I want to start by saying I hope you're staying healthy and safe out there! It's hard to believe how things have changed in the past few months. I'm Debbie Bates, and aside from being a Realtor in South Florida since 1998, I am a huge dog lover.

If you're anything like me and have a member of your family who just happens to be a dog, I'll bet he/she is almost like having another child! I'm sure you want to find the perfect home not only for yourself, but for your furry friend. Whether that means finding a home with acreage in Davie, Southwest Ranches or Plantation Acres, a house with a nice sized yard, or a condo that's dog friendly, I will work hard to make both you and your doggie happy!

Here on my SouthFLHomes.com site, you can create your own search or reach out to me and I'll customize it for you. My site will save the first search you run, which I often find needs some tweaking. So have some fun looking, but don't be afraid to reach out to me to fine tune your search. 

A Fort Lauderdale resident since the age of 5, I've watched Fort Lauderdale grow from a small town to one of the largest cities in America. With COVID-19 now a fact of life, I'm finding more people who want to move out of the big cities and into suburban areas. So if you're relocating to the Fort Lauderdale area and don't want big city life, you might want to consider some of the surrounding areas.

Davie, Southwest Ranches & Plantation Acres tend to have the largest lot sizes, including acreage. Cooper City has some acreage, and if you want to be closer to Miami, there are a few sections of Miramar & Pembroke Pines with acreage. On the northern side of Broward County, Parkland has some beautiful lots and acreage. 

Cities surrounding Fort Lauderdale that have good size yards - but typically not acreage, include Plantation & Coral Springs. You can also find some larger lots in Fort Lauderdale and Weston, though you'll probably pay a premium for that large lot. 

If you're looking for dog training or fun things to do with your dog, I'd love to help with some suggestions: 

If you're looking for dog training, check out Command Dog Training. This has been my family's business since the 1970's. Group classes on Wednesday nights include basic obedience, advanced obedience and conformation (show) classes.

The hobby I've fallen in love with, is agility. If you'd like to get into agility, I can tell you that you'll create a great bond with your dog, and you will probably love it as much as your dog does! It's so much fun and is great exercise too. I can suggest agility instructors to you, depending where you're located.

If you're looking for a great dog beach, the best dog beach is in Jupiter. They have 2 miles of beautiful beaches that are dog friendly. There's nothing else like it in South Florida. 

There's also Fort Lauderdale Dog Beach & Hollywood Dog Beach. Fort Lauderdale dog beach is open on Friday, Saturdays & Sundays from 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM during September thru April and 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM during May thru August. You do have to purchase a permit. The dog beach is located just north of Sunrise Blvd, across from Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. 

Hollywood Dog Beach is open Friday, Saturday & Sunday's from 3:00 - 7:00 PM (4:00 - 8:00 PM during daylight savings time). Hollywood Dog Beach is located between Pershing and Custer Streets and you also have to get a permit in order to take your dog here. 

There's a nice clean lake dogs can swim at, operated by Performance Pups in Dania Beach. The lake is crystal clear and there are no alligators, as the north end of the lake is used by Broward College students for Scuba Diving, Windsurfing and Sailing lessons. The south end of the park is run by Performance Pups and you have to check their calendar for the times they are open. COVID-19 caused the lake to be shut down, but they are opening back up with private sessions. 

There are many other fun things you can do with your dog in South Florida. I'm always happy to talk about dogs and Real Estate, so if you're thinking of making a move in the South Florida area, please reach out to me. I'd love to help you and your four legged friend find the home of your dreams!

Recently Listed Homes with Acreage

$3,950,000
6 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ A12053641 MLS ⋅ 33332 Zip Code ⋅ Windmill Lake Estates BLDG.
Experience exceptional lakefront living in Windmill Lake Estates, where contemporary architecture, privacy, and sophisticated design converge on an expansive 44,492-square-foot cul-de-sac lot. Designed and custom-built by award-winning architect Nelson de León, AIA of Locus Architecture, this impressive residence offers 6 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, and 5,178 square feet under air, thoughtfully created for everyday living and entertaining. Soaring ceilings, 2-story impact windows and doors throughout the home, custom closets, and a premium sound system enhance the modern interiors. Extensively upgraded throughout with four AC units, whole-house audio/video with voice control, and gigabyte Wi-Fi with repeaters for full-property coverage. The chef's kitchen features quartzite countertops, top-of-the-line Miele appliances, a wine cooler, and an oversized island with seating. The outdoor living spaces are equally impressive with a coral stone terrace, summer kitchen with built-in grill, infinity-edge pool, and spa overlooking tranquil lake views. Dual high-capacity water heaters, a rare gas line connection and on-premises tank, detached three-car garage with covered portico, generous driveway, and abundant guest parking complete this exceptional property. Built in 2014 on a remarkable oversized lot, this custom lakefront residence offers a rare opportunity to enjoy space, privacy, architectural distinction, and the highly sought-after Weston lifestyle.

