Partnership to include online personal concierge service for customized wellness solutions on demand

Tampa, Fla. (September 11, 2024) – Today, Metro Development Group and BayCare launched an unprecedented partnership, with a vision of significantly enhancing the health and well-being of residents at Epperson and Mirada, two of Metro’s cornerstone master planned communities located within Connected City in Florida.

Through the partnership, residents will have access to a personal concierge service accessible by phone or internet, that will help with the navigation of health and wellness offerings. The services could include locating and providing scheduling assistance for primary care or specialists within 24 hours of request, location access to labs, urgent care, wellness services, support groups and health classes, along with assistance with online services.

BayCare, West Central Florida’s top health care system, will provide a range of customizable care services accessible by residents in the convenience of their own homes, BayCareAnywhere® telehealth app for 24/7 virtual consultations, doctor-on-demand, at-home AI-driven symptom checker for prompt health evaluations and online wellness and nutritional content.

The partnership will include a dedicated medical office near Epperson, providing comprehensive primary and acute care services including a freestanding emergency department. This HealthHub, supported by BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel, located just seven miles away, ensures residents have convenient access to a full spectrum of exclusive health care options.

“We are excited to introduce this transformative health care model accessible by residents of Connected City alongside Metro Development Group,” said Stephanie Conners, president and CEO of BayCare. “This partnership signifies our shared commitment to integrating innovative health care solutions, both virtually and in person, into community living while enhancing accessibility for those who live here.”

Metro Development Group has a vision of providing integrated living spaces that prioritize health and wellness. Kartik Goyani, principal at Metro, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “This revolutionary partnership between Metro Development and BayCare is just the newest initiative in Metro Development’s commitment to providing residents with all they need to live longer, happier lives. It’s Metro’s mission to transform not only its communities, but people’s everyday lifestyles.”

In any of Metro’s communities today, residents can enjoy many other amenities that promote well-being, including miles of trails and outdoor spaces, dog parks and playgrounds, its one-of-a-kind lagoons, exclusive resident events, and this partnership is yet another. Metro has plans to take a similar partnership and resident benefit to its other up-and-coming communities.

About Metro Development Group

Founded in 2003, Tampa-based Metro Development Group has been redefining Florida living and master-planned communities for more than 20 years. As Florida’s largest privately held residential developer, Metro focuses on managing all aspects of land development by working with investors, landowners and award-winning builders. Metro has set a gold-standard of inland coastal living through innovative technologies, iconic entryways and world-class amenities, including its signature MetroLagoon. In 2023, two of Metro’s Pasco County communities – Mirada and Epperson – were ranked among the 50-top-selling master-planned communities in the country by real estate consulting firms RCLCO and John Burns Real Estate Consulting. For more information, visit MetroDevelopmentGroup.com.

About BayCare

BayCare is a leading not-for-profit health care system that connects individuals and families to a wide range of services at 16 hospitals, including a children’s hospital, and hundreds of other convenient locations throughout the Tampa Bay and West Central Florida regions. The system is West Central Florida’s largest provider of behavioral health and pediatric services and its provider group, BayCare Medical Group, is one of the largest in the region. BayCare’s diverse network of ambulatory services includes laboratories, imaging, surgical centers, BayCare Urgent Care locations, wellness centers and one of Florida’s largest home care agencies, BayCare HomeCare. In 2023, BayCare was ranked in the top quartile of large U.S. health systems by Fortune/PINC AI based on clinical outcomes, operational efficiency and patient experience. BayCare’s mission is to improve the health of all it serves through community-owned, health care services that set the standard for high-quality, compassionate care. For more information, visit BayCare.org.

Metro Development Group brings together some of the best homebuilders in the country, matching the quality throughout our communities.

Metro Development Group brings together the best builders in the nation for its MetroPlaces communities. From Lennar and its active adult collection to D.R. Horton’s single-family homes to Biscayne Homes’ townhomes on the Lagoon shore, a new construction home is waiting in a MetroPlaces community full of amenities.

Let’s take a deeper look at each community builder and let you know which MetroPlaces community each builder is building in.

Interested in scheduling a model home tour? Use the links below to contact the builders directly and pick a time that works for you! 

D.R. Horton – America’s Largest Homebuilder

D.R. Horton, recognized as America’s largest homebuilder, is known for consistently delivering top-quality new homes to homebuyers across the nation.

This commitment to excellence is reflected in their smart home products, which keep homeowners connected with their loved ones and their living spaces. D.R. Horton features myriad single-family home and townhome plans in many Metro communities. At Angeline, D.R. Horton’s Express Elite two-story townhomes are designed with an open-concept layout, offering a spacious and airy feel.

The first floor features a well-appointed kitchen, a powder room for guests, and a large family room that opens onto a covered lanai, perfect for outdoor relaxation or entertaining. Upstairs, you’ll find a generously sized primary bedroom complete with an en-suite bathroom, offering a private retreat within the home. Two additional bedrooms, another full bathroom, and a conveniently located laundry area complete the second floor.

Every D.R. Horton home is built with a value-first dedication to buyers’ needs, using concrete block construction on the first and second floors for a high-quality feel, increased sound and temperature insulation, energy efficiency, safety, and security. From first-time buyers to seasoned homeowners, they aim to meet and exceed expectations. The inclusion of appliances such as a refrigerator, dishwasher, electric range, microwave, washer, and dryer helps make their homes move-in ready.

