The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Lutz since 1964 and Pasco since 1981.
Proud to be independently owned.

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Odessa Elementary School

Boundary process beginning soon for Starkey K-8

By

Construction of the new Starkey K-8 school is well underway, and Pasco County Schools has begun notifying families that may be affected by the boundary changes that will be required to assign students to the school.

The school — part of a complex that includes a theater, library and cultural center — is scheduled to open in the 2021-2022 school year.

Significant progress has been made on the construction.

“I drove by Starkey K-8 the other day and it is just incredible how that building has come up out of the ground,” Superintendent Kurt Browning told Pasco County School Board members at their Sept. 1 meeting.

“It is a phenomenal facility,” Browning said. “It’ll be a huge addition to the Starkey Ranch development, so we’re excited about that.”

But, whenever a new school opens, the district must draw new boundaries — a process that can sometimes become controversial.

Browning told board members that the district is preparing to begin the boundary process for Starkey K-8.

“We’ll be communicating with potentially impacted families currently attending Odessa Elementary School, Longleaf Elementary School and River Ridge Middle School, regarding the timeline and the process,” Browning said.

“Our plan is to open the K-8, as a K-7, its first year, and then become a K-8, in its second year,” Browning said, noting that district staff would be sending out communications in the afternoon. following the board meeting.

“I wanted the board to know about it, first,” he said.

Watergrass and Wesley Chapel elementary schools also may see some boundary shifts, Browning said, but he added there are no students currently in the areas that would be affected.

“Proposed maps will be developed this month and a parent night workshop is planned for Oct. 6, at Odessa Elementary School,” Browning said. “The public hearing for the boundaries proposal is planned for Nov. 17 at 6 p.m., with final school board action on Dec. 1.

“We’ll continue to communicate with potentially affected families throughout this process and provide opportunities for feedback. And, this time, we’ll be relying heavily on our ‘Let’s Talk.’”

In other news, Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd shared information regarding the district’s inventory of surplus sites that are available for future construction of schools, as the district grows.

There was a time when the district didn’t have any land for future schools, Gadd said, describing how he would drive around the county in his pickup truck searching for acreages with for sale signs.

When he found one, he’d have Chris Williams, the district’s director of planning, check it out.

Over time, the district has acquired a number of sites, through purchases and as part of development orders that require sites to be dedicated for schools, as part of development approvals.

“We now have very tight procedures for receiving land from developers,” Gadd explained to board members.

“We are well-positioned for the future, in terms of building schools and preparing for future growth in this county.”

School board member Alison Crumbley applauded Gadd and other district staffers who have addressed this issue, noting she remembers when the district faced significant challenges in securing affordable land.

Meanwhile, the Pasco County Planning Commission recently took an action that relates to a planned district school site.

Planning commissioners voted on Aug. 27 to recommend the school district’s proposed site for the Kirkland Academy of Innovation, on a 104.4-acre site, southeast of the intersection of Curley Road and Kiefer Road.

The planned project will consist of two buildings, totaling 228,458 square feet.

No one spoke in opposition to the request at the planning commission’s meeting.

Published September 09, 2020

Growth puts squeeze on schools

By

As Pasco County Schools heads into another school year, crowded conditions are expected on several campuses within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

District officials are projecting that Wesley Chapel’s Wiregrass Ranch High School will operate at 141 percent of its capacity, with an estimated 2,310 students in a school designed for 1,633.

New construction continues to create the need for new schools or campus expansions in Pasco County. (Christine Holtzman)

Connerton Elementary School, in Land O’ Lakes, meanwhile, is projected to be at 120 percent of its capacity — with an anticipated 918 students at a school built for 762.

Other schools expecting big crowds are:

  • John Long Middle, projected at 123 percent of its capacity, with an expected 1,635 students at school designed for 1,327
  • Thomas Weightman Middle, projected at 116 percent of its capacity, with an expected 1,130 students at a school designed for 975
  • Cypress Creek Middle High, projected at 114 percent of its capacity, with an expected 953 students, in a space designed for 834

Chris Williams, the school district’s director of planning, outlined the district’s projected average daily memberships for 2019-2020 during a workshop with the Pasco County School Board last week.

