Tampa area with scottsdale Az as reference point

[AhHah]

Another vote for Fishhawk for all the reasons put forward in previous messages.

[stumble]

I would agree with Lakeland as an option. Anywhere from Lake Hollingsworth South to the Highlands Area. Pretty Live Oak Canopy neighborhoods near the Collins Ave area.

[upgrader]

Coming from out of state, you really need to consider what's going on in any Florida housing association that you join. Fishhawk sounds nice, but if I were you, I'd research the CDD/Association situation there.

From CDD - The Hidden Cost of Living specifically:

"As these developments flourish, an increasing number of home buyers complain they weren't told the true costs before signing their closing contract.

Near Brandon, residents in FishHawk Ranch pay $950 a year to maintain award-winning landscaping, miles of trails that wind beneath the shade of giant oak trees and a water park that could occupy a 6-year-old for hours.

But Roger Snipes, who moved into the community in 1999, said the next time he buys a house, it won't be in a CDD.

'I knew about the CDD when I went there, but I didn't expect an increase," he said. "I was told that it wouldn't change for 22 years'."

Originally Posted by AhHah

Another vote for Fishhawk for all the reasons put forward in previous messages.

[Goofyyno]

Upgrader,
I appreciate the warning, Although I'm not sure it is so different from where I live. I am in a gated community called Grawhawk and pay about $2400/year for maintenance of all the paths, parks and public areas. They do maintain our front yards and paint the houses every 5-7 years. as well as pay the guards. I hate the HOA rules but my wife appreciates the safety. and my dogs like the the paths.