Posted by Larry Mastropieri on Thursday, May 22nd, 2025 5:00am.
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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:
Located west of the Turnpike on Lyons Road, just past Clint Moore Road.
Sits on land that was once part of Palm Beach County’s Agricultural Reserve
Northernmost of the three Lotus communities
Quiet, low-traffic area with a more residential feel
Close to Delray Marketplace, iPic Theatres, and Ruth Chris Steakhouse
30 minutes from both Palm Beach International Airport & Fort Lauderdale Airport
20–25 minutes to Spanish River Park and nearby public golf courses like Osprey Point and Southwinds
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
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
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.
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:
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
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:
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
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
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
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.
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.