Brightmore at Wellen Park offers the perfect retirement lifestyle with resort-style amenities, active social programming, and an ideal location just minutes from Venice beaches. This brand-new 55+ community features 12 modern home designs, extensive recreational facilities spanning 11 acres, and convenient access to downtown Wellen Park and major Gulf Coast destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Brightmore at Wellen Park
What makes Brightmore at Wellen Park special?
Brightmore stands out as the first 55+ community in Wellen Park, offering an unparalleled combination of resort-style amenities, social programming, and prime location. With 11 acres dedicated to amenities including a 21,000 square foot clubhouse, competition pickleball courts, and multiple pools, Brightmore creates a vacation-like atmosphere for year-round living.
Where exactly is Brightmore located?
Brightmore is strategically positioned within Wellen Park, located between Venice and North Port, just south of Sarasota. It sits directly adjacent to CoolToday Park (spring training home of the Atlanta Braves) and is a short distance from downtown Wellen Park, with easy access to I-75 for trips to Sarasota, Fort Myers, and St. Petersburg.
What types of homes are available at Brightmore?
Brightmore offers both single-family homes and paired villas built by Mattamy Homes. There are 12 different floor plans featuring Craftsman, Transitional, and Coastal styles ranging from approximately 1,400 to 2,500 square feet. All homes are single-story with 2-3 bedrooms, 2-3 bathrooms, and two-car garages.
How much do homes cost at Brightmore?
As of May 2024, paired villas at Brightmore range from $400,000 to just over $500,000, while single-family homes start in the mid-$400,000s and can reach the mid-$700,000s. There are additional CDD fees ($1,400-$2,500 annually) and monthly HOA fees ($275-$350).
What amenities are available at Brightmore?
Brightmore features extensive amenities including a 21,000 square foot clubhouse with grand hall, club room, kitchen, bar, café, fitness center, and group fitness studio. The community also offers two pools (a 2,800 sq. ft. lap pool and a 3,700 sq. ft. resort-style pool), nine pickleball courts including a stadium competition court, lawn areas for yoga, dog parks, fire pits, and cabanas.
Is Brightmore a good community for an active retirement?
Brightmore is specifically designed for active adults 55+, with a focus on social connections and physical activity. The extensive amenities and ongoing social programming create abundant opportunities for residents to stay active and engaged. Its location provides easy access to additional recreational options throughout Wellen Park and the surrounding Gulf Coast areas, including beaches, golf courses, and nature preserves.
How can I schedule a tour of Brightmore?
Prospective buyers can tour the seven model homes currently open at Brightmore by contacting Zachos Realty & Design Group. Both move-in ready homes and buildable lots are available as construction continues on this 600+ home community.
What is Wellen Park?
Wellen Park is one of Florida's most sought-after master-planned communities, strategically positioned between Venice and North Port, just south of Sarasota. Originally known as the West Villages, this expansive development has rapidly emerged as a premier destination for those seeking the quintessential Florida lifestyle.
A Prime Gulf Coast Location
The location of Wellen Park offers residents exceptional convenience and access to everything the Gulf Coast has to offer. This thoughtfully designed community sits:
- Just 20 minutes from multiple Gulf beaches
- A short drive from downtown Venice
- Close to Interstate 75, providing easy access to Sarasota, Fort Myers, and St. Petersburg
- Near shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment options
The Wellen Park Community
What makes Wellen Park stand out from other master-planned communities is its comprehensive approach to creating a self-contained lifestyle destination. Key features include:
- A brand-new Downtown district with restaurants and shops
- A central lake with hiking trails and kayak launch
- An entertainment space hosting daily events
- CoolToday Park, the spring training home of the Atlanta Braves
- Expanding infrastructure including new shopping centers, schools, and roadways
Wellen Park offers diverse real estate options to suit various lifestyles and budgets, from condos and villas to spacious estates. This variety makes it appealing to young families, retirees, seasonal residents, and everyone in between.
