Lake of the Woods is an established, deed-restricted residential neighborhood in Venice, Florida, known for mature landscaping, peaceful streets, attractive single-family homes, and proximity to lakes and protected natural areas. Located within the larger Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda community, the neighborhood offers a distinctive alternative to newer master-planned developments. Residents enjoy a setting shaped by established trees, walking and biking paths, and nearby wildlife preserves. Lake of the Woods is also conveniently positioned for access to shopping, dining, downtown Venice, and Gulf Coast beaches. For buyers seeking a well-established Venice neighborhood with natural surroundings and comparatively modest association obligations, Lake of the Woods deserves consideration.

Quick Answers About Lake of the Woods in Venice, Florida

Where is Lake of the Woods located?

Lake of the Woods is located in Venice, Florida, 34293, within Sarasota County. The neighborhood is part of the larger Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda development, near the Jacaranda Boulevard and Venice East Boulevard area. Its location provides driving access to downtown Venice, local shopping, Interstate 75, and Gulf Coast beaches.

Is Lake of the Woods a gated community?

No. Lake of the Woods is a deed-restricted residential neighborhood, but it is not generally identified as a gated community. Its established landscaping and natural surroundings contribute to its residential character without a staffed entrance or controlled-access gate.

How many homes are in Lake of the Woods?

According to the official Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda association, the Lake of the Woods neighborhood contains 182 residential lots. The larger master association includes 871 lots across three principal neighborhoods.

What types of homes are available?

Lake of the Woods primarily features established single-family homes, many constructed during the early 1990s. Properties vary in size, floor plan, condition, and outdoor features. Some homes offer private pools, screened lanais, and views of lakes or landscaped natural areas.

Does Lake of the Woods have an HOA?

Yes. Lake of the Woods is governed by the Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda Master Homeowners Association. The association oversees deed restrictions and common-area responsibilities. Buyers should verify current assessments and any additional obligations associated with their specific property.

Does Lake of the Woods have a community pool?

The neighboring Lakes of Jacaranda subdivision has a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis court, and pickleball courts. However, the association states that these recreational facilities are for Lakes of Jacaranda residents and their guests. Buyers in the separate Lake of the Woods neighborhood should not assume those amenities are included with their ownership.

Is Lake of the Woods near the beach?

Yes. Lake of the Woods is inland, but Venice Beach and other Gulf Coast beaches are accessible by car. Actual travel times depend on traffic, the route, and the selected beach.

Are homes available for sale in Lake of the Woods?

Homes become available periodically, although inventory changes throughout the year. Buyers can contact Hunt Brothers Realty to explore current listings and compare nearby Venice neighborhoods.

Discover Lake of the Woods: An Established Venice Neighborhood

Lake of the Woods offers a residential environment that differs from many newer communities throughout southern Sarasota County.

Rather than emphasizing newly constructed homes, resort-style clubhouses, or extensive shared amenities, the neighborhood is defined by its established landscaping, individual residences, and surrounding natural areas.

Tree-lined streets, sidewalks, lakes, and nearby preserves create a setting that appeals to buyers interested in an established neighborhood.

Many homes feature traditional Florida architectural elements, including tile roofs, attached garages, covered entries, and screened outdoor living spaces.

The community's age also means buyers can encounter homes with different renovation histories and maintenance needs.

For those comparing Venice, Florida, homes for sale, Lake of the Woods offers a combination of established residential character and convenient access to the surrounding area.

Understanding Lake of the Woods and Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda

One of the most important details buyers should understand is that Lake of the Woods and Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda are not exactly the same thing.

Lake of the Woods is a specific neighborhood within a larger master-planned residential area.

The larger development is legally known as Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, commonly abbreviated LOWofJ.

According to the official master association website, the development includes three principal neighborhoods:

• Lake of the Woods: 182 residential lots.
• The Lakes of Jacaranda: 613 residential lots.
• Park Estates: 76 residential lots.

Together, these neighborhoods account for 871 lots within the master association.

