If lagoon living sounds like paradise, consider Mirada, a master-planned community (MPC) near Tampa with homes priced between $300K and $900K.
According to NewHomeSource data, Mirada sits as the biggest mover quarter-over-quarter among the 20 MPC best sellers nationwide.
In fact, Mirada is now the third best-selling MPC in Florida, up from 5th last quarter.
“Located about 45 minutes north of downtown Tampa, Mirada is a master-planned community that has caught the attention of homebuyers with its unique, resort-style living,” said Ali Wolf, chief economist for NewHomeSource. “While Tampa boasts miles of coastline, living near the ocean is often prohibitively expensive. The community's man-made lagoon (the largest in the country) offers a more affordable alternative, providing residents with a beach-like experience right in their backyard.”
Mirada’s success can be attributed to key data points of the community:
• Lifestyle. Lifestyle is at the core of Mirada. The community is home to America’s largest lagoon. According to NHS data, MPCs with crystal lagoons sell two to three times faster than those without.
• A wide variety of buyers. Mirada features townhomes under 2,000 square feet, up to single-family detached homes of nearly 5,000 square feet, perfect for growing families. In addition, Mirada contains active adult communities constructed by builders such as Lennar. 55-plus communities in MPCs sell 62% faster than those in standalone communities, according to NHS data.
• Builder Diversity. Public builders dominate the community, but local builders like Homes by WestBay are also active. In both cases, NewHomeSource data shows local builders are cutting prices and offering generous incentives to drive today’s levels of sales.
One of the notable builders in Mirada is D.R. Horton, which has been active in the MPC since its inception.
"D.R. Horton was one of the original builders in Mirada when it first opened for sales approximately four years ago," said Frank Messina, division president for D.R. Horton’s Tampa division.
"Mirada has consistently been one of our bestselling local communities due to its prime location on SR 52 just off I-75, in addition to the 15-acre lagoon amenity and the abundant wetlands and conservation areas throughout. We currently offer five different series of floorplans in Mirada with a home for every stage in life, whether it be a first-time buyer, move-up buyer, empty nesters or retirees."
Another builder participating in Mirada is Maronda Homes, which specializes in townhomes for the MPC.
"Mirada is the only family-owned builder in the Mirada Lagoon Community, featuring luxury living at an affordable price, said a Maronda Homes spokesperson. "Our St. Sebastian townhome design is curated for those who enjoy leading a low-maintenance, yet active, elevated lifestyle, with endless amenities offered right outside their doorstep."
The Appeal of Mirada
“What makes Mirada particularly appealing to today's consumers is its established nature,” said Wolf. “Unlike many new developments, Mirada is no longer a sprawling construction site. Residents can enjoy the community's extensive amenities without the daily noise and disruption of ongoing building.
“In the current market, builders in Mirada have been willing to negotiate with buyers. Some have offered significant price reductions, with discounts of 20% or more. As these home prices have become more accessible, consumers have recognized the value and seized the opportunity to buy into this unique lifestyle community.”
The Bottom Line: With its massive lagoon, diverse housing options, and builder incentives, Mirada has transformed into one of Florida’s fastest-rising master-planned communities by offering resort-style living at an accessible price.
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