Author: Jasmine

  • Where we Build: New Homes in Southwest Florida

    Where we Build: New Homes in Southwest Florida

    For 50 years we’ve been building exciting new homes in Southwest Florida’s most sought-after communities. Now, here’s a quick look at the stunning areas we build in—places you’ll love coming home to!

     

    Bradenton Beach, FL
    New homes in Bradenton, Florida

    The largest city in Manatee County and known as “The Friendly City of Florida,” Bradenton includes many cultural gems. For example, the South Florida Museum, Bishop Planetarium and the picturesque Bradenton Riverwalk. Here, residents will enjoy sparkling beaches on the shores of Anna Maria Island, Cortez fishing village, championship golf courses and LECOM Park. Furthermore, surrounding Bradenton are the historic towns of Parrish and Palmetto. New Neal homes in Bradenton, Florida, start from the low $200s. View communities

     

    Master-planned community Lakewood Ranch
    New homes in Lakewood Ranch, Florida

    Lakewood Ranch—the #1 multi-gen community in the U.S. and the 2nd best-selling community in the U.S.—is a great place to live! Here residents will enjoy a charming town center, A-rated schools, renowned golf courses and sports campuses, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center and more. Two private, gated Neal communities—Indigo and Windward—are located here, with our new homes in Lakewood Ranch starting in the upper $200s. View communities

    Sarasota, Florida downtown skyline on the bay
    New homes in Sarasota, Florida

    Ranked as one of the Best Places to Live by U.S. News & World Report! First of all, Sarasota offers a unique mix of arts, culture, fine dining, circus history and Gulf coast beaches. Secondly, Sarasota boasts a thriving job market led by healthcare, small business and real estate. Additionally, top-rated schools, world-famous beaches, charming shops on Saint Armand’s Circle, nature parks and more are just some reasons to call Sarasota home. New Neal homes in Sarasota, Florida, start from the mid $200s. View communities

     

    Sunset at the pier of Venice, Florida
    New homes in Venice, Flordia

    Located in Sarasota County with breathtaking views of Florida’s Gulf coast, Venice is known as the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World.” Nature lovers of all kinds will enjoy life here, from bird watching in Oscar Scherer State Park to nightly sunset celebrations from the Venice Jetty. New Neal homes in the Southwest Florida city of Venice start from the mid $200s.  View communities

     

    US 41 bridges connecting Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte
    New homes in Port Charlotte, Florida

    It’s no wonder why Port Charlotte is consistently ranked among the nation’s top communities for retirees. Firstly, at Charlotte Harbor, water activities abound on the Gulf of Mexico and Tippecanoe Environmental Park is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, Port Charlotte is the spring training home for the Tampa Bay Rays. These new Neal homes in Southwest Florida are coming soon to the private, gated community of Kings Gate.  View community

     

    Sunrise over Fort Myers canal
    New homes in Fort Myers, Florida

    With pristine the beaches of Sanibel and Captiva, family-friendly attractions of Cape Coral and the spirit of Thomas Edison’s and Henry Ford’s winter estates, Fort Myers is one of Florida’s most popular cities. In addition, it is the commercial center of Lee County, with corporate campuses and JetBlue Park. However, it maintains a charming hometown feel thanks to boutique art galleries, public dog parks and Six Mile Cypress Slough, a nature-filled conservation area with elevated boardwalk. New Neal homes in Fort Myers, Florida, start from the mid $200s. View communities

     

    5th Avenue South in Old Naples
    New homes in Naples, Florida

    Considered the Crown Jewel of Southwest Florida, Naples boasts stunning sunsets, unique shopping and alfresco dining on Fifth Avenue South, championship golf, and world-renowned Gulf beaches. Additionally, it is not far from Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. Furthermore, the landmark Naples Pier, and Artis—Naples, home of Naples Philharmonic and The Baker Museum, are must-visits for locals and visitors alike. These new Neal homes in Southwest Florida start from the upper $200s.  View communities

     

    Building new homes in Southwest Florida for 50 years

    As an experienced, family-owned, home builder and developer, Neal Communities has built over 15,000 new homes over the past 50 years in some of Southwest Florida’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Contact us today to learn more about new homes in Southwest Florida!

     

  • New Home in Venice, Florida — Move in to Milano today!

    New Home in Venice, Florida — Move in to Milano today!

    Only one chance remains to live in one of Southwest Florida’s most sought-after communities. Above all, Milano features a coveted coastal lifestyle and stunning new homes in Venice, Florida—and this final Tidewater floorplan could be yours today!

