Category: Press Releases

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.

###

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.”

SARASOTA, FL, August 15, 2025 – Forestar Group Inc. (“Forestar”), one of the largest residential community developers in the nation,  announces the growth of the Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch luxury builder program with the introduction of Perry Homes. Perry Homes will open with 50’ to 90’ homesites and plans ranging from 2,011 square feet to 3,865 square feet. In addition, there will be models showcasing a variety of homesite and plan options.

“Known for timeless design and attention to detail, Perry Homes is a strong match for the Lakewood Ranch way of life,” said Laura Cole, Senior Vice President for Lakewood Ranch Communities. “Their debut in Star Farms—the top-selling village in the community— fills a key niche in the builder lineup, expanding the range of high-quality options for discerning buyers.”

One of the premier models, the 3702F, has a covered front porch, private home office with front yard views, family room filled with natural light, backyard covered lanai, kitchen equipped with an island and a walk-in pantry, as well as a dining area which overlooks a backyard cabana. From the family room is the game room, framed by two walls of windows, providing additional gathering space. The primary suite is a tranquil retreat with a wall of windows and french doors leading to the primary bathroom with two walk-in closets, a linen closet, dual vanities, a freestanding tub, and a large glass-enclosed shower. Each secondary bedroom includes a private bathroom and walk-in closet. The three-car split garage offers an additional storage area.

“We are proud to bring Perry Homes to Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch, a community that shares our commitment to quality living and thoughtful design,” said Garrison Taska, Perry Homes Division President. “This expansion reflects our dedication to delivering exceptional homes tailored to every lifestyle, where families can grow, connect and thrive in the state’s most desirable communities.” 

The newly unveiled discovery luxury neighborhood collection at Star Farms is designed for families seeking a custom home and grand estate curated experience nestled alongside natural preserves and pristine lakes. The Star Farms luxury builders include Homes by West Bay, Perry Homes, AR Homes, John Cannon, and Lee Wetherington.

“We are excited to continue to expand our luxury builder program offering with the addition of Perry Homes,” Tony Squitieri, Forestar West Florida Region Vice President. “Perry Homes is a top ranked builder committed to quality and a great customer experience.”

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Southwest Florida, Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch is a multigenerational lifestyle community that offers a unique experience tailored to residents. The thoughtfully designed, 1,300-acre, gated village is a resort ranch hometown featuring 2,800 single-family homes, paired villa retreats and townhomes with a variety of amenities, clubs and hospitality services. The featured homebuilders in Star Farms showcase numerous floorplans to choose from, ranging from approximately 1,500 to more than 5,000 square feet with luxury, custom options available. Positioned as the largest master-planned community within the award-winning Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is minutes from dining, shopping and cultural activities as well as top-rated beaches.

Whether exploring new adventures, discovering new passions, meeting new neighbors or finding new ways to connect with nature, Star Farms is an extraordinary place to call home.

Visit www.starfarmslwr.com and join the VIP Club for the latest information.

About Perry Homes

Perry Homes is the largest woman-owned homebuilder and has established a Tradition of Excellence in homebuilding over the past 58 years. Family-owned and operated since its inception in 1967, Perry Homes is committed to building quality, superior homes while providing exceptional customer care before, during, and after construction. The homebuilder has earned a phenomenal reputation by evolving with the wants and needs of its 70,000+ customers, all while securing a 95% satisfaction rating*. Perry Homes offers a variety of timeless and modern architectural concepts with more than 500 new home designs. Buyers will find a robust selection of quality standard features and design options in every home that radiate elegance and sophistication, including soaring ceilings, gorgeous walls of windows, open concepts, and flexible spaces to fit any lifestyle. For more information, visit www.perryhomes.com. *Since 2016, over 95% of homeowners who completed the Perry Homes New Homeowner Survey have rated their overall satisfaction as “Satisfied” or “Very Satisfied.” The homebuilder sends a New Homeowner Survey to the primary customer contact for every home between 30 and 60 days after closing.

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 www.lakewoodranch.com.