Brightmore: Wellen Park's Premier 55+ Community
Brightmore represents an exciting milestone as the first 55+ community within the Wellen Park development. This Mattamy Homes community is designed with active adults in mind, creating a resort-style environment where residents can enjoy their best retirement years.
Community Overview
When completed, Brightmore will feature over 600 homes, with more than 230 planned for the first phase of construction. The community's thoughtful design includes:
- Beautiful lakes and wetland preserves throughout the property
- An impressive entry featuring a land bridge
- Over 11 acres dedicated to amenity spaces
- Pedestrian-friendly streets and nature trails
- A focus on preserving natural Florida landscapes
Prime Location Within Wellen Park
Brightmore enjoys an enviable position within the larger Wellen Park community:
- Adjacent to CoolToday Park (spring training home of the Atlanta Braves)
- Just off West Villages Parkway
- A short distance from Downtown Wellen Park
- 20 minutes from Venice beaches
- Easy access to Interstate 75
This strategic location allows residents to enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of a 55+ community while maintaining convenient access to all the amenities and attractions that make Florida's Gulf Coast special.
The Brightmore Lifestyle: Active Living at Its Finest
What truly sets Brightmore apart is its commitment to fostering an active, social lifestyle for residents. This community isn't just about beautiful homes—it's about creating meaningful connections and enjoying each day to the fullest.
Social Atmosphere
Brightmore has been designed with social interaction in mind:
- Regular community events and gatherings
- Clubs and interest groups for various hobbies
- Educational workshops and classes
- Fitness programs and wellness initiatives
- Holiday celebrations and seasonal activities
The community's layout and amenities encourage neighbors to connect, creating a welcoming atmosphere particularly valuable for those new to the area or looking to expand their social circle in retirement.
Access to Wellen Park Events
Brightmore's location adjacent to CoolToday Park and near Downtown Wellen provides residents with easy access to:
- Atlanta Braves spring training games
- Concerts and entertainment events
- Farmers markets and craft fairs
- Food and wine festivals
- Community celebrations throughout the year
Many residents appreciate the ability to take a golf cart to these nearby attractions, eliminating parking concerns and adding to the convenience of living at Brightmore.
Brightmore's Resort-Style Amenities
The developers of Brightmore have created one of the most impressive amenity packages available in any 55+ community in the region. With 11 acres dedicated to recreational and social spaces, residents enjoy a resort-like atmosphere year-round.
The Clubhouse
At the heart of Brightmore's amenity offerings is the expansive 21,000-square-foot clubhouse serving as the social hub of the community. This beautifully designed facility includes:
- A grand hall for community events and gatherings
- A club room for smaller meetings and social activities
- A fully equipped kitchen for cooking classes and catered events
- A bar area for happy hours and social mixers
- A café offering convenient dining options
- A state-of-the-art fitness center with cardio and strength equipment
- A dedicated group fitness studio for classes and wellness programs
Aquatic Amenities
Brightmore features two impressive pools to accommodate different preferences and activities:
- A 2,800-square-foot lap pool ideal for fitness swimming and water aerobics
- A 3,700-square-foot resort-style pool featuring:
- A convenient zero-entry (beach entry) access
- Built-in spa areas
- Decorative water fountains
- An expansive sun shelf for lounging
- Panoramic views of the community lake
Both pool areas are thoughtfully designed with ample seating, shade structures, and landscaping to create a tropical resort atmosphere.