Williams said a new Cypress Creek Middle School, expected to open in fall 2020, will provide relief for the area’s middle schools and Wiregrass Ranch High School.

That’s because the current Cypress Creek Middle High School is serving students in grades six through 12, in separate schools on the same campus.

Once the new middle school opens, it will have space for more students and high school space also will be freed to accommodate more students.

Williams said he also expects charter schools in the Wesley Chapel area to help absorb growth occurring there.

Sunlake High School, now operating over capacity, will get a 20-classroom wing, which is expected to be built this year. (File)

Even with boundary shifts, Wiregrass Ranch High’s enrollment will remain high, Superintendent Kurt Browning said.

“Keep in mind, there are more students moving in, right behind them,” Williams said.

“One thing we’re trying to avoid is a 10-period day,” Browning said.

Projects that are on the drawing board, or under construction, are expected to help the district address continued growth, Williams said.

Starkey K-8 is expected to open in two years, and is expected to provide relief to Odessa Elementary, which is expected to operate at 130 percent of its capacity this year.

Bexley Elementary and Sunlake Elementary are both adding classroom wings in the coming year, which will increase capacity at those growing schools.

Bexley, which opened in 2017, is projected to have 912 students at a school built for 906. The new classroom wing will accommodate 200 students.

Sunlake High School is projected at an enrollment of 1,994, at a school with a capacity for 1,698.

Although Connerton is expected to operate over capacity, Williams does not expect additional growth this year. Even so, he noted, “that is certainly something that we’re keeping an eye on because there’s obviously a lot of growth coming around that area.

The district’s high schools in Central Pasco and East Pasco all are expected to operate near or above capacity.

For instance, Zephyrhills High is expected to operate at 105 percent of capacity; Pasco High, at 117 percent of capacity; Cypress Creek Middle High, at 118 percent of capacity; Sunlake at 117 percent of capacity; and Land O’ Lakes High, at 95 percent of capacity.

Deputy superintendent Ray Gadd said the district expects a new magnet school, which will be built on the east side of the county, primarily will attract students from Wiregrass Ranch, Wesley Chapel, Pasco and Zephyrhills high schools.

The school will offer technical training programs and academic rigor. It is set open in 2022.

Major projects 2019-2020
Here is a look at major school construction projects planned in the 2019-2020, within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

  • Zephyrhills High School: Continuing campus-wide renovation
  • Land O’ Lakes High School: Wrapping up campus-wide remodel
  • Cypress Creek Middle School: Construction underway
  • Starkey K: Breaking ground within next couple of months
  • East side technical high school: Property acquired and design phase underway
  • Sunlake High: Adding a wing to increase capacity
  • Bexley Elementary: Adding a wing to increase capacity

Source: Pasco County Schools

Published July 31, 2019

Exciting New Year At Asturia

By

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

16 Beautiful Ashton Woods Homes Ready For Your Family

By

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

Brightman Family Loves Asturia and Their Ashton Woods Home

By

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

ICI Model Homes Now For Sale in Bexley and Asturia

By

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.

14 Beautiful Ashton Woods Homes Ready For Your Family

By

Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 80 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 Sales Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have under 40 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 Jillian Harris, 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.”

While construction is underway on many homes, Ashton Woods buyers are still able to select flooring, countertops, cabinets and other nonstructural customizations on several homes that will be completed in November and December.

Inventory Homes
Ashton Woods offers classic 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- or three-car garages, and many back up to private conservation lots.

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. The slightly smaller Adams plan is 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 seven, 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 $279,000.

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 Harris.

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 September 26, 2018

Want To Move To A New Home By The Holidays?

By

Then visit Ashley Woods’ 18 Inventory Homes In Asturia

Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 75 percent of home sites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, selling over 100 beautiful homes in this much-desired community on State Road 54,” said Sales Manager Kristin Wilson. “We have just 45 homes to go, and expect all to be gone by the end of the year, with many families closing before the holidays.”

Because most families want to move into their new home by the end of the year, Ashton Woods has received permits from Pasco County for its remaining homes sites in Asturia

“This saves our buyers up to three months in the building process,” said Jillian Harris, Ashton Woods’ community sales manager in Asturia, a master-planned community in Odessa.

