The Forest at Hi Hat Ranch

The Forest at Hi-Hat Ranch is a small area of the old Sarasota ranch that is being developed five miles east of I-75 off SR 72.

The 270 acre community called The Forest at Hi-Hat Ranch is but part of the 10,000 acre Hi-Hat Ranch that has been in the Turner family for three generations. At one time, the ranch included about 30,000 acres. The ranch still operates cattle, citrus, vegetable, timber and sod businesses. Much of the ranch still remains in its wild and scenic state, but a few parcels like The Forest have been developed. Deer, wild turkey, waterfowl and other wildlife roam the pine flatwoods terrain. A small portion of the ranch shares its border with Myakka River State Park.

Three local builders with outstanding reputations will develop the community. John Cannon Homes, Lee Wetherington and Arthur Rutenberg through M. Pete McNabb, Inc.

John Cannon Homes is known for their exceptional homes in many upscale communities. In fact, they have built over 1,000 luxury homes in over 97 communities since their inception. He will construct a Country Tuscan model.

Lee Wetherington will be building a $3 million French Country estate with northern Italian influence.

Arthur Rutenberg Homes  will provide a $4 million home with a more rustic home with timber and stone features throughout to accent the natural setting.

Bring your horse since all parcels are three to six acres with plenty of room for pastures. These country estates or mini-ranches allow plenty of room for each homeowner to build an impressive home in a tranquil environment. In all, there are only 56 estate homes planned for the area. No golf course, no club house and no amenities are offered here. Nature and land are the appealing virtues of The Forest.

Prices begin at $1 million dollars for this over-the-top country lifestyle. You are only nine miles from the city limits, but it seems worlds away.

If an elegant country lifestyle suits your personality, contact Roxanne or Shannon Moore.