Outdoor Recreation
Beyond the clubhouse and pools, Brightmore offers numerous outdoor amenities:
- Nine pickleball courts, including a stadium competition court
- Open lawn areas for yoga, meditation, and outdoor gatherings
- Well-appointed dog parks for four-legged family members
- Fire pit areas for evening socializing
- Private cabanas for relaxation and small gatherings
- Walking trails throughout the community
- Scenic viewpoints overlooking lakes and preserves
Beyond Brightmore: Wellen Park and Gulf Coast Amenities
Residents of Brightmore also enjoy easy access to everything Wellen Park and the surrounding Gulf Coast area have to offer:
- Multiple championship golf courses within a short drive
- Miles of Gulf beaches for swimming, shelling, and sunset watching
- Extensive nature preserves and hiking trails
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating opportunities
- Cultural attractions including theaters and museums
- Shopping destinations from boutiques to major retailers
- Dining options ranging from casual cafés to fine restaurants
Brightmore Home Designs and Features
As a Mattamy Homes community, Brightmore offers thoughtfully designed residences that cater specifically to the preferences and needs of 55+ homebuyers.
Home Types and Styles
Brightmore features two primary types of residences:
- Paired Villas: Offering low-maintenance living without sacrificing space or privacy
- Single-Family Homes: Providing more space and additional customization options
All homes showcase contemporary architectural styles that complement the Florida lifestyle:
- Craftsman: Featuring natural materials, covered porches, and architectural details
- Transitional: Blending traditional and contemporary elements for timeless appeal
- Coastal: Incorporating light colors, open spaces, and design elements inspired by beachside living
Floor Plans and Specifications
Brightmore offers 12 distinct floor plans with various features and configurations:
- Home sizes ranging from approximately 1,400 to 2,500 square feet
- Two to three bedrooms to accommodate different household needs
- Two to three bathrooms for convenience and guest accommodations
- All single-story designs for easy accessibility
- Two-car garages standard with all homes
- Open-concept living areas ideal for entertaining
- Dedicated dining spaces
- Spacious owner's suites with walk-in closets and en-suite bathrooms
- Covered lanais for outdoor living and dining
Modern Features and Technology
As new construction homes, Brightmore residences include numerous contemporary features:
- Energy-efficient construction and appliances
- Smart home technology including thermostats, doorbells, and lighting systems
- Updated layouts optimized for comfort and functionality
- Impact-resistant windows in many plans
- Designer kitchens with islands and modern appliances
- Luxury bathroom finishes
- Customization options through the Mattamy design center
Current Availability
While construction continues throughout the community, prospective buyers have several options:
- Seven model homes available for touring
- Quick move-in homes for those wanting immediate occupancy
- Various lots available for new construction with buyer-selected options
- Different view options including lake, preserve, and interior locations
Brightmore Pricing and Fees
Understanding the financial aspects of purchasing in Brightmore is an important consideration for potential buyers.
Home Pricing
As of May 2024, Brightmore offers homes at various price points:
- Paired Villas: Priced from approximately $400,000 to just over $500,000
- Single-Family Homes: Starting in the mid-$400,000s and reaching the mid-$700,000s
These prices are comparable to other new construction communities in the area but offer exceptional value considering the extensive amenities and lifestyle offerings.
Community Fees
Residents of Brightmore are responsible for two types of regular fees:
- CDD (Community Development District) Fees:
- Range from $1,400 to $2,500 annually
- Variation based on home type and lot size
- Finances community infrastructure and amenities
- Typically included in property tax bills
- HOA (Homeowners Association) Fees:
- Range from $275 to $350 monthly
- Covers community maintenance, landscaping, amenity operations, and programming
- May be subject to periodic adjustments
Value Proposition
While considering these costs, many buyers find tremendous value in Brightmore for several reasons:
- Resort-style amenities typically found in much higher-priced communities
- Robust social programming creating a vacation-like atmosphere
- New construction with modern features and energy efficiency
- Prime location within one of Florida's most desirable master-planned communities
- Proximity to beaches, shopping, dining, and entertainment
- Access to Wellen Park amenities in addition to Brightmore's exclusive offerings
For buyers seeking a maintenance-friendly lifestyle with extensive amenities and social opportunities, Brightmore represents an excellent value in the competitive 55+ community market.
The Ideal Brightmore Resident: Is This Community Right for You?
