Like desirable real estate everywhere, home prices are rising in Boca Raton, Florida, which has among the highest-priced real estate in the state. The South Florida amenities that make it a wonderful seasonal destination attract retirees and early retirees, as well as families who want to take advantage of top-rated schools and living environments.

Residents and city leaders take pride and preemptive action to ensure the beauty and desirability of the community. Like other South Florida communities, Boca Raton had a relocation and building boom in the 1970s which were carefully controlled by zoning standards. The city was also early to embark on a downtown redevelopment which is typified by its Mizner Park area. Mizner Park boasts beautifully landscaped grounds with pedestrian-friendly walkways decorated with sparkling fountains. Activities include movies, restaurants, and free concerts, and the International Museum of Cartoon Art which opened in 1996.

" Boca Raton is known for its beauty and its homes are no exception," says Realtor Annette Failla-Phelps. "The city is recognized for its magnificent residential communities and its plentiful housing. Whether it is a modest bungalow, a spacious beachside condominium of a breathtaking mansion, there is a home to satisfy you within your budget requirements."

Explains Failla-Phelps, "The average price of homes in Boca Raton range from $144, 868 for a two-bedroom and $466, 239 for a four-bedroom. Condo units vary in price, but average around $154, 131. With the range of prices comes a unique diversity of residential choices, from the basic contemporary home to an extraordinary dream home, complete with tennis courts and helicopter pads!

Within the city of Boca Raton there are charming middle class and upper-scale neighborhoods, says Failla-Phelps. Some mid-priced communities include Boca Square, Lake Floresta, Boca Del Mar and Boca Pointe. Some of the upper-end communities include Old Floresta, Woodfield Country Club, Woodfield Hunt Country Club, St. Andrews Country Club, Les Jardins, Broken Sound, Addison Reserve and New Floresta. Many of the homes in the historic neighborhood of Old Floresta were designed by the architectural father of Boca Raton, Addison Mizner. Although these are some of the more high-scale communities, there are plenty of reasonable homes and communities.

"The older, coastal communities, many of which feature ocean or Intercostal views, tend to be more upscale, particularly around the Boca Raton Resort & Club, where condominium units at a building like The Addison start at $1,500,000," says Failla-Phelps. "In the newer areas in West Boca you will find beautifully manicured, planned urban developments, as well as all-amenities included, country-club living. For the many young families interested in relocating to Boca Raton, many consider Boca Raton for it's excellent schools, thriving business environment, access to three international airports and a comfortable tax situation--what else do you need?"

Says Realtor Elaine Russell, Southeast Florida is continuing to experience expansion as technology companies migrate to the "silicon beach."

"The market is "climate driven" - and experiencing continual growth," says Russell. "Wouldn't you rather sit with your toes in the sand and your laptop where it should be...on your lap?

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Published: June 14, 2002

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