The larger development also includes smaller maintenance-oriented sections associated with the Lakes of Jacaranda neighborhood.

Real estate listings sometimes use the name Lake of the Woods broadly when discussing the entire area.

However, the distinction matters because different neighborhoods can have different association fees, amenities, and governing documents.

Lake of the Woods Neighborhood

The original Lake of the Woods neighborhood was the first section developed.

According to the official neighborhood history, Gulfstream Development Corporation began the project before subsequent development activity continued under Taylor Woodrow.

The neighborhood is known for its established homes, relatively modest annual association fees, and proximity to a wildlife preserve with a walking path.

The Lakes of Jacaranda

The Lakes of Jacaranda is the largest neighborhood within the master association.

It includes its own homeowners association and recreational facilities.

The recreational complex includes a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis court, and pickleball courts.

The association states that the facility is reserved for Lakes of Jacaranda residents and their guests.

Buyers interested in those amenities should verify that the property they are considering belongs to the appropriate neighborhood.

Park Estates

Park Estates is a smaller residential enclave containing 76 homesites.

According to the Park Estates association information, the neighborhood emphasizes mature oak trees, preserve views, and proximity to Lake Meredith.

Park Estates also maintains its own neighborhood association and designated park areas.

The History of Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods has a longer development history than many newer Venice-area communities.

According to the master association, the original development was known simply as Lake of the Woods.

In August 1989, the legal community name became Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda because another development already used the original name.

Gulfstream Development Corporation initially developed the property.

After changes in ownership, Taylor Woodrow continued development, and J & J Homes became involved in constructing residences in the broader community.

Over time, the development evolved into three principal neighborhoods governed by a master homeowners association.

This history helps explain why the area contains different architectural styles, construction periods, and neighborhood-specific rules.

The association's official community history provides additional details about the development's origins and organization.

What Types of Homes Are Found in Lake of the Woods?

Lake of the Woods primarily consists of detached single-family residences.

Property records and real estate listings show homes dating to the early 1990s, with architectural features typical of established Florida residential neighborhoods.

Buyers will find variation in home size, layout, renovations, and outdoor features.

Traditional Florida Floor Plans

Many homes feature two or three bedrooms, although larger layouts may also be available.

Common features documented in individual listings include:

• Split-bedroom floor plans
• Open living and dining areas
• Vaulted or cathedral ceilings
• Eat-in kitchens and breakfast areas
• Screened lanais
• Attached two-car garages
• Private swimming pools on certain properties
• Mature landscaping
• Lake, preserve, or landscaped views on qualifying lots

These features are examples from individual properties and are not guaranteed throughout the neighborhood.

Established Construction

The neighborhood includes homes constructed more than three decades ago.

Some residences have been extensively updated, while others retain original finishes or mechanical systems.

Buyers should evaluate each property's roof, HVAC equipment, plumbing, electrical systems, windows, doors, and other components.

The construction year alone does not establish a home's current condition.

Private Pools and Outdoor Living

Some Lake of the Woods homes feature private swimming pools and screened outdoor living areas.

These features can support outdoor dining, relaxation, and entertaining.

Buyers should confirm the condition of pool equipment, screens, decking, drainage, and related improvements through appropriate inspections.

Lake Meredith and the Community's Natural Setting

Natural scenery is one of the defining characteristics of the larger Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda community.

The master association describes the development as surrounding 35-acre Lake Meredith.

The area also contains additional lakes, wetlands, and preserved natural spaces.

Scenic Lake Views

Lake Meredith and other neighborhood lakes contribute to the area's landscape.

Some residences overlook water, while others face wooded preserves or landscaped residential streets.

Not every home has direct lake frontage.

Buyers should verify the actual property boundaries, water views, and any legal rights associated with a specific parcel.

Wildlife and Preserve Areas

The master association highlights the area's wildlife and proximity to natural preserves.

Its official website identifies birds such as ospreys, hawks, wood storks, and white ibises among the wildlife that may be observed.

