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J.W. Mitchell High School

ICI Homes’ Exclusive Builder In Asturia’s Final Phase

December 29, 2020 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

If you dream of building a new home in Pasco County’s in-demand State Road 54 corridor, look no further than the final phase of Asturia in Odessa.

ICI Homes — one of Florida’s best-known and prestigious builders — has been chosen as the exclusive builder in Asturia’s final phase, with 23 over-sized homesites in this exclusive community located just minutes from the Suncoast Parkway.

“We are so excited to have these final homesites in Asturia, where we have been building beautiful homes for area families since 2017,” said Greg Jones, Tampa division manager for ICI Homes. “These new homesites are some of the prettiest in all of Asturia, with many backing up to conservation, and all offering privacy and quick access to State Road 54.”

Phase 4 road construction and infrastructure are underway, and ICI Homes is now offering pre-construction sales to its VIP families.

“Because of Asturia’s stellar reputation as a great place to live, we are anticipating a huge demand for these new homesites” said Jones. “These are the final lots in this highly desirable community, and we expect them to sell fast. We encourage people to call today for a VIP appointment to secure their desirable homesite before they are gone.”

Asturia is situated on 500 pristine acres in central Pasco on the north side of State Road 54. Setting it apart from other master-planned communities is Asturia’s manageable size of just 550 homes. It is a friendly, walkable development that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle with its many trails, walkways, parks and recreational amenities.

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families chose Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in the county, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

ICI Homes is building several floor plans in Asturia. After its final 23 homes are completed, it will close out all new construction in the community, which began development in 2016.

Many of ICI Homes will back up to incredible wilderness views of wetlands, cypress trees and rolling ranchland. Wildlife is everywhere, and residents will enjoy connecting community trails perfect for bird-watching, and to see deer, gopher tortoises, racoons and other native animals.

ICI Homes has chosen its most popular one- and two- story floor plans for Asturia, all with family friendly layouts, where cooking, dining, relaxing and entertaining happen cohesively. Homes feature an abundance of windows that bring the outside in.

Floor plans include the Costa Mesa, which also is its model home, that is open now for folks who want to stop by to get more information about Phase 4 from Rich Driver, ICI Home’s dedicated and longtime sales representative for Asturia.

The Costa Mesa is a one-story home that showcases 2,565 square feet of living area, with four bedrooms, three baths and a three-car garage. It is designed for all kinds of families — young professionals just starting out, those with young and school-aged children, and empty-nesters.

“The Costa Mesa’s open floor plan is perfect for entertaining,” said Driver. “Its gathering room, gourmet kitchen and dining room are one expansive space highlighted by lots of windows that capture tons of natural light.”

The model is located at 2112 Secret Cove in Odessa, and is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., on Sunday. All COVID-19 safety restrictions are in place, including masks and social distancing. To schedule your VIP appointment, stop by the model to see Rich, call (813) 252-1108, or go to ICIHomes.com.

Lake Jovita and Persimmon Park
ICI Homes also is accepting VIP reservations for new homesites in Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City, and continues to build homes in Persimmon Park in Wesley Chapel in the Wiregrass Ranch community. Both communities are tremendously successful and are attracting families of all kinds because of their unique ICI design features and community amenities.

A new Lake Jovita Sales Center has recently opened at 12330 Lake Jovita Blvd., Dade City, FL 33526. The model center at Persimmon Park is located at 3793 Lajuana Blvd., Wesley Chapel, FL 33543.

Since ICI Homes was established in 1980, the company has built over 4,000 single-family homes in Florida, including the Tampa Bay area, and has earned several prestigious awards for design and innovation.

Published December 30, 2020

Filed Under: Home Section, Sponsored Content Tagged With: Asturia, Greg Jones, ICI Homes, J.W. Mitchell High School, Lajuana Boulevard, Lake Jovita Boulevard, Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club, Odessa, Odessa Elementary, Persimmon Park, Rich Driver, Secret Cove, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway, Wiregrass Ranch

The New Year Is A Great Time To Begin Planning For Your Next Home

January 29, 2020 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The new year is an ideal time to start planning your next home, and Asturia invites you to visit its beautifully furnished models in Odessa.

Built by some of America’s top builders, models are open for tour daily at this master-planned community, located off State Road 54, just west of the Suncoast Parkway.

David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Park Square Homes and Ryan Homes are Asturia’s exclusive builders. Model homes are located in the community’s third and final phase, with on-site agents to assist homebuyers.

The community’s newest model is the Margate II by Park Square Homes. It features three bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage at the rear of the home. This 1,966-square-foot home has an inviting foyer with spacious flex room, an island kitchen with an abundance of cabinets, and large den off the foyer. The Margate II starts at $319,990, and a model of this floor plan has just opened.