Brightmore at Wellen Park appeals to specific homebuyers looking for particular qualities in their retirement or pre-retirement community.
Perfect For Those Seeking:
- Active Adult Living: If you're looking for a community specifically designed for the 55+ lifestyle with amenities and activities tailored to active adults
- Social Connections: Ideal for those who value making new friends and participating in community events
- Resort-Style Amenities: Perfect for buyers who want comprehensive on-site recreational facilities without the maintenance responsibilities
- New Construction: Appeals to those who prefer modern designs, technology, and energy efficiency
- Low-Maintenance Living: Especially attractive to seasonal residents, travelers, or those who prefer spending time on activities rather than home maintenance
- Florida Gulf Coast Lifestyle: Offers easy access to beaches, golf, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation
Location Preferences
Brightmore is particularly well-suited for those who want:
- Proximity to Venice and Sarasota without the higher prices of those markets
- A quieter setting than directly coastal communities while maintaining beach access
- New infrastructure and amenities rather than older, established areas
- Access to I-75 for easy travel throughout Florida
- A master-planned environment with consistent standards and community governance
The Wellen Park Area: Exploring Beyond Brightmore
While Brightmore offers extensive amenities within its gates, the surrounding Wellen Park area and nearby communities provide even more opportunities for recreation, dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Downtown Wellen
The new Downtown Wellen district, just a short distance from Brightmore, features:
- Waterfront dining options overlooking a central lake
- Boutique shopping opportunities
- A 2.8-mile walking trail circling the lake
- Kayak and paddleboard launches
- A children's playground perfect for visiting grandchildren
- A great lawn for community events and concerts
- Seasonal farmers markets and festivals
CoolToday Park
Located adjacent to Brightmore, CoolToday Park serves as the spring training facility for the Atlanta Braves and offers:
- Spring training games from February through March
- Year-round events including concerts and festivals
- A popular Tiki Bar open to the public
- Baseball clinics and special events
- Community gatherings and celebrations
Nearby Beaches
Some of Florida's most beautiful beaches are just a short drive from Brightmore:
- Venice Beach (approximately 20 minutes)
- Manasota Key and Englewood Beach (approximately 25 minutes)
- Siesta Key (approximately 35 minutes)
- Nokomis Beach (approximately 20 minutes)
- Caspersen Beach, famous for shark tooth hunting (approximately 20 minutes)
Shopping and Dining
The area around Wellen Park continues to develop with new shopping and dining options:
- Upcoming Costco and additional retail planned within Wellen Park
- West Villages Marketplace featuring Publix and other conveniences
- Cocoplum Village Shops
- Venice Commons and Venice Village Shoppes
- St. Armands Circle and University Town Center in Sarasota (30-40 minutes)
Healthcare
Quality healthcare options are important to 55+ buyers, and Brightmore residents have access to:
- Sarasota Memorial Hospital Venice Campus (newly opened)
- North Port Medical Center
- Various medical specialists throughout the Venice area
- Numerous urgent care facilities
- Planned medical offices within Wellen Park
Why Brightmore Stands Out Among 55+ Communities
The Venice and Sarasota areas feature numerous 55+ communities, but Brightmore offers several distinguishing factors that have made it one of the most anticipated new developments in recent years.