“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.”

While construction is underway on many homes, Ashton Woods buyers are still able to select flooring, countertops, cabinets and other nonstructural customizations on several homes that will be completed in November and December.

“We are known for our affordable personalization at the Design Studio, and families who want to pick out their finishes and colors are reserving these homes right now,” said Harris.

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 or three-car garages, and many back up to private conservation lots.

Spacious Classic Series
Six traditional inventory homes are ready now 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 3,362-square-foot Athens is the largest home Ashton Woods builds in Asturia, and boasts up to five bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths.

Affordable Heritage Series
Many first-time homebuyers and downsizing families choose the Heritage Series. Ashton Woods has five move-in ready homes available in these well-designed floor plans, including three, one-story homes.

Two homes are ready now in the popular Milan plans, at 2,722 square feet with four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths. The slightly smaller Adams plan is 1,829 square feet with three bedrooms and two baths.

Available two stories homes are the Lincoln, Monroe and Ellington plans. Square footage ranges from 2,329 to 2,638 square feet, and homes offer up to five bedrooms and three 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 nine, quick move-in homes available in these series, all conveniently located close to Asturia’s Amenity center.

The two-story Blackwater is the largest rear-load home available, at 2,309 square feet with four bedrooms and two-and-a-half baths.

There are four Arlington plans at 2,003 square feet, and also four Ortega plans at 2,189 square feet. These homes begin at $279,000.

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 Harris.

Asturia is the ultimate choice for buyers considering the many master-planned communities along State Road 54. Buyers prefer Asturia’s smaller size of just 550 homes, compared to thousands being built in neighboring developments, and appreciate that construction will not be going on for years.

“People especially like that our homes are not on top of each other,” said Sales Manager Wilson. “Asturia’s developer did a great job laying out its streets, so it doesn’t look like a cookie-cutter community.”

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 August 22, 2018

Buy Your Ashton Woods Home Now, Before It’s Too Late

By

Ashton Woods is in its final sales phase at Asturia, with 75 percent of home sites sold since the community opened two years ago.

“We’ve had tremendous success in Asturia, selling over 100 beautiful homes in this much-desired community on State Road 54,” said Sales Manager Kristin Woods. “We have just 45 homes to go, and expect all to be gone by the end of the year.”

Because many families want to move into their new home as soon as possible, Ashton Woods has received permits from Pasco County for all remaining homes sites.

Jillian Harris, community sales manager for Ashton Woods in Asturia, shows off the beautiful kitchen in a Milan inventory home that is available now.

“This saves our buyers up to three months in the building process,” said Jillian Harris, Ashton Woods’ community sales manager in Asturia, a master-planned community in Odessa.

“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.”

While construction is underway on many homes, Ashton Woods buyers are still able to select flooring, countertops, cabinets and other nonstructural customizations on 18 homes that will be completed in November and December.

“We are known for our affordable personalization at the Design Studio, and families who want to pick out their finishes and colors are reserving these homes right now,” said Harris. “Plus, they are excited to be able to move into their new home in time for the holidays!”

Ashton Woods offers traditional one- and two-story homes in its Classic and Heritage series, all which feature open floor plans, large living areas, beautiful master suites and lots of storage. Homes have two-or three-car garages, and many back up to private conservation lots.

Three traditional inventory homes are ready now in the versatile, one-story Truman plan, which offers four bedrooms and two baths in 1,962 square feet. Also ready are two, two-story homes with two-car garages on deep wooded lots with long views. The 2,722-square-foot Milan has the master bedroom downstairs, and the 3,362-square-foot Athens is the largest home Ashton Woods builds in Asturia.

“For families with children, these inventory homes can close in time for the new school year,” said Harris, who adds that Asturia is zoned for some of the best schools in Pasco County.

“Our kids go to J.W. Mitchell High, Seven Springs Middle and Odessa Elementary. Many families are looking for these schools, and at Asturia, they do not need to worry about our school zones changing,” she said.

In addition to traditional floor plans, Ashton Woods has the 10 remaining rear-entry home sites in Asturia, all a short walk to the community’s contemporary Amenity Center.

