Hidden by a commercial district, River Forest in Sarasota is one of those Southwest Florida neighborhoods that few people know about. Although this charming subdivision, which dates back to the 1960s, is located right next to the Tamiami Trail, most drivers pass right over it without paying attention to the 86 single-family homes that River Forest offers.

Many of the 86 properties in River Forest are Florida ranch-style homes located along the Phillippi Creek, which means that this is a good place to check for waterfront real estate in Sarasota County. Homeowners tend to hold on to their properties here, and thus new listings tend to attract a lot of attention quickly. Some homes have been completely refurbished into Mediterranean-style estates.

The waterfront properties at River Forest tend to be in high demand; they typically feature three bedrooms on nearly 2,000 square feet of interior space. Some properties have their own deep water dock space, swimming pool and seawall. Such properties are typically priced around $1 million, but older homes located further away from the canal or Phillippi Creek can be negotiated under $200K.

The quiet roadways and sidewalks of River Forest are shaded by mature trees; the entire neighborhood features immaculate landscaping and careful maintenance. Neighbors can take a pleasant walk to the nearby Landings Shopping Center or to the popular Phillippi Creek Village Oyster Bar and Restaurant, which is actually located on an island. Phillippi Estate Park is just a five minute drive also.