Newness Factor
As a brand-new community, Brightmore provides:
- Contemporary home designs reflecting current preferences
- State-of-the-art amenities with modern features
- New infrastructure without deferred maintenance concerns
- The latest in energy efficiency and smart home technology
- Opportunity to be among the first residents shaping community culture
Comprehensive Amenity Package
Brightmore's 11 acres of amenity space surpasses many competing communities with:
- One of the largest clubhouses in the area at 21,000 square feet
- Competition-level pickleball facilities
- Dual pools serving different preferences and activities
- Extensive fitness and wellness facilities
- Thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces
Location Advantages
Brightmore's position within Wellen Park offers unique benefits:
- Walking distance to CoolToday Park
- Golf cart access to Downtown Wellen
- Placement within a master-planned community with consistent standards
- New and expanding infrastructure
- Growth potential increasing long-term value
Mattamy Homes Craftsmanship
As one of North America's largest privately-owned homebuilders, Mattamy brings:
- Decades of homebuilding experience
- Attention to 55+ specific design preferences
- Quality construction standards
- Comprehensive warranty programs
- Professional customer service
Value Proposition
When comparing total cost to amenities offered, Brightmore presents compelling value:
- Comparable pricing to older 55+ communities but with newer facilities
- More extensive amenities than many similarly priced options
- Energy-efficient construction potentially lowering utility costs
- Brand-new homes requiring less immediate maintenance
- Potentially strong appreciation in the rapidly growing Wellen Park area
How to Learn More About Brightmore at Wellen Park
If you're interested in exploring whether Brightmore might be the right 55+ community for your Florida lifestyle, several resources are available to help you gather more information and see the community firsthand.
Visit the Models
Brightmore currently features seven model homes showcasing different floor plans and design options. These professionally decorated models provide an excellent opportunity to:
- Experience actual room dimensions and layouts
- See available finishes and upgrades
- Understand the flow and functionality of different plans
- Visualize your potential new home
Tour the Amenities
While some amenities may still be under construction depending on when you visit, touring the available facilities helps you understand the lifestyle Brightmore offers:
- Walk through the clubhouse
- See the pool areas
- Visit the pickleball courts
- Experience the community's overall atmosphere
- Observe how current residents are utilizing the spaces
Speak with Current Residents
If possible, connecting with people who already call Brightmore home can provide valuable insights:
- Firsthand accounts of community life
- Information about social activities and clubs
- Honest feedback about the community's strengths
- Practical details about daily living at Brightmore
Research Wellen Park
Understanding the broader Wellen Park development helps put Brightmore in context:
- Visit Downtown Wellen
- Attend events at CoolToday Park
- Explore the walking trails and lake
- Check out current and planned commercial developments
- Research the master plan for future growth
Conclusion: Is Brightmore Right for You?
Brightmore at Wellen Park represents an excellent option for active adults seeking a resort-style 55+ community in Florida's desirable Gulf Coast region. With its comprehensive amenities, social lifestyle focus, and prime location within the growing Wellen Park development, Brightmore offers a compelling package for retirement or pre-retirement living.
The community is particularly well-suited for those who value:
- A social atmosphere with abundant opportunities to connect with neighbors
- Modern homes with contemporary designs and features
- Extensive recreational facilities promoting an active lifestyle
- Proximity to beaches, golf, shopping, dining, and cultural attractions
- New construction with the latest in energy efficiency and technology
As with any significant real estate decision, prospective buyers should visit in person, tour the models and amenities, and carefully consider how Brightmore's offerings align with their personal preferences, lifestyle goals, and budget.
With its combination of location advantages, extensive amenities, and well-designed homes, Brightmore has quickly established itself as one of the most desirable 55+ communities in the Venice area—truly offering the vacation lifestyle year-round that many active adults seek when relocating to Florida's Gulf Coast.
Ready to Explore Brightmore at Wellen Park?
If you're considering relocating to Brightmore at Wellen Park or anywhere else on Florida's beautiful Gulf Coast, the Zachos Realty & Design Group is here to help. With over 40 years of local expertise and a unique combination of real estate knowledge and award-winning design vision, we can help you find the perfect property that matches your lifestyle needs.
Contact us today:
- Phone: 941-500-5457
- Email: [email protected]
- Sarasota Office: 205 N Orange Ave Suite 202, Sarasota, Florida 34236
- Venice Office: 217 Nassau St S, Venice, FL 34285
Visit our YouTube channel "Relocation Experts | Florida's Gulf Coast" for more insider guides to Florida's Gulf Coast communities.
