Venice and North Port, both located in Sarasota County, are often sought after by individuals looking to maximize their housing budget. To better grasp the distinctions between these two areas and gain insight into what life is like in each, let's explore three key factors that set North Port and Venice apart.

North Port or Venice

Which one aligns with your lifestyle and preference?

 Location

Venice and North Port, both situated within Sarasota County, are distinct from the city of Sarasota itself. Sarasota County encompasses various areas, including Sarasota, Nokomis, Osprey, Venice, North Port, and Englewood. North Port boasts a larger land area compared to Venice, but it's positioned further to the east.

Venice enjoys proximity to the beaches, making it a convenient choice for beach enthusiasts. However, North Port isn't significantly far from the coastline either.

North Port has made strides in expanding its offerings with the addition of shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities. Notably, Sarasota Memorial Health Care System (SMH) is constructing another hospital branch near the Sumter exit, Exit 182.

Venice stands out with its array of upscale dining options, vibrant art scene, and cultural attractions. It also benefits from its proximity to Sarasota, providing residents with easy access to a wider range of amenities. On the other hand, if these cultural aspects are less important to you, North Port provides ample resources to meet your daily needs without requiring extensive travel.

 Wellen Park

Wellen Park is a relatively new master-planned community located in the North Port and Venice area, situated along Tamiami Trail (41). This community offers a range of newer homes and ongoing new construction projects. It is known for its impressive community amenities, shopping options, restaurants, and a variety of community events. It's worth noting that while Wellen Park often appears to be located in Venice, the majority of the community is actually situated within North Port, despite having a Venice mailing address.

In the past, around 8-9 years ago, there may have been some debate over whether to classify the area as North Port or Venice. However, the community has since taken on the name Wellen Park and continues to develop and grow, offering an attractive blend of amenities and housing options for residents in the North Port and Venice region.

When it comes to the lovely communities in the area, it's essential to differentiate between North Port and Venice, especially when discussing specific neighborhoods. Sarasota National, Grand Palm, and Stoneybrook are indeed charming communities that fall within the city of Venice.

However, the evolving and vibrant community of Wellen Park, formerly known as West Villages, spans both North Port and Venice, despite having a Venice mailing address for a significant portion of the area. To avoid any confusion and ensure clear communication, please don't hesitate to specify Wellen Park when expressing your interest in this unique and thriving region. Sometimes, the mental association with the old Florida section of North Port can lead to a mix-up, so clarifying your preferences can help streamline your real estate journey.

Properties and Prices

When comparing North Port to Venice, it's essential to provide a clear picture of each area's distinct characteristics and property options. For Venice, you'll find a diverse range of housing choices:

1. Condos and Villas: Venice offers a variety of condo and villa options, catering to different preferences and lifestyles.

2. Older Homes without HOA: Some areas in Venice feature older homes that do not have homeowners' associations (HOA). These properties may use well and septic systems or have county water and septic setups.

3. Newer and Older Communities with HOAs: Venice also boasts numerous communities with well-maintained homes and HOAs. These neighborhoods typically have access to public utilities, including county water and sewer services.

To give you an idea of median sale prices in Venice:

• Including all properties: $420,000

• Single-Family Homes (SFH): $500,000

• Condos/Villas: $345,000

This breakdown provides valuable insights into the Venice real estate market and helps you understand the pricing landscape within the city.

In North Port, you'll find a diverse mix of housing options and neighborhoods, which contributes to its unique real estate landscape:

1. Homes without HOA: The majority of homes in North Port are without a homeowners' association (HOA), providing a more relaxed living experience for those who prefer minimal restrictions.

2. Few Neighborhoods with HOA: While North Port has limited neighborhoods with HOAs, notable communities like Heron Creek Golf & Country Club, Del Webb, and Centex offer residents a range of amenities and services.

Here's a breakdown of median sale prices in North Port:

• Including all properties: $357,000

• Single-Family Homes (SFH): $364,000

• Condos/Villas: $215,000

It's important to note that while the median sale price for SFHs is $364,000, certain communities like Del Webb may have higher price points due to their desirable amenities and features. Understanding these distinctions helps prospective buyers make informed decisions about North Port's real estate offerings.

Conclusion:

Experiencing a place firsthand is often the best way to truly understand its atmosphere and whether it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle. If you're considering a move to North Port, Venice, or any other area in Sarasota County, don't hesitate to reach out. I'd be happy to assist you in exploring these communities, answering your questions, and helping you find the perfect place to call home. Feel free to contact me anytime for guidance and support in your real estate journey.