Asturia is Park Square Homes first entry into Pasco County. It brings over 35 years of experience building quality homes in Central Florida and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007 with communities in south Hillsborough County.

David Weekley Homes has been building in Asturia since the community first opened in 2016. Its newest model is the two-story Mendocino. At 2,845 square feet, this spacious home features four bedrooms, an open study, three full baths, one half-bath and a two-car garage. Designer touches include an extended lanai, oversized kitchen island, an owner’s retreat with tray ceiling and wood beam accents, a spa-like bath and oversized walk-in closet.

Priced from the $340s, the Mendocino is included in the David Weekley Homes Lake Series, with homes that range in size from 2,200 square feet to 3,200 square feet built on 55-foot homesites.

ICI Homes has been building in Asturia since 2017, and recently opened its new Costa Mesa model near the community’s entrance on a peaceful waterfront homesite with long conservation views. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath, three-car garage plan is 2,565 square feet, and showcases a huge kitchen with extra-large island and closet-size, walk-in pantry that is cleverly hidden behind cabinetry.

ICI Homes also has a second model on a wooded conservation lot, the Serena, that is now for sale and can include the model’s professionally decorated, high-end furnishings for families wanting a turn-key home ready now.

Asturia’s only townhomes are being built by Ryan Homes. Its three-bedroom townhomes range from 1,580 square feet to 1,770 square feet, and have two-car, rear-entry, detached garages. Townhomes feature private outdoor courtyards with paver patios and privacy fencing. Prices begin in the $220s. Ryan Homes has sold more than half of their homes and has fewer than 100 homes to go. They have no inventory of homes, which allows the builder to customize new construction townhomes for its buyers.

“The beautiful Asturia community has so much to offer with its first-class amenities, and our homes are at a perfect price that our sales have been brisk,” said Mona Cruz, one of the Ryan Homes sales team.

About Asturia
Asturia offers residents a kid-friendly, family oriented lifestyle surrounded by miles of multi-use trails, interspersed with dog parks and pocket parks. The community’s distinctive, 5,800-square-foot Amenity Center and Clubhouse includes a fully equipped fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a luxurious resort-style swimming pool and expansive lawn areas for recreation.

Currently in its third phase, when Asturia’s development is complete, it will likely have less than 550 single-family homes.

“What makes Asturia stand out from other new home developments is our smaller size,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines, the developer behind Asturia. “Other communities in the area are looking at 3,000 to over 5,000 homes, and many years of construction. Our families prefer the intimate neighborhood experience that comes with Asturia’s modest community size.”

Outstanding schools are another reason why families choose Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School.

A low-cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Asturia’s central location is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, and also provides close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. Its master plan incorporates retail, office, multifamily and a variety of single-family residential offerings.

More information can be obtained by visiting Asturia’s model homes, registering at the community’s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 510-3601.

Published January 29, 2020

Filed Under: Home Section Tagged With: Asturia, David Weekley Homes, I-75, ICI Homes, J.W. Mitchell High School, Lane Gardner, Odessa Elementary, Park Square Homes, Ryan Homes, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway, U.S. 19, U.S. 41

New Model Homes Open For Tour At Asturia

November 27, 2019 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Unique Floor Plans Offered By Four Premier Builders

The holiday season is a wonderful time to dream about your next home, and Asturia invites you to visit its model homes by some of America’s top builders, in Odessa.

The community’s beautifully furnished model homes are open for tour daily at this master-planned community, located off of State Road 54, just west of the Suncoast Parkway.

David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Park Square Homes and Ryan Homes are Asturia’s exclusive builders. Model homes are open daily in the community’s third and final phase, with on-site agents to assist homebuyers.

The Costa Mesa by ICI Homes is Asturia’s newest model home, located on a fabulous conservation homesite.

The community’s newest model is the Mendocino by David Weekley Homes. The beautifully furnished Mendocino is 2,845 square feet, and features four bedrooms, an open study, three full baths, one half-bath and a two-car garage. Designer touches include an extended lanai, oversized kitchen island, an owner’s retreat with tray ceiling and wood beam accents, a spa-like bath and oversized walk-in closet.

Priced from the $340s, the Mendocino is included in David Weekley Homes’ Asturia’s Lake Series, with homes that range in size from 2,200 square feet to 3,200 square feet that are built on 55-foot homesites.

