Any good FM neighborhoods that are not gated? (Fort Myers, Punta Gorda: rental, HOA)

[bildoug]

Just move into a 12 month rental during which time I will looking for a home to purchase. I am overwhelmed at the number of gated communities which are nice, disney-like areas that seem to lack a personality.

Where would I find non gated areas (safe) north of Colonial?

[floridagirl1981]

There's an area which I'm pretty sure is N of Colonial, called Florimond Manor. It's zoned agricultural and has a nice feel. No gate, no HOA even. When hubby and I were looking for a house last year we really liked it, but it was a bit out of our price range. Homes were about 150K at that time but are probably a little lower now.
Good luck!

[floridagirl1981]

Actually looking at a map I see I am wrong. Florimond is actually just south of Colonial. Anyway you should also look into the neighborhoods off McGregor. I've had friends who lived in that area, it's nice and safe. There are lots of homes on streets like Moreno that are not in any subdivision. There are also deed-restricted (but not gated) subdivisions like Whiskey Creek.
I will warn you, homes in the McGregor area tend to be older and also you are close to the river, so expect to pay a bit more for insurance.
I totally agree with you on the Disney issue. I live in an area without a gate now and love it. No more stressing when friends come over - Do they have the gate code? What if it isn't working and they can't get in? etc etc

[justNancy]

Without more information about your price range and needs, it's very difficult to make suggestions. North of Colonial will most likely be N. Fort Myers. Punta Gorda is only about 20 minutes from Colonial/41. To get to Buckingham, which is a country setting, you travel north on I-75 and go east. Are you sure you mean "north of Colonial?"

Originally Posted by floridagirl1981

No more stressing when friends come over - Do they have the gate code? What if it isn't working and they can't get in? etc etc

That type of gate provides false security, especially if the codes aren't changed regularly. However, a manned gate with a security guard can be a plus, depending on the area in which you live. However, I completely understand why someone doesn't want to live in a cookie-cutter community with an HOA. It's a personal choice.

[kroeran]

I like the look of Danforth Lakes, off Palimino, for working local family oriented, non gated, beside Paseo. Maybe one or two exits too far south for the OP. No fuss simple clubhouse and pool. The whole operation screams "sensible".

We are so out of the way down at this end of town, the Paseo gate is likely a waste of money...though I like it none the less, especially being a part timer. The ladies like being able to go for a walk after dark without worries.

[bildoug]

To clarify...the area I'm interested in would be north of Colonial and east (or South) of the river. I suppose the eastern boundary would be Leheigh.

[hiknapster]

Best bet north of Colonial is like Floridagirl said, off of McGregor Boulevard. Tons of charm in that area. Prices can be fairly high, like she said.