Property values are on the rise in Vero Lake Estates (VLE), with only a few homes currently for sale (18 as of this writing). VLE is the largest subdivision in Indian River County. Developed in the 1950s, it was initially considered “too far west” (about a 10-minute drive to the ocean) and failed to grow as anticipated. Only a handful of homes were built on its 6,000 homesites, making it a significant flop at the time.
Fast forward to today, and VLE is experiencing a resurgence. After a series of building booms and busts, approximately 2,600 homes now stand in the subdivision. The lots range from a quarter acre to five acres, making VLE a prime location, with homes selling rapidly.
What makes Vero Lake Estates so appealing now? Its location is ideal, offering proximity to schools, the library, and the new Publix Shopping Center. Major roads, including I-95, State Road 510, and State Road 512, conveniently surround the community, making it easy to get anywhere. A short drive to the Publix Plaza takes you past scenic cow pastures, where wild turkeys often land twice a year. And if you’re craving a day at the beach, take State Road 510 eastward and enjoy the breathtaking ride over the river to the ocean.
Nearby, you’ll find a host of amenities. The library and the county pool are located along State Road 512, and Riverside Park, a hub of community events, is a quick drive away. For shopping, both the Vero Beach Discount Mall and Indian River Mall are just 10 miles from VLE.
The community has a voluntary property owner’s association with dues of just $20 per year. Whether you pay or not, you can attend quarterly meetings at the North Library, where guest speakers often include Sheriff Loar and county commissioners. VLE is a tight-knit neighborhood with plenty of families and residents who look out for one another. For example, one homeowner even cleared a lot to create a baseball diamond for his children and neighbors to enjoy. It’s common to see people stop to help a tortoise cross the road, or for drivers to courteously wave each other on at a four-way stop.
Public transportation is also available, and while it may not be Manhattan, the buses are free and run reliably.
If you’re looking for a community with heart and potential, VLE is worth investigating. Some people say “location, location, location,” but I say “future location, future location, future location.”
Update – August 2024
As of August 2024, Vero Lake Estates is no longer just a future destination; it has blossomed into a thriving community, even amidst a high-interest market. The secret is out—VLE is now one of the most sought-after areas, and homes are no longer the bargains they once were.
Despite its growth, the heart of VLE remains unchanged. As a homeowner, I can still proudly say, “You meet the nicest people in Vero Lake Estates.” The sense of neighborliness is as strong as ever, with residents helping tortoises cross the road and waving you on at stop signs. The community is as diverse as it is welcoming, home to both young families and retirees, with everything from trucks to Mercedes in the driveways. While the population has grown, the spirit of VLE has only strengthened.