Where can you find them?

• Angeline – Models open
• Brightwater
• Epperson
• Mirada
• Seaire
• Southshore Bay
• Abbott Park
• Glen Creek
• Sereno
• Union Park

Lennar

Lennar, one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, has a longstanding reputation for building homes of exceptional quality and design. They are known for an innovative approach to home design, with a focus on creating versatile living spaces that cater to the evolving needs of modern families. These include single-family homes and townhomes for families of all ages and single-family homes and villas for inspired active adult families.

Lennar has put its best foot forward with its two-story townhomes in Epperson and Mirada, which are perfect for families of all ages and designed to offer a blend of comfort and convenience.

The first floor of the townhomes features a spacious Great Room, which serves as the heart of the home. This generous space is perfect for family gatherings or entertaining guests, and its direct connection to the dining room and kitchen encourages open communication and organic movement throughout the main living area.

The kitchen is designed with functionality in mind, offering ample storage and prep space. An attached covered patio extends the living space outdoors, providing an ideal spot for al fresco dining or simply enjoying a quiet moment in the fresh air.

Upstairs, the second floor offers a versatile loft space, which can be adapted to suit a variety of needs – whether as a home office, media room, or additional guest space.

The luxurious owner’s suite is a true retreat, complete with a private bathroom for added convenience. An additional bedroom also comes with a private bathroom, making it perfect for guests or other family members.

Every one of Lennar’s new construction homes is built with its signature Everything’s Included® approach, with a number of extras and upgrades included at no additional cost. This includes energy-efficient features, luxury kitchen and bathroom features, and the latest in-home automation technology.

Lennar’s dedication to quality, value, and integrity has made the company a trusted choice for homeowners across the country. By choosing to buy a Lennar home at MetroPlaces, residents can enjoy a lifestyle that’s tailored to their needs, with the added benefit of living in a vibrant community.

Where can you find them?

• Angeline
• Brightwater
• Epperson
• Mirada
• Seaire
• Southshore Bay
• Leoma’s Landing
• Tillman Lakes

Beacon by the Balcara Group

Beacon, a new neighborhood by Balcara Group, brings luxury build-to-rent townhomes to Epperson.

These brand-new pet-friendly townhomes with two-, three-, and four-bedroom options currently are an Epperson exclusive. They’re designed for style and quality, featuring stainless steel appliances, spa-like bathrooms, 9-foot ceilings, spacious garages, private lanais, and in-unit washers and dryers. Beacon at Epperson promises a desirable lifestyle for those looking for long-term luxury leases.

Where can you find them?

• Epperson

Biscayne Homes

Each of Biscayne Homes’ new construction homes is thoughtfully designed to provide a sophisticated living experience that blends modern conveniences with the serenity of Lagoon living. Biscayne Homes features luxurious single-family estates and Lagoon-front townhome residences that feel like single-family homes

These 3– to 4-bedroom homes are tastefully built, offering residents close access to the Lagoon – a unique feature and location that sets these homes apart. The option for a downstairs owner’s suite provides flexibility and convenience. Also, each home has a private yard, extending the living space outdoors and providing a perfect setting for indoor/outdoor entertaining or relaxation.

Biscayne Homes takes pride in its strong focus on craftsmanship and detail, evident in every new home. From the high-quality finishes to the thoughtful layout, every aspect is designed with the residents in mind. These homes offer the convenience of low-maintenance townhome living, freeing up your time to enjoy the amenities and lifestyle the communities offer.

Starting at 1,749 square feet, these luxury townhomes provide ample space, akin to a single-family home experience. This combination of space, luxury, and location creates an exclusive Lagoon experience at Epperson. Biscayne also offers single-family homes at Mirada, Serengeti, and Seaire.

Where can you find them?

• Epperson
• Mirada
• Seaire
• Serengeti

M/I Homes

M/I Homes offers 11 floorplans in Epperson, part of the Smart Series Premier Collection, available on 50-foot Estate or 60-foot Executive homesites.

The Smart Series simplifies the home-building and purchase process, with pre-selected design packages featuring the latest trends. These homes are designed for optimum livability without sacrificing quality – M/I Homes’ brand promise.

The Smart Series is characterized by its architectural designs and pre-selected finishes, which save homeowners money and also provide energy efficiency. The designs can be personalized to cater to individual styles using the same set of design packages, providing flexibility for homebuyers with varying tastes and requirements.

Where can you find them?

• Epperson

Pulte Homes

Pulte Homes are carefully crafted with home technology and Life Tested Home Designs to provide a great home base for your family’s lifestyle. You’ll feel like you’ve paid for upgrades when in fact you are enjoying features that are standard with a Pulte home.

These homes are crafted to maximize functionality, and with over 70 years of experience, Pulte Homes maintains construction standards that surpass industry norms.

The company’s innovation is evident in programs and services such as the Centex brand’s Transact Home Online, an industry-first online homebuying process that allows homebuyers to complete the entire home-buying process online. Pulte’s homes range from 1,615 to 2,774 square feet, catering to different family sizes and lifestyle needs.

Where can you find them?

• Epperson – Currently sold out

Maronda Homes

Leveraging its extensive experience of more than half a century, Maronda Homes is committed to constructing high-quality homes that cater to a wide range of budgets. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, or planning to upscale or downscale, Maronda offers a diverse range of home models and designs.

