If you’ve been eyeing the Lotus communities in Boca Raton, you’re not alone. Built by GL Homes, Lotus, Lotus Palm, and the newest addition, Lotus Edge, have all made waves for their modern designs, resort-style amenities, and gated security. But here’s the thing: while they may seem similar at first glance, there are key differences when it comes to floor plans, square footage, community layout, and even the schools they’re zoned for. 

So, how do you figure out which one is right for you? Whether you’re looking for a spacious family home or a more intimate, custom luxury setting, it’s essential to understand the differences before making your choice.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Fiji Collection and Bali Collection homes offered in all three communities, breaking down what has stayed the same, what has changed, and the key features that differentiate them. We’ll also explore the clubhouse amenities, school zones, the lottery system, and more to help you decide which community fits your needs best.

Overview of the Three Communities

Before we get into the details, here’s a quick snapshot of each community. While all three fall under the GL Homes Lotus umbrella and share a similar architectural style, they differ in location, age, and overall size. Knowing these basics will help give context to the rest of the comparisons for the best new construction homes in Boca Raton.

Lotus – The original community in this luxury series, Lotus offers expansive homes with a focus on resort-style living. Construction started in 2020, and although Lotus is now sold out, resale homes are still an option for those looking to get into the neighborhood. The community consists of 804 homes with 12 unique layouts, making it a popular choice for those who prefer larger homes and a more established environment. Located furthest north, Lotus is closer to downtown Delray, offering convenient access to local shops, restaurants, and beaches. Lotus features both 1- and 2-story homes.

Lotus Palm – The second edition in the series, Lotus Palm began construction in 2023. While most homes are sold out, there are still options available in the Fiji Collection, which includes the Honolulu, Samoa, and Polynesia models. This community comprises 525 homes with 13 layout options. Known for its family-friendly vibe and more green spaces, Lotus Palm offers a welcoming atmosphere and is designed with residents seeking a close-knit community feel. Like Lotus, Lotus Palm also offers 1- and 2-story homes.

Lotus Edge – The newest addition to the Lotus family, Lotus Edge is being built right next to Lotus Palm and is still in development, with construction starting in May 2024. The community will include 655 homes, offering a total of 14 layouts to choose from. Lotus Edge promises to deliver the highest-end features and luxury finishes, with both 1- and 2-story homes available. Its blend of spacious homes and private, sophisticated design makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a more exclusive lifestyle.

Lotus is best for buyers who want an established resale option. Lotus Palm works well for families and end-users. Lotus Edge is ideal if you want the newest finishes and resort amenities. 

Floor Plan Comparison: What floor plans are available at Lotus, Lotus Palm, Lotus Edge?

All three Lotus communities feature the same two home collections—Bali and Fiji—but not every model made it into each phase of development. Some floor plans were dropped, others were redesigned, and square footage has shifted. Here's how the layouts stack up across Lotus, Lotus Palm, and Lotus Edge. A mix of single- and two-story homes, ranging from 2 to 5 bedrooms

Fiji Collection Comparison

Lotus (Original)

Fiji Collection was part of the community, offering 7 layouts:

  • Bora, Maui, Polynesia, Samoa, Caledonia, Mariana, and Honolulu

  • Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2–5 beds, 2–5 baths

  • A/C Sq. Ft.: Approx. 1,900–3,200+ sq. ft.

  • Available only via resale now

 

Lotus Palm

Fiji Collection includes 8 layouts, consistent with original Lotus and one new addition:

  • The Bermuda collection was added

  • Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2–5 beds, 2–5 baths

  • A/C Sq. Ft.: Approx. 2,000–3,200+ sq. ft.

  • Interior finishes and elevations were updated to feel more modern

  • As of now, Honolulu, Samoa, and Polynesia are available for purchase

 

Lotus Edge

Fiji Collection again includes 8 layouts, keeping the same model names as the previous Lotus and Lotus Palm

  • The Bora and Maui models were replaced with Capri, Mallorca, Corsica

  • Bedrooms/Bathrooms: 2–5 beds, 2–5 baths

  • A/C Sq. Ft.: Approx. 2,100–3,400+ sq. ft.

  • Design updates include larger square footage, refreshed elevations, and higher-end finishes

  • All available new construction homes 

 

Summary:

The Fiji Collection experienced some upgrades in the newer communities. Some layouts were carried over with minor tweaks, others retired with Lotus Edge offering the most updated version, both in square footage and design. The original Lotus is only available via resale but offers the same layouts if you're looking in that market.

Bali Collection Comparison

Lotus (Original)

Bali Collection was offered, featuring 5 layouts:

  • Santo, Pacifica, Laguna, Sumatra, and Maldives

  • These were the largest homes in the community, up to 5,160 a/c sq. ft.

