Southwest Ranches is a rural town in southwest Broward County, incorporated in 2000 to keep its large lots, equestrian character and open space. Homes here typically sit on an acre or more, many with barns, riding areas or room for them, and much of the town relies on private wells and septic systems.
Buying here takes a different kind of homework: zoning, usable acreage, drainage, permits and utilities all matter more than in a typical suburb. For a deeper look at the town's rules and day-to-day life, see the Southwest Ranches Guide that The Merino Group supports.
What buyers look for
- Single-family homes on an acre or more, often with equestrian features
- Properties without a citywide HOA, where town zoning sets the rules
- Private wells and septic systems that need their own inspections
- Proximity to I-75 and the Weston, Davie and Pembroke Pines corridors
Homes and land
Most properties are custom single-family homes on large lots, from ranch-style houses to newer estates. Many include barns, paddocks, riding rings or room to add them, and some areas are known for their equestrian trails. There are also a few newer communities of large homes on large lots.
Unlike most of Broward County, many streets have no homeowners association, which gives owners more freedom and puts more of the upkeep on them.
Getting around
Southwest Ranches sits between Davie, Cooper City, Pembroke Pines and Weston. Griffin Road and Sheridan Street are the main east-west roads, and I-75 and U.S. 27 are close by to the west. Everyday shopping is in the neighboring cities, a few minutes away.
What to check before you buy
- Zoning and lot size. The zoning district decides what you can build and how many animals you can keep. Confirm it with the town before you plan a barn or an addition.
- Usable acreage. Drainage, easements and low areas can reduce how much of a lot you can actually use.
- Well and septic. Test the well water and have the septic system inspected along with the house.
- Permits. Make sure barns, fences, pools and additions were permitted.
- Flood zone and insurance. Check both for the specific address.
Learn more
For the town's rules on horses, barns and setbacks, and what day-to-day life looks like, see the Southwest Ranches Guide.
Schools
Public schools in Southwest Ranches are part of Broward County Public Schools. Attendance boundaries can change, so confirm the zoned schools for a specific address with the district. Broward County Public Schools.