What Is Bent Tree South Like?
Bent Tree South is a quiet, deed-restricted subdivision in central Valrico, tucked off South St. Cloud Avenue between Lumsden Road and State Road 60. Most homes were built in the mid-1990s, and the community has that settled, mature feel that comes from three decades of established landscaping, grown-in oak canopy, and neighbors who tend to stay put. There is no grand entrance or resort-style clubhouse here — just well-kept single-family homes on a network of residential streets with minimal through traffic.
Homes in Bent Tree South range from about 1,400 to 2,200 square feet, with a mix of 3 and 4-bedroom floor plans. Construction is concrete block, and you will find both one and two-story layouts. Most homes have 2-car garages, screened lanais, and open floor plans typical of the mid-1990s Florida build era. The lots are moderate — not as tight as newer construction, but not the half-acre parcels you find further east toward Durant Estates.
How Much Is the HOA and Are There Deed Restrictions?
Bent Tree South operates under deed restrictions with a low HOA fee around $25 per month. That is one of the most affordable HOA fees in Valrico. There is no CDD fee. The restrictions cover the basics — exterior maintenance standards, no commercial vehicles parked in driveways, and general upkeep requirements.
For comparison, nearby Savannah Landings runs $285/mo for a maintenance-free townhome lifestyle, and Copper Ridge has CDD fees that add $2,000+ per year to your tax bill. Bent Tree South gives you single-family home ownership without the monthly fee burden.
How Close Is Everything?
- Publix: 1.5 miles on SR 60 (3 minutes)
- Wawa: 1 mile on SR 60
- Walmart Supercenter: 4 miles west in Brandon
- Westfield Brandon Mall: 5 miles (10 minutes)
- Valrico YMCA: 2 miles
- Lithia Springs Park: 7 miles south (kayaking, trails, natural springs)
- I-75: 6 miles west (12 minutes)
- Selmon Expressway: 5 miles (straight shot into downtown Tampa)
- Downtown Tampa: 22 miles (30-35 minutes via Crosstown)
Which Schools Serve Bent Tree South?
Bent Tree South is zoned for Mulrennan Middle School and Durant High School. Elementary school zoning depends on the specific section — check with Hillsborough County Public Schools for the current assignment. Durant High has solid academics and athletics, and the Durant zone offers a lower entry price than the Newsome High zone further south.
If you are specifically targeting the Newsome zone, look at Buckhorn Preserve or Canterbury Oaks. But many families find the Durant zone delivers excellent schools at a more accessible price point.
What Is the Flood Risk?
Bent Tree South sits in FEMA Flood Zone X (minimal risk). No flood insurance required by lenders. The community is on higher ground with no creek or river exposure.
How Does Bent Tree South Compare to Nearby Neighborhoods?
- Abbey Grove (1 mile): Similar vintage (2003-2004), slightly newer construction. $40/mo HOA. Smaller community (69 homes).
- Somerset (1.5 miles): Much larger community with resort amenities, pool, dog park. Higher HOA but more social infrastructure.
- Savannah Landings (1.5 miles): Gated townhomes, maintenance-free. $285/mo HOA. Different product type entirely.
- Valri Park (1 mile): No HOA, larger lots, older homes. Even more affordable but less community cohesion.
What Should Buyers Know?
- Construction age: Mid-1990s build means homes are 30+ years old. Check the roof — original shingle roofs are past replacement age. HVAC is likely on its second or third unit.
- Insurance: Concrete block construction helps with rates. New roofs will significantly improve your insurance premiums in Florida's current market.
- Resale value: Bent Tree South homes move well because of the low HOA and central location.
- Rentals: Strong rental demand for affordable Valrico homes. Expect $1,800-$2,100/mo for a 3-bedroom. ViVi Property Management handles rentals in this area.
Barrett Henry is a Broker Associate at REMAX Collective with 23+ years of real estate experience. He lives in Valrico and knows every pocket neighborhood in the area. Call (813) 733-7907 or get a free home valuation to see what your property is worth right now.
Also explore: Valrico homes for sale | Valrico neighborhood guide | Valrico housing market