The community offers two types of homes: the Premiere Series and the Exclusive Series.

The Premiere Series homes are budget-friendly and feature traditional Floridian styles, smart floor plans starting at around 1,700 square feet, and are located on 50-foot wide cul-de-sac homesites. The Exclusive Series is a step up from the Premiere Series, offering standard 3-car garages, floor plans starting at 1,988 square feet, and homes on 60-foot homesites.

Where can you find them?

• Mirada

LGI Homes

LGI Homes prides itself on constructing quality homes at affordable prices, helping families achieve the “American Dream” of homeownership since 2003.

LGI has helped over 50,000 families transition from renting to owning their own homes. LGI Homes is not just a builder of houses, but a creator of homes, offering affordable monthly payments and move-in-ready homes. The company’s goal is to help you start making memories in your new home as soon as possible.

From questions about a down payment to navigating your potential wish list and misconceptions about the upfront costs. LGI’s Buying Your First Home page is a great resource for first-time home buyers.

Where can you find them?

• Mirada – Currently sold out

Homes by WestBay

Your new home by Homes by WestBay is designed with a keen eye for architecture, featuring attractive exteriors highlighted by elegant coach lights and a beautiful, insulated fiberglass front door.

Inside, you’ll find spacious rooms outfitted with oversized baseboards and door casings, and ceramic tile flooring. The kitchen is a chef’s dream with a spacious island workspace, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. Energy efficiency is a priority, demonstrated by the high-efficiency air conditioning system, energy-efficient range, heating system options, and smart thermostat options.

Safety features include a pre-wired security system and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Bathrooms are luxurious with quartz countertops, oversized mirrors, and tiled shower surrounds. To top it all off, these homes are Energy Star 3.1 rated, ensuring you are buying a home that is as eco-friendly and sustainable as it is beautiful.

Where can you find them?

• Mirada

Dream Finders Homes

Dream Finders Homes, a premier national home builder, is committed to delivering homes that meet the highest standards.

Dream Finders Homes applies its renowned designs and expertise to vibrant locations like MetroPlaces communities, ensuring quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

They are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in new home construction and are confident that their designer features will exceed expectations.

Dream Finders Homes stands out with its unique designs, superior quality materials, and a strong focus on customer satisfaction. They are committed to being among the select best home builders in America, building the American Dream one home at a time.

Metro is elated to have the first communities in the greater Tampa Bay market to feature Dream Finders Homes. While models aren’t open yet, they’ll soon be ready for the public this spring 2024!

Where can you find them?

• Seaire
• Angeline

Are you ready to check out MetroPlaces communities?

Check us out online

So, which new home builder do you want to contact us to learn more about? Maybe you’re interested in an M/I smart home at Epperson? Or are you looking for a new home by Biscayne Homes offering Lagoon views?

Whether you are ready to buy now or not, it’s always a good time to explore what these homebuilders have to offer at MetroPlaces. Our builders are award-winning, and represent the best in new and energy-saving materials and practices.

Check out all our new home builders and details about each of their available homes online at MetroPlaces.com and find your desired community.

And if you’re ready to see your our new construction homes in person, visit the models at our select MetroPlaces communities below:

Angeline

• D.R. Horton – Townhomes
• Lennar – Townhomes, active adult single-family homes, active adult villas

Epperson

• Biscayne – Townhomes
• D.R. Horton – Townhomes, single-family homes
• M/I Homes – Single-family homes
• Balcara, Beacon at Epperson – Build to rent townhomes

Mirada

• Biscayne – Single-family homes
• D.R. Horton – Single-family homes
• Homes by WestBay – Single-family homes
• Lennar – Townhomes, single-family homes, active adult single-family homes, active adult villas
• Maronda – Townhomes

Southshore Bay

• D.R. Horton – Townhomes
• Lennar – Active adult single-family homes, active adult villas

Questions about prices, certain terms, or specific details? Contact us online.

Disclaimer: The images and specifications above are illustrative and may vary from the final product. Information about the homes and communities, including pricing, features, availability, and amenities, can change without notice and are not guaranteed.

How 2023 was full of milestones and momentum for our Metro communities.

Over the past year, Metro Development Group has not only grown but thrived, marking significant milestones from opening the country’s largest human-made Lagoon in the country to expanding its workforce.

We have embraced forward-thinking enhancements to the Metro Lifestyle, from launching new community developments and amenities to organizing memorable events and supporting educational opportunities for residents at each master-planned community.

Despite pressure on the housing industry from higher mortgage interest rates and a cooling national market, our Florida communities continue to flourish and attract new buyers from around the nation.

We’ve fine-tuned our unique recipe for successful master-planned communities. Our strong builder partners, top-tier amenities, and dynamic community programs are just some examples of how we exceed the expectations of our buyers. With access to exceptional educational opportunities, including our own schools in some areas, we’ve created communities that address homebuyers’ key desires by crafting a diverse and well-balanced destination that offers an attainable coastal lifestyle for our residents.

Community performance was at the forefront of our growth

Each of our major Florida master-planned communities in Tampa Bay – Epperson, Mirada, Southshore Bay, and Angeline – have continued to see strong demand for new construction homes, as overall new home inventory across the country has tightened. In 2023 alone, we celebrated the sale of over 1,800 new homes, marking a significant success for our master-planned communities.

