Oak Creek in Ellenton is one of those hidden neighborhoods you do not hear about very often despite being highly sought-after by smart home buyers. With only 34 homes built on 22 acres, Oak Creek is a quiet residential enclave where properties are larger and more upscale than what you are used to seeing around Ellenton, and they are tastefully arranged around a lake and greenbelt spaces that give the neighborhood an ambiance of seclusion.

When Oak Creek was initially developed in 2001, builders broke with the tradition of Mediterranean revival architecture; instead, they chose a style that is more reminiscent of French country estates, thus giving the neighborhood a refined look. The French Provincial design is not limited to the exterior; some of the homes have fireplaces, boxed ceilings, and oversized kitchens with solid wood cabinetry. Naturally, elements of Florida home design such as covered lanais and screened swimming pools can also be found at Oak Creek.

Located less than a mile north of the Ellenton Premium Outlets, the discreet entrance to Oak Creek is on Mendoza Road, but you have to drive about a block before you see the lake at the center of the community; this is a natural lake that attracts wildlife from nearby preserves and the Manatee River. Many homeowners have become interested in bird watching upon moving here.

The safe and secluded location of Oak Creek makes it highly ideal for families. Most of the three and four-bedroom homes are built on nearly 3,000 square feet of living space, and they are priced under $510K. There are two mansions priced at more than a million dollars, and they are extremely lavish. The homes that do not enjoy a lake view have more privacy because they face greenbelt areas with mature landscaping. Listings do not come on the market often, and they usually sell fast.

Living at Oak Creek means being able to do all your shopping at the Ellenton Premium Outlets or in the Palmetto Historic District. You can be in Sarasota or St. Petersburg in less than an hour, and the beaches of Anna Maria Island are about 30 minutes away.