help our residents and community who have suffered damage and loss, to build back. Our board of directors has authorized $50,000 to be placed in a special Hurricane Relief Fund. We are asking our community to help match this amount. Every penny donated to this fund will be given in grants.

Donors may simply go to our website www.LWRCF.org, click on the “donate” button and complete the form. We hope every resident and business in our community will step up and help us, help others.

Nonprofit organizations who meet the 501 C (3) requirements and are based in Lakewood Ranch may apply. Please contact www.LWRCF.org or call 941.208.6799 to receive a specific application for this grant opportunity.

Let’s Open the Door…and our hearts and help our Lakewood Ranch nonprofits to help others.

    For more information, visit www.LWRCF.org, or contact info@LWRCF.org,  or call 941.208.6799.

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The Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit devoted to enhancing the quality of life in and near the Lakewood Ranch, Florida community by responding to needs, granting funds, and building lasting relationships. Since its founding in 2000, the fund has granted over $1.5 million to more than 140 nonprofit organizations to directly improve the lives of Lakewood Ranch residents. Let us “Open the Door.”