Located just off Pines Boulevard and 184th Avenue, Keystone Lakes is one of west Pembroke Pines' most established guard gated communities and one of its most balanced.

Built by Westbrooke Communities starting in 1995 and completed around 2000, Keystone Lakes surrounds a stunning 143 acre lake and consists of approximately 561 single-family homes. This isn't a massive sprawl, it's an intimate, well maintained neighborhood that feels steady and well rooted: wide streets, mature trees, spacious homes, and neighbors who stick around.

If you're looking for a place that feels private without being isolated, and quiet without being lifeless, Keystone Lakes might be exactly what you've been hoping for.

24/7 Manned, Guard-Gated Entrance

Security matters here. This isn't just a gate that opens with a code there's a manned guardhouse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. That peace of mind is part of what keeps families here for years.

Single Family Homes with Room to Breathe

Most homes in Keystone Lakes feature 3–6 bedrooms, with living space ranging from approximately 1,648 to over 3,200 square feet. Lot sizes range from about 6,300 square feet to over 10,400 square feet, giving you actual space between you and your neighbors not the cramped, zero lot line feel of newer developments.

You'll find a mix of one and two story homes, many with lake views, garden views, pool-ready backyards, and 1–2 car garages. The homes have character, this isn't cookie cutter construction. Each property feels distinct.

Lakefront Living (If You Want It)

Many properties sit on lakefront lots, offering unobstructed views of the 143 acre lake. Imagine watching sunsets, moonlight, and Fourth of July fireworks from your backyard. Several homes already have pools, and most lakefront lots have room to add one if you don't.

The neighborhood loop is popular for evening walks, weekend bike rides, and morning jogs. It's the kind of place where kids play outside and neighbors actually know each other.

A-Rated Schools

Keystone Lakes is zoned for some of the best schools in Broward County:

The school zoning alone keeps demand strong here. Families who value education prioritize this neighborhood, and that stability translates to long term property value. But keep in mind: school boundaries can and do change, so it's always a good idea to verify with Broward Schools directly before making any decisions based on zoning.

Low HOA Fees for What You Get

HOA fees range from approximately $225–$234 per month, and that includes:

When you factor in what's covered, especially the cable/internet, the HOA fee is incredibly reasonable for a guard gated community with this level of amenities.

Pet- and Kid-Friendly

It's not uncommon to see evening walks with dogs, weekend bike rides with kids, and families gathering at the playground. The HOA does allow pets, though there are certain breed restrictions (standard for most communities), so verify specifics if you have a larger breed.

Convenient Location Without the Noise

Keystone Lakes sits in the sweet spot: close to everything, but far enough removed that you don't hear highway noise or deal with cut-through traffic.

You're close enough to grab dinner, run errands, or get medical care quickly but when you pull into Keystone Lakes, it feels like you've left all of that behind.

Let's talk real pricing and market activity.

Current Market Activity (as of late 2024/early 2025):

What does this tell us?

Keystone Lakes is a stable, low turnover community. When homes hit the market, serious buyers act fast especially if the home is priced competitively and shows well. The 59 day average is solid for a community in this price range, and the 95% list to sell ratio shows that sellers who price realistically are closing deals.

This isn't a flip and run neighborhood. People buy here and stay often for 10+ years. That stability is exactly what creates long-term value.

Keystone Lakes was built in the late '90s with one goal: to create a quiet, secure community with enough space for homeowners to grow into and stay.

That's exactly what's happened.

It's not a high turnover neighborhood. Many owners have been here for 10+ years, and when homes do hit the market, they tend to attract serious, local buyers who've been waiting for the right one.

You won't find cookie cutter designs here. The lots are generous, the homes have character, and there's room to make each space your own whether that's a lakefront patio, a home gym in the garage, or a full guest suite.

The community strikes a rare balance:

Keystone Lakes tends to appeal to:

Households with school age children who prioritize A-rated schools and safe, walkable neighborhoods

Empty nesters downsizing from larger single family homes but not ready for condo living

Professionals who value security and want a peaceful retreat after a long commute

Move up buyers outgrowing townhomes or smaller single family homes in older neighborhoods

Long term homeowners who want to settle somewhere they can stay for 10+ years

Buyers who want newer feeling construction without paying Weston, Parkland, or Coral Springs premiums

This isn't a starter home community. Most buyers here are established either moving up or moving strategically to a neighborhood they plan to stay in for the long haul.

The Good:

The Tradeoffs:

If You're Buying:

1. Focus on lakefront corner lots

Lakefront homes with corner lots offer the best of both worlds: unobstructed views, more privacy, and often larger backyards. These homes command premium pricing but hold value better long-term.

2. Check the condition before you fall in love

These homes were built in the late '90s. Some have been meticulously maintained and upgraded. Others are still sporting original tile, laminate, and appliances. Know what you're buying as some cosmetic updates can add up fast.

Ask about:

3. Don't overpay

Homes priced at market move in 60–90 days. Homes priced 5–10% over market sit for 4+ months. Use recent comps (not Zillow estimates) to guide your offer. The 95% list-to-sell ratio means sellers are giving a little to close and don't be afraid to negotiate.

4. Factor in HOA fees and what's covered

At $225–$234/month, the HOA fee is reasonable especially when you factor in cable, internet, security, and all amenities. But make sure the association has healthy reserves and no pending special assessments.

5. Get pre-approved and move fast on the right home

With only 10 homes sold in the past year, inventory is tight. When a well priced, updated home hits the market, serious buyers act quickly. Have your financing ready and be prepared to make a strong offer within days, not weeks.

If You're Selling:

1. Price it right from day one

The market has cooled. Homes priced 10% over recent comps sit for months. Price competitively based on recent sales not what your neighbor's home "should" be worth or what Zillow says.

2. Highlight lakefront views and upgrades

Did you renovate the kitchen? Add impact windows? Install a new roof? Replace the HVAC? These details matter and justify premium pricing but only if buyers know about them.

3. Stage and photograph professionally

Keystone Lakes competes with other upscale gated communities. Buyers expect to see high quality photos and well staged interiors. Invest in professional photography and consider staging if the home is vacant.

4. Be ready to negotiate

The 95% list to sell ratio means sellers are giving a little to close deals. Don't expect full asking price unless your home is immaculate, updated, and priced aggressively.

Wondering how Keystone Lakes stacks up against similar Pembroke Pines communities?

The takeaway: Keystone Lakes sits at the higher end of west Pembroke Pines pricing, but you're paying for guard gated security, a 143 acre lake, A-rated schools, generous lot sizes, and a stable, low turnover community.

Keystone Lakes is a solid option if you're looking for an established, guard gated community in west Pembroke Pines with strong schools, generous lot sizes, and a real sense of neighborhood.

It's not the cheapest option, and it's not brand new construction but it's one of the best for buyers who want long term stability, security, and a place they can actually see themselves staying for 10+ years.

Just remember: pricing matters. The market is selective. Do your homework, run the comps, and make sure the home you're considering is priced in line with recent sales not wishful thinking.

Want help comparing Keystone Lakes to other communities? Or want to see which homes are actually moving vs. sitting?

I've got the real list and I'm happy to walk you through it.