To celebrate the holidays, David Weekley Homes is hosting a Sips with Santa special event on Sunday, Dec. 15 at it model home center. Celebrate the Christmas season with hot chocolate, coffee and s’mores, with Santa hearing Christmas wishes from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Other single-family home models in Asturia are available for tour by ICI Homes, and Ryan Homes has models of its townhome community. And, at the first of the year, a new model by Park Square Homes will open, with a rear-entry floor plan that will be priced in the high $300s.

In late June, ICI Homes opened its new Costa Mesa model near the community’s entrance on a beautiful waterfront homesite with long conservation views. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath, three-car garage plan is 2,565 square feet, and showcases a huge kitchen with extra-large island and closet-size, walk-in pantry that is cleverly hidden behind cabinetry.

ICI Homes also has a second model on a beautiful conservation lot, the Serena, that is now for sale and can include the model’s professionally decorated, high-end furnishings for families wanting a turn-key home ready now.

Ryan Homes offers two floor plans in Asturia’s only townhome community. These three-bedroom townhomes range from 1,580 square feet to 1,770 square feet, all with two-car, rear-entry, detached garages. The homes feature private outdoor courtyards with paver patios and privacy fencing. Prices begin in the $220s. Ryan Homes hit their halfway mark and have only 108 units to go. They have no inventory of homes, which allows the builder to customize new construction townhomes for its buyers.

“The beautiful Asturia community has so much to offer with its first class amenities, and our homes are at a perfect price that our sales have been brisk,” said Mona Cruz, one of the Ryan Homes sales team.

David Weekly Homes and ICI Homes have inventory homes available for families who are looking to move now or at the first of the year. These homes have special year-end pricing, which includes both price discounts and other incentives.

Park Square Homes is Asturia’s newest builder, and is building its Margate II model that features three bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage. This 1,966 square foot home has an inviting foyer with spacious flex room, an island kitchen with an abundance of cabinets and large den off the foyer. The Margate II starts at $319,990 and a model of this floorplan is expected to be completed in January.

Asturia is Park Square Homes first entry into Pasco County. It brings over 35 years of experience building quality homes in Central Florida, and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007 with communities in south Hillsborough County.

About Asturia
Asturia offers residents a kid-friendly, family oriented lifestyle surrounded by miles of multi-use trails, interspersed with dog parks and pocket parks. The community’s distinctive, 5,800-square-foot Amenity Center and Clubhouse includes a fully equipped fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a luxurious resort-style swimming pool and expansive lawn areas for recreation.

Currently in its third phase, when Asturia’s development is complete, it will likely have less than 550 single-family homes.

“What makes Asturia stand out from other new home developments is our smaller size,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines, the developer behind Asturia. “Other communities in the area are looking at 3,000 to over 5,000 homes, and many years of construction. Our families prefer the intimate neighborhood experience that comes with Asturia’s modest community size.”

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

A low-cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Asturia’s central location is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, and also provides close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. Its master plan incorporates retail, office, multifamily and a variety of single-family residential offerings.

More information can be obtained by visiting Asturia’s model homes, registering at the community’s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 510-3601.

Published November 27, 2019

Filed Under: Home Section, Sponsored Content Tagged With: Asturia, David Weekley Homes, I-75, ICI Homes, J.W. Mitchell High School, Lane Gardner, Odessa Elementary, Park Square Homes, Ryan Homes, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway, U.S. 19, U.S. 41

Park Square Homes Is New Builder In Asturia

August 28, 2019 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Hines, developer of the master-planned community of Asturia in Odessa, is proud to announce the addition of Park Square Homes to its lineup of premier home builders.

“We welcome Park Square Homes to the Asturia family, because they have a good reputation and bring over 35 years of experience building quality homes,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines. “We look forward to Park Square Homes offering its quality homes in the final phase of our community, which is currently under way.”

Asturia residents enjoy a beach-entry pool, a contemporary clubhouse with large relaxing porches and event rooms, and a fully equipped fitness building next to the clubhouse.

Park Square Homes is a recognized leader in planning, design, development and sales of residential and resort-style homes. Every home is built with the highest quality products, attention to detail and exceptional customer service.

Homebuyers receive a New Home Road Map to make the buying experience easy and simple, so they understand the process every step of the way.

“Our commitment is to provide our homebuyers with an extraordinary home buying experience, keeping them informed and involved throughout the process,” said Laurie Tarver, vice president of sales and marketing for Park Square Homes.

Based in Orlando, Park Square Homes has been building homes in Central Florida since 1984, and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007.

Park Square Homes joins Asturia’s other prestigious builders, David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes and Ryan Homes. All have quick, move-in-ready homes available for families looking for a new home now. Prices in Asturia range from the $220s to $550s. Park Square Homes will be built on 50-foot lots, and prices are expected to fall in the middle range.