We saw an increase in new home sales across our Tampa area communities in 2023 totaling 1,871, compared to 1,625 new home sales during the previous year. Last year, net home sales across the board were up with 703 at Mirada, 454 at Epperson, 367 at Angeline, and 347 at Southshore Bay.

Our home sales performance resulted in two of our Pasco County communities – Mirada and Epperson – ranking among the 50 top-selling master-planned communities in the country by real estate consulting firms RCLCO and John Burns Real Estate Consulting.

New community amenities opened for our residents

An increase in home sales and national rankings is the result of the hard work we’ve put into the experience of living in a Metro master-planned community. This includes bringing unique amenities to residents to cultivate a self-contained oasis within the Florida community.

Our master-planned communities are anything but cookie-cutter. Our most notable standout amenity, a Lagoon by MetroLagoons, was showcased nationwide with the opening of the largest human-made Lagoon in the country at Mirada last year. This resort-style amenity is the centerpiece of Mirada with over 15 acres of crystal-clear water at the center of the 2,000-acre community in Pasco County, Florida.

Homeowners and locals have access to the Lagoon and many other community amenities and benefits. Our Tampa communities also offer miles of natural trails for biking, walking, and hiking, tot lot playgrounds for families and children to play, dog parks, and acres of nature to explore all pulled together with beautiful landscaping throughout the neighborhood.

We’ve also proved its forward-thinking around meaningful and innovative amenities in 2023 with the introduction of a completely new concept in the Tampa Bay region. In May, we announced the first residential farm amenity in the region, located within the innovative city-in-the-making Angeline. The 2.5-acre farm is intended to serve as a food supplier for an in-community café and an educational source for residents and schools. The Farm, Wild Thyme Café, and Welcome Center will open to the public this spring 2024!

Diverse community events and social lifestyle activities filled our calendar

In 2023, residential amenities were a major draw in driving new home sales and showcasing the active lifestyle residents want in our master-planned communities.

While each Lagoon community offers different activities and amenities, they all feature fun and unique ways to bring the community together. From movies on the turf (on the Lagoon shore) to trivia nights where friends and family are pitted against each other for prizes, and live local music there’s an option for everyone’s interests and lifestyles.

Each community features various social activities to help keep people active and engaged in the community. In 2023, we added bird watching to the list at Angeline, creating a way for residents to get together on the walking trails and hiking trails to incorporate the outdoors into their daily lives and wellness routines.

Innovative and educational advancements open to our neighbors

Part of living in a master-planned community is the educational opportunity. With the Angeline Academy of Innovation, we put quality education first. This STEM magnet school located in the heart of Angeline opened its doors last fall, bringing AI and technology innovation to the developing young minds of Pasco County. The Academy’s focus on fundamental engineering concepts, the engineering design process, and industrial robotic programming is another part of the innovative lifestyle that living at Angeline offers.

Innovation Preparatory Academy (InPrep) similarly brings educational advancement opportunities to our Epperson residents providing students a place to learn with a sense of exploration and the ability to discover the impossible. This dynamic academy was also developed to be part of our growing master-planned community.

Our team grew with a strong new leader

As we continue to expand, the strength and growth of our team remains a top priority. Recognizing the need for robust leadership to maintain our momentum, we’ve welcomed a new marketing leader with proven success in the region.

Lisa Gibbings, a notable marketing professional with a track record of success joined Metro Development Group as the Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

She quickly became an integral part of our vision for the coming year. Her expertise and leadership have already begun to significantly impact the family of Metro Development Group brands.

With Lisa’s arrival, we’ve nearly doubled our workforce, strengthening our capacity to meet our ambitious growth plans for the coming years. Her addition to our team represents not just an increase in numbers, but a boost in talent, experience, and innovative thinking.

She’s a key part of our mission to create thriving master-planned communities and redefine the way people live in Tampa Bay. With Gibbings at the helm of our marketing and communications efforts, we’re confident that 2024 is going supply another year marked by growth and success.

Looking ahead and fostering a healthy community lifestyle

We believe new home sales are key to Florida’s growth, which gives us a lot of opportunity to contribute to our state’s long-term future success. Here at Metro, we are excited about what the future holds and have big plans for 2024.

As the need for single-family homes, built-to-rent units, and multi-generational homes continues to rise, we’re excited to have our builder partners on our team.

This includes some of the top in the country such as Lennar and D.R. Horton, which remained consistent in attracting buyers. We are also adding new builders such as Dream Finders Homes, who entered the Tampa Bay market for the first time through our upcoming Seaire community in Manatee County.

Our home builders work with us to develop the best residential neighborhoods and offer housing types that meet the demand of the market. They also continue to provide offers and incentives to help buyers secure their new homes despite market challenges. We’re excited to continue to work together with our many builders on new communities coming in 2024.

We are planning to be an even stronger part of the housing market here in Florida, despite mortgage rates, with innovative built-to-rent units helping to meet growing demand in the rental market, attractive multigenerational homes to house multiple generations comfortably under one roof, and thoughtfully designed single-family homes coming together to create better neighborhoods and a close-knit community that is built just for you.

As we celebrate these remarkable achievements of the past year, let’s also look ahead with excitement, anticipation, and confidence for the beginning of another groundbreaking year ahead maintaining and exceeding our reputation of creating top-selling master-planned communities.