  • One of the best resale value in Boca Raton

 

Lotus Palm

Bali Collection expanded to include 5 layouts: 

  • Adding Santo Grand and Sumatra Grand (removing Santo and Sumatra)

  • Floor plans range from 2,759 to over 5,100 a/c sq. ft.

  • Designed with flexible rooms like media rooms, club rooms, game rooms, and 4-car garages

  • Ideal for buyers wanting larger homes and multi-functional space

 

Lotus Edge

Bali Collection offers the widest variety: 6 layouts, including the new Santorini

  • Homes here are larger, with some floor plans pushing past prior square footage

  • Elevated price point reflects newest design updates, expanded garages, and premium lots

  • Focuses more on ultra-luxury buyers wanting maximum space and high-end features

Summary:

The Bali Collection evolved, with Lotus Edge providing the most expansive lineup and the highest price point. If you're looking for the most square footage, newer architecture, and luxury finishes, Lotus Edge gives you the most flexibility.

How do the clubhouses and other amenities compare between Lotus, Lotus Palm, and Lotus Edge?

Resort-style living is one of the biggest draws to the Lotus lifestyle, but not every community has the same setup. From clubhouse size to kids' play zones and tennis courts, here's a look at what each neighborhood offers and where the upgrades show up.

Lotus (Original)

  • 26,000+ sq. ft. clubhouse on 8 acres

  • Indoor sports court, fitness center, game & card rooms

  • Luna Bistro, full-service pool bar, elegant lounge

  • Resort-style pool, lap pool, whirlpool spa

  • Interactive wet play area

  • 6 lighted clay tennis courts

  • 5 lit pickleball courts

 

Lotus Palm

  • Slightly larger clubhouse: 26,500+ sq. ft. on 5 acres

  • Same indoor sports court, fitness, and game/card rooms

  • Upgraded bistro & bar with/ indoor + outdoor seating

  • New: Beach-entry pool, splash park, and party pavilion

  • Yoga Garden added for wellness classes

Same racquet sports setup:

  • 6 lit tennis courts

  • 5 lit pickleball courts

Upgrades focused on outdoor leisure and family-friendly features, pool setup expanded, and wellness options added.

 

Lotus Edge

  • Largest clubhouse: 39,000 total sq. ft.

  • Similar core features but elevated: indoor courts, event rooms, elegant bar/lounge

  • Spa-style upgrades: massage rooms, cold plunge tub

  • Expanded outdoor rec: resort pool, lap pool, yoga lawn, large party pavilion, shaded playground

Only community with:

  • 10 dedicated pickleball courts

  • 2 lit Padel courts ( exclusive)

  • Outdoor basketball court

  • Indoor flexible courts for air-conditioned pickleball 

Lotus Edge takes everything up a notch, more courts, new sports (padel), full spa elements, and the most flexible indoor/outdoor space.

Lifestyle and Location

Choosing a community isn’t just about the house, it’s also about where you’ll shop, eat, and spend your weekends. All three Lotus communities sit along the Lyons Road corridor in West Boca, with easy access to major highways, airports, and daily conveniences. Here’s how each Lotus location fits into the larger Boca Raton landscape:

Lotus (Original)

Lotus Palm

  • Located just south of Lotus (Original), off Lyons Road and Glades Road.

  • Built on the former Boca Municipal Golf Course

  • Closer to central Boca: quick access to Glades Road, I-95, and shopping

  • Restrictions on investors: rentals only allowed after 1 year of ownership; leases must be 7+ months

  • A quick drive to Town Center Mall, Mizner Park, and Uptown Boca

  • Ideal for end-users looking to live full-time in a newer gated community

Lotus Edge

  • Directly beside Lotus Palm to the west

  • Entry via Lyons Road, just off Glades, the same Turnpike exit as Lotus Palm

  • 20–25 minutes to Spanish River Beach, Osprey Point Golf Course, and Southwinds

  • Same airport access: 30 minutes to Palm Beach International Airport & Fort Lauderdale Airport

  • 45–60 minutes to Miami International Airport

  • Close to shopping, dining, and entertainment in both Boca and Delray, plus easy reach to Clematis Street in West Palm Beach

How the GL Homes Lottery System Works (And What You Actually Need to Do to Get a Home)

This is where most buyers get confused — especially with new phases at places like Lotus Edge. GL Homes doesn’t just let you walk in and pick your lot. When demand’s high (which it usually is at the start), they run a lottery system to decide who gets first dibs.

Here’s how it usually works:

1. Join the Interest List

  • You’ll need to register in advance through the GL Homes sales office.

  • Sometimes this includes attending a preview event or orientation.

