Panther Trace is one of the largest master-planned communities in Riverview, FL - and it's still being built out. Developed by Taylor Morrison off Big Bend Road, Panther Trace spans multiple phases and will include well over 2,000 homes when it's finished. Two clubhouses, resort-style pools, a splash pad, fitness center, sports courts, and miles of walking trails make this one of the most amenity-rich communities in eastern Hillsborough County. I'm Barrett Henry with REMAX Collective, and I've been showing homes in Panther Trace since the first models opened. This guide covers everything you need to know - phases, pricing, amenities, schools, CDD fees, and how Panther Trace stacks up against other Riverview communities.
Panther Trace Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Builder | Taylor Morrison |
| Location | Big Bend Road, Riverview, FL 33579 |
| Phases | Panther Trace I, II, and III |
| Total Homes (at buildout) | 2,200+ |
| Price Range | $190,000-$350,000+ |
| Lot Sizes | 40-ft, 50-ft, 60-ft, and 70-ft wide lots |
| Home Sizes | 1,400-3,200+ sq ft |
| CDD Fee | ~$1,800-$2,400/year ($150-$200/month) |
| HOA Fee | ~$60-$85/month |
| Amenities | 2 clubhouses, resort pool, lap pool, splash pad, fitness center, sports courts, playground, trails |
| Schools | Summerfield Elementary, Summerfield Crossings Elementary, Burnett Middle, East Bay High |
| Year Started | 2010 |
| Status | Actively building (later phases under construction) |
Panther Trace Overview - One of Riverview's Biggest Communities
Panther Trace sits on the south side of Big Bend Road in Riverview, roughly a mile east of US-301 and just a few minutes from the I-75 interchange. Taylor Morrison started development here around 2010, and the community has been growing in phases ever since. When fully built out, Panther Trace will have over 2,200 homes across three major phases, making it one of the largest single-builder communities in the entire Tampa Bay area.
What sets Panther Trace apart from many other Riverview communities is the sheer scale of the amenities. Two full clubhouses, two pools (one resort-style, one lap pool), a splash pad for kids, a well-equipped fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, and a network of walking and biking trails throughout the community. Most communities in this price range give you one clubhouse and a pool. Panther Trace gives you significantly more.
Taylor Morrison is the sole builder here, which means consistent build quality and a cohesive look throughout the community. They offer multiple floor plan collections designed for different lot widths and budgets - from entry-level homes in the low $190s to larger executive-style homes in the $350K+ range. That range is one of the reasons Panther Trace attracts such a wide cross-section of buyers: first-timers, young families, military families from MacDill AFB, and move-up buyers looking for more space.
Phases and Sections of Panther Trace
Panther Trace is divided into three main phases, each with its own sections and price points. Understanding the phases is important because lot sizes, pricing, and CDD assessments can vary between them.
Panther Trace I
The original phase, closest to Big Bend Road. Homes in Panther Trace I were among the first built starting around 2010-2012. This phase includes the first clubhouse and the primary amenity center. Most homes here are already complete and occupied. If you're looking at Panther Trace I today, you'll likely be buying a resale rather than new construction. Lot sizes in this phase include 50-ft and 60-ft wide options, with homes ranging from about 1,600 to 2,800 square feet.
Panther Trace II
The second phase expanded the community further south and introduced additional lot sizes, including the 40-ft wide lots for Taylor Morrison's more affordable townhome-style and single-family series. Panther Trace II also includes 70-ft wide lots for buyers who want larger homes and more yard space. Construction in this phase ramped up around 2013-2015, and there's still inventory being built here. The second clubhouse was added as part of this phase, giving residents closer access to amenities no matter where they live in the community.
Panther Trace III
The newest phase, currently under active construction. Panther Trace III is where you'll find the most available new construction inventory and model homes. This phase includes a mix of lot widths and features Taylor Morrison's latest floor plan designs with updated kitchens, open living spaces, and energy-efficient construction. If you want a brand-new home in Panther Trace, Phase III is where the action is right now.
Home Styles and Floor Plans
Taylor Morrison offers several collections in Panther Trace, each designed for a different lot width and price point. While the specific model names change over time, here's the general breakdown of what's available.