3714 Pine Lake Dr, Weston
$3,650,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ A12057584 MLS ⋅ 33331 Zip Code ⋅ Circle S Estates BLDG.
Welcome to Circle S, an exclusive enclave of just 42 estate homes on one-acre homesites. This beautifully upgraded one-story residence delivers privacy, modern comfort and exceptional indoor-outdoor living. Set behind mature hedging and a fully fenced yard with an automatic gate, the property showcases approximately $150,000 in professional landscaping, specimen palms, majestic large-format oak trees, fruit trees and dramatic exterior and landscape lighting. The backyard is designed for entertaining, with a private sports court, custom pergola and outdoor kitchen. Inside, enjoy an open, sophisticated setting enhanced by Wolf appliances, waterfall showers, accent walls, automatic blinds, upgraded closet cabinetry, smart-home features, LED lighting and a whole-house water-filtration system. Impact windows and an upgraded impact-rated front door provide added security and peace of mind, complemented by indoor and outdoor security cameras. Additional features include an extended driveway, rain gutters, epoxy-finished garage floor and overhead garage storage. Ideally positioned near I-75, Weston, Sawgrass Mills, top-rated public and private schools, shopping and dining, this turnkey acre estate combines space, privacy, technology and lifestyle in one of the area’s most desirable communities. A MUST SEE. CALL TODAY TO ARRANGE A PRIVATE SHOWING.

4850 Sw 159th Ave, Southwest Ranches
$2,350,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ A12052552 MLS ⋅ 33331 Zip Code ⋅ Chambers Sub Sw1/4 BLDG.
Welcome to your private retreat in the heart of Southwest Ranches! Nestled on 2.32 acres, fully fenced and gated, this beautifully updated estate offers the perfect blend of privacy, space, and modern comfort. New impact windows and doors provide peace of mind while allowing an abundance of natural light to fill the home, and newer A/C systems ensure year-round comfort. Inside, you'll find a thoughtfully renovated interior featuring a stunning chef-inspired kitchen with quality finishes, updated flooring throughout, and beautifully remodeled bathrooms. The spacious layout flows seamlessly to a large screened-in patio, creating the perfect space to relax or entertain while overlooking the expansive property. With over two acres of fully usable land, there's ample room for horses, a guest house, RVs, boats, recreational toys, or even a custom pool and outdoor entertaining area. Located in one of Southwest Ranches' most desirable area, this exceptional property offers the tranquility of country living while remaining just minutes from top-rated schools, shopping, dining, and major highways. Whether you're looking for privacy, room to grow, or a move-in-ready estate, this home presents a rare opportunity to enjoy the best of South Florida living.

18180 Sw 66th St, Southwest Ranches
$1,850,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ A12057758 MLS ⋅ 33027 Zip Code ⋅ Country Club Ranches Sec BLDG.
Private 2.28-Acre Ranch Retreat in Exclusive Country Club Ranches Estates! Experience unmatched privacy, open space, and natural beauty in this extraordinary estate. Set on sprawling grounds, this property features a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom main residence, barrel roof, driveway entrance, ceramic floors throughout the residence and exceptional outdoor living. The spectacular backyard is a true sanctuary with mature mango and avocado trees, peaceful green spaces, your own private soccer field, an entertainment deck perfect for outdoor dining and BBQs, and a stunning oversized saltwater pool for resort-style living. A rare lifestyle property where privacy, recreation, and convenience come together, just minutes from city conveniences, major highways, shopping, dining, and excellent schools. No HOA fees. Recently connected to city water!

4250 Sw 139th Ave, Miramar
$1,300,000
7 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ A12057019 MLS ⋅ 33317 Zip Code ⋅ Newmans Survey Sub No 1 & BLDG.
Nearly 2 Acres in a prime location in a rapidly growing area of Fort Lauderdale! Exceptional potential to build up to 8 single-family homes or renovate the existing structures (5-bedroom main house, 2 Bedroom Guest House) and create your own private estate. Property offers endless possibilities for developers, builders, and investors seeking land with strong upside potential. Spacious lot with ample room for new construction, redevelopment, or a custom residential community. Conveniently located near major highways (441, I-595, Turnpike), Hardrock Casino, shopping, dining, schools, and urban conveniences, while still offering privacy and space. Rare chance to secure a large parcel with flexible use in a high-demand market. Buyer to verify zoning, density, land use, and development possibilities with the appropriate municipality