2. Pre-Approval or Proof of Funds

  • Submit a pre-approval letter (if financing) or proof of funds (if paying cash).

  • This confirms you're a serious buyer before you're allowed into the lottery.

3. Enter the Drawing

  • GL sets a specific date for the lottery.

  • Each qualified buyer gets one entry.

(Some try to game the system using LLCs or family members — but GL flags duplicates.)

4. Lottery Day

  • Names are pulled at random to decide who gets first pick.

  • If 15 lots are released, the first 15 names get to choose.

  • If your name is called and you pass, you may drop to the bottom or lose your turn altogether.

5. Choose Your Lot & Model

  • If you're selected, you usually have 24–48 hours to pick your lot and floor plan.

  • A deposit is typically due to hold it.

6. Backup List

  • Didn’t get picked? You’ll go on the backup list for the next release.

  • GL releases lots in small batches every few weeks or months.

Note: This process can vary by community and release phase. GL Homes sometimes tweaks their approach, so always double-check with the sales office for the most current info.

School Zoning Comparison

If you have school-age kids or plan to, it’s important to know which public schools each Lotus community is zoned for. All are within the Palm Beach County School District, and the assigned campuses can vary as far as the zoned elementary school. Here’s what to expect based on your address. Located farther north, Lotus is the only one zoned for Whispering Pines Elementary School, which many local families prefer for its established programs and neighborhood feel.

Meanwhile, Lotus Palm and Lotus Edge are zoned for Sunrise Park Elementary School.

All three communities are zoned for:

Pricing and HOA Fees

Lotus, Lotus Palm, and Lotus Edge are all managed by GRS Community Management, which oversees daily operations. With GRS managing all three communities, residents can expect a consistent and professional level of service across the board. Also, across the communities, the monthly HOA fees generally fall in the $650 to $700 range. While fees can vary slightly depending on lot size or collection, they typically include:

  • Maintenance of common areas

  • Lawn care (mowing, weeding, edging)

  • Security (gatehouse and community patrol)

  • Recreational facilities

  • Management fees

  • Trash removal

  • Community entry features

Who Is Each Lotus Community Best For?

Each Lotus community has its strengths. Some appeal more to families, others to downsizers, and some offer layouts or amenities that feel more tailored to buyers wanting the newest features. Each Lotus neighborhood offers something different, so the right fit comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and what phase of life you’re in. Here’s how they compare:

Lotus (Original)

Best for: Buyers looking for resale opportunities in a fully established community

  • Great for families who want access to a completed clubhouse, active resident events, and mature landscaping

  • No construction noise or delays, everything is built and running

  • Resale pricing may offer more value than newer phases

Lotus Palm

Best for: Buyers who want new construction in a central Boca Raton location

  • Ideal for end-users who plan to live full-time, investor restrictions limit rentals in the first year

  • Strong appeal to families with flexible floor plans, game rooms, and home offices

  • Still new but far enough along for many amenities to be complete or nearly finished

Lotus Edge

Best for: Buyers who want the newest, biggest, and most luxurious option

  • Designed for those wanting the most square footage, premium lots, and upgraded finishes

  • Only Lotus community with padel courts

  • Appeals to buyers who want cutting-edge architecture and ultra-modern amenities

  • Still in earlier construction stages, which is great if you want to personalize your home from the ground up

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Lotus Community

When you’re comparing three similar neighborhoods, the small differences can start to matter more. At the end of the day, your decision might come down to location, layout availability, or even school zoning. Here’s a quick recap to help you confidently take the next step.

  • Lotus (Original) gives you a fully built community with resale opportunities, mature landscaping, and no construction to deal with.

  • Lotus Palm balances newer construction with a great central location, but keep in mind the rental restrictions if you're an investor.

  • Lotus Edge is the most customizable and high-end, with the largest home options, newest floor plans, and exclusive features like padel courts.

All three are zoned for top-rated schools and are close to major highways, shopping centers, and beaches. So it comes down to what fits your lifestyle now and what you’ll need later in life.

Explore GL Homes Lotus Communities with The Mastropieri Group, Realtors®

Whether you're drawn to the established charm of Lotus, the central location of Lotus Palm, or the modern luxury of Lotus Edge, each community brings something different to the table, and choosing the right one takes local insight.

If you're considering a move to West Boca or want expert guidance on homes for sale in Lotus, contact Larry Mastropieri and The Mastropieri Group, Realtors® at (561) 544-7000.

Our Boca Raton real estate agents know these neighborhoods inside and out and are here to help you compare your options, understand pricing, and tour the floor plans that fit your lifestyle.

Call us today and let's find the Lotus home that fits you best.

 


Posted by Larry Mastropieri on

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