Asturia is located on State Road 54, just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway. It encompasses 500 acres of the former Behnke Ranch, which under Hines’ vision and management, has become an award-winning blend of shopping, office space, luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhomes.

Since Asturia opened three years ago, families of all ages and sizes have chosen this master-planned community as their new home because of its strategic location, beautiful lots and excellent schools.

Many of Asturia’s homesites back up to long, wilderness views of wetlands, cypress trees and rolling ranch land. Wildlife is everywhere, and residents enjoy community trails and boardwalks perfect for bird-watching, and often catch glimpses of deer, gopher tortoises, racoons and other native animals, during an evening stroll or morning run.

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

Setting Asturia apart from nearby master-planned communities is its manageable size of just 550 homes at build out, compared to thousands of homes and years of development in other communities.

“We feel more like an established community of neighborhoods, than a sprawling development that will be under construction for several years,” said Gardner. “Our residents like knowing that the size of their community is set, and that our amenities have been designed to provide enjoyment without the worry of overcrowding.”

Asturia is a friendly, walkable community that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle with its many trails, walkways, parks and recreational amenities. Neighborhood parks include a Kompan play structure, Ga-Ga Ball court, dog park and open event lawns. Its award-winning Amenity Center has a zero-entry, resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and contemporary clubhouse.

A low cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Asturia has received several prestigious awards, including Best Mixed-Use Community from the Florida Home Builders Association.

International developer Hines is known for its intelligent, ecologically smart design. It manages the community’s master plan with its high standards, which makes Asturia the most sustainable, eco-friendly community in Tampa Bay.

Learn more about Asturia by visiting AsturiaFlorida.com, or call (813) 227-4148. Model homes are open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m.

Published August 28, 2019

Filed Under: Home Section Tagged With: Asturia, Behnke Ranch, David Weekley Homes, FLorida Home Builders Association, Hines, ICI Homes, J.W. Mitchell High School, Lane Gardner, Laurie Tarver, Odessa, Odessa Elementary, Park Square Homes, Ryan Homes, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway

Location, Beautiful Homesites And Excellent Schools at Asturia

July 24, 2019 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Over the past three years, families of all ages and sizes have chosen Asturia as a place to call home, drawn to this master-planned community for its strategic location, beautiful homesites and excellent schools.

Situated on 500 acres in Odessa along State Road 54, and located less than a mile  from the Suncoast Parkway, Asturia residents have fast and easy access to Tampa International Airport, the Westshore business district, downtown Tampa and area beaches.

Many of its homesites back up to incredible wilderness views of wetlands, cypress trees and rolling ranch land. Wildlife is everywhere, and residents enjoy community trails and boardwalks perfect for bird-watching, and to catch a glimpse of deer, gopher tortoises, racoons and other native animals, during an evening stroll or morning run.

A heron and a cormorant cool themselves by a neighborhood lake in Asturia, while children play on a Kompan structure designed to foster imagination and healthy bodies.

Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years.

Setting Asturia apart from other master-planned communities is its manageable size of just 550 homes. It is a friendly, walkable development that promotes a healthy, active lifestyle with its many trails, walkways, parks and recreational amenities.

“We feel more like an established community of neighborhoods, than a sprawling development that will be under construction for several years,” said Lane Gardner, managing director for Hines, Asturia’s developer. “Our residents like knowing that the size of their community is set, and that our amenities have been designed to provide enjoyment without the worry of overcrowding.”

Families also enjoy living in Asturia because of the distinct sense of community that Hines has encouraged by hosting family events to make it easy for residents to get to know each another.

“Residents love our community events because it gets them together with neighbors, and lets them welcome new and prospective homeowners,” said Gardner. “We host events on a regular basis because they’re fun, and promote the friendly community culture Asturia is known for.”

Recent events include an Easter Egg Hunt, Oyster Roast, Cinco de Mayo Celebration and Hawaiian Luau. The community also celebrates the holidays with an annual Fall Festival and a Christmas Party.

Asturia’s award-winning Amenity Center has a zero-entry, resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center and contemporary clubhouse. Neighborhood parks include a Kompan play structure, Ga-Ga Ball court, dog park and open event lawns.

A low cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County.

Award-winning builders are offering a wide selection of floor plans and prices in Asturia’s final phase, and have new model homes ready to tour. Quick move-in homes are available for families looking for a new home in time for the 2019-20 school year.

Homes in Asturia range from the $220s to $550s, and many builders are currently offering special sales incentives. David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Ashton Woods and Ryan Homes all build homes from the ground up, and also have available several  inventory homes.