     

    Milano North Venice, Florida

    Carefree living at Milano

    If you’re looking for a new home in Venice, Florida, there’s no better chance to own than Milano. And you’ll find this maintenance-assisted, closeout community has everything you could want to live the laid-back, coastal lifestyle you’re dreaming of.

    Milano’s amenity center with clubhouse and outdoor pavilion is a bustling hub of activity. Here, you’ll discover an ever-changing list of activities planned by the on-site Activities Director. While a resort-style pool is perfect for lounging or swimming laps. What’s more, pickleball and bocce ball courts are great places to connect with neighbors. And walking along miles of trails beside beautiful ponds or to the neighborhood dog park is a relaxing way to end each day.

     

    Milano Tidewater
    Your New Home in Venice, Florida

    The Tidewater, a quick move-in Milano model home, is fully furnished and ready for easy Florida living. This twin villa-style home, designed by Neal Communities and decorated by Charlene Neal, features inviting open living spaces.

    First, you’ll notice how entertaining is sure to be a breeze thanks to an open great room with coffered ceiling, spacious dining area and gourmet island kitchen. And you can easily enjoy outdoor living on the covered lanai, located just through the great room’s sliding glass doors. Plus, the master suite bedroom features two closets and a bath with dual sink vanities, walk-in shower and private water closet. Use the second bedroom with walk-in closet as a guest room, conveniently located close to a full bath. And the den is a perfect place for a home office, featuring beautiful French doors. Finally, the home’s prime location in the maintenance-assisted community of Milano makes it an excellent choice for a new home in Venice, Florida, for a small family, individual or as a vacation home.

    Residence Details:

    • 1,524 square feet of living space
    • 2 bedrooms plus den, 2 baths, 2-car garage
    • Private lanai
    • Fully-furnished model home
    • Maintenance-assisted living
    • Priced at $352,990

     

    Milano Amenities
    Why buy in a closeout community?

    Because a major benefit of buying in a fully-furnished new home in Venice, Florida, is that this charming community will also be complete. This means that neighborhood amenities like parks, trails, pools and the exceptional community clubhouse will be fully built out. And the community will feel like home from the moment you first walk through the door!

     

    Start making memories at Milano

    The memories you make here will last forever, but this incredible opportunity won’t last! And because these tours are by appointment only, schedule your tour of this charming villa home today.

     

     

    Quick move-in homes in Southwest Florida

    Ready to make your move? Neal Communities has many other quick move-in homes available now throughout Southwest Florida. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

  • 4 Steps to Virtual Homebuying

    4 Steps to Virtual Homebuying

    At Neal Communities, we make virtual homebuying easy – your new construction home journey starts here!

     

    Step 1 - step inside for a virtual tour

    View Quick Move-in Homes

    Ready to Move Forward?

  • Summer Home Maintenance Tips

    Summer Home Maintenance Tips

    Home maintenance doesn’t take the summer off! Which is why we’ve rounded up our top 5 summer home maintenance tips to help keep your new home in great shape.

     

    Maintenance Tip #1: Inspect your air conditioner

    Summer is the busiest time for your air conditioner, especially for Southwest Florida homeowners like ours, which is why this is a great time to make sure they’re running well. So if you haven’t already, replace or remove and clean your AC unit’s filter per manufacturer instructions and be sure to have your central AC system inspected by a professional at least once a year.

    woman checking air conditioner

     

    Maintenance Tip #2: Check your detectors

    This summer home maintenance tip could even save your life! Check your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with the change of every season—it’s a great habit to get into.

     

    Maintenance Tip #3: Keep sinks fresh and clean

    Without checking in on your kitchen sink regularly, it can become smelly and clogged. Try running lemon juice or vinegar ice cubes down the disposal to keep it smelling fresh.

     

    Maintenance Tip #4: Clean your outdoor cooker

    Give your grill a deep cleaning to enjoy outdoor eating all summer long.

    • For gas grills, turn the heat up high and leave the lid closed for 30 minutes. After the grill cools, brush it off with a grill brush. Wipe down the grill’s exterior with a damp sponge and a gentle cleanser. Don’t forget to clean the grill’s drip pans!
    • For charcoal grills, empty the grill completely and wipe out any residue. Then clean it inside and out with hot water and some liquid dishwashing soap. Be sure to let the grill dry completely before your next use.

     

    Maintenance Tip #5: Care for your plants

    Longer days provide extra time to spend making sure your yard is looking its best. After all, an overgrown lawn can lead to animal and bug infestations, choke out existing plants, and reduce curb appeal. Spending some time mowing, weeding, and caring for your Florida yard can make a big difference!