- 40-ft lot homes (Cottage Series): Typically 1,400-1,800 sq ft, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. These are the entry-level options - great for first-time buyers, singles, or small families. Compact but well-designed open floor plans.
- 50-ft lot homes (Classic Series): Typically 1,800-2,400 sq ft, 3-4 bedrooms, 2-2.5 baths. The most popular series in Panther Trace. These offer a good balance of space, features, and price. Most include a two-car garage and covered lanai.
- 60-ft lot homes (Manor Series): Typically 2,200-2,800 sq ft, 4-5 bedrooms, 2.5-3 baths. Larger homes with more yard space, bigger owner's suites, and often bonus rooms or lofts. A strong option for growing families who need more room.
- 70-ft lot homes (Estate Series): Typically 2,600-3,200+ sq ft, 4-5 bedrooms, 3-4 baths. The premium tier in Panther Trace. Larger lots mean more privacy and backyard space. These homes often include three-car garages, formal dining rooms, and upgraded standard features.
All new construction in Panther Trace includes concrete block construction (standard in Florida), hurricane-rated windows and doors, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and Taylor Morrison's included feature packages. Upgrades are available through the builder's design center - granite or quartz countertops, upgraded flooring, expanded lanais, and more.
Panther Trace Pricing by Lot Size
Pricing varies by phase, lot width, floor plan, and upgrades. Here's a general guide based on what I'm currently seeing in the community.
| Lot Width | Series | Sq Ft Range | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40-ft | Cottage | 1,400-1,800 | $190K-$230K |
| 50-ft | Classic | 1,800-2,400 | $230K-$280K |
| 60-ft | Manor | 2,200-2,800 | $270K-$320K |
| 70-ft | Estate | 2,600-3,200+ | $310K-$370K+ |
Keep in mind these are base prices. Structural options (adding a bedroom, extending the lanai, upgrading to a three-car garage) and design center selections (countertops, flooring, cabinets) can add $15,000-$40,000+ to the final price. Taylor Morrison's base included features are reasonable, but most buyers spend at least $10,000-$20,000 on upgrades.
If you're considering a resale in the earlier phases, expect pricing to be in the $220K-$310K range depending on the home's size, condition, lot location, and any upgrades the original owner added.
Amenities - Two Clubhouses and Resort-Level Features
This is where Panther Trace really shines compared to most Riverview communities in this price range. The amenity package here is genuinely impressive.
Clubhouse 1 (Panther Trace I)
- Resort-style swimming pool with sun shelf and lounge areas
- Lap pool for fitness swimming
- Children's splash pad / water playground
- Fitness center with cardio and weight equipment
- Community event room with kitchen
- Covered outdoor pavilion
- Playground with modern equipment
- Basketball court
Clubhouse 2 (Panther Trace II)
- Second resort-style pool
- Additional fitness center
- Tennis courts
- Sand volleyball court
- Additional playground
- Multi-use event space
- Covered picnic areas with grills
Community-Wide Amenities
- Miles of walking and biking trails connecting the phases
- Conservation areas and nature views
- Dog-friendly parks
- Pocket parks throughout the community
- Community events organized by the HOA (holiday parties, food trucks, movie nights)
Having two clubhouses is a real advantage. In a community this large, a single clubhouse can feel crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. The second facility spreads things out and gives residents in the newer phases convenient access without driving across the entire community.
Schools Serving Panther Trace
School zoning in Panther Trace depends on your specific address within the community - different sections may be zoned for different elementary schools. Here are the schools that serve the community.
| Level | School | Grade (FL DOE) |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary | Summerfield Elementary | B |
| Elementary | Summerfield Crossings Elementary | B |
| Middle | Burnett Middle School | B |
| High | East Bay High School | B |
The schools here are solid B-rated - not the A-rated schools you'll find in FishHawk or Valrico, but respectable and improving as the area grows. Summerfield Crossings Elementary is one of the newer schools in the area and was built specifically to handle the population growth from Panther Trace and surrounding communities. If top-tier school ratings are your absolute top priority, FishHawk Ranch or Valrico may be a better fit. But for most families, the schools serving Panther Trace are perfectly good and getting better each year.