Click here for other details about our master-planned communities.

Splash, Laugh, Cheers. Repeat.

MetroPlaces distinguishes itself by creating a vibrant and inclusive community through a variety of resident events. From the festive Boo Bash, where neighbors gathered at the Lagoons for a weekend filled with Halloween-themed activities and seasonal delights, to the Angeline Birding & Brunch event where residents explored local wildlife, these resident-only events foster a sense of community and showcase a commitment to designing distinctive and enjoyable gatherings that bring neighbors together.

Live Here

MetroPlace Makes Waves in Wesley Chapel

Recently, 10 Tampa Bay’s Community Connection showcased Epperson’s first-in-the-nation Lagoon and its array of unmatched inland paradise adventures. With more than 400 homes sold and 618 new households in 2023, Epperson’s thriving growth reflects MetroPlaces lifestyle-focused designs – where homeowners create friendships across an active amenity-rich community near schools and retail. With sister Lagoon communities, Mirada in San Antonio, and Southshore Bay in Wimauma nearby too, buyers searching for their forever home enjoy a trifecta of beautifully planned, resort-style Lagoon paradises.

Epperson (#36) and Mirada (#33) have maintained their status in the top 50 master-planned communities in the nation for the second consecutive year, as determined by RCLCO’s sales rankings.

The Future is Taking Root at Angeline

Angeline’s bountiful offerings are crafting a spectacular residential lifestyle. A peak at this year’s highlights:

Homes For All: Initially launching with exclusive 55+ homes from Lennar, Angeline has now diversified its offerings to include homes suitable for all age groups. Both Lennar and D.R. Horton have introduced townhomes in three additional neighborhoods priced from the high $200s.

Growing Well: The Farm is thriving with progress – Welcome Center and Wild Thyme Café near completion, orchards planted for a 2024 harvest, and a vibrant Showcase Garden seeded with diverse produce. Residents have recently begun participating in activities, assisting with the cultivation and transplantation of crops in the raised beds of the Showcase Garden and will have plenty more opportunities to enjoy locally grown produce and engage in hands-on farming experiences for years to come.

Educating the Future: The Angeline Academy of Innovation’s (AAI) first school year has surpassed expectations and is rounding towards a mighty finish. By fall of 2024 AAI’s athletic complex will be complete, and the Dayspring Academy Angeline Campus (VPK-5) Elementary School is slated for a 2024-2025 opening. AAI reserves 50% of student spots for Angeline residents, and the school choice application window opens in January. Click here to learn more about upcoming AAI tours for parents.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ANGELINE

Pasco County has long been a booming suburb in the Tampa Bay area, and as the county continues to grow, there are more and more fun things to do there.

From the nation’s largest human-made Lagoon at Mirada by MetroPlaces, to hundreds of miles of trails, to shopping, dining, and entertainment, there’s plenty to do in Pasco County.

And since Pasco County is only minutes from Downtown Tampa and Tampa International Airport, it’s easily accessible for a fun day date or weekend staycation. Here’s a quick list of some highlights of things to do:

• Florida’s Trail system, which connects different parts of Pasco County
• Thriving plant and wildlife populations
• Local unique eats you can’t get anywhere else
• Fresh local produce available year-round
• Shopping and entertainment that supports the community
• Beaches, beaches, beaches!

Bike, hike, and experience Florida’s natural trails

One of the best free things to do in Pasco County is to experience nature. With over 1,500 miles of nature trails in Florida, there’s plenty to explore. Pasco County is home to countless parks and preserves that are great for hiking, biking, and running.

Any park located in Pasco County is a great place to explore. From Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey that connects to the Pinellas Trail, to the Withlacoochee State Trail and Oakridge Park, you have access to miles and miles of nature.

Pasco County online has a great guide to all the trail systems available.

Experience Florida plant wildlife

When you spend time in Florida’s nature trails and preserves, there is plenty of nature to see. From foxes and turkeys to wild birds and deer, there are often animals nearby. Florida has done a terrific job preserving many natural sites.

Sunwest Park is a recreational waterfront park in northwest Pasco to visit, just off of Hwy 19. The park was developed around a closed limestone mine, known locally as “SunWest Mines”.

Or if you want a more exotic experience, check out the Survival Outreach Sanctuary for Wildlife dedicated to providing permanent, responsible large natural enclosures to abused, unwanted, and abandoned exotic animals of all species from donkeys to lions.

For just a $5 donation per person, you can visit the sanctuary for one of the scheduled tours, or picnic there for a unique lunch experience.

Shopping and dining from Dade City to Wesley Chapel

Pasco County is home to countless towns with good dining options.

Kafe Kokopelli is one of the best restaurants in Dade City. Located in a century-old building built by the Ford Motor Company for Model-T sales and service, it’s now home to one of the best food destinations in town. ​The name Kokopelli comes from the southwest Native American Indians where Kokopelli, the flute player, was considered the God of Mischief and Fertility, and inspires the theme and menus.

If you want to continue your trip back in time after brunch at the Kafe, you can walk over to Antiques on Main Street and browse local antiques both big and small.

With a short drive over to Wesley Chapel, you can visit The Shoppes at Wiregrass. This outdoor mall has the big-name stores you’d expect and is one of the best entertainment centers in Pasco County. With a kid center to keep the young ones occupied and events and entertainment all year long, there’s plenty to do any day of the week.

