Old Carrollwood real estate
Living in Old Carrollwood Tampa: Top Schools, Character Homes & Location
Relevé’s Insights
Old Carrollwood presents a compelling lifestyle for those seeking an established, family-oriented community with convenient access to the vibrancy of Tampa. Nestled amidst mature oak-lined streets, this sought-after subdivision fosters a strong sense of community while being just a short drive from major employment centers and Tampa’s diverse attractions. Its enduring appeal lies in its character-rich homes, highly-regarded schools, and prime location.
Neighborhood Overview
Old Carrollwood stands out as one of Tampa’s most desirable and well-established communities, boasting:
✔ Median Home Price: Typically ranges from $450,000 to $750,000, reflecting the area’s desirability and the size/condition of the properties. However, some sources indicate median listing prices in the broader Carrollwood area can fluctuate, with recent data around February 2025 showing figures between $350,000 and $400,000 for the general Carrollwood market, and potentially higher in specific pockets or for larger homes in Old Carrollwood.
✔ Home Styles: Primarily features ranch-style and contemporary homes built between the 1970s and 1990s, offering spacious layouts ranging from approximately 1,500 to over 3,000 square feet. These homes often showcase the architectural trends of their era, with many having been updated over time.
✔ Lot Sizes: Generous lot sizes typically range from 0.25 to 0.5 acres, providing ample outdoor space and enhanced privacy. The mature landscaping, featuring established trees and greenery, is a hallmark of the neighborhood.
✔ Community Features: Residents enjoy access to seven well-maintained parks, three scenic lakes perfect for fishing and enjoying nature, and extensive walking trails spanning 26 miles, promoting an active outdoor lifestyle. “Original Carrollwood” even has its own private beach and boat ramp on Lake Carroll.
✔ Great For: Ideal for families drawn to the excellent schools and safe, community-focused environment. Professionals appreciate the convenient location and established nature of the area. It’s also attractive to those seeking move-in ready homes with character and larger lots.
Lifestyle & Amenities
Old Carrollwood offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience:
🏫 Top-Rated Schools (Hillsborough County): The area is served by highly-rated public schools, including:
* Carrollwood Elementary (A-rated): Known for its strong academic performance and nurturing environment.
* Adams Middle School (A-rated): Consistently achieves high ratings and offers a variety of programs.
* Chamberlain High (B+ rated with IB program): Provides a comprehensive high school education with the prestigious International Baccalaureate program for academically motivated students.
* Additionally, the wider Carrollwood area offers private school options like Carrollwood Day School (A+) and Corbett Preparatory School (A), catering to families seeking alternative education.
🌳 Parks & Recreation: The abundance of green spaces and recreational facilities enhances the quality of life:
* Village Park: A central community hub featuring a swimming pool, tennis courts, and often organized community events.
* Lake Carroll: Offers picturesque views and opportunities for fishing and non-motorized water activities for residents with lake access.
* 26 miles of walking trails: Weave through the neighborhood and surrounding areas, perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, and cycling. The nearby Upper Tampa Bay Trail also provides an extensive 15-mile multi-use path.
* Original Carrollwood boasts two private parks for its residents, along with the aforementioned lake access.
🛍️ Prime Location: Old Carrollwood’s strategic location provides easy access to key destinations:
* 5 minutes to Carrollwood Town Center: A major retail and dining hub offering a wide array of shops, restaurants, and services.
* 15 minutes to Tampa International Airport: Convenient for frequent travelers.
* 20 minutes to Downtown Tampa: Provides access to the city’s business district, cultural attractions, entertainment venues, and nightlife.
* Easy access to Veterans Expressway & Dale Mabry Highway: Facilitates quick commutes to various parts of the Tampa Bay area. However, Dale Mabry can experience significant traffic congestion during peak hours.
2025 Market Insights
The Old Carrollwood real estate market in early 2025 presents a dynamic landscape:
🏡 Current Trends: While specific data for Old Carrollwood can be more nuanced, trends in the broader Carrollwood area offer valuable insights:
* Median Price: Estimates vary across different reporting periods and sources. Some indicate a median sale price in the general Carrollwood area around $365,000 – $435,000 as of early 2025. Other reports for “Carrollwood Village” show a median listing price around $350,000 in February 2025, but a median sale price potentially higher. The Relevé’s Insights figure of $575K (↑6% YoY) likely reflects a segment of the market or a slightly earlier timeframe and could be more specific to the larger, well-maintained homes in Old Carrollwood.
* Price Ranges:
* Entry-Level: $450K-$550K (3 bed/2 bath) – This aligns with the lower end of Relevé’s range and likely represents well-maintained but potentially less updated homes.
* Premium: $600K+ (updated homes, pool properties) – Reflects homes with significant renovations, larger square footage, desirable features like pools, and prime locations within Old Carrollwood. Lakefront properties in areas like Lake Carroll can command significantly higher prices, exceeding $1 million.
* Days on Market: Around 22 days, as mentioned by Relevé, suggests a relatively competitive market for well-priced and appealing homes. However, some broader Carrollwood data indicates a slightly longer average time on the market, potentially around 30-60 days, suggesting some variability depending on the specific property and market conditions.
📈 Investment Potential: Old Carrollwood remains a strong area for investment due to:
* Consistent demand from families and professionals seeking the neighborhood’s established character and amenities.
* A healthy rental market with estimated monthly rents ranging from $2,400 to $3,200, providing attractive returns for investors.
* Remodeled homes in the area often see a 10-15% premium over comparable non-updated properties, rewarding those who invest in renovations.
💡 Expert Tips:
* Buyers: Given the desirability of Old Carrollwood, inventory can move quickly. Having pre-approval for a mortgage is crucial to act swiftly when the right property becomes available.
* Sellers: Enhancing curb appeal through landscaping and fresh paint can significantly impact buyer interest and potentially yield the best returns in this market. Accurate pricing based on recent comparable sales is also essential for a timely sale.
Why Work with Relevé?
Relevé’s Insights highlights their deep understanding of the Old Carrollwood market, having assisted over 40 families in buying and selling within the subdivision. Their hyperlocal expertise offers significant advantages:
Off-market opportunities: Their strong neighborhood connections may provide access to properties not yet publicly listed, giving buyers a valuable edge in a competitive market.
Accurate pricing strategies: Expertise in valuing the unique characteristics of vintage homes in Old Carrollwood ensures sellers receive optimal pricing and buyers make informed offers.
Neighborhood connections: Their established network within the community can be invaluable for both buyers seeking local insights and sellers looking to reach the right audience.
📞 Ready for Old Carrollwood living? Contact Relevé for:
→ Free home valuation: Understand the current market value of your Old Carrollwood property.
→ Neighborhood availability report: Gain insights into the latest homes for sale in the area.
→ Custom home search: Receive personalized assistance in finding your ideal home in Old Carrollwood.
In conclusion, Old Carrollwood offers a blend of established charm, excellent amenities, and a prime location that continues to make it a highly desirable place to live in Tampa. Whether you are looking to buy or sell, leveraging the expertise of local professionals like Relevé can be a significant advantage in navigating this sought-after community.