About Forestar Group Inc.

Forestar Group Inc. is a residential lot development company with operations in 64 markets and 23 states. Based in Arlington, Texas, the Company delivered more than 14,700 residential lots during the twelve-month period ended June 30, 2025. Forestar is a majority-owned subsidiary of D.R. Horton, the largest homebuilder by volume in the United States since 2002. For more information, visit www.forestar.com.

Community pricing, features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. 

##

Contact:

Katy Walker

Walker Group

kwalker@wgcmarketing.com

(770) 880-3189

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

Ideal-LIVING Magazine Unveils the 2025 Top 100 Amenity Communities in its “Best Places to Live” Issue

Wilmington, NC – June 2025 – Ideal-LIVING magazine, a leading publication dedicated to guiding individuals in finding their ideal destination, lifestyle, and home, is thrilled to announce its 2025 “Best Places to Live” issue. This special edition proudly unveils its Top 100 Amenity Communities across the nation and abroad, meticulously selected based on extensive reader surveys identifying their most desired amenities and lifestyle preferences.

“Each year, we leverage valuable insights from our readers to identify the most desirable locations and the amenities that truly elevate their quality of life,” says Kelly Godbey, editor of Ideal-LIVING magazine. “This year’s Top 100 Amenity Communities cater to a wide range of preferences, from stunning mountain retreats and sun-kissed coastal escapes to exciting international destinations.”

These carefully curated communities are distinguished by their top-tier offerings, including a diverse array of amenities such as golf courses, tennis and pickleball courts, watersports facilities, extensive hiking and biking trails, state-of-the-art fitness centers, luxurious spas, marinas, and inviting pools. They are chosen for fostering a strong sense of community, promoting healthy living through walkable environments, and often providing the peace of mind that comes with gated security and numerous social clubs. Many offer the convenience of self-contained living with access to restaurants, grocery stores, and crucial proximity to quality medical centers, alongside the appeal of maintenance-free living with beautifully maintained homes.

Ideal-LIVING’s research process meticulously considers the goals of its readership, many of whom seek an escape from high taxes and a yearning for a more favorable climate and a heightened quality of life. Whether your dream involves picturesque mountain vistas in Tennessee, breathtaking coastlines in the Carolinas or Florida, or venturing to exciting international destinations, the “Best Places to Live” issue offers a wealth of possibilities to spark your relocation journey.

Beyond the magazine, Ideal-LIVING provides a robust online presence at ideal-LIVING.com/best-places, allowing you to explore the Top 100 Amenity Communities in detail.

For over 35 years, Ideal-LIVING magazine has empowered its readers with valuable resources and insights for a successful relocation. The magazine is part of RPI Media, a leading media group that offers a comprehensive suite of resources for those considering a move. This includes the in-depth Ideal-LIVING Relocation Guide and the highly regarded Ideal-LIVING Real Estate Shows held throughout the year.

Explore the 2025 “Best Places to Live” issue and the Top 100 Amenity Communities list at ideal-LIVING.com/best-places today!

CONTACT:

Kelly Godbey

KellyG@ideal-LIVING.com

LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla. June 11, 2025 – Neal Communities, southwest Florida’s premier, private homebuilder, will celebrate the grand opening of its Discovery Center on Friday, June 27 from 4:00-6:00 p.m. and a virtual event at noon for those who cannot attend in person.  RSVP is requested for both events at https://on.nealcommunities.com/palm-grove-go/. Two food trucks and dessert will be complimentary while supplies last.

Palm Grove also offers nine decorated models in the 900-home community, featuring single family homes, townhomes and paired villas being built in east Manatee County adjacent to Lake Manatee State Park.

Plans for the community include a centrally located amenity center clubhouse with a social spaces, a fitness center, resort-style and lap pools, pickleball, yoga lawn, tot lot, dog parks and more, which are already under construction. An on-site lifestyle director will also coordinate year-round events.

