Tampa Bay Business Journal: Why Buyers Are Taking a Fresh Look at Wimauma

Wimauma emerges as Hillsborough County’s next major housing market with Berry Bay and Balm Grove developments

Tampa Bay Business Journal

Thursday, September 10, 2026

As opportunities for new communities become increasingly scarce in established areas of Hillsborough County, attention is shifting south, with Wimauma emerging as one of the county’s most promising housing markets. Communities such as Berry Bay and Balm Grove are helping shape the next chapter of residential development in South Hillsborough.

“The same factors that fueled Riverview’s transformation over the past 15 years are beginning to gain momentum in Wimauma,” said Jeff Hills, president of Eisenhower Property Group. “For buyers, Berry Bay represents an opportunity to be part of the area’s growth with diverse housing options and strong long-term value.”

Berry Bay Setting a New Standard in Wimauma

Berry Bay, a master-planned community spanning 1,100 acres with a current total build-out of 3,200 single-family homes, is capturing attention with the addition of two well-known builders, Perry Homes and Ashton Woods, expanding buyers’ options with a mix of larger floor plans, design-forward features, and homes tailored to growing families and move-up buyers.

While the arrival of new builders is expanding buyer choice, Berry Bay’s broader appeal lies in its lifestyle-driven master plan. Residents enjoy access to an amenity center featuring a resort-style pool, clubhouse, sports courts, dog parks and pedestrian-friendly pathways designed to encourage recreation and connection. Combined with future development plans and expanding residential offerings, Berry Bay reflects the type of community experience that continues to attract buyers to South Hillsborough.

Houston-based Perry Homes chose Berry Bay as one of its first opportunities in the Tampa Bay area, signaling confidence in Wimauma’s future as a residential destination.

“The neighborhoods that thrive over the long term are the ones that combine quality homes, thoughtful planning and amenities that support everyday life,” said Garrison Taska, Division President at Perry Homes. “Berry Bay checks all those boxes. It has many of the same characteristics that have helped shape some of the region’s most successful master-planned communities, and Perry Homes is proud to be part of Berry Bay’s continued growth and future.”

For those exploring entry level options with strong resale potential, communities like Balm Grove with Lennar and D.R. Horton are offering homes in the low $300s.

Why All Eyes Are on Wimauma

Wimauma, located in South Hillsborough County just south of Riverview and approximately 30 miles from downtown Tampa, offers residents convenient access to major employment, shopping and entertainment destinations throughout the region, including Riverview, Brandon and Sarasota via I-75. The area’s evolving infrastructure also supports everyday living, with residents of Berry Bay zoned for Reddick Elementary, Shields Middle School and Sumner High School, while HCA Florida South Shore Hospital has expanded healthcare access for the surrounding community.

As communities like Berry Bay and Balm Grove continue to grow, investment is extending beyond housing. New retailers, restaurants and service providers are increasingly choosing to locate nearby, adding to the area’s appeal and helping establish Wimauma as one of South Hillsborough’s emerging residential destinations.