The association also notes that other Florida wildlife may occasionally be present.

Residents and visitors should observe wildlife from a safe distance and avoid feeding wild animals.

Walking and Biking Paths

The community's walking and biking paths provide opportunities to enjoy the neighborhood's established landscape.

The Lake of the Woods neighborhood page specifically identifies a wildlife preserve and walking path adjacent to the neighborhood.

Buyers should confirm which paths are public, association-maintained, or subject to access restrictions.

What Amenities Does Lake of the Woods Offer?

Lake of the Woods is primarily valued for its established residential setting and natural surroundings.

Its amenities differ from those of the neighboring Lakes of Jacaranda subdivision.

Natural Areas and Walking Paths

The neighborhood's principal recreational features include nearby walking and biking paths, lakes, and preserved natural areas.

These features offer opportunities for outdoor recreation without the emphasis on a large shared clubhouse complex.

Does Lake of the Woods Include the Lakes of Jacaranda Pool?

No automatic access should be assumed.

The recreational complex at 575 Lake of the Woods Drive is associated with the separate Lakes of Jacaranda homeowners association.

According to the official recreational facility information, the amenities include:

• A clubhouse
• A swimming pool
• One tennis court
• Three pickleball courts
• Permit-controlled parking

The association states that the facility is intended for Lakes of Jacaranda residents and their guests.

Buyers considering a property in the original Lake of the Woods neighborhood should verify their recreational privileges directly with the appropriate association.

Private Amenities at Individual Homes

Some homes include private swimming pools, screened lanais, and landscaped outdoor spaces.

These features belong to individual properties and should not be confused with shared community amenities.

Lake of the Woods HOA Fees and Community Rules

Lake of the Woods is a deed-restricted neighborhood governed by the Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda Master Homeowners Association.

The association is responsible for enforcing applicable restrictions and overseeing specified common areas.

How Much Are the HOA Fees?

The official neighborhood website describes Lake of the Woods as having relatively low annual homeowners association fees.

A third-party community profile reports association charges around $600 annually, but this should not be treated as a verified current assessment.

Buyers should obtain the current written assessment amount and payment schedule directly from the association.

The amount due for a particular property may also depend on whether additional neighborhood or maintenance association obligations apply.

What Does the Master Association Maintain?

The master association identifies responsibilities involving common land, lakes, wetlands, roads, monuments, lighting, and other shared infrastructure.

Buyers should review the current budget and governing documents to understand which expenses are covered and which remain individual-owner responsibilities.

Are There Architectural Restrictions?

Yes. The community has architectural review requirements and deed restrictions.

The association notes that some neighborhood-specific restrictions differ from the master association's general requirements.

Buyers planning exterior changes should confirm approval requirements for roofing, landscaping, fences, additions, and other improvements.

The official association governance page explains why neighborhood-specific documents are important.

Who Manages the Association?

The master association's website currently identifies RealManage, LLC as its management company.

Association contact information and homeowner resources are available through Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda.

Where Is Lake of the Woods Located in Relation to Venice Attractions?

Lake of the Woods is situated in the Venice area east of the Gulf shoreline.

Its location offers access to residential conveniences and regional destinations while retaining an established neighborhood atmosphere.

Historic Downtown Venice

Historic downtown Venice offers restaurants, boutiques, galleries, parks, and community events.

The district is known for its landscaped streets and distinctive architecture.

Residents can explore businesses and events through Venice MainStreet.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the area's best-known Gulf Coast destinations.

The beach offers shoreline recreation, Gulf views, sunsets, and opportunities to search for fossilized shark teeth.

Lake of the Woods is not a beachfront community, but residents can reach Venice Beach by car.

Shopping and Everyday Services

The Venice area includes grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, healthcare providers, and other everyday services.

Buyers should evaluate the routes and travel times to the specific destinations they expect to use regularly.

Interstate 75 and Regional Travel

Interstate 75 provides connections to Sarasota, North Port, and other parts of Southwest Florida.