Always verify your specific school zone on the Hillsborough County School District website before purchasing. Zones can change, and different sections of Panther Trace may feed into different elementary schools.
CDD and HOA Fees - The Real Monthly Cost
Like virtually every new construction community in Riverview, Panther Trace has both a CDD and an HOA. I'm going to be straight with you about what these cost, because this is where a lot of buyers get caught off guard.
CDD Fees
Panther Trace's CDD assessment runs approximately $1,800-$2,400 per year, depending on the phase and lot size. That works out to roughly $150-$200 per month. The CDD pays for the community's infrastructure: roads, water and sewer lines, stormwater management, streetlights, and the bond debt that financed the construction of the amenity centers, pools, trails, and other common areas. The CDD fee appears as a line item on your annual Hillsborough County property tax bill.
For a full explanation of how CDDs work, what they pay for, and whether you can pay them off early, read my complete CDD fee guide.
HOA Fees
The Panther Trace HOA fee runs approximately $60-$85 per month (roughly $720-$1,020 per year), paid directly to the homeowners association. The HOA covers the ongoing maintenance and operations of the clubhouses, pools, fitness centers, common area landscaping, and community events. It also handles architectural review (exterior paint colors, fencing, landscaping standards) and enforcement of community rules.
Total Monthly Cost Breakdown
Here's what a typical monthly housing cost looks like for a $260,000 home in Panther Trace (50-ft lot, Classic Series).
| Monthly Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Principal & Interest (4.5%, 5% down) | $1,250 |
| Property Taxes (with Homestead) | $280 |
| Homeowners Insurance | $150 |
| PMI | $110 |
| HOA | $75 |
| CDD | $175 |
| Total Monthly | $2,040 |
That CDD + HOA combination adds about $250/month ($3,000/year) on top of your base housing cost. Over 30 years, that's roughly $90,000 in fees that don't build equity. It's not unusual for Riverview - it's standard. But you need to budget for it from day one. I run this full cost breakdown for every buyer I work with so there are no surprises.
Location and Commute
Panther Trace's location on Big Bend Road gives you solid access to the area's major corridors.
- I-75: About 3-4 minutes west on Big Bend Road. This is your main route to downtown Tampa (25-35 minutes), MacDill AFB (30-40 minutes), and the Selmon Expressway.
- US-301: About 1 mile west. Connects you to Brandon to the north and the rest of Riverview to the south.
- Riverview Drive: Alternative north-south route connecting to Bloomingdale and Brandon.
- Big Bend Road: The primary east-west corridor. Takes you to I-75, US-301, and eventually to the Sun City Center / Apollo Beach area heading south.
The commute to downtown Tampa from Panther Trace runs about 30-40 minutes in normal traffic. During morning rush hour, budget 40-55 minutes via I-75 and the Selmon Expressway. Big Bend Road itself can get congested during school drop-off and pick-up times, especially near the US-301 intersection. The good news: FDOT has been widening Big Bend Road, which should improve traffic flow as the project completes.
For shopping and dining, you're close to the Riverview commercial corridor along US-301 (Walmart, Publix, Target, and dozens of restaurants) and about 10-15 minutes from Brandon's retail hub along Brandon Blvd.
New Construction vs. Resale in Panther Trace
Because Panther Trace has been building for several years, you have two options: buy new from Taylor Morrison in the active phases, or buy a resale from a current homeowner in the earlier phases.
Why Buy New Construction
- Choose your lot, floor plan, and design center upgrades
- Everything is brand new - roof, AC, appliances, warranty coverage
- Latest energy-efficient construction standards
- Taylor Morrison's structural warranty (typically 10 years)
- Builder incentives may be available (closing cost credits, rate buydowns, free upgrades)
Why Buy a Resale
- Potentially lower price than comparable new construction
- Mature landscaping - yards are already established
- Previous owner may have already invested in upgrades (pool, extended lanai, premium flooring)
- Move-in ready - no 4-6 month construction wait
- Established neighbors and known community dynamics
Both options are legitimate. If you have the time to wait for new construction and want to customize, go new. If you want to move quickly and benefit from improvements already made, resale can be a smart play. I can help you evaluate both options side by side.