David Weekley Homes’ new one-story Crestview model is beautifully furnished, showcasing 2,100 square feet of living space with three bedrooms, a study, two full bathrooms and a two-car garage.

The Costa Mesa is ICI Homes’ new model. This one-story home features an open floor plan that brings together the gathering room, gourmet kitchen and dining room in one expansive space, with lots of windows to bring in natural light and sunlight.

Located near the front of Asturia are Ryan Homes’ easy-living townhouses, with two floor plans that have designer options and rear-load, two-car garages.

Ashton Woods has just two single-family homes remaining in Asturia in its one-story Truman plan, which offers1,962 square feet with four bedrooms and two baths.

Since its 2016 grand opening, Asturia has received several prestigious awards, including Best Mixed-Use Community from the Florida Home Builders Association. The community encompasses a blend of shopping, office space, luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhomes.

International developer Hines is known for its intelligent, ecologically smart design. It manages the community’s master plan with its high standards, which makes Asturia the most sustainable, eco-friendly community in Tampa Bay.

Learn more about Asturia and its builders by visiting AsturiaFlorida.com, or call (813) 227-4148.

Published July 24, 2019

Filed Under: Home Section Tagged With: Ashton Woods, Asturia, David Weekley Homes, FLorida Home Builders Association, Hines, ICI Homes, J.W. Mitchell High School, Lane Gardner, Odessa, Odessa Elementary, Ryan Homes, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway, Tampa International Airport

Exciting New Year At Asturia

January 23, 2019 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

There is much to look forward to this New Year at Asturia, the master-planned community in Odessa that is one of the most desired neighborhoods along the popular State Road 54 corridor in central Pasco County.

After almost three years of development, Asturia is now in its third phase, having completed 300 homes and releasing another 100 lots to its builders. Hines, the developer behind Asturia, is looking forward to an exciting spring with several new model homes under way by its builders.

Ryan Homes is celebrating the grand opening of Asturia’s first townhomes on Saturday, Feb. 16 at 11 a.m. Visitors will enjoy the festivities as they tour two beautifully decorated model homes. Both floor plans offer 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2-car rear garages, and unique courtyards between the home and garage. Square footage is 1,580 in the Chopin model, and 1,740 square feet in the Haydn. Prices begin in the low $220s.

“We are very excited to be offering townhomes in Asturia,” said Creighton Call, project director for Hines at Asturia. “Many families are looking for the convenience, affordability and low-maintenance that comes with the townhome lifestyle. We look forward to welcoming first-time homebuyers coming out of apartments, and more families wanting to downsize their living space.”

Upon completion, Ryan Homes will have 105 townhomes in Asturia, all just a short walk to the community’s expansive Amenity Center. For families wanting to move soon, five quick move-in townhomes will be available.

Asturia’s traditional homebuilders are award-winning Ashton Woods, David Weekley Homes and ICI Homes. Builders are offering homesites nestled near the community’s nature preserves, and will be opening new model homes this spring in Phase III.

“We’re seeing a lot of pent-up demand for our traditional homes in Phase III, because of the outstanding reputation of our builders, and because some of the deepest and most beautiful conservation lots available are located in Phase III,” said Call.

David Weekley Homes, which has been building in Asturia since the community opened in 2016, has seven quick move-in homes available in a variety of one- and two-story floor plans and homesites. Prices begin in the low $300s.

ICI Homes is Asturia’s other premium builder, and is known for its open floor plans and Florida-lifestyle features, such as summer kitchen patios, open balconies, lots of windows and the ability to customize any floor plan. The builder has four move-in ready homes available, with prices beginning in the high $300s.

Families with children often choose Asturia for the outstanding public schools its children are zoned to attend — Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle and J.W. Mitchell High. All are top-ranked by the Pasco County School District.

Another allure is Asturia’s unique amenity package, which includes a trail network, recreational parks and contemporary-style clubhouse, with a resort-style pool and state-of-the art fitness center. Neighborhood parks boast a Kompan play structure, a GaGa Ball court, and open event lawns to foster imaginative play and healthy, family fun.

Asturia’s system of picturesque walking trails and pocket parks feature bridges over sensitive land areas and trails that weave throughout the natural environment, resulting in one of Tampa Bay’s most sustainable, eco-friendly communities.

The community is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, with close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. It encompasses 500 acres of the former Behnke Ranch, which under Hines’ vision and management, has become an award-winning blend of shopping, office space, luxury apartments, single-family homes and townhomes.