Local produce – pick it yourself or shop local!

The communities of Mirada and Angeline host seasonal farmers markets where everyone is welcome to shop for fresh local produce.

These markets offer more than fresh fruits and vegetables — they’re a way to bring the community together and often feature a wide variety of locally made products for sale along with music and food trucks. Soon, Angeline will have a residential Farm, and you can expect its farmers markets to be unique.

The Starkey Market is another local favorite, with a local market, gourmet food truck and fresh fruit picking when it’s in season. Open Wednesday through Sunday, you can visit for the food and stay for a live music performance or trivia night!

Visit the beach without making the drive

If you’re looking for an all-around great time in Pasco County, then you can’t go wrong with spending your Saturday and Sunday at a Lagoon with friends and family. The Lagoons at Mirada and Epperson offer one-of-a-kind experiences for kids and adults of all ages with live entertainment, events, and activities that you might find at water park attractions.

While you sit on the shore you can listen to live music from local musicians or rent kayaks or paddle boards for a personal boat experience. You can’t go wrong just hopping in and swimming in the cool crystal-clear water. and on some nights you can even watch movies on the lawn.

With so much to offer you might not know where to start, so first-time visitors can check out the Lagoons online and search the calendar for an event they want to attend.

Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to save their spot on the shore and be ready for a complete beach experience.

What fun activities in Pasco County, Florida would you add to this list?

This list is just a few of our many favorite things to do in Pasco County, but we want to hear from you!

Whether you’re in Land O Lakes, Hudson, New Port Richey, Wesley Chapel or any other city in the County, share some of your favorite activities and attractions in the comments on our Instagram @MetroPlaces.

We’re excited to know – What fun and exciting places do you like to go to in Pasco County?

From birding to miles of trails and a community farm, there will be plenty to do at Angeline.

Whether you’re looking to come face to face with local wildlife, stay active outdoors, or nourish your body with locally grown food and produce, Angeline is shaping up as an exciting place to be.

Located in Pasco County, FL, the community has bird-watching events through acres of nature preserve land along with miles of natural trails. The great outdoors of Pasco County is easily accessible to residents of Angeline, and the community often has events and comes together to connect with nature.

 

Community events now include residential birdwatching

 

The team from Agmenity, Angeline Farm’s management and consulting entity, spoke at Angeline’s first birding event about Farm planning and updates as well as bird-watching tips.

A hobby for anywhere, anytime, and for all ages has become part of the community activities at Angeline – birding. The community comes together to explore the outdoors and search for birds and other fauna of all types.

There are hundreds of bird species in Pasco County, from Black-bellied Whistling Ducks to Downy Woodpeckers to Great Blue Herons, so you’re bound to discover a bird you have never seen before.

You may think a suburban neighborhood isn’t the ideal location to identify birds, but birding is a popular activity here in Pasco County. The region is full of birds, many unique to the South.

Visitors and residents will likely come across birds near the lakes and in trees. It’s a fun time for the whole family to try and identify new species. Many make a game of it and have fun using online sources like this website to identify what they find.

The Eastern Kingbird is one of the many beautiful birds you may see at an Angeline birding event.

If you’re ready to explore the area but don’t know where to start, you can always join and participate in one of our organized bird-watching groups. Keep an eye out on our site for locations of upcoming events.

 

Community access to miles of trails and a nature preserve

The community has access to miles of outdoor trails great for biking, hiking, walking, and running. Residents spend hours on the outdoor trails with friends and family, exploring and looking for local wildlife from sunrise to sunset.

Lucky residents may also encounter white-tailed deer, nine-banded armadillos, or even wild turkey! Make sure to investigate the many lakes and wetland preserves or look up into the ubiquitous tree canopies.

Community members have access to over 3,600 acres of natural, preserved green space, and future plans include the creation of a network that connects Angeline to hundreds of miles of trails in the area’s regional park and trail system, as well as other area attractions and points of interest. The trails will include a wide variety of loops and surfaces designed to provide multi-modal routes to the community.

 

Produce grown at the community Farm available for residents

 

The Farm at Angeline will have numerous crops annually, a barn, an events pavilion, and an interactive map in the welcome center to view full details about the community. All this is designed to bring the community together.

The Farm at Angeline will be a resource for community members and for locals throughout Pasco County and is designed to bring fresh, local produce to the community and create a true farm-to-table experience.

The Farm at Angeline will use sustainable farming practices to grow a variety of vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, with crops changing seasonally. The Farm will also keep a flock of 15 to 20 laying hens that will have the potential to lay up to 40 dozen eggs a month.

Locally grown produce, eggs, and more from the Farm will be available at Angeline’s Wild Thyme Cafe & Market located in the Farm House and Welcome Center, as well as seasonal farmers markets, where local families are welcome. There are also plans for nutritional classes and educational programming, all designed to help build, support, and celebrate a healthy lifestyle for residents.

 

Ready to visit and discover Angeline?

Whether you want to walk a trail to relax and decompress or visit the Wild Thyme Cafe & Market to enjoy the fruits of the Farm, Angeline has so much to offer. It’s not just a place to be in the sun and connect with the outdoors — it will be a town center, with resources designed to bring people together. Check us out online to learn about all Angeline has to offer.

