Venice Centre is a historic condominium community at 238 West Tampa Avenue in downtown Venice, Florida. Located on Venice Island beside Centennial Park, the property combines residential condominiums with the architectural character of a landmark building dating to 1927. Formerly associated with the San Marco Hotel and Kentucky Military Institute, the building now offers condominium residences near downtown shopping, restaurants, cultural attractions, and Venice Beach. Community features identified in property listings include a swimming pool, elevators, and shared gathering spaces. For buyers seeking a downtown Venice Island condo, Venice Centre offers a distinctive alternative to beachfront towers and newer residential developments, with important considerations involving association finances, historic-building maintenance, insurance, and ownership rules.

Quick Answers About Venice Centre Condos

Where is Venice Centre located?

Venice Centre is located at 238 West Tampa Avenue, Venice, FL 34285, in the historic downtown district on Venice Island. The building is adjacent to Centennial Park and near West Venice Avenue's shopping and dining district.

Is Venice Centre a historic building?

Yes. Property records identify the building's original construction year as 1927. Historical references associate it with the San Marco Hotel and later the Kentucky Military Institute. Buyers should distinguish the building's original construction date from subsequent renovations and condominium improvements.

Is Venice Centre directly on the beach?

No. Venice Centre is in downtown Venice rather than directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Venice Beach is accessible from the downtown area, but the condominium does not provide direct beachfront ownership.

Does Venice Centre have a swimming pool?

Yes. Condominium listings identify a community swimming pool, with some describing it as heated. Buyers should confirm current operating conditions and access arrangements with the association.

Does Venice Centre have elevators?

Yes. Historical and recent property listings identify elevator access within the building. Buyers should verify the route to a specific residence and whether it meets their individual accessibility requirements.

How much are Venice Centre condo fees?

As of October 2026, the Venice Centre Association's website posts regular association dues of $500 per month. Buyers should verify the amount applicable to their unit, what the assessment covers, and whether additional charges or special assessments apply.

Are rentals and pets allowed at Venice Centre?

Venice Centre has association rules governing leasing and pets. Recorded amendments contain specific restrictions, but buyers should obtain the current governing documents and written association confirmation before relying on any particular rental or pet arrangement.

Are Venice Centre condos currently for sale?

Availability changes as units are listed, placed under contract, and sold. Buyers can contact Hunt Brothers Realty to investigate current Venice Centre listings and comparable downtown Venice Island condominiums.

What Makes Venice Centre Different From Other Venice Island Condos?

Venice Centre stands out because it combines historic architecture with a central downtown location. Unlike many condominium developments built primarily around beachfront access or resort amenities, Venice Centre is closely integrated with the shops, restaurants, parks, and cultural destinations of downtown Venice.

The property is also associated with the Venice Centre Mall, giving it a mixed-use character that differs from a conventional residential condominium complex.

A Historic Downtown Landmark

The building's origins date to 1927, during the early development of Venice as a planned Florida community.

Historical property descriptions identify the building as the former San Marco Hotel and later a property associated with the Kentucky Military Institute. Today, it is known as Venice Centre or Venice Centre Mall.

The historic setting may appeal to buyers who appreciate established architecture and the character of downtown Venice. However, older construction also makes maintenance history, building systems, insurance, and professional inspections particularly important.

Residential Living in a Mixed-Use Setting

Venice Centre is not simply a freestanding residential building. The property's history and governing documents include residential and commercial condominium components.

This creates a different ownership environment from a condominium property devoted exclusively to residences.

Buyers should understand how commercial and residential ownership interests are addressed in the condominium declaration, including voting, shared expenses, maintenance obligations, and permitted uses.

The Venice Centre Association's document library provides access to recorded governing documents and amendments.

An Alternative to Beachfront Condominium Towers

Venice Centre offers a downtown-oriented lifestyle rather than direct Gulf frontage.

Buyers who want to be near restaurants, community events, parks, and shopping may find that distinction appealing. Those prioritizing unobstructed Gulf views, private beach access, or waterfront balconies should compare other Venice Island condominium communities.

