Located in Parrish, eight miles east of Interstate 75, Twin Rivers is a thriving, upscale community. Its name refers to Gamble Creek to the north and the Manatee River to the west and south. Offering privacy, seclusion and an easy-living, country atmosphere, it still expanding.
To reach Twin Rivers, head east on U.S. 301 from the Ellenton exit until you reach Fort Hamer Road, turn south and then go east again on Golf Course Road. Just past the Palmetto Pines Golf Course, there are two entrances to the community.
Comprising about 1,800 acres of farmland, oak hammocks and wetland, Twin Rivers has a distinct “old Florida” feel. When it was started in 2003, the developers made sure to preserve as much of the natural surroundings as possible. As a result, there are extensive greenbelts throughout, and homes back onto scenic ponds or lush preserves.
“The beauty is a big draw,” explains Linda Singer, a Realtor with Re/Max Alliance Group. “You drive people in and they say, ‘Oh, it’s so lovely!’ ”
“It’s a well-maintained community with pride of ownership. Lots are big, all a quarter to half an acre or more,” says Faith Pennybaker, an agent with Keller Williams Realty. “You get a real sense of being out in the country.”
One reason: Deer fearlessly graze at midday around the various lakes and preserves, in full view of residents.
Singer agrees: “It offers a combination of rural feel with upscale elegance, one of the few new developments where you can find such spaciousness between homes.”
Her listing at 2508 Twin Rivers Trail sits a half-acre and has four bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, crown molding, a two-car and golf cart garage, and large swimming pool with spa. Built in 2006, the 3,383-square-foot residence is priced at $637,000.
Development in Twin Rivers has proceeded in phases, with the first three sold out, two phases with estate lots currently available, and another phase slated to open soon. Around 350 homes have been built so far, with 400 more to follow. Singer projects that the community will be finished in three to five years.
A number of custom builders are involved, notably M/I Homes, Medallion Home and Johnson Homes. As a result, buyers can choose among a variety of one and two-story designs, ranging in size from 2,300 to 4,600 square feet. “There is a lot of individuality and unique styles, which adds to the charm of the community,” says Singer.
Prices range from the high $200,000s to the mid-$800,000s. “You can get a lot of home for your money,” says Pennybaker.
She has a listing at 3507 159th Place E. on a cul-de-sac, which sits on little more than a half-acre. The four-bedroom, four-and-a-half-bathrom house, built in 2016 by M/I Homes, has 3,317 square feet under air-conditioning and has an asking price of $434,990.
Residents are a mix of retirees, professionals and families. For some, Twin Rivers is their second home, but most live there all year. A number are home workers — in mortgage insurance and hospital billing, for example. Others take advantage of the close proximity to areas north.
“It’s great for people who want to go and work in St. Pete or Tampa,” says Singer.
They also like the amenities in the community. For decades, the area was a working farm. The original owners constructed a house there in the early 1900s, floating the building materials up the Manatee River. The house still stands and is used now as a clubhouse near the river. A canopied dirt road leads to it near the river, where a new boat launch has been installed for boaters, kayakers and canoers.
In addition to the clubhouse, Twin Rivers has playing fields and courts for soccer, basketball and beach volleyball; playgrounds; a picnic pavilion; and walking trails. For golf enthusiasts, the neighboring Palmetto Pines Golf Course offers playing opportunities.
Homeowners association dues are only $256 a quarter, and there are no CDD fees.
While Twin Rivers offers privacy and country appeal, it is not nearly as far off the beaten track as people might think. “It’s not like you’re in the middle of nowhere,” Singer insists.
Interstate 75 and the Ellenton Premium Outlets are only 10 minutes away. When the Fort Hamer Bridge across the Manatee River is finished in 2017, there will be a direct connection south to Lakewood Ranch.
Both Singer and Pennybaker expect the area to become even more popular then.
Currently, 14 homes are on the market, ranging in price from $289,900 to $850,000, with the majority of offerings from the low $300,000s to the mid-$400,000s.
There will be an open house for a number of the listings on Sunday, June 26, from 1 to 3 p.m.