“Palm Grove is already coming together as an amazing community that showcases the natural beauty of the site,” said Pat Neal, founder and chairman of Neal Communities. “With opportunities ranging from townhouses to villas to single family homes, Palm Grove offers something for every homebuyer.”

The architectural styles of the homes will include British West Indies, farmhouse, coastal and French Colonial. There will be 19 total floorplans offered and nine decorated models available to tour, including five single family floorplans and two each townhome and villa floorplans. In all, there are 15 single family home designs available to build, ranging from 1,533 – 3,483 square feet, two villa options ranging from 1,638 – 1,848 square feet, and two townhouse options that are both 1,790 square feet.  Home prices will start in the low $300s for townhomes, $399,990 for villas and $430,990 for single family homes.

“Completing one of the final phases of the nation’s premier multi-generational master-planned community, Palm Grove is an exciting new place to call home,” said Carlos Puente, vice president of sales and marketing. “Blending Florida Modern–style amenities with a broad selection of homes, this community is thoughtfully designed to welcome all lifestyles.”

Palm Grove is located on the north side of State Road 64, west of Dam Road, and just east of Uihlein Road. The homes will be zones to attend Witt Elementary, Haile Middle and Parrish Community High Schools. Beginning in the Fall of 2025, Lake Manatee School, a new K-8 facility, will open just across SR64 from Palm Grove for students in the community for the upcoming school year.

For more information about Palm Grove, visit www.palmgrovevibes.com.

Contact: Jeff Durosko

jeff@duroskopr.com

412.635.7229

###

About Neal Communities
Neal Communities, based in Lakewood Ranch, Florida, is Southwest Florida’s largest and most established locally owned and operated private builder. During the company’s 55-year history, it has built more than 24,500 new homes in more than 90 acclaimed communities from Tampa to Naples. The company consistently ranks among the nation’s top 100 home builders and has earned numerous awards including the prestigious Builder of the Year from Professional Builder in 2015 and America’s Best Builder in 2012 from BUILDER Magazine. With a core belief that “Where You Live Matters,” Neal Communities has given more than $8.5 million to local charities throughout Southwest Florida and is committed to the communities where they live, work and build. Company revenue in fiscal year 2024 was $800 million.

Additional Neal Communities brands include Neal Signature Homes, Charlene Neal PureStyle, Waterscapes Pools & Spas, Neal Communities Funding and Allegiant Title Professionals. For more information, visit NealCommunities.com.

SARASOTA, FL, June 11, 2025 – Forestar Group Inc. (“Forestar”), one of the largest residential community developers in the nation,  announces the grand opening of The Palm Bar, a new restaurant nestled in the resort campus of Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. With multiple entertainment spaces, including a relaxing outdoor atmosphere with alfresco dining, this location offers the best of Florida-style living. Menu items include tasty foods served hot off the grill and freshly prepared salads paired with frozen and fruity beverages. The grand opening festivities of The Palm Bar were held June 5-7, serving nearly 800 residents and invited guests.

“We are thrilled to open our newest dining experience, The Palm Bar, on our resort campus,” Tony Squitieri, Forestar Region Vice President and West Florida Region Division President. “We have created another resort getaway for our residents and guests to enjoy the fresh air and relaxing dining atmosphere.”

The Palm Bar is located in The Resort Club, the social hub of Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch. The Resort Club is an innovative, amenity-rich campus, including a hospitality-staffed facility, where members explore interests, stay active and connect with friends. The initial phase showcases a resort-style pool and spa, poolside cabanas and beach areas, a pet park, Trade Route Coffee Shop, Star Fit Wellness Complex – Fitness and Performance Centers, community lawn, courtyard and golf cart parking, The Palm Bar, and outdoor activities. The Terrace – Chef’s Patio, events center, and a mail kiosk are planned for future phases.