Where Is Venice Centre Located on Venice Island?

Venice Centre occupies a particularly central location at 238 West Tampa Avenue, immediately north of the downtown area's principal commercial streets.

Its proximity to Centennial Park is one of the property's most recognizable advantages. Residents can access many downtown destinations without needing to drive for every outing, although individual walking preferences and accessibility needs vary.

Centennial Park Is Next Door

Centennial Park is located at 200 West Venice Avenue, between West Venice Avenue and West Tampa Avenue.

According to the City of Venice, the park includes a gazebo, benches, landscaped areas, picnic facilities, public restrooms, and an interactive fountain.

The gazebo and surrounding park also serve as a setting for community events and performances.

For Venice Centre residents, the park provides an attractive public gathering space immediately outside the downtown building.

West Venice Avenue Shopping and Dining

West Venice Avenue is one of the defining streets of historic downtown Venice.

The area includes restaurants, cafes, boutiques, galleries, and other locally operated businesses.

The nearby Miami Avenue, Tampa Avenue, Nokomis Avenue, and Nassau Street corridors expand the range of downtown destinations.

Explore the district through Venice MainStreet's downtown guide.

Venice Theatre and Cultural Attractions

Venice Centre is also near Venice Theatre, a longstanding cultural institution on West Tampa Avenue.

Downtown Venice and the surrounding island area include additional cultural destinations, such as the Venice Art Center, public library, and Venice Museum and Archives.

Performance schedules, operating hours, and access may change, so residents should consult the individual organizations for current information.

What Types of Condos Are Available at Venice Centre?

Venice Centre includes condominium residences with different layouts, sizes, and interior configurations. Recent and historical property listings document one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, as well as differences in square footage and floor location.

Buyers should not assume that every residence has the same layout, finishes, parking arrangements, or views.

One-Bedroom Condominiums

Recent listings document one-bedroom, one-bathroom residences with approximately 538 square feet of living space.

These compact layouts may appeal to buyers who prefer a smaller interior footprint and place significant value on the downtown location.

Individual units may differ in window placement, storage, kitchen configuration, and renovation history.

Two-Bedroom Condominiums

Property listings also identify two-bedroom, two-bathroom residences, including documented units measuring approximately 794 to 831 square feet.

Some layouts offer split-bedroom arrangements, which can provide separation between sleeping areas within a compact condominium.

These examples are drawn from individual property records and should not be treated as a complete inventory of every floor plan in the building.

How Much Do Views and Floor Location Matter?

A Venice Centre residence may overlook portions of downtown, surrounding streets, Centennial Park, or other nearby buildings, depending on its position and orientation.

Floor level can affect natural light, street activity, access, and views. Buyers should visit the specific unit to evaluate these characteristics rather than rely solely on photographs or generalized building descriptions.

How Do Renovations Affect Individual Units?

Interior condition varies because individual condominium owners may have completed improvements at different times.

Buyers should investigate the condition of kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, windows, electrical components, plumbing, and air-conditioning systems, as applicable to the unit.

For a historic building, it is also important to verify whether renovations required association approval, permits, or additional professional evaluation.

What Amenities Does Venice Centre Offer?

Venice Centre offers shared amenities identified in condominium listings, including a swimming pool, elevators, and common gathering facilities. Its downtown location also places numerous public amenities nearby.

Community Swimming Pool

Listings describe a community swimming pool, with some identifying it as heated and located in a landscaped setting.

This shared feature provides an alternative to maintaining a private pool, although the associated costs are funded through the condominium's financial structure.

Buyers should confirm the pool's current operating status and access rules.

Elevators and Common Areas

Property listings identify elevators, a lobby, and shared common spaces within Venice Centre.

Some listings also describe a clubhouse or community room. Buyers should verify which spaces are available for residential use and whether any reservations or restrictions apply.

Laundry Facilities

Historical property descriptions identify shared laundry facilities, including laundry areas on residential floors.

