Lakewood Ranch posts strong mid-year sales numbers

One of East Manatee’s master-planned communities is on track to be recognized as one of the top sellers again this year, according to a mid-year report from Maryland-based real estate consulting firm RCLCO.

Lakewood Ranch has posted strong sales numbers and a jump to fifth place in the nation for mid-year 2016, according to a release from LWR Communities LLC’s Lisa Barnott.

Last year at the same time, Lakewood Ranch was ranked 12th in the nation for home sales. This year, the community posted 360 new home sales, up from last year’s 264.

“There has been a lot of exciting development and growth in the Florida market throughout 2016 so far,” RCLCO officials said in the release. “With home prices in the Northeast and Midwest rising, empty-nesters are continuing to cash in their home equity and downsize to Florida, which remains the top destination for retiree migration.”

Lakewood Ranch saw better sales in its Bridgewater, Esplanade, Country Club East and The Lake Club communities as well as the newer offerings of Indigo, Harmony, Meritage and Del Webb.

Product diversification is a critical success factor driving sales, Laura Cole, vice president of marketing for Lakewood Ranch, said in the release. The community has benefited from the addition of new builders who offer a wider array of home products and sizes. Prices now range from the high $100,000s to more than $5 million.

RCLCO has ranked master-planned communities since 1994. The top selling master-planned community was The Villages.

This story was originally published July 18, 2016 at 5:19 PM with the headline "Lakewood Ranch posts strong mid-year sales numbers."