Windstone Ranch stands as one of Surprise’s most impressive master-planned communities, showcasing the exceptional quality and innovation of Lennar Homes, a nationally recognized builder with extensive experience across America. This vibrant development emerged from a vision to create an accessible yet upscale living environment in Surprise’s growing northwestern region, featuring Lennar’s signature “Everything’s Included®” approach to homebuilding that ensures high-quality features come standard in every home. As a broker with West USA Realty, I’ve watched Windstone Ranch rapidly establish itself as one of Surprise’s most sought-after communities since development began in 2024.
Located at 15039 West Desert Hollow Drive in the greater Rancho Mercado area (85387), Windstone Ranch showcases a thoughtful blend of Spanish Colonial and Contemporary Southwest architectural styles that complement the natural desert landscape. The community’s strategic design incorporates extensive walking trails, community gathering spaces, and resort-style amenities throughout its development phases, with future expansion plans continuing through 2025.
Lennar Homes, founded in 1954, brings over 70 years of homebuilding excellence to Windstone Ranch, having delivered more than one million homes for families across America. As one of the nation’s leading builders of quality homes for all generations, Lennar has reimagined the homebuying experience by including the most desired home features at no extra cost through their revolutionary “Everything’s Included®” program.
Windstone Ranch exemplifies Lennar’s commitment to innovation and value through two distinct collections that cater to diverse homebuyer needs. The community features Lennar’s sought-after Next Gen® – The Home Within A Home® designs, ideal for multigenerational living with private suites that include separate entrances, kitchens, living areas, and complete independence.
The Premier Collection provides exceptional value for first-time homebuyers and growing families, featuring three unique home designs ranging from approximately 1,232 to 1,411 square feet. These thoughtfully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes with 2-bay garages emphasize open-concept living and modern convenience at accessible price points starting from $379,990.
Signature Collection homes represent the pinnacle of luxury and space, offering four distinctive floor plans ranging from approximately 2,371 to 2,647 square feet ($509,990 to $604,490). These impressive 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom homes feature 2-3 bay garages and showcase Lennar’s innovative Next Gen® designs that provide private suites perfect for multigenerational families, home offices, or guest accommodations.
Lennar’s signature “Everything’s Included®” program sets Windstone Ranch apart from other communities by incorporating premium features that typically cost thousands of dollars extra with other builders. Every home comes standard with stainless steel appliances, beautiful kitchen countertops, designer-selected cabinetry, and energy-efficient appointments that deliver both style and long-term savings.
Smart home technology comes standard in every home, featuring integrated systems that allow residents to control lighting, temperature, security, and entertainment from smartphones or voice commands. This comprehensive automation creates both convenience and energy efficiency while positioning homes for future technological advances.
Energy-conscious features throughout all homes include high-performance HVAC systems, advanced insulation packages, LED lighting, and ENERGY STAR® certified appliances that significantly reduce utility costs. Lennar’s commitment to sustainability ensures homes are built with quality materials and efficient systems that support both environmental responsibility and homeowner savings.
Premium interior finishes come standard, including upgraded flooring, designer lighting fixtures, modern plumbing fixtures, and quality cabinetry with soft-close doors and drawers. These features typically represent thousands of dollars in upgrades with other builders but are included at no extra cost in every Windstone Ranch home.
Windstone Ranch provides an impressive collection of community amenities designed to enhance residents’ active lifestyles and social connections. The centerpiece sparkling swimming pool offers a resort-style experience with dedicated areas for both active swimming and relaxation, providing relief from Arizona’s sunny climate year-round.
The professional-grade playground features modern equipment and safety surfaces that provide safe, age-appropriate recreation for children of all ages. Adjacent seating areas and shade structures create comfortable spaces for parents and caregivers to supervise and socialize.
Basketball courts provide opportunities for friendly competition and active recreation, while planned additional game courts will offer expanded options for tennis, pickleball, and other sports activities that encourage community interaction and healthy lifestyles.
The community’s thoughtful design includes multiple gathering spaces throughout the development that foster genuine connections between neighbors. Walking trails wind through the community, connecting neighborhoods while providing scenic routes for morning jogs, evening strolls, and family bike rides.
Community events and activities regularly bring residents together for seasonal celebrations, fitness classes, and social gatherings that create the strong sense of community that defines Windstone Ranch. The management team organizes activities for all ages and interests, from children’s events to adult social hours.
Planned community center development will provide additional indoor spaces for events, fitness activities, and social gatherings, further enhancing the resort-style lifestyle that residents enjoy.
