Homebuyers are demonstrating strong demand for Florida communities centered around Mirada's 15-acre Crystal Lagoon, currently the largest of its kind in the United States. This man-made body of water, located in San Antonio, Florida, north of Tampa, has transformed the master-planned development into a sought-after destination.
Mirada's lagoon surpasses the size of its predecessor, Epperson, another community developed by Metro Development Group, which features a 7.5-acre lagoon. Both developments aim to replicate a luxury resort atmosphere with expansive turquoise waters, beach areas, and ample lounge seating, providing an escape that developers say is a primary draw for prospective residents.
The appeal of the lagoon lifestyle has directly translated into high occupancy rates. Epperson is currently 94% occupied, while Mirada, a newer development, is at 75% occupancy. Homes in Mirada range from townhomes starting at $350,000 to single-family homes priced from $649,000.
Residents in both Mirada and Epperson receive discounted access to the lagoons and their associated water activities. Lisa Gibbings, vice president of corporate affairs for Metro Development Group, stated that the lagoon is a significant factor influencing buyer interest, offering something distinct from traditional neighborhoods.
Beyond swimming, the lagoons provide a variety of recreational options without leaving the community, including paddleboarding, kayaking, a floating water obstacle course, and a swim-up bar. The developer also implements a "Social Hub" program, organizing over 300 events annually to foster community integration among residents. Gibbings highlighted that the lagoon's diverse amenities ensure it appeals to a broad range of individuals and helps new residents quickly establish social connections.
Metro Development Group has been investing in the lagoon concept for nearly a decade, first introducing it at Epperson and subsequently expanding with the larger Mirada lagoon. The company plans to expand this concept to additional Florida communities, with a forthcoming project in Hernando County that will feature a lagoon alongside a lazy river. This ongoing development indicates a sustained belief in the lagoon lifestyle as a comprehensive offering for homebuyers seeking unique community experiences.