Lake of the Woods residents can access the interstate through the surrounding road network.

What Is Daily Life Like in Lake of the Woods?

Lake of the Woods offers a residential setting centered on established homes, mature landscaping, and nearby natural areas.

For buyers who enjoy walking, biking, gardening, or spending time outdoors, the neighborhood's landscape may be particularly appealing.

A Neighborhood With Mature Landscaping

Established trees and landscaping distinguish Lake of the Woods from newly developed neighborhoods.

Many streets feature a combination of shade trees, landscaped yards, and residential sidewalks.

Mature landscaping can enhance the appearance of a property, but buyers should also consider tree maintenance, root conditions, and potential effects on roofs or drainage.

Nature and Wildlife

The area's lakes and preserves support a variety of wildlife.

Residents may observe birds and other animals throughout the community.

As in other Florida neighborhoods with freshwater lakes, residents should remain aware of alligators and follow appropriate wildlife safety practices.

Private Outdoor Living

Many established Venice homes emphasize screened lanais and outdoor living areas.

Some Lake of the Woods properties include private pools or landscaped backyard spaces.

These features vary by property and should be evaluated individually.

How Much Do Homes Cost in Lake of the Woods?

Home prices in Lake of the Woods vary according to square footage, condition, renovations, lot characteristics, and market conditions.

A neighborhood real estate profile reports historical closed prices ranging from approximately $370,000 to $585,000.

That range is a third-party historical snapshot, not a verified October 2026 pricing range or a guarantee of current availability.

For example, a residence at 448 Lake of the Woods Drive, built in 1992, is documented as having three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and approximately 2,184 square feet of living space.

The example illustrates the neighborhood's established housing stock, but it should not be used as a direct valuation for another property.

Buyers should compare current listings and recent closed sales within the correct neighborhood rather than combining all three master association neighborhoods into a single pricing analysis.

For current market information, contact Hunt Brothers Realty.

Lake of the Woods Compared With Nearby Neighborhoods

Buyers researching Lake of the Woods may also encounter homes in Lakes of Jacaranda and Park Estates.

Although the neighborhoods share a master association, their amenities and governance arrangements differ.

The comparison reflects the associations' published community descriptions. Buyers should verify the specific property boundaries, fees, and privileges before purchasing.

What Should Buyers Know About Flood Zones and Insurance?

Lake of the Woods is an inland neighborhood, but flood exposure and insurance remain important considerations.

Properties near lakes, wetlands, or drainage areas may have different flood-related characteristics.

Are Lake of the Woods Homes in Flood Zones?

Flood classifications should be verified for each property.

Buyers can research current flood maps through the FEMA Flood Map Service Center.

A property's official flood designation does not establish that flooding is impossible outside mapped high-risk areas.

What About Homeowners Insurance?

Insurance premiums and coverage can vary depending on construction, roof condition, wind-mitigation features, location, and other property-specific factors.

Buyers should obtain current insurance quotes and review coverage with a qualified insurance professional before purchasing.

Why Are Home Inspections Important?

Because many Lake of the Woods homes were built during the early 1990s, their systems and improvements may have undergone multiple repair or replacement cycles.

A qualified inspector can help identify visible conditions that warrant additional evaluation.

Roofing, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, pool systems, drainage, and potential moisture intrusion are among the topics buyers may wish to investigate.

Inspection findings should be reviewed with appropriately qualified inspectors, contractors, or engineers before making a decision.

Are Pets and Rentals Allowed in Lake of the Woods?

Pet ownership and rental use may be subject to deed restrictions and association rules.

Current community-wide pet limits and minimum rental periods have not been independently confirmed for this article.

Buyers should obtain the current governing documents before relying on a particular use.

Pet Policies

Buyers should verify any restrictions concerning the number or type of pets, outdoor enclosures, and applicable community rules.

Applicable legal accommodation requirements should also be considered.