    Find the home of your dreams this summer

    From spacious single-family homes to just-right-sized villas, Neal Communities builds exceptional new homes in southwest Florida. Spend the rest of your summer sitting back on your private lanai, enjoying the natural beauty and exciting amenities our communities have to offer. Contact us today for more information!

  • Creating a Coastal Home

    Creating a Coastal Home

    A coastal-styled home is absolutely necessary for the summertime. Nautical decorations can give you that beach home feel all season long. Take a look at some of our favorite coastal inspired decor that will have you feeling like you’re right on the water.

    Voluspa Maison Candle

    Voluspa’s Casa Pacifica candle takes us back to the beach with marine-like notes. The scent is made up of a blend of California driftwood, sea salt and shore brush. Set this candle in an open space, such as a great room, so it can fill up the entire house. You better order two of these so you have a second one on-deck after the first runs out.

    White Spike Coral

    Carefully modeled after the artful form of natural spike coral, this sculptural cast-resin object lends an aquatic note to any space. It’s the perfect addition to a mantel or table!

    Barefoot Dreams Throw

    Relax and take comfort in the velvety softness of the CozyChic Lite knit throw blanket. Simplicity and style with a luxurious touch makes this blanket perfect all year round. The pearl, sand and pewter colors will compliment any neutral toned couch for the warmer months.

    Monteith Blue Cloche Bottles

    This trio of glass bottles would make a simple yet elegant statement atop a coffee table. You could also use them to keep chilled water at the dinner table rather than getting up to refill a glass. There’s no wrong way to use them! The complementary hues will bring out any blue or green tones throughout whatever room you place them in.

    Glass and Iron Lantern

    With elegant simplicity, this metal candle lantern strikes the right chord to create a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere. The metal framework features soft white paint and a domed roof with a wide loop at the top. Clear glass panels let the light of your favorite candle shine through. Set these around your lanai or pool to brighten up the space. These lanterns look chic in both day and night.

    It only takes a couple pieces to brighten up your home for the summer. Tag us on Instagram at @nealcommunities if you have some nautical decor in your home!

  • Linger Under Your Lanai

    Linger Under Your Lanai

    Lanais are an essential space for all Florida homes. But if you live in a region that is especially cold or subject to rain, you might not be familiar with them. In its simplest definition, a lanai is similar to a porch: it has a roofed entrance yet remains open to the elements. While porches are typically located in the front of the home, lanais reside exclusively at the back of the home. Lanais originated in Hawaii, but they’ve become a fixture of stunning living spaces worldwide. They have been widely associated with a connection to nature and the pursuit of a life well-lived. At Neal Communities, all of our homes are built with lanais for your using pleasure.

    There are countless ways to style a lanai. When designing, stick to bright shades that will complement the outdoors. You’ll also want to get weather-proof furniture and classic options like wicker or rattan to heighten your lanai’s vacation aesthetic. Roll out a patterned outdoor rug to define the seating arrangements, and space out plants for color and texture. Finally, arrange pillows that will encourage settling in. With a space that inviting, you’ll never want to leave.

    Once you have your lanai decorated, it’s time to enjoy. See below to for a guide on the many purposes a lanai can serve in your home!

    Gardening If you’ve got a green thumb, consider planting an outdoor garden. Set out planters in an area with partial sunlight and select herbs and flowers that thrive in your region’s climate. It’s a simple way to connect your lanai to your surrounding landscape seamlessly.

    Winding Down Lanais are also a tranquil space for relaxation. Create and outdoor reading nook set with a bench adorned with weather resistant pillows and maybe even a blanket for cooler temperatures. Candles, incense and a plush cushion would be ideal decor options for meditation. Keep a mat handy to easily transform your zen den into an outdoor yoga studio.

    Dining Take your meals outside with a dining set-up in your backyard. It’s divine dining under the stars when it’s warm and breezy out. You can also construct a stainless steel outdoor kitchen equipped with a grill under your lanai and cook an entire meal outside. Cook up an array of your favorite seasoned vegetables, marinated meats served with a light salad and you’ve got a delicious meal. And for dessert, try out these grilled s’mores–you can thank us later.

    Entertaining Lanais make the perfect retreat when having company over. It’s a great space for your overflow guests to graze when your home is filling up. Install speakers and additional lighting to set the ambiance for your event. Great for when you’re entertaining a crowd, several friends or just you and your family.

    Have we sold you on this concept yet? If you’d like to learn more about buying a home with a lanai built in, or you’re looking to build, then connect with one of our Online Sales Consultants. They’ll be happy to arrange an in-person or virtual appointment to answer any questions you may have about lanais or other home inquiries.

