
Bradenton · Gated
University Place in Bradenton
University Place is a gated community of about 400 homes off Cooper Creek Boulevard near I-75, with two heated pools, a fitness room, nature trails, and sixteen ponds.
At a glance
University Place at a glance
A gated community of about 400 homes on 150 acres off Cooper Creek Boulevard, with two recreation centers, heated pools, nature trails, and sixteen ponds, about 5 minutes from University Town Center and 7 from I-75 at University Parkway.
- Lifestyle
- Gated
Homes: single-family, townhomes, and condos, built 2002 to 2007, CDD yes, gated. From the homes for sale and the community guide, as of October 11, 2026.
The area
Living in University Place
Overview of University Place
- Price range
- $249,000 to $675,000, 11 homes listed (September 2026)
- Median list price
- $425,000, about $215 per sq ft (September 2026)
- Home types
- Single-family homes, townhomes, and condos built 2002 to 2007
- Size
- About 400 homes on 150 acres
- Gated
- Yes
- CDD
- Yes, in addition to the HOA; ask for both on each home
- School district
- Manatee County: Willis Elementary, Braden River Middle and High
- Commute
- I-75 7 min, SRQ 14 min, downtown Sarasota 18 min, Siesta Beach 28 min
About University Place in Bradenton
- Two recreation centers with heated pools, a spa, outdoor kitchens, and a fitness room
- Two nature trails, sixteen ponds, and wetland preserves inside the gate
- Enclaves include Carolina Landings, Savannah Preserve, Ashley Trace, and Magnolia Hammock
- University Town Center shopping and dining about 5 minutes away
- Nathan Benderson Park about 7 minutes and Lakewood Ranch Main Street about 8
University Place is resale only, and it carries both a homeowners association and a Community Development District, so ask for the current HOA dues and CDD assessment on any home you consider. Carolina Landings is a condominium, so review its condominium documents as well. Because home types range from condominiums to single-family homes, compare association costs, rules, and maintenance responsibilities for each enclave before you make an offer. Contact Janelle Mertins for current University Place listings or a private tour.
Thinking about a move to University Place in Bradenton? Janelle can tell you which neighborhoods fit the way you live. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Schools near University Place
Robert E. Willis Elementary
14 min drivePublic elementary school
14705 The Masters Ave, Bradenton, FL 34202
Show on map: Robert E. Willis ElementaryBraden River Middle School
14 min drivePublic middle school, grades 6 to 8
6215 River Club Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34202
Show on map: Braden River Middle SchoolBraden River High School
15 min drivePublic high school, grades 9 to 12
6545 State Road 70 E, Bradenton, FL 34203
Show on map: Braden River High SchoolThe Out-of-Door Academy (opens in a new tab)
9 min drivePrivate school, preschool to grade 12
5950 Deer Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240
Show on map: The Out-of-Door Academy
Assigned schools depend on the address; confirm with the school district. Florida school grades from the Department of Education (opens in a new tab)
Comparing school zones in University Place? Janelle can match them to the homes for sale. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Restaurants near University Place
Oak & Stone UTC (opens in a new tab)
4 min driveAmerican and craft beer, lunch and dinner
5405 University Pkwy, University Park, FL 34201
Show on map: Oak & Stone UTCBreakfast, brunch, and lunch
A daytime cafe on Market Street with an online waitlist.
8306 Market St, Bradenton, FL 34202
Show on map: First Watch Lakewood RanchItalian, dinner
Italian dinners nightly from 4 pm, with reservations online.
8209 Natures Way, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Show on map: Cassariano Italian EateryRemy's on Main (opens in a new tab)
8 min driveAmerican, breakfast, lunch, and dinner
8138 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Show on map: Remy's on Main
Want to live near the best of University Place? Janelle knows which streets put it at your door. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Things to do near University Place
Town center
An open air, walkable town center with cafes, boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants, the cinema, and concerts and festivals all year.
8100 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Show on map: Main Street at Lakewood RanchMusic on Main (opens in a new tab)
8 min driveFree concert and block party, first Fridays
8100 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Show on map: Music on MainWaterside Place (opens in a new tab)
13 min driveLakefront town center
A town center on Kingfisher Lake with shops and live music, linked by a footbridge to Waterside Park.
1560 Lakefront Dr, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240
Show on map: Waterside PlaceFarmers market, Sundays 10 am to 2 pm
More than 100 vendors of produce, prepared foods, and local goods at Waterside Place year round.