Windstone Ranch families benefit from enrollment in the highly-rated Dysart Unified School District, which ranks within the top 50% of all 607 school districts in Arizona with a 95% graduation rate and strong academic performance across all grade levels.
Dysart Schools have earned recognition including the NCA Model School District Award and NSBA Technology Spotlight Award, reflecting their commitment to innovative educational approaches and academic excellence. District students show strong performance with 45% of elementary students testing proficient in reading and 39% in math.
Local schools serving the Windstone Ranch area include highly-rated institutions that emphasize STEM education, arts integration, and college preparatory programming. The district’s comprehensive offerings include gifted education programs, career technical education, and innovative online learning opportunities that cater to diverse learning styles and family needs.
High school students have access to advanced placement courses, extensive extracurricular programs, and college counseling services that support post-secondary success. The district’s strong athletic programs and fine arts departments have earned state-level recognition while providing students with well-rounded educational experiences.
Lennar’s revolutionary Next Gen® – The Home Within A Home® designs available in Windstone Ranch’s Signature Collection provide unprecedented flexibility for modern families. These innovative floor plans feature private suites with separate entrances, full kitchens, living areas, bedrooms, and bathrooms that offer complete independence while maintaining connection to the main home.
Multigenerational families benefit from Next Gen® designs that allow aging parents, adult children, or extended family members to maintain privacy and independence while sharing the benefits of community living. The separate entrance ensures autonomy while the internal connection provides security and convenience.
Home office applications make Next Gen® suites perfect for entrepreneurs, remote workers, or professionals needing dedicated business space. The separate entrance allows for client meetings while maintaining home-office separation that supports work-life balance.
Investment opportunities emerge through Next Gen® suites that can generate rental income or provide accommodation for long-term guests. The complete independence of these suites creates flexibility that adapts to changing family needs and financial goals.
Windstone Ranch’s location in Surprise provides exceptional access to Arizona’s spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities. Lake Pleasant Regional Park, just minutes from the community, offers 10,000 acres of pristine waters perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports, with 47 miles of shoreline providing numerous beaches and coves.
White Tank Mountain Regional Park spans nearly 30,000 acres of pristine Sonoran Desert wilderness, featuring more than 30 miles of hiking and biking trails that range from easy family walks to challenging mountain adventures. The park’s Nature Center provides educational programs and seasonal stargazing events that connect residents with Arizona’s natural heritage.
Popular trails include the Waterfall Trail (seasonal cascade), Mesquite Canyon Trail (family-friendly option), and Goat Camp Trail (challenging mountain views). These diverse options ensure outdoor enthusiasts of all abilities can enjoy Arizona’s spectacular desert landscape and year-round outdoor climate.
Surprise’s reputation as a premier golf destination provides Windstone Ranch residents with access to over 20 championship courses. Arizona Traditions Golf Club features spectacular White Tank Mountain views and a Dick Bailey signature design with mature pine trees and rolling terrain.
Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club offers a Jack Nicklaus-designed course managed by Troon Golf, providing both public and private membership options with state-of-the-art facilities and professional instruction programs.
The Surprise Recreation Campus provides comprehensive fitness and wellness facilities, while Surprise Aquatic Center offers Olympic-sized pools, water slides, and competitive swimming facilities for year-round aquatic recreation.
Windstone Ranch’s strategic location in the greater Rancho Mercado area provides exceptional convenience with major retail destinations just minutes from home. Target, Home Depot, ULTA Beauty, and numerous restaurants and services are located within the immediate area, making daily errands quick and convenient.
Surprise Marketplace and Surprise Towne Center & Marketplace expand shopping options with comprehensive selections including Barnes & Noble, Ross, and diverse dining options from casual to upscale establishments.
Arrowhead Towne Center in nearby Glendale provides access to over 180 stores and restaurants, including major department stores, specialty retailers, and entertainment venues that serve the broader Northwest Valley region.
The Rancho Mercado area has experienced tremendous growth in dining options, with popular establishments like Biscuits Cafe providing excellent breakfast and lunch options, while numerous other restaurants offer diverse cuisines from Mexican and Italian to contemporary American fare.
Surprise Stadium serves as a major entertainment destination, hosting Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers Spring Training games that bring major league excitement to residents’ doorsteps. The stadium also hosts concerts, festivals, and community events throughout the year.
Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park provides world-class family entertainment featuring over 6,000 animals, thrilling rides, and educational programs that create lasting memories for families of all ages.
Windstone Ranch benefits from excellent connectivity to the broader Phoenix metropolitan area through multiple transportation corridors. Loop 303 provides direct access to central Phoenix, Scottsdale, and other major employment centers, typically allowing commutes of 45 minutes or less to most Valley destinations.