Published January 23, 2019

Filed Under: Home Section Tagged With: Ashton Woods, Asturia, Behnke Ranch, Creighton Call, David Weekley Homes, Hines, ICI Homes, Interstate 75, J.W. Mitchell High School, Odessa Elementary School, Pasco County School District, Ryan Homes, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway, U.S. 19, U.S. 41

Pasco has new process for school choice program

December 13, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Pasco County Schools adopted a new approach this year for its school choice program.

Now, the district has separate time frames for submission of secondary and elementary school choice applications.

People gathered at various booths at the Pasco Pathways Expo at Wesley Chapel High School, to learn more about Pasco County Schools’ educational options. (B.C. Manion)

Also, all school choice options including International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge, STEM, Collegiate High School and Wendell Krinn Technical High School have been combined into one time frame for secondary schools.

And, the school choice options for elementary schools, including International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge and STEAM also have been combined into one time frame.

The application window already has opened for choice applications for middle and high school students in Pasco County Schools, with a deadline of Dec. 14 for those applications. The parent acceptance period for those students is Feb. 5 through Feb. 15.

The choice application period for elementary school students will be Jan. 8 through Jan. 18. The parent acceptance period for those students will be Feb. 20 through March 1.

To help families understand the new process and their options, the district had two choice expos.

Parents streamed into an expo on Nov. 29 at Wesley Chapel High School, accompanied by children of all ages to check out their school choice options.

At various locations on campus, parents and their children could attend presentations on school choice programs, and in the school’s gym, they could stop by tables to talk to school representatives about programs being offered at their school.

A similar expo was held on Nov. 26 at  J.W. Mitchell High School in New Port Richey.

The east-side and west-side events, both billed as the Pasco Pathways Expo, were intended to be a convenient way to learn about the district’s programs and the application process.

Information about various programs available, how to make application and answers to frequently asked questions also are available on the district’s website, Pasco.k12.fl.us. (Look for the rotating banner at the top of the landing page labeled Pasco Pathways Innovative Programs and School Choice, and click on the Learn More link below it).

Published December 12, 2018

Filed Under: Education, Top Story Tagged With: Cambridge, Collegiate High School, International Baccalaureate, J.W. Mitchell High School, Pasco County Schools, Pasco Pathways, School Choice, STEAM, STEM, Wendell Krinn Technical High School, Wesley Chapel High School

16 Beautiful Ashton Woods Homes Ready For Your Family

November 28, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 85 percent of homesites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, selling over 100 single-family homes in this much-desired community,” said Marketing Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have under 30 homes available for sale, and expect all to be completed by the end of the year.”

Because most families want to move into their new home as soon as possible, Ashton Woods received permits from Pasco County for all of its remaining Asturia homesites.

“This saves our buyers up to three months in the building process,” said Kathy Midkiff, Ashton Woods’ community sales manager in Asturia.

“Our designers have put together beautiful combinations of flooring, countertops, design features and colors that will excite the vast majority of buyers,” she said. “Plus, we have a great combination of homes that convert flex space to extra bedrooms, add bonus rooms and extra baths, and have great outdoor living areas with front porches and extended lanais.”

Inventory Homes
Ashton Woods offers traditional one- and two-story homes in its Traditional home series.  All feature open floor plans, large living areas, beautiful master suites, high-end finishes and lots of storage. Homes have two-car garages, and many back up to private conservation homesites.

Spacious Classic Series
Five traditional, inventory homes are ready in the Classic series, including two, one-story homes. The versatile Odessa plan has three bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths in 2,243 square feet. The larger Naples plan offers four bedrooms, three baths in 2,321 square feet.

Also ready now are three, two-story homes with two-car garages, including the Ferrara model home at 2,890 square feet with its four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The Milan is 2,722 square feet with four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths. The largest home Ashton Woods builds in Asturia is the 3,365-square-foot Athens, which boasts four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths.

Affordable Heritage Series
Many first-time homebuyers and downsizing families choose the Heritage Series. Ashton Woods has two move-in ready, one-story homes available in these well-designed floor plans — the Truman at 1,961 square feet with four bedrooms and two baths; and the slightly smaller Adams plan at 1,829 square feet with three bedrooms and two baths.

Evergreen and Grove Series
Ashton Woods is the only builder in Asturia offering single-family homes with garages at the rear of the house.  There are five, quick move-in homes available in these series, all conveniently located close to Asturia’s Amenity Center.

There are three Arlington plans at 2,003 square feet, and also four Ortega plans at 2,189 square feet. These homes begin at $269,000.

Great Schools
“For families with children, Asturia is a very popular community because it is zoned for some of the best schools in Pasco County — J.W. Mitchell High, Seven Springs Middle and Odessa Elementary,” said Midkiff.