1561 Lakefront Dr, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240
Show on map: Farmers' Market at Lakewood RanchSarasota Polo Club (opens in a new tab)
13 min drivePolo matches in season
Polo matches with themed tailgates each season, plus a Sunshine League for new players.
8201 Polo Club Ln, Sarasota, FL 34240
Show on map: Sarasota Polo Club
Curious what life in University Place is like week to week? Janelle can tell you, and introduce you to it. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Parks and outdoors near University Place
Nathan Benderson Park (opens in a new tab)
7 min drivePark and rowing lake
A lakeside park for rowing and paddling, home to dragon boat racing, with a multi-sport complex and boathouse under way.
5851 Nathan Benderson Cir, Sarasota, FL 34235
Show on map: Nathan Benderson ParkBraden River Park (opens in a new tab)
13 min driveCounty sports park
Ball fields, soccer fields, batting cages, a shaded playground, and a canoe and kayak launch on the Braden River.
5201 51st St E, Bradenton, FL 34203
Show on map: Braden River ParkCelery Fields (opens in a new tab)
14 min driveNature preserve and birding
Boardwalks and observation decks on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, home of the Sarasota Audubon Nature Center.
6893 Palmer Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34240
Show on map: Celery Fields
Looking for a home close to the parks and water in University Place? Ask Janelle where to look. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Shopping near University Place
University Town Center (opens in a new tab)
5 min driveShopping and dining district
The shopping district at I-75 and University Parkway, with holiday events each season.
210 N Cattlemen Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Show on map: University Town CenterThe Mall at University Town Center
6 min driveShopping mall
A fashion and dining destination at I-75 and University Parkway.
140 University Town Center Dr, Sarasota, FL 34243
Show on map: The Mall at University Town CenterPublix at University Corner (opens in a new tab)
11 min driveGrocery store
The Publix on University Parkway in Lakewood Ranch.
7325 University Pkwy, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Show on map: Publix at University Corner
Want everyday errands close by in University Place? Janelle can point you to the right neighborhoods. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Health care near University Place
Hospital
An acute care hospital with inpatient and outpatient services, just north of University Parkway.
8330 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34202
Show on map: Lakewood Ranch Medical CenterEmergency room
Staffed around the clock by board-certified emergency physicians, with 21 treatment rooms plus CT, MRI, X-ray, ultrasound, and lab testing.
7250 University Pkwy, Sarasota, FL 34240
Show on map: Sarasota Memorial ER at Lakewood RanchHospital with 24/7 emergency room
5731 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
Show on map: HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital
Need to be near care in University Place? Janelle can keep that in mind when she picks homes to show you. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Getting around near University Place
I-75 at University Parkway
7 min driveInterstate interchange
The closest I-75 interchange, east on University Parkway.
University Pkwy and I-75, Sarasota, FL 34243
Show on map: I-75 at University ParkwayAirport
The closest commercial airport to University Place.
6000 Airport Cir, Sarasota, FL 34243
Show on map: Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)Downtown Sarasota
18 min driveDowntown
Main Street in downtown Sarasota.
Main St and Lemon Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
Show on map: Downtown SarasotaDowntown Bradenton
22 min driveDowntown
Old Main Street and the Manatee River waterfront.
Old Main St and Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
Show on map: Downtown BradentonSiesta Beach (opens in a new tab)
28 min driveGulf beach
Quartz-crystal sand, a half-mile esplanade, a playground, concessions, and 950 free parking spaces.
948 Beach Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242
Show on map: Siesta BeachAirport
Tampa's international airport.
4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607
Show on map: Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Commuting from University Place? Janelle can tell you what the drive is like from each neighborhood. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
University Place homes for sale: the market in September 2026
On September 25, 2026, 11 homes were listed for sale in University Place (5 single-family homes, 3 condos, and 3 townhomes). They ranged from $249,000 to $675,000, with a median list price of $425,000, about $215 per square foot. 3 were already pending or under contract.
Wondering what homes in University Place in Bradenton are really selling for? Janelle will tell you straight. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
What to know before you buy in University Place
- What the HOA and any CDD fees are, what they cover, and whether a transfer fee applies at closing
- Rental and lease rules, if you may rent the home out
- Drive times at the hours you would really travel, to work, to SRQ, and to the beaches
Buying in University Place? Janelle can walk you through it before you make an offer. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
University Place FAQ
Is University Place gated?
