Zero lot line communities have become the trending residential concept designed to meet an evolving style of living. From recent graduates starting their careers to the newly retired seeking to downsize, zero lot line neighborhoods are the place where community and convenience meet.
Gainesville’s growing population
In 2020, more than 37,000 students from outside of Alachua County attended the University of Florida’s physical campus. Millions of students have flocked to Gainesville to attend UF’s highly ranked educational programs, unmatched athletic organizations and cutting-edge research initiatives, and they have contributed to the college town’s major transformation over the past 10 years. Student housing developments and apartment complexes warmly welcomed a younger demographic and dominated the real estate landscape.
Greater Gainesville has undergone major development and economic growth in recent years. New businesses and entrepreneurial opportunities have attracted a healthy stream of diverse newcomers and also enticed graduates to stay post-college. UF and Santa Fe College have forged various professional partnerships in an effort to keep graduate talent local.
No longer just a college town, the evolving demographic has shifted residential needs from student housing to convenient communities for budding professionals. When people in their mid-20s and early 30s outgrow student housing but are not yet ready for homeownership, young professionals seek out a residential lifestyle that is cost-effective, conveniently located and provide a slew of amenities.
From 2010 to 2020, Gainesville’s population grew by nearly 8%, according to the U.S. Census. In an effort to accommodate the rising population’s desire to be centrally located, residential developers have discovered how to maximize the city’s living space. Bustling economic corridors, such as along Archer and Newberry roads, can accommodate more residential communities by reducing individual lot size and building units up instead of out.
Expansive outdoor shopping meccas like Celebration Pointe and Butler Plaza have revitalized Archer Road and created an appealing area for vibrant lifestyles. Condominium developments including the Vue at Celebration Pointe and The Gables are not only conveniently located to prime shopping and entertainment but are also in the perfect location for young professionals trying to reduce a commute. Career resources site Zippia ranked Gainesville No. 1 in its list, Best City in Each State to Start Your Career, in 2018. Gainesville abounds with opportunity, propels successful small and local businesses and has been the launching point for many new and innovative industries. Beautiful new town centers and shopping plazas are attracting new companies and increasing employment opportunities. UF President Dr. Kent Fuchs has created 500 new faculty positions as part of his effort to become one of the leading educational institutions in the nation.
An evolving demographic
With a subtropical climate, low cost of living and lack of state taxes, Greater Gainesville has become an attractive retirement destination. According to the U.S. Census, nearly 15% of people in Alachua County were ages 65 and older in 2020. That percentage is expected to climb in the coming years, and many seniors move into a new home after retirement and reduce living expenses.
With advanced healthcare and medical institutions accessible locally, as well as groundbreaking research programs, many Gainesville natives have decided to age in place and downsize rather than move away for retirement. Condominium and townhome developments are ideal for the senior demographic’s low home maintenance needs and a sense of community. Complete with comfortable amenities and golf course access, condos and townhomes offer an affordable way to downsize without losing an accustomed standard of living. Rob Lester, a resident at Links at Haile Plantation, said he enjoys the neighborhood’s “low maintenance living that gives more time to play and enjoy all of the aspects of the neighborhood.”
A life of convenience
Zero-lot line living is not a new concept, but in recent years, more and more residents have discovered its benefits. The manual cost of homeownership surrounded by nature could mean precious weekends lost to mowing, raking and tree trimming, and swooping boughs can threaten roofs in bad weather. Guided by the community’s Homeowner’s Association, landscaping responsibilities are conveniently removed from the to-do list. This elected neighborhood committee is dedicated to the appearance of the community and the preservation of neighborhood standards and property value.
Varying from community to community, these developments are often equipped with modest to luxurious amenities usually consisting of at least one community pool, fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, playground and clubhouse access. Community-sponsored events and festivals are often hosted throughout the year to bring the neighbors together.
“With a much lower purchasing cost, zero-lot-line homes are more easily attainable,” said Hillary Glanzer Santos of Glanzer Realty. From townhouses to single-family homes, residences in zero lot line communities can range from $100,000 to over $300,000, making homeownership affordable to a diverse demographic and income scope. Low-interest rates and various incentives for first-time homebuyers have flooded the market with buyers and boosted the selling power for sellers. Condominium communities are selling out before they are even complete.
The Vue at Celebration Pointe backs up to a 700-acre conservation area. With resort-style amenities such as a gas firepit and walk-in hot tub, the community curates a luxurious lifestyle. It is perfectly situated within walking distance to the new outdoor center featuring entertainment, shopping and dining, and it regularly hosts events and live music. For more information about The Vue at Celebration Pointe, visit celebrationpointe.com/thevue/#home.
The Gables is a beautiful tree-shaded, 24-hour gated community conveniently located on Archer Road. Each home ranges from one to three bedrooms and is complete with a one-car garage and screened-in patio. The community boasts amenities such as a pool and hot tub, 24-hour fitness center and a newly renovated community room. For more information about The Gables, visit thegablesatgainesville.com/.
Moving out West
Westward growth and new residential developments have made Jonesville a highly sought-after area. Beautiful condominium communities including Arbor Greens and Tara at West End are conveniently located on Newberry Road. Residents are close to Tioga Town Center and can take advantage of its great shopping, dining options and medical and fitness centers. Situated to the west of Interstate 75, these developments are far enough away from the bustle of metropolitan Gainesville but still amidst the growing action.
Arbor Greens was one of the first zero lot line communities to break ground in Jonesville. The gated neighborhood has a pool and hot tub, tennis courts and a dog park. From small families to retirees, a diverse group of residents call this community home. For more information on Arbor Greens, visit arborgreens.com/.
Tara at West End is a brand-new luxury townhouse and single-home community by Maronda Homes. With two swimming pools and a tennis court, units run around the $240,000 range, but the HOA fees cost less than in some of the other communities. For more information on Tara at West End, visit marondahomes.com/fl/newberry/tara-west-end-townhomes-32669.html.
Just east of Tioga on the corner of Newberry and Parker Roads lies the beautiful new apartment complex, Noble on Newberry. Its contemporary apartments and luxury amenities bring an elevated community lifestyle to Greater Gainesville. Noble on Newberry caters to residents’ diverse needs and ensures a unique living experience. Residents can relax resort-style in the zero-entry pool, hang out in the poolside cabanas or lie in one of the hammocks over the sand area. The cornhole area, two playgrounds and in-house bike storage rooms cater to the active lifestyles of their residents, and the grab-and-go cafe, rentable office space and boardroom speak to the professionals. The contemporary art room lounge, billiards room complete with poker table and a free-to-play arcade featuring games such as pinball and Galaga provide plenty of on-site entertainment. With commercial space in front of the building, restaurants and other businesses are slated to come to the area soon. For more information on Noble on Newberry, visit nobleonnewberry.com/.