Buyers should verify the current laundry arrangements for the building and determine whether the unit they are considering has any individual laundry connections or equipment.

Parking in a Downtown Setting

Parking deserves particular attention at Venice Centre because the building is located in the downtown commercial district.

Listings reference assigned parking and parking restrictions, while the surrounding downtown area includes public and time-limited spaces.

Buyers should verify the exact parking rights associated with a unit, including any assigned space, permit requirements, guest parking rules, and vehicle restrictions.

Buyer takeaway: Venice Centre's strongest lifestyle feature may be its downtown location rather than the size of its amenity package. Compare the actual shared facilities and parking arrangements with your daily needs before purchasing.

How Close Is Venice Centre to Venice Beach?

Venice Centre is in downtown Venice, east of the Gulf shoreline. Venice Beach is a nearby island destination accessible by local streets, but the condominium is not beachfront and does not offer direct Gulf frontage.

Venice MainStreet describes downtown Venice as being less than a mile from Venice Beach, although the actual route and distance depend on the starting point.

What Makes Venice Beach Popular?

Venice Beach is known for Gulf views, beach recreation, sunsets, and opportunities to search for fossilized shark teeth.

For Venice Centre residents, the beach adds a coastal dimension to a property otherwise centered on downtown activities.

Can Residents Walk or Bicycle to the Beach?

Walking or bicycling may be practical for some residents, depending on weather, mobility, traffic conditions, and the chosen route.

Buyers should personally evaluate the route from Venice Centre to the beach rather than assume a specific travel time.

What Is Daily Life Like in Downtown Venice?

Downtown Venice combines historic architecture, neighborhood parks, restaurants, shops, and cultural activities in a relatively compact island setting.

For Venice Centre residents, many of these destinations are located in the immediate surrounding district.

Dining and Shopping

Restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and specialty shops are concentrated along West Venice Avenue and nearby downtown streets.

This setting allows residents to incorporate downtown errands, dining, and shopping into everyday routines without traveling to a separate commercial district.

Community Events and the Farmers Market

Venice MainStreet identifies downtown Venice as a setting for community events, concerts, and a Saturday farmers market.

Because Venice Centre is adjacent to Centennial Park, residents may find these activities especially convenient.

Event schedules and market locations can change. Current information is available through Venice MainStreet.

Walking and Bicycling Routes

Venice provides access to recreational walking and bicycling routes, including connections to Venetian Waterway Park and the Legacy Trail system.

The downtown street network also offers opportunities to explore nearby neighborhoods, parks, and cultural destinations.

What Are the Tradeoffs of Living in a Downtown Building?

Downtown living involves a different environment from a secluded residential subdivision.

Street activity, nearby businesses, deliveries, events, parking demand, and pedestrian traffic may affect the experience of individual units.

Buyers should visit the property at different times and evaluate the specific unit's orientation, sound exposure, access, and privacy.

How Much Are Venice Centre Condominium Fees?

The Venice Centre Association's official website states that association dues are $500 per month as of October 2026.

That published amount provides a useful starting point, but buyers should request current written confirmation of the charges applicable to the specific residence and any additional assessments.

What Do the Fees Include?

Recent property listings identify various association services and expenses, including:

• Maintenance of specified building components
• Common-area and grounds maintenance
• Swimming pool maintenance
• Association management
• Certain pest-control services
• Water, sewer, and trash services
• Contributions toward association reserves

These items are based on property listing descriptions. The current association budget and governing documents should determine what is actually included.

Can Venice Centre Fees Change?

Yes. Condominium assessments can change based on approved budgets, operating expenses, reserve contributions, insurance costs, and other association obligations.

Buyers should review recent budgets and financial statements to understand the association's financial position rather than rely solely on the amount displayed in a property listing.

Are Special Assessments Possible?

Yes. As with other condominium associations, special assessments may be authorized for qualifying expenses under applicable law and governing documents.

No specific current special assessment has been independently confirmed for this article. Buyers should request written information about approved, pending, and discussed assessments directly from the association.

