Founders Club (Sarasota, Bradenton, Laurel: homes, neighborhood, theatre)

[nyc_rocker]

What can you tell me about the Founders Club. I've been looking in Lakewood Ranch and will soon look at FC. Is it stable, teetering? What about the country club itself? Good shape? In trouble? Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks.

[SoFLGal]

Hi There-Here's something I wrote about The Founder's Club. The golf course is private and only allows 275 members, is 18 holes and is a Robert Trent Jones, Jr signature course. I was out there last week and everything seemed fine but I can't comment as to if the community is in trouble. I have seen some pretty good deals in there lately though.

I would say that The Founder's Club is a little more private than LWR, except for maybe The Lake Club or The Polo Club out in Lakewood. If you are looking for this type of commuity it might also be worth while checking out The Concession in Bradenton they have a Jack Nicklaus golf course and private country club. Laurel Oak or Prestancia in Sarasota are two more options. They are both private, gated golfing communities. If you wanted to look a little south but still in Sarasota county I would recommend checking out The Oaks in Osprey.

The Founder’s Club raises the bar for the most private and exclusive neighborhood in Sarasota. For those who want modern convenience but old fashioned ambiance, this is the place.
Traditional homes on a grand scale are built by a few notable builders including John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington Homes, Marc Ruttenberg Homes, Pruett Builders, Inc, Taylor Woodrow Homes and Todd Johnston Homes. All of these builders are associated with homes of the very highest caliber.
The Founder’s Club reveres the long tradition associated with Scottish links golf and is limited to 275 golf memberships. Golfing here is an art form, complete with professional caddies and no requirement for tee times. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., this classic course is for the serious golfer is set in the midst of ancient oak trees, natural Florida pines and wetlands and encompasses many lakes. In fact, over 90 acres of The Founder’s Club was left untouched so that the old oak hammocks, wetlands and stands of pines preserve the pristine surroundings.
Only 262 luxury homes will be spread out over the 700 acres at The Founder’s Club so each homeowner has space to express his individual architectural plan. Most of the homesites overlook the golf course, while some have a preserve view. Homes in The Founder’s Club begin at around $1 million.
The true country club atmosphere is embraced here with a luxurious clubhouse and a plethora of social activities and fine dining. Enjoy the refined elegance of this pampered lifestyle. The staff and concierge are at your service.
In addition to golf, members enjoy health and fitness activities, classes and personal training. Get a massage, change your diet, improve your golf game, play a game of tennis or just socialize with other people who share your tastes. Refresh yourself with a cool drink on the elegant veranda with a charming fireplace overlooking the 18th hole. Volleyball, basketball and a picnic area are also available. The superior service and amenities will make you feel as if you had a full staff of servants.

Away from the city crowds east of I-75, The Founder’s Club is like living in a park with winding roads and wonderful old oak trees. When you want to partake of all the art shows, cultural events, opera, theatre, and symphonies, you are still only 15 minutes from vibrant downtown Sarasota. Siesta Key beach with its powdery white sand is also an easy drive. Have the best of both worlds---the city and the country.

[Big House]

Wow, as usual SoFLGal has more information on what's what in SWFL than anyone!

I have a book called the 50 greatest golf courses to play before I die. I'll have to check to see if it is in there. I know several Robert Trent Jones Golf Courses are in there!