In Southwest Florida, competition among historic residential neighborhoods often takes place between Sarasota and Manatee counties. Owners of historic real estate know that their chosen properties can not only be difficult to find; they are often listed at higher-than-expected prices. In the case of Ware’s Creek historic neighborhood of Bradenton, pricing tends to be very affordable, but finding an available listing requires working with an experienced local realtor.

The Ware’s Creek residential district is separated from Downtown Bradenton by an eponymous creek; the neighborhood extends from 26th Street West to the foot of the Manatee Avenue Bridge. This location means that residents are within walking distance of most Bradenton attractions such as the new Riverwalk, the South Florida Museum, Old Main Street, and more. There are more than 300 residential structures in this neighborhood, and most of them have been around more than 65 years. In fact, some of the homes at Ware’s Creek date back to the late 19th century. The architectural styles run from small Florida bungalows and cottages to more elaborate Spanish Colonial-style homes and early Florida Ranch-style homes.

The valuable Florida heritage of the Ware’s Creek neighborhood was neglected for a brief period in the 1990s; however, the local neighborhood association was able to restore order and historic interest to this district. As with other neighborhoods in Downtown Bradenton, Ware’s Creek is proudly pedestrian; residents enjoy walking to the nearby shops, restaurants, taverns, and parks. School-age residents can either walk or ride their bicycles to Ballard Elementary, Manatee High School and many private academies in the area. Escaping to Holmes Beach is a 15-minute drive, 27 minute bus ride or a leisurely 50-minute bike ride.

Real estate pricing at Ware’s Creek will vary considerably according to the property listed and the condition thereof. A small Florida bungalow may be listed under $45K, but the home shopper must work with a real estate professional to assess the amount of renovation work that the property will need; still, this neighborhood offers some of the most affordable options in the Florida historic real estate market.