Asturia buyers prefer the community’s smaller size of just 550 homes, compared to thousands of homes being built in neighboring developments. Plus, they appreciate that construction will not be ongoing for several years.

Ashton Woods was named the 2017 Builder of the Year by Builder and Developer Magazine and, for the fourth consecutive year, has been ranked among the top three for Most Trusted Builders in America.

For more information, go to AshtonWoods.com/tampa/Asturia. You can also call the sales center at (813) 446-8362.

Published November 28, 2018

Filed Under: Home Section, Sponsored Content Tagged With: Ashton Woods, Asturia, builder and developer magazine, J.W. Mitchell High School, Kathy Midkiff, Kristin Wilson, Odessa Elementary School, Seven Springs Middle School

Brightman Family Loves Asturia and Their Ashton Woods Home

October 24, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Alex and Jessica Brightman were one of the first Ashton Woods homeowners in Asturia, a master-planned community in Odessa, along the State Road 54 corridor.

Two years later, the young couple will be bringing home their second child to their Ashton Woods home, when their son is born in January.

“We just love our Ashton Woods home and living in Asturia,” said Alex, who works in the IT field. “We have a huge corner lot and enjoy the open floor plan of our Milan model.”

Jessica and Alex Brightman and their daughter, Kensely, have lived in Asturia for two years and love the open floor plan of their Ashton Woods home.

His wife, Jessica, adds, “We’ve met so many people and have made so many friends. It’s been perfect for us and our daughter, Kensley.”

The Brightmans also credit their Ashton Woods salesperson, Kathy Midkiff, for making their homebuying experience so successful. “Kathy was absolutely wonderful and helped us every step of the way.”

“Asturia is the perfect location for us. We moved here from Dade City, so we especially appreciate the convenience of being close to the Suncoast Parkway. It’s so easy to get to downtown Tampa,” Jessica added.

The Brightmans are typical of many Ashton Woods families. The builder’s spacious floor plans are the most affordable homes in Asturia, with prices beginning under $300,000.

“We found there is a lot of value in our home —we have beautiful finishes and lots of space for our investment,” said Alex.

Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 80 percent of home sites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, and have sold over 100 families their new home in this much-desired community,” said Marketing Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have less than 30 move-in ready homes that remain, and expect all to be sold very soon.”

To encourage families to buy before the end of the year, all Ashton Woods homebuyers in Asturia that purchase in the Grove Series will receive a free stainless-steel refrigerator and washer/ dryer, a value of over $3,500. Plus, Ashton Woods is contributing $9,000 towards closing costs with its preferred lender*.

“There has never been a better time to buy an Ashton Woods home in Asturia,” said Wilson. “And, some of our best home values can be found in our Grove series, which feature two-car garages at the rear of the home.”

There are seven of these unique homes ready now as inventory homes, with the popular Arlington model beginning at just $276,999.

This 2,003-square-foot home features open-concept family and dining rooms that open to the kitchen, complete with 42-inch designer cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, an oversized island and walk-in pantry. Also, downstairs is a powder bathroom, valet area off the garage entry and ceramic tile floors throughout the entire first floor.

Upstairs, the Arlington’s master suite has a spacious bathroom with double vanities, walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms share a bath, and a laundry room is conveniently located upstairs.

“We have three Arlington homes ready for quick move-in, all under $280,000. It is a perfect first home and has many upgrades not usually found at this price point,” said Marketing Manager Wilson.

Ashton Woods also offers a slightly larger home in this series, the Ortega, at 2,193 square feet.

The Ortega has a soaring 20-foot volume ceiling foyer, a large open-concept kitchen, family room and breakfast nook. A formal dining room and butler’s pantry lead to the kitchen, which has 42-inch designer cabinets, granite or quartz countertops, an oversized island, and walk-in pantry. Downstairs also features a powder bathroom and plenty of storage closets.

Upstairs is a large master suite and bathroom with double vanities, walk-in shower and large walk-in closet. And, like the Arlington, there are two additional bedrooms that share a bath, and a convenient laundry room located upstairs.

“Our Ortega models begin at $296,990, which is a tremendous value for close to 2,200 square feet and Ashton Woods’ premium finishes,” said Wilson.

More Homes and Great Schools
Ashton Woods also offers classic one- and two-story homes in its traditional home series with the garage in the front.  All offer open floor plans, large living areas, beautiful master suites, high-end finish and lots of storage. Homes have two- or three-car garages, and many back up to private conservation lots.

“For families with children, Asturia is a very popular community because it is zoned for some of the best schools in Pasco County — J.W. Mitchell High, Seven Springs Middle and Odessa Elementary,” said Wilson.