Join us on Instagram to stay in the know and share your Angeline adventures.

 

Metro Development Group’s Mirada and Epperson master-planned communities led the Tampa metropolitan area in total new home sales through the first six months of 2023.

Mirada, located in the city of San Antonio, Florida, which recently opened the country’s largest human-made Lagoon, was listed at #33 with a 59 percent increase in year-over-year sales. Epperson, a master-planned community built in Wesley Chapel, Florida was #36 on the national list compiled by RCLCO.

 

Resort-style amenities are standard at Mirada

It’s always a great time to look at new homes and with the lack of existing homes for sale in west-central Florida, buying a new house is more popular than ever in the region. While new homes normally account for 10% of inventory nationally, right now they are about 30%. Besides, there are many clear benefits to a newly built home in a family-friendly neighborhood, which is why people are flocking to Mirada.

The 2,000-acre master-planned community in Pasco County features trails, dog parks, playgrounds, and ULTRAFi, the fastest internet connectivity available on site, today. Located about half an hour north of Tampa, Mirada residents have easy access to both coastal and central Florida attractions and activities.

But you don’t have to leave Mirada to find things to do as they have numerous must-have amenities. Go swimming in the crystal clear Lagoon. Take a walk, run, bike, or even EV cart on miles of nature trails, or kick off your day at one of the fitness stations. Bring your dog to a community dog park or your kids to a tot lot playground. The top-notch amenities, community activities, in-home amenities, and nearby attractions create one of the best locations to buy a new house in Pasco County.

Mirada has new construction homes from some of the nation’s top home builders, too, starting in the high $200s.

Mirada builders include:

• Biscayne Homes
• D.R. Horton
• Maronda
• Homes by WestBay
• Lennar

With Mirada Lagoon’s resort-style amenities, white sand beaches, and top-tier new home amenities and features, it’s easy to see why people are making moves to this corner of Pasco County.

 

A closer look at Epperson’s resort-style community

Epperson is home to the first human-made Lagoon in the country and is one of the best-selling neighborhoods in the state. It brings the best of Florida’s coast inland, providing a unique style of living for Pasco County residents.

Inside this master-planned community, which has new homes by some of the nation’s top homebuilders, you’ll find a wide range of features, from miles of trails for hiking and biking to dog parks for your furry friends and tot lots for the little ones in the natural beauty of Pasco County. On the Lagoon shore, you’ll find organized activities for residents and guests of any age. There’s plenty to keep family members of all ages entertained.

The lifestyle is rounded out by the main attraction, Epperson’s crystal-clear Lagoon surrounded by white sand beaches and is within walking distance from every home. This 7-acre human-made Lagoon brings resort living to all the Epperson homeowners and features access to a resident-exclusive space. Whether you’re interested in the swim-up bar, kayaks for rent, or an on-the-water obstacle course, the only thing you’ll need to pack for a mini-vacation is your swimsuit and sunscreen.

Your new home will be at the hub of everything happening in the thriving town of Wesley Chapel. With delicious restaurants just minutes away and local shopping at your fingertips, Epperson is at the center of a growing metropolitan area. With other features including world-class internet via ULTRAFi, living at Epperson is an easy decision. New homes built with you in mind, and with room for the whole family, start in the $300s.

 

Your dream home is a MetroPlaces home

As of June, new home sales were up nationally more than 23 percent year over year. “We continue to see strong interest in Metro’s new homes and the Lagoon lifestyle,” said Julie Kremner, Broker Liaison for MetroPlaces, Metro Development Group’s lifestyle brand.

“It’s more than the number of bedrooms and kitchen appliances that buyers are asking their real estate agent to find them,” she said. “Other factors such as location, quality homes, innovative technology, and a wide range of amenities frequently rank high among the reasons homebuyers select our communities.”

The exceptional amenities and luxury facilities at both Mirada and Epperson make them a perfect home for everyone. From new families buying their first single-family home and wanting space to grow to retirees looking for a relaxing place to settle down, homebuyers find plenty of waterfront fun right in their own backyards.

If you’re looking to learn more or have questions about living near the white sand beaches of a crystal clear Lagoon, check out the neighborhood web pages for all things Mirada and Epperson or reach out to our team for more info!

A MetroPlaces Lagoon community pulls the joys of beachfront living into your neighborhood. Just down the street, you’ll be able to enjoy the Lagoon’s crystal-clear water and white beaches, along with all the activities by the shore—from yoga classes to movie nights to resident happy hours.

MetroLagoons tickets can be purchased for one-day fun, but residents at Epperson, Southshore Bay and Mirada enjoy some exclusive benefits every day!  At each Lagoon, for the price of an in-season individual day pass, residents enjoy monthly access for the whole family.

Each Lagoon offers features that everyone in the family can enjoy, no matter how much or little you want to do. Some examples:

• Complimentary chaise loungers at Resident Beach areas: All residents enjoy complimentary chaise lounges on a first come, first serve basis. In addition, residents can use their rental discount to rent other beach items like cabanas and umbrellas.
• Kayaks and paddleboards: Do you love water sports but not the prep? At the Lagoons you can rent kayaks and paddleboards any day, getting all the fun with none of the hassle.
• Water obstacle course: Looking for a challenge? This offshore obstacle course tests your fitness and is one of the most engaging features we offer.
• Full access to the Lagoons every day: In addition to full family access, you can enjoy discounted tickets to all of Tampa Bay’s Lagoon locations as well as complimentary and discounted tickets for guests annually.