Surrounded by the natural beauty of Southwest Florida, Star Farms at Lakewood Ranch is a multigenerational lifestyle community that offers a unique experience tailored to residents. The thoughtfully designed, 1,300-acre, gated village is a resort ranch hometown featuring 2,800 single-family homes, paired villa retreats and townhomes with a variety of amenities, clubs and hospitality services. The featured homebuilders in Star Farms showcase numerous floorplans to choose from, ranging from approximately 1,500 to over 5,000 square feet with luxury, custom options available. Positioned as the largest master-planned community within the award-winning Lakewood Ranch, Star Farms is minutes from dining, shopping and cultural activities as well as top-rated beaches.

“Star Farms is a vibrant multigenerational village that offers a diverse range of amenities, designed to enrich the lifestyle of all who call it home,” said Sandy Shahinian, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Lakewood Ranch Communities. “The Palm Bar is yet another example of their unique amenities. It exemplifies our commitment to offer dynamic communities where residents of all ages can thrive.”

Whether exploring new adventures, discovering new passions, meeting new neighbors or finding new ways to connect with nature, Star Farms is an extraordinary place to call home.

Visit www.starfarmslwr.com and join the VIP Club for the latest information.

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.

About Forestar Group Inc.

Forestar Group Inc. is a residential lot development company with operations in 65 markets and 24 states. Based in Arlington, Texas, the Company delivered more than 14,300 residential lots during the twelve-month period ended March 31, 2025. Forestar is a majority-owned subsidiary of D.R. Horton, the largest homebuilder by volume in the United States since 2002. For more information, visit www.forestar.com.

Community pricing, features, terms, availability and amenities are subject to change at any time without notice or obligation. 

##

Contact:

Katy Walker

Walker Group

kwalker@wgcmarketing.com

(770) 880-3189

Sarasota, FL — May 22, 2025 – John Cannon Homes, the premier luxury custom home builder of Southwest Florida, is proud to announce that acclaimed architect and designer Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA, has officially partnered with the John Cannon Homes team.

Wayne Visbeen, founder of Visbeen Architects, is renowned nationally for his timeless, innovative designs that seamlessly blend beauty, function, and livability. His addition marks a new era of creativity and architectural excellence for John Cannon Homes, enhancing our ability to deliver inspired custom homes that exceed client expectations.

“For nearly four decades, John Cannon Homes has been synonymous with craftsmanship, innovation, and client-focused service,” said John Cannon, CEO and President of John Cannon Homes. “Wayne’s extraordinary vision and award-winning designs align perfectly with our commitment to building legacies for generations to come. We’re excited about the future we will create together.”

Wayne Visbeen brings with him a portfolio of nationally recognized work across luxury residential, resort, and commercial projects. His design philosophy emphasizes highly livable, smart, and beautifully detailed spaces — characteristics that align with John Cannon Homes’ tradition of creating residences that feel distinctly personal yet timeless.

“I am thrilled to collaborate with John Cannon Homes, a company that shares my passion for delivering exceptional living experiences,” said Wayne Visbeen. “Together, we’ll continue to push the boundaries of custom home design, blending classic elegance with fresh, contemporary ideas for today’s families.”

Wayne will play a key role in shaping upcoming custom home projects and model designs, bringing new dimensions to John Cannon Homes’ already celebrated portfolio.

For more information, please visit johncannonhomes.com or contact Amy Brown, Marketing Manager, abrown@johncannonhomes.com | 941.924.5935.

Wayne Visbeen, AIA, IIDA – Founder of Visbeen Architects and partner on select John Cannon Homes projects.

Photo courtesy of Visbeen Architects.

About John Cannon Homes

John Cannon Homes is Southwest Florida’s premier custom home builder, with nearly four decades of experience designing and building award-winning luxury residences. Since 1987, the company has constructed more than 2,500 custom homes throughout the region’s most prestigious neighborhoods, earning a reputation for timeless design, impeccable craftsmanship, and personalized service. With a portfolio that spans waterfront estates, golf course homes, and expansive countryside retreats, John Cannon Homes has received more than 450 industry awards and has been honored as the Herald-Tribune’s Community Choice Award winner for Best Builder for 34 consecutive years. From concept to completion, John Cannon Homes is committed to making every client’s vision a lasting legacy.

