Bellechase

Bellechase is one of a small number of Ocala communities with a staffed, guarded entrance. Located in SE Ocala, it was planned to keep as much of the native Florida landscape as possible: mature oaks and hardwoods, wooded buffers between homes, and a network of sidewalks and trails that lead to a central park. The result feels settled and private rather than manicured and open.

Homesites range from roughly a quarter acre to more than an acre, and most residences are custom or semi-custom, with many in the 3,000-square-foot range and some considerably larger. Within the community, sub-neighborhoods such as Oak Hammock and the Villas add their own gated sections, giving buyers a choice between estate-style lots and lower-maintenance villa living. Architecture is varied but held to community standards, which keeps streetscapes cohesive.

Bellechase is not an equestrian community; it is a wooded, guard-gated residential enclave. Its SE Ocala location puts both of the city's major hospitals, everyday shopping, and downtown Ocala within a short drive, and the trail systems of the Cross Florida Greenway and Santos are close for cyclists and runners. For buyers who want a staffed gate, custom construction, and a natural setting without the club fees of a golf community, Bellechase is worth a close look.