Rental Restrictions

Anyone considering a Lake of the Woods property for rental use should verify minimum lease periods, rental frequency, approval requirements, and any applicable local regulations.

Questions involving legal rental rights or deed restrictions should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney.

Who Might Find Lake of the Woods Appealing?

Lake of the Woods may be worth considering for buyers who prioritize established residential character and access to natural surroundings.

Buyers Seeking Established Homes

The neighborhood offers homes with mature landscaping and a range of traditional Florida floor plans.

Buyers can compare renovated residences with properties that may offer opportunities for future improvements.

Buyers Who Enjoy Natural Surroundings

Lakes, preserves, and walking paths are central to the community's appeal.

Buyers interested in outdoor recreation and landscaped residential surroundings may find these features attractive.

Buyers Comparing HOA Communities

The original Lake of the Woods neighborhood may appeal to buyers who want deed-restricted community standards without the extensive shared recreational facilities found in some newer developments.

Buyers should compare actual association expenses and included services rather than assume lower fees automatically mean lower overall ownership costs.

Buyers Who Want Access to Venice Amenities

The location offers driving access to beaches, shopping, dining, healthcare, and downtown Venice.

Those conveniences can complement the neighborhood's established residential setting.

What Should Buyers Check Before Purchasing in Lake of the Woods?

Buyers should complete appropriate property and association due diligence before purchasing a home.

1. Correct neighborhood: Confirm whether the property is in Lake of the Woods, Lakes of Jacaranda, or Park Estates.
2. Association structure: Identify all associations applicable to the property.
3. HOA assessments: Obtain current written fee amounts and payment schedules.
4. Governing documents: Review deed restrictions, architectural requirements, and applicable amendments.
5. Recreational privileges: Verify whether the property includes access to any shared facilities.
6. Home inspection: Arrange appropriate professional inspections.
7. Roof condition: Review age, maintenance history, and available permits.
8. Mechanical systems: Evaluate HVAC, plumbing, and electrical equipment.
9. Pool condition: Inspect pool equipment and enclosures when applicable.
10. Flood exposure: Verify current flood maps and property-specific conditions.
11. Insurance: Obtain current property-specific quotes.
12. Landscaping: Investigate mature trees, drainage, and maintenance obligations.
13. Waterfront rights: Confirm boundaries and permitted uses for lake-adjacent properties.
14. Pet and rental rules: Obtain current written restrictions.
15. Property taxes: Review the current tax record and potential changes following purchase.
16. Financing: Discuss property-specific lending requirements with a qualified mortgage professional.

The master association's property purchase and membership information can help buyers identify the applicable neighborhood associations.

Questions involving contracts, deed restrictions, ownership rights, or association obligations should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake of the Woods

Is Lake of the Woods in Venice, Florida?

Yes. Lake of the Woods is an established residential neighborhood in Venice, Florida, 34293, within Sarasota County.

Is Lake of the Woods the same as Lakes of Jacaranda?

No. They are separate neighborhoods within the larger Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda master association. Their association structures and recreational privileges differ.

How many lots are in Lake of the Woods?

The official association identifies 182 residential lots in the original Lake of the Woods neighborhood.

What is Lake Meredith?

Lake Meredith is an approximately 35-acre lake within the larger Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda community. It contributes to the area's natural scenery and waterfront views.

Does every Lake of the Woods home have a lake view?

No. Some homes have lake or preserve views, while others overlook landscaped streets or neighboring residences. Buyers should verify the actual setting of each property.

Does Lake of the Woods have low HOA fees?

The official neighborhood website describes its annual HOA fees as relatively low. Buyers should request the current written assessment and compare it with the services provided.

Can Lake of the Woods residents use the Lakes of Jacaranda pool?

The recreational facility is designated for Lakes of Jacaranda residents and their guests. Buyers in the separate Lake of the Woods neighborhood should not assume access is included and should confirm any applicable privileges directly with the association.

Is Lake of the Woods a 55-plus community?