What Should Buyers Know About the Venice Centre Association?

The community is governed by The Venice Centre Association, Inc., which maintains a public website with association information, governing documents, and forms.

The association website identifies Sunstate Association Management Group as its management provider.

Where Can Buyers Review the Governing Documents?

The association maintains an online document library that includes the declaration of condominium, bylaws, amendments, and rules and regulations.

The website identifies an October 2025 version of its rules and regulations. Buyers should confirm whether that remains the most current version and obtain any subsequent amendments.

Does the Association Require Approval for Sales or Leases?

The association publishes an application for unit lease, sale, or transfer that references approval requirements under the condominium documents.

Buyers should verify the current application process, required documents, fees, timing, and approval procedures before entering a transaction that depends on association approval.

Why Do the Association Documents Matter?

Condominium documents define important ownership rights and responsibilities.

At Venice Centre, they are particularly relevant because the property has historic construction and includes residential and commercial components.

Buyers should understand how the documents address maintenance responsibilities, common expenses, unit use, leasing, pets, parking, and association governance.

Questions involving legal rights or interpretation of the governing documents should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney.

Are Pets Allowed at Venice Centre?

Venice Centre has documented pet restrictions. A recorded amendment from 1988 generally restricts pets in residential apartments, subject to specified exceptions and association authorization.

However, buyers should not rely on a decades-old amendment alone to determine the current policy.

The association's more recent rules, any subsequent amendments, and applicable legal accommodation requirements must also be considered.

Anyone planning to keep an animal at Venice Centre should obtain written confirmation of the applicable policy before purchasing.

Can You Rent a Venice Centre Condo?

Venice Centre has recorded leasing restrictions, and association approval procedures may apply.

A historical recorded amendment references a 90-day leasing restriction. However, some more recent property listings report different minimum rental periods.

Because these sources do not establish a consistent current rental rule, buyers should not assume that a one-month or three-month rental is permitted.

What Should a Buyer Planning to Rent Verify?

• Current minimum lease duration
• Maximum rental frequency, if applicable
• Association approval requirements
• Application fees and procedures
• Occupancy and use restrictions
• Applicable city regulations
• Insurance and financing requirements

Buyers considering rental use should obtain current written association confirmation and consult a qualified Florida real estate attorney regarding material legal questions.

What Should Buyers Know About Building Age, Inspections, and Reserves?

Venice Centre's original 1927 construction makes building condition and maintenance history important considerations for buyers.

However, age alone does not establish whether a building is well maintained or whether a particular purchase is suitable.

Which Building Components Deserve Attention?

Depending on available records and professional findings, buyers may need to investigate:

• Roof condition and replacement history
• Exterior walls and structural components
• Windows and water intrusion history
• Elevator maintenance and modernization
• Common plumbing and electrical systems
• Drainage and moisture-related concerns
• Fire protection and life-safety systems
• Completed and planned capital improvements

Inspection findings should be evaluated by appropriately qualified inspectors, engineers, contractors, or other licensed professionals.

Do Florida Milestone Inspection Rules Apply?

Florida requires milestone inspections for certain qualifying condominium and cooperative buildings, generally based on building age, height, and other statutory criteria.

Property listings identify Venice Centre as having three stories, making the applicable requirements important to investigate. However, a listing's story count is not sufficient to determine statutory applicability or compliance.

Buyers should request any applicable milestone inspection reports and confirm the building's status with the association, local enforcement authority, and qualified professionals.

What About Structural Integrity Reserve Studies?

Florida's Structural Integrity Reserve Study requirements apply to qualifying condominium buildings under specific statutory conditions.

Buyers should determine whether Venice Centre is subject to these requirements and obtain the applicable study and reserve information when available.

The study's findings and funding recommendations may be relevant to future association expenses, but they should be evaluated in the context of the actual building and current law.

For statewide guidance, review the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's condominium FAQs.

Has Venice Centre Completed Required Inspections?

The building's current inspection and reserve-study compliance status has not been independently established for this article.

