Waterstone

Tucked into the northeast corner of Homestead, Waterstone offers private, luxury suburban living close to schools, parks and main thoroughfares.

Moving to Homestead is an excellent idea for those who want to stay close to Miami but aren't too fond of that Miami price tag. "These Homestead communities are hidden gems that people are now discovering because of Florida's sudden population growth," states Trent Alvarado, a Keller Williams Elite Realty realtor. "It's an up-and-coming area that's really nice regarding interior and exterior amenities. Great family environment, too."

In Waterstone, you get a lot of bang for your buck. An active HOA comes with the benefit of constant improvements, updates, events and strong community ties. This 24-hour guard-gated community boasts two clubhouses along the neighborhood's main road, Waterstone Way. Amenities of these clubhouses include pools, a playground, a spa and a gym. The neighborhood's glittering lakes, pristine landscaping and abundance of sidewalks invite folks to take advantage of that balmy South Florida weather and get active by walking, running and biking around the community. Furthermore, outside of either clubhouse, you can find a listing of current events, making it easy to join in on community fun, which is especially grand during holidays. From lighting ceremonies to parades and talent shows, many residents in Waterstone take their festivities seriously.

Several subdivisions comprise Waterstone, such as the Portofino Lakes and Floridian Bay Estates, so there's quite a selection of home types, including single and multifamily properties. That said, across the board, the neighborhood adheres to Spanish eclectic and Mediterranean Revival architecture, with characteristics like stucco siding, barrel roof tiles, arches and earthy tones. Additionally, Waterstone was originally built in the early 2000s, so many homes here date between 2004 and 2007. Single-family homes range between the low $400,000s for a three-bedroom, two-bathroom bungalow to just under $700,000 for a newly renovated five-bedroom, three-bathroom bi-level home with a three-car garage. As for the community's town houses, prices range from $300,000 to $410,000.

Since Waterstone has immediate access to the Ronald Reagan Turnpike, many folks in the area commute to Miami or farther north for work. However, there are a couple of major employers around the neighborhood as well. Practically next door is the Homestead Air Reserve Base. "Since the base is so close, a lot of military folks live here," says Saud Rai, CEO of Skywalker Group Realty of Keyes Company and Homestead resident. "Surprisingly, we don't hear too many planes. Once in a while, you see jets flying, but they do a good job of not disturbing the residents." Furthermore, the city's newest hospital, Baptist Health Homestead Hospital, is just a 5-minute drive away for most residents.

As for shopping and day-to-day errands, Publix, Presidente Market and Walmart are each short trips away; just follow Campbell Drive. This main road is also a direct route to nearby green spaces, which Homestead has in spades. "There's plenty of parks around," Rai says. "We have Mayor Roscoe Warren Park, we have Palmland Park, and if you go west, it's all green space." Mayor Roscoe Warren Park is popular for its sand volleyball courts for casual pickup games under the South Florida sun. It also features lush lawns, soccer fields, a dog park and more. And if you're willing to go on a bit of a drive, Black Point Park & Marina is a hotspot for outdoor activities, from fishing and diving expeditions to bike rides and scenic strolls. The park's on-site restaurant, Black Point Ocean Grill, is another draw to the area, serving up classic American fare and fresh seafood. You can even bring your own fresh cleaned fillet and get it flash-fried, grilled, blackened or sautéed with two sides of your choice.

Students may begin school right in the community at the Charter School at Waterstone, rated with a B-minus on Niche. Alternatively, they can start school at Mandarin Lakes K-8 Academy before graduating from Homestead Senior High. This high school is home to a veterinary science magnet program, perfect for students looking to pursue a future in animal care.

Not too far from Miami, Homestead's Waterstone community continues to garner attention as a great place to live in sunny South Florida.

Written By

Micaela Willoughby

Photography Contributed By

Daniele Giuseppe Del Gaudio

Video By

Kellan Beaver