The master association does not identify Lake of the Woods as a 55-plus community in its principal public neighborhood information. Buyers should verify any applicable occupancy restrictions through current governing documents.

Are Lake of the Woods homes close to Venice Beach?

Lake of the Woods is inland, but Venice Beach is accessible by car. Travel times depend on traffic and the selected route.

Are there walking trails in Lake of the Woods?

Yes. The official association describes walking and biking paths throughout the larger community, including a walking path near the wildlife preserve adjacent to the original Lake of the Woods neighborhood.

Is Lake of the Woods a good place to buy a home?

Lake of the Woods may be worth considering for buyers who value established homes, mature landscaping, nearby natural areas, and access to Venice amenities. Whether a specific property is suitable depends on its condition, price, association obligations, insurance, and the buyer's priorities.

The Bottom Line: Is Lake of the Woods Right for You?

Lake of the Woods offers an established residential setting in Venice, Florida, with a distinctive emphasis on natural surroundings.

Its mature landscaping, traditional single-family homes, walking paths, and proximity to lakes and wildlife preserves help distinguish it from newer developments.

The neighborhood also benefits from its location within the greater Venice area, providing access to shopping, dining, healthcare, downtown attractions, and Gulf Coast beaches.

One of the most important considerations is understanding the distinction between the original Lake of the Woods neighborhood and the surrounding Lakes of Jacaranda and Park Estates communities.

Their association structures, fees, and recreational privileges are not identical.

For buyers seeking a well-established Venice neighborhood with mature trees and nearby natural areas, Lake of the Woods is a community worth exploring.

Explore Lake of the Woods Homes With Hunt Brothers Realty

Interested in Lake of the Woods or other established neighborhoods in Venice?

Hunt Brothers Realty helps buyers and sellers navigate residential real estate throughout Venice, Sarasota, and Florida's Gulf Coast.

Our team can help you compare available homes in Lake of the Woods, Lakes of Jacaranda, Park Estates, and other Venice-area neighborhoods.

We can also assist with market comparisons, property searches, and the real estate transaction process while encouraging appropriate professional review of association documents, inspections, insurance, and financing.

Visit www.huntbrothersrealty.com to explore Venice-area real estate or contact our team to discuss your property goals.

Important Information: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute individualized legal, financial, tax, insurance, lending, inspection, engineering, construction, title, association, or other professional advice. Property features, asking prices, HOA fees, recreational privileges, restrictions, flood classifications, and insurance arrangements may change. Buyers should verify information through current property records, the applicable homeowners associations, and appropriate government agencies before making a purchasing decision. Questions involving deed restrictions, ownership rights, contracts, or association obligations should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney. Inspection findings should be evaluated by appropriately qualified inspectors, contractors, or engineers. Buyers should obtain property-specific insurance quotes from a qualified insurance professional, discuss financing with a mortgage lender, and consult a tax professional regarding individual tax circumstances. Hunt Brothers Realty provides real estate brokerage services and does not provide professional advice outside that scope.

Sources

• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Official Master Association Website
• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Lake of the Woods Neighborhood Overview
• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Official Community History
• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Governance and Neighborhood Restrictions
• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Lakes of Jacaranda Neighborhood Overview
• Lakes of Jacaranda Homeowners Association, Recreational Facility Information
• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Park Estates Neighborhood Overview
• Lake of the Woods of Jacaranda, Property Purchase and Association Membership Information
• Neighborhoods.com, Lake of the Woods Venice Real Estate Overview
• Zillow, 448 Lake of the Woods Drive Property Information
• City of Venice, Official Municipal Information
• Venice MainStreet, Downtown Venice Businesses and Attractions
• FEMA Flood Map Service Center
• Hunt Brothers Realty, Venice and Sarasota Area Real Estate

Contact Hunt Brothers Realty

Hunt Brothers Realty
46 N. Washington Blvd, Ste 3
Sarasota, FL 34236

Phone: (941) 388-7017

Email: info@huntbrothersrealty.com

Website: www.huntbrothersrealty.com