Decided on Gran Paradiso (Venice, Villas: appliances, tile, clubhouse)

[duffer47]

After looking at models of Villas by different builders, I decided on Gran Paradiso. I felt the floor plans by Lennar to be far better. It is true that Lennar does not offer alot of options. One option I did choose was tile throughout the living area rather than carpet. However, I also found that Lennar gives you alot of standard features (such as crown moulding, stainless steel appliances, higher 9 ft 4 in. ceilings, wifi connected doorlocks and thermostats, sliding door in master bedroom to linai to name a few), that other builders wanted to charge extra to add such options.The value for the buck was greater with Lennar. Also there is an awesome clubhouse and pool. The Italian architecture and theme (as street names) add to the atmosphere of the community. Prices will continue to rise in the Venice area as more baby boomers head South. Of course it all depends on what you want but I feel it was a good decision for me.

[duffer47]

pool is completed and should soon be ready to use. Also clubhouse is done, fitness center is open.

[JJGittes65]

Please post some pictures of the community. I'd love to see them. This development is on our short list.

[SoFLGal]

Duffer, wondering what your thoughts on Gran Paradiso were as compared to IslandWalk, across the street. I brought several clients through both places recently and both chose IslandWalk. Just curious why you selected Gran Paradiso. Also, who did you go with as a builder, Lennar? My clients didn't like the lack of options with Lennar and the fact that most of the community is not finished, as compared to IslandWalk.

[duffer47]

To SoFlGal. As I stated in my previous post I liked the floor plans of the Villas by Lennar at Gran Paradiso far better than Islandwalk. The standard features that Lennar gives are usually additional cost add ons by other builders (crown moulding, higher ceilings, stainless steel appliances etc.). I also like the Italian theme throughout the community with a beautiful clubhouse and a huge attractive pool. I was also not impressed by some of the lakefront lots shown me with neighbors directly across the lake at Islandwalk.. My lakefront lot at Gran Paradiso has a nature preserve across from me. Lennar was also able to me me a break on the cost of the lot. The development of Gran Paradiso by three builders will also add to its' variety and uniqueness. I know that some want the ability to add many different options. Of course, this can add up to a considerable extra cost. With the standard features Lennar provided, at lower cost, it was the right choice for me.

[duffer47]

To JJ Gittes65... check website lennargranparadiso.com/Home/VideoTour

[SoFLGal]

Originally Posted by duffer47

To SoFlGal. As I stated in my previous post I liked the floor plans of the Villas by Lennar at Gran Paradiso far better than Islandwalk. The standard features that Lennar gives are usually additional cost add ons by other builders (crown moulding, higher ceilings, stainless steel appliances etc.). I also like the Italian theme throughout the community with a beautiful clubhouse and a huge attractive pool. I was also not impressed by some of the lakefront lots shown me with neighbors directly across the lake at Islandwalk.. My lakefront lot at Gran Paradiso has a nature preserve across from me. Lennar was also able to me me a break on the cost of the lot. The development of Gran Paradiso by three builders will also add to its' variety and uniqueness. I know that some want the ability to add many different options. Of course, this can add up to a considerable extra cost. With the standard features Lennar provided, at lower cost, it was the right choice for me.

Perfect! I like to hear varied points of view on the different developments. When I'm selling these areas feedback is very valuable to me and potential clients. I agree with many of your comments. Thanks for your feedback!