Pros and Cons of Living in Panther Trace
Pros
- ✓ Outstanding amenities for the price point. Two clubhouses, two pools, splash pad, fitness centers, sports courts, trails - this rivals communities at much higher price points.
- ✓ Wide price range. From $190K starter homes to $370K+ executive homes, Panther Trace accommodates different budgets under one community umbrella.
- ✓ Taylor Morrison quality. A national builder with a strong reputation for construction quality and customer service in the Tampa Bay market.
- ✓ Multiple lot sizes. 40-ft to 70-ft lots mean you can find the right balance of home size and yard space.
- ✓ Strong community feel. Active HOA with organized events, well-maintained common areas, and a neighborhood vibe that comes with having 2,000+ homes and families.
- ✓ Big Bend Road access. Close to I-75, US-301, and major retail corridors.
Cons
- ✗ CDD + HOA fees add up. Budget $225-$285/month in combined CDD and HOA fees. That's real money that doesn't build equity.
- ✗ Smaller lots on the 40-ft and 50-ft options. You're getting a nice home, but your neighbor is close. If privacy and yard space are priorities, you'll need the 60-ft or 70-ft lots, which cost more.
- ✗ Schools are B-rated, not A-rated. Solid but not the top-tier ratings you'll find in FishHawk or Valrico school zones.
- ✗ Big Bend Road traffic. As the area grows, Big Bend Road gets more congested, particularly during school hours and evening rush.
- ✗ Single builder means similar aesthetics. Every home is Taylor Morrison. You get consistency, but not a lot of architectural variety.
- ✗ Still under construction. Active construction in later phases means construction traffic, noise, and dust in some areas of the community.
Panther Trace vs. Alafia vs. FishHawk - How They Compare
These are the three Riverview-area communities I get asked to compare most often. Here's the honest breakdown.
| Category | Panther Trace | Alafia | FishHawk Ranch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Builder(s) | Taylor Morrison | Multiple (Lennar, Meritage, etc.) | Multiple builders |
| Price Range | $190K-$370K+ | $250K-$400K+ | $350K-$600K+ |
| CDD Fee (annual) | $1,800-$2,400 | $1,800-$2,400 | $2,000-$3,600 |
| HOA Fee (monthly) | $60-$85 | $50-$100 | $100-$175 |
| School Ratings | B average | B average | A average |
| Amenities | Two clubhouses, two pools, splash pad, fitness, courts, trails | Clubhouse, pool, fitness, trails | Extensive: multiple pools, sports complex, trails, A-rated schools |
| Entry-Level Price | ~$190K | ~$250K | ~$350K |
| Lot Sizes | 40-ft to 70-ft | 40-ft to 60-ft | 50-ft to 80-ft+ |
| Community Size | 2,200+ homes | 1,500+ homes | 4,000+ homes |
| Best For | Budget-conscious families wanting strong amenities | Mid-range buyers wanting multiple builder options | Buyers prioritizing A-rated schools and premium lifestyle |
The short version: Panther Trace gives you the best amenities per dollar in Riverview. Alafia offers more builder variety. FishHawk is the premium option with the best schools but at a significantly higher price point. For a broader comparison of the Riverview area, check out my Brandon vs. Riverview vs. Valrico guide.
Who Is Panther Trace Best For?
After showing dozens of homes in this community, here's who I think gets the most value out of Panther Trace.
- First-time buyers who want new construction with resort-style amenities at an entry-level price point. The 40-ft and 50-ft lot homes in the $190K-$280K range are some of the best values in Riverview.
- Young families who want pools, playgrounds, trails, and a family-friendly environment without paying FishHawk prices.
- Military families stationed at MacDill AFB. The commute is manageable, the pricing works with BAH, and the community is welcoming to military families.
- Move-up buyers who want more space but aren't ready to jump to the $400K+ price point. The 60-ft and 70-ft lot homes offer executive-level square footage at mid-range prices.