Buyers should request current documentation directly from the association and appropriate authorities rather than assume compliance or noncompliance based on building age.

What Insurance and Flood Considerations Apply to Venice Centre?

Venice Centre buyers should evaluate insurance and flood exposure based on the actual building, unit, association policies, and lender requirements.

Being located downtown rather than directly on the beach does not eliminate coastal storm or flooding considerations.

What Does the Association's Insurance Cover?

The association may maintain insurance covering specified common property and building components, while individual owners may need separate condominium unit-owner coverage.

The exact division of responsibility depends on applicable law, the condominium documents, and the insurance policies.

Should Buyers Investigate Flood Insurance?

Yes. Buyers should verify current flood information for the property and determine whether separate flood coverage is required or appropriate.

The current flood designation for Venice Centre has not been independently verified for this article, so no specific flood zone is represented here.

Insurance availability, coverage, deductibles, and premiums can vary substantially by property. Buyers should obtain property-specific quotes and review the association's master policies with a qualified insurance professional before making a purchasing decision.

How Does Venice Centre Compare With Other Venice Island Condos?

Venice Island offers different condominium settings, including downtown historic properties, smaller residential complexes, and beachfront developments.

Venice Centre is particularly distinctive because of its historic mixed-use building and location beside Centennial Park.

The most useful comparison is between individual properties, including their condition, location, ownership costs, association finances, and restrictions.

Who Might Find Venice Centre Appealing?

Venice Centre may appeal to buyers whose priorities align with compact condominium living in an established downtown setting.

Buyers Prioritizing Downtown Access

The property's location near Centennial Park and West Venice Avenue may be particularly appealing to buyers who want restaurants, shops, parks, and cultural destinations nearby.

Buyers Interested in Historic Architecture

Venice Centre's 1927 origins offer a different architectural experience from newer condominium developments.

That character should be weighed alongside maintenance history, renovations, and the findings of qualified property professionals.

Buyers Seeking a Smaller Residence

Documented one- and two-bedroom residences provide options for buyers who prefer a compact private living area over a detached home with extensive exterior maintenance.

Buyers Comparing Seasonal Residences

Venice Centre may be worth comparing for seasonal ownership because of its location and condominium maintenance structure.

However, seasonal buyers should verify association rules, unit maintenance obligations, insurance conditions, and arrangements for periods when the residence is unoccupied.

What Should You Check Before Buying a Venice Centre Condo?

A Venice Centre purchase should involve due diligence on both the individual residence and the broader condominium property. The building's age, mixed-use character, and association obligations make documentation especially important.

1. Current association dues: Verify the published monthly amount and charges applicable to the specific unit.
2. Special assessments: Request written information about approved, pending, or discussed assessments.
3. Financial statements: Review the association budget, reserve balances, and recent financial records.
4. Building inspections: Obtain applicable milestone inspection reports and other available structural documentation.
5. Reserve studies: Verify whether a Structural Integrity Reserve Study is required and obtain available documentation.
6. Historic-building maintenance: Investigate roofing, exterior components, windows, elevators, and shared systems.
7. Commercial and residential interests: Understand the governing documents and allocation of shared expenses.
8. Parking: Confirm assigned spaces, permits, guest access, and vehicle restrictions.
9. Rental policies: Obtain current written restrictions and approval procedures.
10. Pet policies: Verify current rules and any applicable exceptions.
11. Insurance: Review association coverage and obtain appropriate unit-owner and flood insurance quotes.
12. Unit condition: Arrange an appropriate professional inspection of the residence.
13. Financing: Ask the intended mortgage lender to confirm condominium project eligibility.
14. Renovations: Investigate material improvements, permits, and association approvals where applicable.
15. Downtown environment: Evaluate street activity, nearby businesses, views, and sound exposure from the specific unit.

Material legal questions should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney. Financial concerns may require a CPA or other qualified professional, while inspection findings should be evaluated by appropriately licensed inspectors, engineers, or contractors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Venice Centre

Is Venice Centre the same as Venice Centre Mall?