Yes. University Place is a gated community, and the association provides a gate access guide for residents.
What amenities does University Place have?
Two recreation centers with heated pools, a spa, outdoor kitchens, and a fitness room, plus two nature trails, sixteen ponds, and wetland preserves. A lighted tennis court and playground sit across Cooper Creek Boulevard.
Does University Place have a CDD?
Yes. University Place has a Community Development District in addition to its neighborhood association, so check both costs before you buy.
Have a question about University Place in Bradenton that is not answered here? Ask Janelle. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Keep reading
Ready to see University Place in Bradenton? Janelle can show you the neighborhoods and the homes in one visit. Email Janelle or call (813) 394-3313.
Climate
Weather, month by month
Average high and low in °F, and rain in inches, for each month.
Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)
- Janhigh 72.5°low 52.3°2.8 in
- Febhigh 74.9°low 54.6°1.9 in
- Marhigh 78.2°low 58.1°2.9 in
- Aprhigh 82.5°low 62.7°2.5 in
- Mayhigh 87.5°low 68.2°2.6 in
- Junhigh 90.0°low 73.6°7.1 in
- Julhigh 91.1°low 75.2°7.4 in
- Aughigh 91.5°low 75.3°9.1 in
- Sephigh 90.2°low 74.1°6.0 in
- Octhigh 86.3°low 68.3°2.8 in
- Novhigh 80.0°low 60.1°1.8 in
- Dechigh 75.2°low 55.2°2.3 in
Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30 (NOAA National Hurricane Center, https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/climo/); June through September is the rainy season, with most afternoons bringing a short thunderstorm.
NOAA climate normals, 1991 to 2020, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991-2020, station Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/land-based-station/us-climate-normals), as reproduced in the Sarasota, Florida climate table (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarasota,_Florida); read 2026-10-04.
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For sale now
University Place homes for sale
Janelle can send you new University Place listings as soon as they list, often before they reach the big portals. Ask Janelle
Market
Market now
Ask Janelle for this week's homes for sale and recent sales in University Place.
Keep reading
Guides from Janelle

· 5 min read
Homes for Sale in Sarasota FL: What Your Budget Buys in 2026
Homes for sale in Sarasota FL: what single-family homes, townhomes, and condos cost in 2026, where to look, and how I would start your search.

· 9 min read
How to Price and Sell Your Sarasota Home in 2026: A Seller's Guide
How I price, prepare, and market Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch homes, with September 2026 numbers, the fixes worth making before you list, and how to sell a vacation home you have owned for years.

· 10 min read
Moving to Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch: Relocate, Downsize, Buy Remotely
How Janelle Mertins, a Realtor with Compass, times a sale and purchase, runs honest video tours and remote closings, and matches downsizers, seasonal residents, and families to the right Sarasota or Manatee town.

· 9 min read
Sarasota and Manatee County Housing Market Report: Prices, Sales, and Days on Market
Median and average prices, price per square foot, days on market, months of inventory, and new listings for Sarasota County, Manatee County, and Lakewood Ranch, each dated and sourced, and what they mean for buyers and sellers.
New listings
Get new University Place listings first
New University Place listings often sell within days. Tell Janelle what you are looking for, and she will send new and coming-soon homes as soon as they list, often before they reach the big portals. Prefer to talk? Call or text (813) 394-3313.
Reviews
What clients say
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Janelle is fantastic. We recently were able to sell our home in one week at 1% over asking price. I believe that the professional photos and staging coupled with Janelle helping us price competitively led to this success. We closed in one month and are so very grateful for Janelle and her help with the sale of our property.
Google, October 7, 2026
Sold a home
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I highly recommend Janelle Mertins She is extremely knowledgeable, honest, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. She is also very responsive and even made herself available after hours when needed. After working with several agents in the Sarasota area, Janelle truly stood out. Her professionalism and dedication made all the difference.
Google, April 7, 2026
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Janelle did a great job selling our house. We have worked with 4 realtors over the past 19 years in FL, and she was by far the best. She is very knowledgeable about the real estate market, and was great at communicating with us throughout the sales process. Her responses to our emails and texts were very detailed and timely. She was also very proactive with recommendations on how to get our house ready for sale, and she went above and beyond to make sure our house was sparkling clean and staged appropriately to make sure our house stood out compared to others. The video she created for our...
RateMyAgent, July 20, 2025
Sold a home in Bradenton
Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte
Areas served
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Janelle Mertins · Compass
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