- Buyers who value amenities. If having two pools, a splash pad, fitness centers, and sports courts matters to you, Panther Trace delivers more than most communities in this price range.
Who might want to look elsewhere: buyers who need A-rated schools (consider FishHawk Ranch or Valrico), buyers who want larger lots with more privacy (consider Boyette area or Valrico), or buyers who want to avoid CDD fees entirely (consider established Brandon neighborhoods).
Panther Trace - Frequently Asked Questions
What builder builds in Panther Trace?
Taylor Morrison is the sole builder in Panther Trace. They've developed all three phases of the community and offer multiple floor plan collections across different lot widths, ranging from entry-level cottage-style homes to larger executive-series homes.
How much are CDD fees in Panther Trace?
CDD fees in Panther Trace run approximately $1,800-$2,400 per year ($150-$200 per month), depending on the phase and lot size. This appears as a line item on your annual Hillsborough County property tax bill. In addition to the CDD, the HOA fee is about $60-$85/month. Combined, expect approximately $225-$285/month in fees beyond your mortgage, taxes, and insurance.
What schools serve Panther Trace in Riverview?
Panther Trace is zoned for Summerfield Elementary or Summerfield Crossings Elementary (depending on your specific address), Burnett Middle School, and East Bay High School. All are currently rated B by the Florida Department of Education. Always confirm your specific school zone with the Hillsborough County School District before purchasing.
Is Panther Trace still building new homes?
Yes. As of late 2016, Taylor Morrison is actively building in Panther Trace III, the newest phase. There are model homes to tour and new-construction lots available across multiple lot widths and floor plan collections. Earlier phases (I and II) are mostly built out, with some remaining inventory and resale homes available.
How does Panther Trace compare to FishHawk Ranch?
FishHawk Ranch is a larger, more premium community with A-rated schools, higher home prices ($350K-$600K+), and higher CDD fees ($2,000-$3,600/year). Panther Trace offers similar amenity quality at a significantly lower price point but with B-rated schools. If school ratings are your top priority and budget allows, FishHawk wins. If you want strong amenities at a lower price, Panther Trace is the better value.
Can I buy a resale home in Panther Trace?
Yes. Panther Trace I and II have hundreds of completed homes, and resales come on the market regularly. Resales in Panther Trace typically range from $220K-$310K depending on the lot size, home size, and upgrades. Some resale homes have added features like pools, extended lanais, and premium landscaping that you'd pay extra for with new construction.
Sources
- Taylor Morrison - Panther Trace Community Page
- Hillsborough County Property Appraiser
- Hillsborough County School District
- Florida Department of Education
- Stellar MLS - Panther Trace listings and sales data
Interested in Panther Trace? Let's Tour the Community
Whether you're interested in new construction from Taylor Morrison or a resale in one of the earlier phases, I can walk you through the community, show you available homes, and run the full monthly cost breakdown so you know exactly what you're getting into. I know this community well and can help you figure out which phase, lot size, and floor plan make the most sense for your budget and your family.
Barrett Henry | REMAX Collective
Direct: (813) 733-7907
Email: barrett@nowtb.com
Website: NOWtb.com
Call, text, or email anytime. No pressure, no obligation - just honest guidance from someone who knows this community inside and out.
About the Author
Barrett Henry is a licensed real estate agent with REMAX Collective, specializing in the Brandon, Riverview, Valrico, and greater Tampa Bay markets. With deep local knowledge and an honest, data-driven approach, Barrett helps buyers and sellers make confident real estate decisions in eastern Hillsborough County.
Related Guides
- Riverview FL New Construction Communities
- CDD Fees in Florida - What Every Buyer Needs to Know
- Brandon vs. Riverview vs. Valrico - Complete Comparison
- New Construction Homes in Tampa Bay
- Cost of Living in Brandon FL
Last Updated: . Data sourced from Taylor Morrison, Hillsborough County Property Appraiser, Hillsborough County School District, Florida Department of Education, and Stellar MLS. Prices, CDD fees, HOA fees, and school grades are subject to change. Always verify specific lot pricing, fees, and school zones before purchasing.