Several inventory homes are available, with move-in ready homes starting at $279,990. These unique one- and two-story homes have over 2,000 square feet of living area, and feature three to four bedrooms, two to three baths, and two-car garages with alley access and additional parking out front.

Asturia is the first choice for many buyers considering the many master-planned communities along State Road 54. Buyers prefer Asturia’s smaller size of just 550 homes, compared to thousands being built in neighboring developments, and appreciate that construction will not be going on for years.

“People especially like that our homes are not on top of each other, and that we have a minimum of 15 feet between homes,” said Sales Manager Wilson. “Asturia’s developer did a great job laying out its streets, so it doesn’t look like a cookie-cutter community.”

Every Ashton Woods home comes with the same standards of top-quality construction and finishes. It 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.

Published July 25, 2018

A Beautiful ICI Home In Time For The Holidays

By

Summer is the busiest time of year to buy a home, because families want to know what school their children will be attending in their new neighborhood, and because they want to be moved and settled before the holidays.

This summer, however, many families have become frustrated and have stopped looking because of the low supply of available houses.

If your family is wanting to move up to a new home, don’t give up. ICI Homes, one of Florida’s most prestigious builders, has beautiful and unique inventory homes available in the master-planned communities of Bexley in Land O’ Lakes and Asturia in Odessa.

“Our homes are specifically designed for families with school-aged children, that offer the latest technology and innovative, open floor plans that connect large family gathering spaces to secluded study enclaves,” said Ron Ferguson, division manager of the company’s West Florida Division.

In Bexley, ICI Homes’ popular Pamela model is move-in ready. This one-story, 3,089-square-foot home has four bedrooms, three baths and a three-car garage. Its 12-foot-high foyer gives the option of walking into a flex space/study, kitchen and gathering area, or straight into the owner’s suite. A gourmet kitchen is steps away from the large gathering and dining rooms, both which open to an expansive covered lanai.

Bexley’s excellent schools are one of the top reasons many families decide to live in Bexley. Older children attend Land O’ Lakes High and Pine View Middle, great schools that offer the challenging International Baccalaureate program.

Located within the development is Bexley Elementary, which many children walk and bicycle to from nearby homes. Just completing its first year of operation, the school achieved several important milestones, including scoring the highest on standardized third grade reading tests in all of Pasco County.

Over in Asturia, this community’s schools also excel, with youngsters zoned to Mitchell High, Seven Oaks Middle and Odessa Elementary, the most preferred schools in west Pasco.

ICI Homes has four inventory homes underway in Asturia that will be ready in December.

The Serena is a one-story home that is one of the builder’s most popular plans. At 2,217 square feet, the home 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.

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

ICI Homes has several inventory homes, including the Serena model above, that are ready now, or will be in time for the holidays.

The Santa Maria is a two-story inventory home built on a private conservation lot, with the master bedroom suite and a half bath downstairs. Upstairs are three bedrooms, two full baths and a large game room.  At 2,933 square feet, this is one of ICI’s largest homes, and includes a three-car garage.

“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 Ferguson.

In addition to building beautiful homes, ICI Homes rewards its buyers with creative incentives that are fun and lucrative, including up to $10,000 in free upgrades that can be used for a deluxe kitchen, golf cart, outdoor space or summer kitchen.

Plus, buyers who contract by August 31 receive a luxurious cruise for two on Royal Caribbean to Mexico or the Bahamas.

“We’re having so much fun with this promotion,” said Sales Manager Leah Turner. “After all the work involved in building a house, moving and getting settled, our customers are having a blast taking time off to enjoy their free cruise. They deserve it, and we enjoy showing our homeowners how much we appreciate them.”

ICI Homes got its start 40 years ago in Daytona Beach. The original founder still owns the company, and over the years expanded into Jacksonville, Orlando and Gainesville. It entered the Tampa Bay market in 2015 in Fishhawk Ranch in south Hillsborough County.

The company moved into Pasco County two years later as one of the original builders in Bexley. Then, in late 2017, it added Asturia to its growing list of communities. It also sells homes to buyers wanting to build on their own lot.

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.

Published July 25, 2018