US Highway 60 offers alternative routing for commuting and recreational travel, while the community’s position in Surprise’s northwestern corridor provides convenient access to both urban amenities and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport remains easily accessible via multiple routes for business and leisure travel, while expanding public transportation options will further enhance regional connectivity in coming years.
The community’s walkable design and internal trail system encourage pedestrian and bicycle transportation for local errands and recreation, supporting both healthy lifestyles and environmental sustainability.
Windstone Ranch represents exceptional value in the competitive Surprise market, with Lennar’s “Everything’s Included®” program delivering thousands of dollars in standard features that cost extra with other builders. The Premier Collection starting from $379,990 and Signature Collection from $509,990 provide compelling options for various budgets and lifestyle needs.
Lennar’s reputation for quality construction, innovative design, and comprehensive warranty programs supports strong appreciation potential, while the community’s prime location and resort-style amenities create lasting desirability among both residents and investors.
The ongoing development through 2025 ensures continued growth in both amenities and home options, while the established infrastructure and mature planning provide immediate enjoyment for new residents. The combination of accessible pricing, premium included features, and quality location creates a compelling value proposition in the Northwest Valley market.
Windstone Ranch represents more than just a place to live – it’s a carefully crafted community where Lennar’s innovative approach to homebuilding meets the beauty of Arizona’s desert landscape. The master-planned design ensures that walking trails, community amenities, and gathering spaces foster genuine connections between neighbors while providing endless recreation opportunities.
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer seeking exceptional value in the Premier Collection, or a family needing the space and flexibility of the Signature Collection’s Next Gen® designs, Windstone Ranch offers the perfect foundation for your Arizona lifestyle. Lennar’s “Everything’s Included®” program eliminates the typical new home upgrade hassles while delivering premium features that enhance both daily living and long-term value.
The community’s innovative Next Gen® designs provide unprecedented flexibility for multigenerational families, home-based businesses, or investment opportunities, while the resort-style amenities and prime location create a living experience that truly sets Windstone Ranch apart in the competitive Surprise market.
Ready to discover everything that’s included at Windstone Ranch? Contact Carl Chapman, Associate Broker with West USA Realty, at 602-617-4440 to schedule your private tour and explore available homes in both the Premier and Signature collections.
Lennar Homes leads the construction in Rancho Mercado, delivering their signature quality and innovative home designs. New homes in Rancho Mercado currently range from the mid $400,000s to the low $700,000s, offering excellent value. The community has shown strong appreciation potential, with home values increasing approximately 7% annually since its inception. Single-family homes dominate the landscape, with floor plans ranging from 1,800 to over 3,600 square feet. Current inventory includes both quick move-in homes and build-to-order options with Lennar's signature included features. The average price per square foot hovers around $205, representing competitive value in the greater Phoenix area. Most homes in Rancho Mercado sell within 30 days of listing, indicating robust market demand. The community continues releasing new phases of development, ensuring a steady supply of options.
Students in Rancho Mercado attend the highly-rated Dysart Unified School District, known for its innovative educational programs. Mountain View School serves elementary students with state-of-the-art technology integration and specialized STEM programming. Western Peaks Elementary provides another excellent option with strong academic programs and diverse extracurricular activities. Desert Moon Middle School offers comprehensive programs including advanced placement courses and various enrichment opportunities. Shadow Ridge High School maintains high academic standards and boasts impressive college acceptance rates among graduates. The area also benefits from proximity to Ottawa University, offering higher education opportunities within the community.
Rancho Mercado features a resort-style community pool complex with separate areas for families and lap swimming. The community's extensive trail system connects neighborhoods while providing excellent opportunities for walking, jogging, and cycling. Multiple pocket parks throughout the development offer modern playground equipment and covered picnic areas for residents. The nearby White Tank Mountain Regional Park provides extensive hiking trails and outdoor recreation opportunities. A state-of-the-art fitness center within the community clubhouse offers premium exercise equipment and fitness classes. The community center hosts regular events and serves as a focal point for resident activities.
The Surprise Marketplace, located just minutes away, offers convenient shopping options including major retailers and boutiques. Local dining options include popular chains and unique local establishments, providing diverse culinary experiences for residents. The nearby Surprise Stadium hosts spring training games and various entertainment events throughout the year. Residents enjoy easy access to the Surprise Town Center, featuring diverse shopping and dining experiences. The community's location provides quick access to entertainment venues throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area. Several new restaurants and retail establishments are planned for development near the community entrance.