The names are closely associated with the historic property at 238 West Tampa Avenue. Venice Centre refers to the condominium community and association, while Venice Centre Mall is a name used in connection with the building's commercial and mixed-use history.

Was Venice Centre once the Kentucky Military Institute?

Historical property descriptions associate the building with the Kentucky Military Institute and its earlier San Marco Hotel identity. Buyers interested in the property's history can investigate local archival resources for additional documentation.

Does Venice Centre have direct Gulf views?

Venice Centre is a downtown property rather than a Gulf-front condominium. Individual units may offer views of downtown streets, Centennial Park, or nearby buildings, depending on location and orientation. Buyers should verify the actual view from any unit they are considering.

Does Venice Centre have boat slips?

Boat slips have not been verified as a Venice Centre amenity. Buyers seeking boating access should investigate nearby marinas or other waterfront communities rather than assume boat-slip rights are included.

Is Venice Centre a 55-plus community?

A current age-restricted designation has not been independently confirmed. Buyers should review the association's governing documents and obtain written confirmation of any applicable occupancy restrictions.

Can Venice Centre condos be financed?

Financing eligibility depends on the borrower, loan program, individual unit, and condominium project. Because Venice Centre is an older mixed-use property, buyers should ask their intended lender to review project eligibility early in the purchasing process.

Are Venice Centre condos expensive?

Pricing varies by unit size, condition, location, and market conditions. Recent listings have shown smaller residences at different asking prices, but those figures should not be treated as a current community-wide price range. Buyers should compare active listings, closed sales, association fees, and anticipated ownership expenses.

Is Venice Centre a good option for downtown living?

Venice Centre may be worth considering for buyers who prioritize historic architecture and immediate access to downtown Venice attractions. Suitability depends on the individual residence, building condition, association obligations, financing, insurance, and personal preferences.

The Bottom Line: Is Venice Centre Right for You?

Venice Centre offers a distinctive combination of historic architecture and downtown Venice Island condominium living.

Located beside Centennial Park and near West Venice Avenue, the community provides access to shopping, dining, cultural attractions, parks, and the broader Venice Island lifestyle.

Its historic mixed-use building and compact condominium layouts distinguish it from larger beachfront developments. At the same time, buyers should evaluate the implications of older construction, shared ownership obligations, association rules, insurance, reserves, and potential capital expenses.

For buyers who value downtown convenience and architectural character over direct waterfront frontage, Venice Centre may deserve a place on the list of Venice Island communities to explore.

Explore Venice Centre Condos With Hunt Brothers Realty

Interested in Venice Centre or other condominium communities on Venice Island?

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

Our team can help you compare available Venice Centre listings with other downtown condominiums, Venice Island residences, and nearby properties based on location, features, market information, and your real estate goals.

Visit Hunt Brothers Realty's real estate website to begin exploring available properties, or contact our team for assistance comparing Venice-area condominium options.

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. Association dues, rules, insurance, reserve requirements, assessments, inspection status, and property conditions may change. Buyers should obtain current documentation from the condominium association and verify property-specific information before making a purchasing decision. Legal questions involving contracts, ownership rights, leasing, or governing documents should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney. Association financial concerns may require review by a CPA or other qualified financial professional. Structural and inspection findings should be evaluated by appropriately licensed inspectors, engineers, or contractors. Insurance and financing questions should be reviewed with qualified insurance and lending professionals. Hunt Brothers Realty provides real estate brokerage services and does not provide professional advice outside that scope.

Sources

• The Venice Centre Association, Inc., Official Community Website and Association Dues
• The Venice Centre Association, Governing Documents, Amendments, and Rules
• The Venice Centre Association, Application for Unit Lease, Sale, or Transfer
• Realtor.com, Property Information for 238 West Tampa Avenue, Unit 221
• Realtor.com, Property Information for 238 West Tampa Avenue, Unit 6B
• City of Venice, Centennial Park
• Venice MainStreet, Explore Downtown Venice
• Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Condominium and Cooperative FAQs

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