Year-round resident-only entertainment ensures that residents are never short on things to do:

• Movies on the turf: On Wednesday, a family-friendly movie is shown by the Lagoon. Whether you’re looking to rewatch your favorite movie or just connect with your family and neighbors, these nights are a consistent hit.
• Trivia night: Every Thursday, your Lagoon hosts Trivia Night. Compete against other MetroPlaces families or create a community team and test your trivia knowledge.
• Live music: Relaxing on the Lagoon shore under an umbrella listening to live music is a great way enjoy Tampa Bay’s amazing climate! The Lagoon offers live entertainment on select days throughout the week.

Lagoons are at the heart of a healthy lifestyle, and various classes and clubs are also available.

• Yoga* – Local studios join MetroLagoons to offer residents complimentary on-the-shore yoga classes. A great setting is provided – all you need to bring is a mat and a water bottle.
• Zumba – With upbeat dancing music, this one-hour class combines body weight, muscle conditioning, cardio, and plyometric training.
• Cornhole tournaments – Who doesn’t a love a friendly game of cornhole?  Or show off your skills at a MetroLagoons tournament!

MetroLagoons are a unique staple in MetroPlaces master-planned communities around the Tampa Bay, with locations at Epperson in Wesley Chapel and Southshore Bay in Wimauma. And soon, the largest Lagoon in the country will open at Mirada in San Antonio.

With so many options, the Lagoon lifestyle is a great option for people looking for a new home in Pasco County or Hillsborough County.

Are you ready for a new home at a MetroPlaces Lagoon community? Visit www.MetroPlaces.com/live-here to learn more about current Resident Lagoon Member pricing, or call MetroLagoons at 813-444-5221 for more information.

*Community-specific offering – each Lagoon community offers unique events. Make sure to check out metrolagoons.com for a full breakdown of each location and pricing.

As the largest private residential developer in Florida, MetroPlaces strives to create innovative communities with distinct personalities and unique amenities offering all the Elements of a great life^TM.

Here’s a handy guide to exploring everything MetroPlaces’ 10 communities have to offer.

Three MetroPlaces communities ranked among the 50 top-selling in the nation.Metro Development Group posted solid growth in 2022 new home sales across its four Tampa Bay area master-planned communities – Epperson, Mirada, Southshore Bay and Angeline. New home sales for these communities – marketed under the MetroPlaces brand – increased 16 percent compared with 2021, despite higher mortgage interest rates.

New home sales in 2022 at the four Tampa Bay area communities totaled 1,625, compared to 1,400 the previous year. In 2022, sales were 766 at Epperson, 430 at Mirada, 373 at Southshore Bay, and 56 at Angeline, the developer’s newest community.

This performance meant three of the communities – Epperson, Mirada and Southshore Bay – ranked among the 50 top-selling master-planned communities in the country according to real estate consulting firms John Burns Real Estate Consulting and RCLCO.

Metro Community	JBREC Rank	RCLCO Rank
Epperson	10	12
Mirada	42	44
Southshore Bay	46	48

Metro’s builder partners have continued their positive momentum into the new year, reporting a 20 percent year-over-year increase in sales at the four area communities for January 2022 vs. January 2021. Homebuilders have seen continued interest from buyers: The Tampa Bay area continues to attract new residents from other cities and states, and people living in older homes, condos and apartments around west-central Florida are drawn to new homes in MetroPlaces communities in popular suburban areas in Pasco and Hillsborough counties.

“Our Realtor community has let us know that new home buyers are ready to take action,” said Julie Kremner, Broker Liaison for MetroPlaces. “After a year of rising mortgage rates, buyers have accepted that rates are not likely to drop significantly in the near-future. That is eliminating some of the hesitation around purchasing a home. It also helps that many builders are helping with incentives or mortgage rate buy-downs.”

Metro was proactive in attracting homebuyers in Fall 2022 through a “Waves N Wheels” promotion across the company’s four Tampa Bay master-planned communities. The promotion resulted in 100 homebuyers qualifying for a new ICON electric vehicle cart, and helping builders sell more than 130 homes during the promotion period.

“The Tampa Bay market is evolving as people from around the country are choosing to move and make their homes here,” said Vaike O’Grady, Vice President of Marketing & Communications for Metro Development Group. “Metro and our builder partners are cranking up our efforts to get the word out about the lifestyle and value of our communities, so we can maintain our strong sales momentum.”

Growth in 2022 for Metro also included the opening of Angeline in Pasco County, which will be the largest MetroPlaces community to date. Lennar began home sales there in mid-2022 and will soon be joined by D.R. Horton Homes. The sales pace is expected to increase with the addition of new home designs and the completion of new amenities in this 6,200-acre community.

MetroPlaces communities provide a lifestyle that’s extremely compelling for new home buyers. Recent resident satisfaction surveys rank top locations, the signature Lagoon amenity, and fun neighbors as top reasons for choosing MetroPlaces communities.

Some of the key drivers for success in 2023 for Metro will include continued growth at Angeline and the opening of several new builder models as well as the nation’s largest Lagoon in Mirada. Combined with Epperson and Southshore Bay, Metro will have abundant new home sales opportunities to meet consumer demand.