One question I have been asked over and over is "What is a CDD or Community Development District"?  Having lived and sold real estate in Lakewood Ranch, Florida since this area was first developed I can certainly see the benefits.  Here is an explanation that may help you if you are looking to buy a home in Lakewood Ranch, Bradenton, Sarasota or anywhere in Western Florida that has this type of tax district.

 
A Community Development District or CDD is a special tax district that has been established (Chapter 190 of Florida Statutes)  to create a community with a higher level of amenities within an area/district and to maintain them to a level or standard of a specific developer had established. It help pays for design, construction, aquisition, operation and/or to maintain facilities and systems such as storm drainage, road improvements, management of wetlands areas, water mains and sewers, common areas and buffer zones, non potable/reclaimed water irrigation systems, gates and guard stations, and public parks/recreational areas.

These bonded improvements of a certain CDD are usually amortized over a 30 year period and can be paid off at any time.  An ongoing aspect of these CDD's is an Operations and Maintenance fee that will be an aplide and voted on by District Govenors with input by the voting members of your Community Development District.

If you have any more specific questions please give me a call or email me at 941.809.7759 or contact us via e-mail.