Strong Acquisitions and Record Revenue Made Dream Finders a Standout Choice

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., April 4, 2025 — Zonda’s BUILDER announced Dream Finders Homes, Inc. (“Dream Finders” or “DFH”) (NYSE: DFH) as the 2025 recipient of the prestigious Builder of the Year award. The award will be presented live at the 37^th annual Builder 100 Leadership Summit in Dana Point, California from May 5-7.

“The Builder of the Year Award is a highly anticipated honor that highlights the top builders in the country,” says Builder editor-in-chief Steve Ladurantaye. “As we evaluated all the candidates for 2025, Dream Finders consistently emerged at the top. We congratulate them on their success and look forward to what the future holds.”

“The most exciting part has been watching our talented employees grow and expand their responsibilities and really help take control of where DFH is heading,” says founder and CEO Patrick Zalupski. “We could not be accomplishing our growth plans if it were not for the great and talented folks we have that take pride in their work every day.”

Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, DFH is a publicly traded and locally operated company. As No. 14 on the 2025 Builder 100 list (full list to be announced April 11), the home builder had a busy 2024 reaching company records of 8,583 closings, a pre-tax income of $438 million, and home building revenues of $4.4 billion, which is an increase of 18% compared to 2023. As of the end of 2024, Dream Finder’s land pipeline included almost 55,000 lots controlled.

DFH sells homes in over 220 communities across 10 states (Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virgina, Maryland).

• DFH acquired Crescent Homes last year, expanding into the markets of Charleston and Greenville in South Carolina and Nashville, Tennessee.  
• In early 2025, DFH entered the Atlanta, Georgia market and expanded further in Greeneville, South Carolina through the acquisition of Liberty Communities.
• DFH acquired the remaining 40% equity interest in its mortgage joint venture, Jet HomeLoans in July 2024, and recently completed the acquisition Cherry Creek Mortgage, LLC. 
• Dream Finders entered the Tampa, Florida market in late 2023, and Phoenix, Arizona market in early 2024; as well as expanded into key markets along Florida’s southeast coast, and extended its reach into Southwest Florida, enhancing its presence in high-demand coastal markets. 
• Net new orders in the fourth quarter of 2024 were 1,611, an increase of 46% compared to 1,106 net new orders for the fourth quarter of 2023.

“It’s not easy to deliver growth year after year and we have grown our business consistently every year for 16 years in a row, and are hopefully on track for growing a 17^th year in 2025,” adds Zalupski.

Previous Builder of the Year winners include United Homes (2024), Ashton Woods (2003), Landsea Homes (2022), Stanley Martin Homes (2021) and Taylor Morrison (2020). A full list of winners and their feature stories can be found on Builder Online. A full magazine profile of Dream Finders Homes will appear in the print edition out later in April.

The Builder 100 Leadership Summit will be held May 5-7 in Dana Point, California. Register here.

Join us at other upcoming events (next: Perspectives on Rates, Housing, Tariffs, and Volume webinar, April 8; Q2 Housing Market Forecast webinar, April 24; Navigating the Multifamily Market webinar, May 1).

Visit ZondaHome.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook for more information.

About Zonda

Zonda provides data-driven housing market solutions to the homebuilding industry. From builders to building product manufacturers, mortgage clients, and multifamily executives, we work hand-in-hand with our customers to streamline access to housing data to empower smarter decisions. As a leading brand in residential construction, our mission is to advance the home building industry, because we believe better homes mean better lives and stronger communities. Together, we are building the future of housing. zondahome.com

About Dream Finders Homes, Inc.

Dream Finders Homes (NYSE: DFH) is a homebuilder based in Jacksonville, Florida. Dream Finders Homes builds single-family homes throughout the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest, including Florida, Texas, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Colorado, Arizona, and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, which comprises Northern Virginia and Maryland. Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, DFH also provides mortgage financing as well as title services to homebuyers. Dream Finders Homes achieves its industry-leading growth and returns by maintaining an asset-light homebuilding model. For more information, please visit dreamfindershomes.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