     

  • Pick Your Perfect Homesite

    Pick Your Perfect Homesite

    When it comes to home building, there are so many exciting decisions to be made. Finding a convenient location, deciding what features you want in a community, and selecting home design elements just to name a few. Check one off of the list now by following our step-by-step guide about how to settle on a homesite.

    Begin by envisioning what you want to see across your backyard. Your options when building with Neal Communities include a waterfront view, a scene of the preserve, or your home can back up to the community’s perimeter or a neighbor. If you’re the outdoorsy type, the water and preserve views are just for you. You’ll feel one with nature having the view of either one of these sights out your back window. On the contrary, opt for a home facing homesite if you’d be happy with a landscaping view. You can spruce it up with the addition of planters, patio furniture and even a sparkling pool!

    Next, take into account the direction your home is facing. Would you rather watch the sun set or the sun rise from your lanai? If you’re a morning person, then we’d recommend selecting an eastern exposure homesite. If you’d prefer to watch the sun set over being up bright and early, then we’d suggest a western exposure homesite. Want lots of sun on your lanai all day long? Then a southern exposure might suit you best. Think about your hobbies, habits, and lifestyle–like how you’ll use your outdoor space–and it will play a role in guiding your decision.

    Another factor you should consider when selecting a homesite is location within the community. Do you want a homesite that resides closer to the community’s entrance for quick access in and out? Another option would be to select a homesite near the community’s amenity center; have easy access to the pool, fitness center and clubhouse. Or, if you want your home to be tucked away, choose a homesite a bit further into the community.

    Once you’ve decided what’s most important to you, you should have a better idea of what you’re looking for. After settling on a homesite, it’s time for the real fun: building your dream home! Ready to move in now? Select from one of our quick move-in homes that are already under construction to get your home sooner. Either way, you can start the process today with Neal Communities.

  • All-American Dishes to Commemorate Memorial Day

    All-American Dishes to Commemorate Memorial Day

    This Memorial Day may feel a little different than those in the past. While there may not be a parade in your neighborhood to honor service members, you can still practice gratitude for those who sacrificed their lives serving our country and embrace those you’re with at home. We have compiled some all-American dishes you can create to partake in remembering those who have served.

    Watermelon Blueberry Sparklers

    These fruit skewers are the perfect snack to have on hand during a long day of swimming. And all it takes to make is two ingredients! They’re a great pick-me-up that will get the kids out of the water for a nutritious snack before they’re back in the pool again.

    This New World take on a classic favorite makes a simple yet flavor-filled side dish. No need to pre-soak or pre-shuck the corn before grilling it. Just put the whole ears on the grate and the husks and the silk will slip right off. You’re going to be making this side all summer long!

    Southern Barbecue Ribs

    Go all out on Memorial Day Bring with this star-studded recipe! These tender oven-roasted ribs are basted with our a sweet and tangy combination of several regional Southern sauces. The recipe calls for tomatoes, light brown sugar, vinegar, and yellow mustard. While these ribs are oven-roasted, it may not be for pit-loving purists, but they’re undeniably good.

    Freedom Bark
    Wrap up the meal with this sweet, chocolatey treat. Swirl together melted red, white and blue candy melts and garnish with star shaped sprinkles just before it goes to set in the fridge. If you have some extra helpers, get your children involved with mixing the candy melts together and decorating. Just make sure they don’t go too crazy on the sprinkles. Fair warning that the bark won’t last long once it’s ready to eat!
  • Five Can’t-Miss Virtual Model Tours

    Five Can’t-Miss Virtual Model Tours

    Now is as good a time as any to begin your home buying journey. While our model centers and offices are open by appointment only, we have several ways of sharing our array of model homes with you right from where you are. For each model home, we have Matterports to virtually transport you inside the homes. They give you a 3D experience to feel as if you were actually standing inside. Another option is our YouTube channel, where we’ve curated dozens of videos from our model homes. Today, we are sharing five model home tours that showcase a variety of our floor plans. So get comfortable, grab a snack, notepad and pen so you can recall your favorite parts from each home.

    Bright Meadow Model Home at Boca Royale

    This charming three-bedroom plan in Boca Royale is the newest model to join the community. The Bright Meadow comes with a variety of personalizing options. First, the master suite can be designed with coffered ceilings in the bedroom if preferred. In addition, you also have the option of transforming one of the bedrooms into a guest suite with a private bath. The customization options make this a fantastic option for someone looking for a flexible floor plan. Don’t miss the blue sliding barn doors that lead into the den–a beautiful highlight from the home.

