Old Forest Lakes is a Sarasota subdivision that is part of a larger collection of neighborhoods including Village Green, Forest Lakes Country Club and Forest Lakes South. Development of Old Forest Lakes began in 1955, a time when the ranch-style home design was sweeping the sunnier climates of the United States. This neighborhood is located within an enclave of forest meadows and lakes near Sarasota Springs, a central part of the city.

The home sites in Old Forest Lakes are usually spacious. Most of the older homes are built designed the Florida ranch-style of construction, but renovations and new homes feature the contemporary Mediterranean style. An Old Forest Lakes ranch-style home measuring 1,300 square feet with two bedrooms and two bathrooms is reasonably priced at $125,000. A five-bedroom home built on 4,023 square feet can be negotiated at $570,000. Some homes feature lakefront views, and others are completely surrounded by fully-grown oak trees that afford gentle privacy.

The public schools serving the Forest Lakes neighborhoods are Wilkenson Elementary, Brookside Middle and Riverview High, although there are also a few private academies located nearby. Location is key for this neighborhood, as it is equidistant to downtown Sarasota and the beaches of Siesta Key. A Publix supermarket is within walking distance of most homes, and many shopping, dining and entertainment venues can be reached by car in just a few minutes.

Old Forest Lakes used to have its own golf course, but there are plans to build more residences in the former greens. Golf enthusiasts, however, will find no shortage of opportunities in the several private and public courses that dot Sarasota and Bradenton.