Rancho Mercado enjoys excellent access to the Loop 303 freeway, facilitating easy commutes throughout the Phoenix metro area. Bell Road and Grand Avenue provide additional major transportation arteries for convenient local and regional travel. The average commute to downtown Phoenix takes approximately 45 minutes during peak traffic hours via Loop 303. The community's location offers convenient access to both Phoenix-Goodyear Airport and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. Several major employers are located within a 20-minute drive, making the community attractive for professionals. The city of Surprise continues developing additional transportation infrastructure to support the growing region.
Rancho Mercado maintains controlled access points with modern security features to ensure resident safety and peace. The Surprise Police Department's nearby substation provides rapid response times averaging under five minutes for emergency calls. Regular community patrols and an active neighborhood watch program contribute to the area's strong safety record. The community's modern security systems include surveillance cameras and well-lit streets throughout the neighborhood. Emergency response vehicles can quickly access all areas of the community through multiple entry points. The HOA actively manages security measures and regularly updates safety protocols based on resident feedback.
Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center, located just fifteen minutes away, provides comprehensive healthcare services for residents. Several urgent care facilities, including NextCare and FastMed, operate within minutes of Rancho Mercado. The community's location ensures quick access to emergency services with response times averaging under five minutes. Multiple medical office complexes nearby house various specialists, from pediatricians to geriatric care providers. Mental health services and wellness centers are readily available within the surrounding Surprise medical corridor. The area continues attracting additional healthcare providers as the population grows.
The White Tank Mountain Regional Park offers over 30 miles of hiking trails and spectacular desert vistas minutes away. Community walking paths wind through beautifully landscaped areas, encouraging an active outdoor lifestyle among residents. The nearby Surprise Community Park provides additional recreational facilities including sports fields and playground equipment. Local hiking and cycling groups organize regular outings to explore the surrounding natural attractions and trails. The community's design incorporates desert landscaping that attracts native wildlife and creates scenic viewing opportunities. Residents enjoy year-round outdoor activities thanks to the favorable climate and well-maintained facilities.
The HOA organizes regular community events including seasonal festivals and holiday celebrations throughout the year. Residents participate in various clubs and interest groups that meet regularly at the community center. The nearby Surprise Farmers Market operates year-round, offering fresh produce and local crafts every Saturday morning. Community volunteer programs provide numerous opportunities for residents to engage with local charitable organizations. The active HOA board maintains open communication with residents through regular meetings and digital newsletters. Social events help new residents integrate into the community while fostering strong neighborhood connections.
Rancho Mercado enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, perfect for outdoor activities and solar energy utilization. Summer temperatures typically range from 95 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, while winters remain mild and pleasant. The area receives approximately eight inches of rainfall annually, primarily during the summer monsoon season. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities with temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees. The low humidity levels make even the hottest summer days more manageable than in many other regions. The community's desert location provides spectacular sunset views and star-gazing opportunities year-round.
The HOA maintains strict building codes and architectural guidelines to preserve the community's aesthetic appeal and values. Future development plans include additional amenities and carefully planned expansion of the residential areas. The area's elevation and drainage systems effectively manage seasonal monsoon rains, minimizing flood risks. Current zoning regulations protect property values while ensuring consistent community development standards are maintained. The city actively monitors air quality and implements dust control measures during ongoing construction phases. Emergency preparedness plans include designated safe zones and communication protocols for severe weather events.
Major employers within commuting distance include Luke Air Force Base, Banner Health, and numerous retail centers. The unemployment rate in Surprise remains below the national average, indicating a strong local job market. The western Phoenix metropolitan area continues attracting new businesses, creating additional employment opportunities for residents. Several technology companies and healthcare providers have announced plans to expand operations in the region. The Surprise Economic Development Department actively recruits businesses to diversify the local economy and create jobs. Rancho Mercado's location provides convenient access to multiple business corridors and employment centers.
Property taxes in Rancho Mercado remain competitive compared to similar communities in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Monthly HOA fees cover maintenance of common areas, security services, and access to community amenities. Utility costs typically run lower than the national average due to energy-efficient home designs and solar options. The overall cost of living in Surprise ranks slightly below the Phoenix metropolitan average, offering good value. Insurance rates remain moderate due to the low risk of natural disasters and strong community safety measures. New construction homes often include energy-efficient features that help reduce monthly utility expenses.
The City of Surprise provides efficient municipal services including weekly trash collection and comprehensive recycling programs. The local government actively engages with residents through regular town halls and community feedback sessions. Public works projects continue improving infrastructure throughout the northern corridor of Surprise. The city's planning department maintains strict oversight of development projects to ensure community standards are met. Local government officials prioritize transparency and accessibility through various communication channels with residents. Emergency services maintain multiple stations nearby to ensure rapid response times throughout the community.