Ashton Woods was named the 2017 Builder of the Year by Builder and Developer Magazine and, for the fourth consecutive year, has been ranked among the top three for Most Trusted Builders in America.

For more information, go to AshtonWoods.com/tampa/Asturia. You can also call the sales center at (813) 446-8362.

Published October 24, 2018

Filed Under: Home Section Tagged With: Alex Brightman, Ashton Woods, Asturia, builder and developer magazine, J.W. Mitchell High School, Jessica Brightman, Kathy Midkiff, Kristin Wilson, Odessa, Odessa Elementary School, Seven Springs Middle School, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway

ICI Model Homes Now For Sale in Bexley and Asturia

September 26, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

One of Tampa’s most preeminent builders, ICI Homes, is selling its model homes in Bexley and Asturia in central Pasco County.

“Both homes have top-of-the-line upgrades and are a tremendous value for families looking to move this fall,” said Sales Manager Leah Turner.

Both Asturia and Bexley are master-planned communities located on State Road 54 close to the Suncoast Parkway. In Asturia, ICI Homes’ model is a one-story Serena loaded with elegant upgrades that is built on a beautiful conservation lot.

ICI Homes is selling its model homes in Asturia and Bexley, including the spectacular Brooke plan with five bedrooms and four baths.

At 2,217 square feet, the Serena has four bedrooms, three baths and a two-car garage. Its unique grand foyer pulls you through the house with 12-foot ceilings, and its large kitchen and great room gracefully flow onto a covered lanai that stretches along the back of the home. Currently priced at $515,775.

“This home never feels crowded, whether you’re relaxing with family, playing with the kids or entertaining friends,” said Turner.

In Bexley, the spacious two-story Brooke model is 3,609 square feet with five bedrooms, four baths and garages for three vehicles. Currently priced at $835,280.

“This remarkable home has cathedral ceilings in the living room that complement the open floor plan,” said Turner.  “The owner’s suite is separated from all the other rooms, and has his-and-hers walk-in closets, a luxurious bath, enclosed shower and separate vanities. Upstairs are four additional bedrooms, two shared bathrooms and a multifunctional game room.”

In addition to these beautifully decorated model homes, ICI Homes also has three, one-story inventory homes in Asturia that are ready now or will be by the end of the year. The Serena, Arden and Oakland range from 2,115 to 2,402 square feet, and have four bedrooms, three baths and two-car garages. Inventory homes, including the lot, begin at $397,421.

ICI Homes are specifically designed for families with school-aged children, and offer the latest technology and innovative, open floor plans that connect large family gathering spaces to secluded study enclaves.

Families living in Bexley and Asturia are zoned to some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Land O’ Lakes and J.W. Mitchell high schools. Bexley has an elementary school located within the community that opened in 2017, and youngsters in Asturia attend highly rated Odessa Elementary.

“We are ready to move quickly on all of our inventory homes, and will do everything we can to get a family settled as soon as possible,” said Ron Ferguson, division manager of the company’s West Florida Division.

More Homes at Asturia
ICI Homes is continuing to build in Asturia with new models and inventory homes in Asturia’s recently announced Phase Three, with new models and sales beginning in early 2019.

“We’ve had tremendous success since we began building in Asturia in late 2017, and many families are looking forward to our new floor plans and pristine conservation and water lots available in Phase Three,” said Ferguson.

ICI Homes will have 22 large home sites on 55-foot lots, and 16 premium, extra large 65-foot lots in Phase Three. Two new models are being built, with pricing beginning in the low $300,000s.

“We are very pleased to be offering families new homes in this mid-point range that come with all the quality features, designs and construction methods that ICI Homes is known for,” said Ferguson. “Buyers are excited to get into a prestigious, ICI Home at this lower price point.”

ICI Homes is one of Florida’s most premier builders, and for many years has been ranked in the Top 100 Builders in the nation by Builder Magazine. Established in 1980, the company has built over 4,000 single-family homes in Florida, and is the recipient of several prestigious awards for design and innovation.

The Asturia sales center for ICI Homes is at 15134 Aviles Parkway in Odessa, (813) 359-0264. At Bexley, the sales center is at 16754 Courtyard Loop in Land O’ Lakes, (813) 530-9069.

Filed Under: Home Section, Sponsored Content Tagged With: Asturia, Aviles Parkway, Bexley, Builder Magazine, Courtyard Loop, ICI Homes, J.W. Mitchell High School, Land O' Lakes, Land O' Lakes High School, Leah Turner, Odessa Elementary School, Ron Ferguson, State Road 54, Suncoast Parkway

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