Considering the red-hot real estate market in Sarasota and Manatee counties, it’s no surprise the Founders Club, a gated, luxury golf community, just east of I-75 on Fruitville Road in Sarasota, had strong sales in 2021, selling 36 homesites and three model homes—many to buyers from nontraditional markets on the west coast. Signature golf club membership also capped out.  

Melissa Dovey, sales executive at The Founders Club, pointed to some familiar buyer motives: a better climate with year-round outdoor living and an escape from state taxes. Other buyers fast-forwarded their retirements and moved south earlier than planned. 

The Founders Club is kicking off 2022 with another homesite sale, including seven available vacant lots starting at $620,000 with a choice of luxury homebuilders, including John Cannon Homes and London Bay. Homesites range from nearly half an acre to almost one acre and overlook lakes, nature preserves and fairways along the golf course.