4351 Sw 25th St, Fort Lauderdale
$1,800,000
4 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ A12055942 MLS ⋅ 33331 Zip Code ⋅ Fla Fruit Lands Co Sub No BLDG.
Exceptional Estate on Nearly 2 Acres in Rolling Oaks, Southwest Ranches. Discover the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and space in this beautifully renovated estate located in the prestigious Rolling Oaks community of Southwest Ranches. Situated on an impressive 86,337-square-foot lot, this sprawling property is surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, offering the ideal country-suburban lifestyle. Designed with an open-concept floor plan, the home features expansive living areas, elegant marble flooring throughout, and a beautifully updated kitchen that serves as the heart of the home. Hurricane impact windows and doors provide both peace of mind and abundant natural light. Step outside to an expansive screened patio complete with a built-in summer kitchen, overlooking an oversized pool—the perfect setting for entertaining or enjoying South Florida's year-round sunshine. A standout feature of this home is the private in-law suite, complete with its own bathroom, kitchenette, and wet bar, making it ideal for multigenerational living, extended guests, or a private home office. With nearly two acres of land, there is plenty of room to expand, create additional outdoor amenities, or simply enjoy the privacy and open space that make Southwest Ranches so desirable. The sellers have plans for an expansion that can be shared. This is an opportunity to own an exceptional property in one of South Florida's most sought-after communities. Schedule your private showing today!

5301 Sw 178th Ave, Southwest Ranches
$1,350,000
5 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ A12055979 MLS ⋅ 33325 Zip Code ⋅ Paradise Farms BLDG.
Coming Soon in sought-after Paradise Farms! Set on 1 acre in the heart of Davie, this sprawling 5-bedroom, 3-bath estate offers exceptional space, privacy, and versatility with no HOA. The expansive single-story layout features impact glass, generous living and entertaining areas, a beautifully renovated primary bath, custom primary closet, and a 2-car garage with workshop space and flexibility for additional vehicle storage. Additional living spaces create the potential for up to 1 more bedrooms, guest quarters, home office, or a multi-generational layout. Outdoors, a private screen-enclosed pool, expansive covered patio, and sprawling backyard surrounded by mature trees and lush greenery create an incredible setting with room to enjoy the full acre. Additional highlights include a 2018 roof, two A/C systems, 2023 water heater, reverse osmosis system, and well irrigation. An exceptional opportunity to own a spacious and versatile estate in one of Davie’s most desirable acreage communities.

13680 Sw 26th St, Davie
$1,350,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ A12052459 MLS ⋅ 33317 Zip Code ⋅ Plantation BLDG.
Welcome to 5400 Palm Tree Rd in Plantation — a rare ranch-style home on over 1 acre. This spacious property features 5 beds, 4 baths, a 3-car garage, and a separate guest quarter. The home offers generous living areas, including a comfortable family room, all set on a massive private lot. Located near schools, parks, shopping, transportation, and places of worship, this neighborhood offers strong community appeal. A unique opportunity to own a large estate-style property in a prime Plantation location!

5400 Palm Tree Rd, Plantation
$1,950,000
5 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ A12052059 MLS ⋅ 33328 Zip Code ⋅ Fla Fruit Lands Co Sub No BLDG.
Welcome to a rare opportunity in the heart of Davie! Situated on a prime corner lot over an acre, this beautifully maintained property offers the perfect blend of space, functionality, and lifestyle. The main home features a thoughtfully designed layout with a private office, gym, and game room ideal for both everyday living and entertaining. Along with 5 bedrooms! The recently remodeled kitchen showcases modern finishes and flows seamlessly into the living areas, while impact windows and doors provide peace of mind throughout. A 5-year-old roof adds to the home's overall value and condition. Step outside to your private backyard oasis, complete with lush landscaping, a screened-in pool, covered patio, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchen perfect for entertaining. The expansive lot also features a large detached shop, ideal for car enthusiasts, business use, storage, or even accommodating animals. Additional highlights include a circular driveway, dedicated slabs for RV and boat parking, and a 200’ well water system.

5431 Sw 109th Ave, Davie
$2,700,000
4 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ A12047272 MLS ⋅ 33331 Zip Code ⋅ Rolling Oaks BLDG.
Opportunity to live on this spectacular fenced-in corner lot parcel in Southwest Ranches. 4 bedroom + office, 3 bathroom estate offers the perfect blend of country living and modern comfort with a split floor-bedroom plan. Elegant spaces with formal living, dining and family rooms with large windows and French doors overlooking the backyard. Spacious kitchen features distressed white wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, wine cooler, granite counters, island, coffee-bar area, countertop seating and breakfast nook. Primary suite offers a spa-like bathroom with a jetted tub, double vanities, step in shower and walk-in closets. Impact glass, central vacuum system, Tesla EV charger and 2 car garage. Outside you will find an incredible outdoor living area featuring a covered patio, summer kitchen, refreshing pool and spa, and lush tropical landscaping designed for relaxing and entertaining. Beyond the backyard, the expansive grounds continue with a 6 stall horse barn, paddock riding area, chicken coop and plenty of room for horses and other farm animals. Whether you are an equestrian, hobby farmer or simply looking for privacy and open space, this exceptional property offers endless possibilities in one of South Florida's most renowned towns.

17710 Sw 63rd Mnr, Southwest Ranches
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