    Whitehaven Model Home at Seychelles

    You’ll feel right at home in the Whitehaven. Spacious and cozy, the three bedroom, two bath carriage home at Seychelles in Naples offers the opportunity to live well. An expansive family room, open to the gourmet kitchen and dining nook area leads out to the roomy lanai with a breath-taking view. The designer kitchen features an island with a breakfast bar, pantry with lots of space and stainless steel appliances. The master suite includes a large walk-in closet, dual sinks, walk-in shower and private water closet. Two additional bedrooms, a large outdoor lanai and 2-car garage complete the home.

    Captiva Model Home at Verandah

    The Captiva is sure to capture your imagination. Designed to accommodate a comfortable lifestyle, this plan has an open-concept main living area that includes the great room, kitchen and dining room. The kitchen features a center island, a large pantry and brick detail which gives the space an industrial feel. Besides the den, Captiva also includes a club room–perfect for entertaining. At the back of the home, a large lanai offers the option to add an outdoor kitchen wall and a sizable extension to create an outdoor living area. The luxurious master suite includes a spacious bedroom, two walk-in closets and an elegant bath with dual sink vanities, garden tub, separate shower and water closet. One of the remaining bedrooms is designed as a guest suite with a private bath.

    Tidewater Model Home at Poinciana

    The Tidewater two-bedroom, two-bath twin villa home features a spacious layout with open living areas. The home includes an expansive great room, dining area and gourmet kitchen with an island. A den offers the perfect space for a home office, while a covered lanai provides an optimal space for watching the sun set. The master suite includes the option of either a window or door to the lanai. It also features two closets and a bath with dual sink vanities, walk-in shower and private water closet. A walk-in closet in proximity to a full bath make the second bedroom an inviting guest room.

    Meadow Brook Model at Cielo

    The Meadow Brook floor plan offers an open layout for the common living areas and several customization options. Choose between a one or two story design, based on your needs for space. Opt for a den in lieu of the leisure room. Add an outdoor kitchen wall or pool bath to the spacious lanai. You can also create a guest suite with a private bath in place of one of the secondary bedrooms with a walk-in closet. The open gourmet kitchen comes with an island, corner walk-in pantry and cafe area. A spacious great room has the option of a coffered ceiling for an extra touch of elegance. In the master suite, a door from the bedroom to the lanai can be added. The suite also includes dual walk-in closets and master bath with large walk-in shower and private water closet.

  • 3 Tips to Design Your Second Home

    3 Tips to Design Your Second Home

    Charlene Neal is President of Charlene Neal PureStyle and Vice President of Design at Neal Communities. She posts regularly on her website: www.charlenenealpurestyle.com

    If it’s been on your mind and heart to have a second home that you can retreat to either for the holidays, a weekend, or for the long Northern Winter, then welcome to Southwest Florida and the endless possibilities. Neal Communities has been successfully building homes and communities that are perfect for a second home. There are many to choose from that will fit your needs.

    Once you choose your home the next question is how to design a second home that you love and that’ll live up to your dreams? Here at PureStyle, we are poised to help you do just that!

    Decide and Define

    Well, it begins with deciding and defining the purpose of the second home.

    ● Will it serve as an escape and a respite for you alone or will you share it with others?

    ● Is it a space designed to help you to slow down and reconnect with nature?

    ● Or will it be a gathering place for your extended family where meals will be lovingly prepared and served to help you to reconnect your loved ones.

    Deciding on the function of the home will guide the design process so that it’s a breath of fresh air the moment you arrive.

    Let’s look at the design elements of this single family home in the Cruise Series at Vicenza in Venice Florida.

    Liberty 3

    It’s perfect for a second home in size and the location. We worked to create an attractive interior design that is simple yet sophisticated.

    If your home is to be an escape for you to get away from busy then choose a color palette that will gently suggest that you unwind, take a deep breath, slip into a light cotton caftan and get started on that book you’ve been wanting to read. Here in Liberty 3 we used soft neutrals paired with a modern pastel pink that provides the blush that nods towards exciting without the drama.

    3 tips to design your second home:

    ● Consistently using the same colors throughout the home adds to a cohesive feeling that is relaxing in itself.

    ● Using high end materials, a touch of metallics, large scale art, and fresh flowers will give the home a touch of luxury without overwhelming the space with things.

    ● Using natural elements throughout the home will in itself give the home a grounded feeling which will help you to unwind, relax, and enjoy your space the moment you arrive.

    So, pack your bags for the last time because you have a vacation home to go to and it has all of the comforts of home without all of the distractions.

    We would love to design your second home with PureStyle. It starts with a conversation and determining your expectations of how you would use your second home. The Charlene Neal PureStyle team would love to link arms with you and design a second home that you love and that’ll live up to your dreams!