The sprawling oasis of Ocala Preserve is one of the gems in Ocala’s residential communities, with a wide open, expansive design that highlights the beauty of the landscape and draws you in like a butterfly to a blossom. You can’t visit this place and not fall in love with it; it’s 600 acres of pristine surroundings, with a 7-acre lake, three themed parks, and innumerable walking, hiking, and biking trails. The single-family, open concept homes built by Shea Builders are spacious and comfortable, with six distinct floor plans offering indoor and outdoor spaces for living and leisure. It’s hard to leave when it’s time to go. Of course, living here renders that concern irrelevant.
Previously known as Trilogy at Ocala Preserve, the name was changed to simply “Ocala Preserve” when Forestar acquired the resort development in November 2020. There was some question at the time about what, if any changes, the new owners would make at the Preserve. For the most part, though, they haven’t rocked the boat — primarily because they didn’t feel there was much need for any sort of radical overhaul.
“We believe the current amenities are well-run and operated,” said Katie Walker, spokesman for Forestar. “We plan to continually evaluate the program through resident surveys and market research to deliver a high-quality resort community.”
That includes the two on-site restaurants — The Club at Ocala Preserve and The Salted Brick — as well as the salon and day spa, sports and fitness facilities, the spectacular pool with its resort-style artificial beach, and the 18-hole golf course designed by PGA champion Tom Lehman. Currently golf, the spa, and dining are open to the public, and Forestar plans to offer additional special events in the future. Initially, the company also intends to develop lots that follow the original plans for the community, expanding and offering both age-restricted and non-restricted areas in accordance with existing zoning requirements.
“The surrounding area offers residents a sunny, leisurely lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation, unique local dining, and steady employment opportunities and a strong foundation for future growth.”
— Katie Walker, spokesman for Forestar
“We didn’t change any previously designated age restricted communities, and we intend to offer new developments that have no age requirement.” says Walker, adding, “Shea Builders and DR Horton each have a unique approach to the building process that is extremely complimentary. Their collaboration will provide more options to future residents.”
What drew Forestar to Ocala was, really, the vibrancy of the culture, with its passionate and world-famous equestrian community, outdoor recreation, and arts societies. It seemed a good fit for them, adding to their other property of The Ridge at Heathbrook. Ocala was, Walker says, an ideal place for them to expand.
“The surrounding area offers residents a sunny, leisurely lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation, unique local dining, and steady employment opportunities and a strong foundation for future growth,” Walker points out, and adds that another big perk was Ocala’s location; within three hours of Orlando, Daytona, Tampa, and Jacksonville, plus accessibility to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic shore.
“It makes Ocala Preserve an attractive place to live.” she observes.
For more information about Ocala Preserve and to find out about home buying opportunities, view amenities, or peruse floor plans, please visit Shea Homes’ official site: https://www.sheahomes.com/
Interested in learning more about residential communities in the Ocala area? Our experienced agents are experts in the Ocala area and would love to help you on your real estate journey. Contact an Ocala real estate agent today and we can help you find just what you are looking for! Explore current listings of homes for sale in Ocala. Looking for a 55+ community in Ocala? Browse current 55+ community listings in Marion County. Read more about choosing the right 55+ community and check out our Guide to Golf Communities in Florida.