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Local Area Guide

Buford Upsize Guide

Neighborhood-level guides to Buford's standout upsize communities: Ellsworth, Lake Forest, and Reserve at Bogan Lakes.

Every neighborhood has its own personality. Some buyers fall in love with established communities filled with mature trees. Others prefer newer construction with modern floor plans and resort-style amenities. The right neighborhood isn't simply the one with the biggest house, it's the one that supports the life you're building.

If you're wondering which Buford community best fits your goals, we'd love to help.

Ellsworth Neighborhood Guide

Modern luxury in a prime Buford location. If your vision of the perfect upsize home includes contemporary finishes, spacious layouts, and quick access to shopping, dining, and major highways, Ellsworth deserves your attention.

This newer Buford community offers thoughtfully designed homes with today's buyers in mind. Open floor plans, designer kitchens, generous owner's suites, and flexible living spaces make Ellsworth especially attractive for homeowners looking to upgrade without compromising on location.

At a glance
  • Location: Buford, Georgia
  • County: Gwinnett County
  • School district: Gwinnett County Public Schools (verify attendance boundaries with the district)
  • Home styles: Newer luxury homes, Craftsman architecture, open-concept designs, homes with lofts, offices, and bonus rooms
  • Typical home sizes: Approximately 3,000 to 5,500+ square feet

The lifestyle

Ellsworth offers the best of both worlds. Residents enjoy newer homes with today's most sought-after features while remaining just minutes from Buford's shopping, restaurants, parks, and entertainment.

It's an ideal neighborhood for homeowners who want a move-in ready home without giving up accessibility.

Nearby amenities

Close to:

  • Mall of Georgia
  • Exchange at Gwinnett
  • Top restaurants
  • Grocery stores
  • Lake Lanier
  • Parks
  • Medical facilities

Schools

Ellsworth is served by Gwinnett County Public Schools. Buyers should always verify school assignments directly through the district.

Why upsize buyers love Ellsworth

  • Newer luxury construction
  • Open, functional floor plans
  • Excellent location
  • Convenient shopping and dining
  • Easy commuter access
  • Designed for modern family living
Luxe local insight

Ellsworth is a great option for homeowners who have outgrown their starter home and want a newer, thoughtfully designed property in one of Buford's most convenient locations. It offers the comfort of modern construction with easy access to everything that makes Buford such a desirable place to live.

Lake Forest Neighborhood Guide

Established luxury with room to breathe. Nestled among mature trees and beautifully landscaped streets, Lake Forest offers a timeless neighborhood experience that continues to attract upsize buyers looking for more space, privacy, and an established community.

Unlike many newer developments, Lake Forest is known for its generous homesites, executive-style residences, and peaceful atmosphere. Buyers who appreciate mature landscaping, custom architectural details, and a neighborhood with lasting appeal often find themselves drawn here.

At a glance
  • Location: Buford, Georgia
  • County: Gwinnett County
  • School district: Gwinnett County Public Schools (verify school assignments directly with the district)
  • Home styles: Executive traditional homes, brick estate homes, custom residences, homes with wooded backyards, three-car garages and spacious floor plans
  • Typical home sizes: Approximately 3,500 to 6,000+ square feet
  • Best for: Upsize buyers, executive professionals, growing families, buyers seeking established luxury, those who value privacy and mature landscapes

The lifestyle

Lake Forest offers a quieter pace while remaining close to everything Buford has to offer. Wide streets, mature trees, and larger homesites create a neighborhood that feels established and inviting. Many homeowners are drawn to Lake Forest because it offers the character and charm that's difficult to replicate in newer communities.

Nearby amenities

Residents enjoy convenient access to:

  • Mall of Georgia
  • Buford Drive shopping
  • Costco
  • Sam's Club
  • Publix
  • Local dining
  • Lake Lanier
  • Parks and recreation

Schools

Lake Forest is served by Gwinnett County Public Schools. Buyers should always verify attendance boundaries and school assignments directly with the district.

Why upsizers love Lake Forest

  • Larger homesites
  • Mature landscaping
  • Executive-style homes
  • Convenient location
  • Established neighborhood feel
Luxe local insight

If you're looking for a neighborhood that already feels "finished", with mature trees, larger lots, and homes built to stand the test of time, Lake Forest is one of Buford's hidden gems.

Reserve at Bogan Lakes Neighborhood Guide

Resort-style living close to everything. For buyers looking for newer construction, exceptional community amenities, and everyday convenience, Reserve at Bogan Lakes has become one of Buford's most desirable upsize communities.

This thoughtfully planned neighborhood combines modern homes with an active lifestyle, making it especially appealing to growing families and homeowners ready for more space without sacrificing convenience.

At a glance
  • Location: Buford, Georgia
  • County: Gwinnett County
  • School district: Gwinnett County Public Schools (school assignments should always be verified)
  • Home styles: Craftsman-inspired homes, traditional brick homes, open-concept floor plans, modern family layouts
  • Typical home sizes: Approximately 2,800 to 5,000+ square feet

The lifestyle

Life at Reserve at Bogan Lakes is centered around community. Whether it's spending summer afternoons at the pool, meeting neighbors at community events, or enjoying the sidewalks throughout the neighborhood, the community was designed to encourage connection.

Many buyers are attracted by homes that feature spacious kitchens, flexible living spaces, large primary suites, and open floor plans ideal for entertaining.

Community amenities

Residents enjoy amenities that may include:

  • Resort-style swimming pool
  • Clubhouse
  • Tennis courts
  • Playground
  • Walking sidewalks
  • Green spaces

(Amenities should always be confirmed through the HOA.)

Shopping & dining

One of the biggest advantages of the Reserve at Bogan Lakes is its location.

Nearby you'll find:

  • Mall of Georgia
  • Top retail shopping
  • Costco
  • Target
  • Publix
  • Local restaurants
  • Entertainment
  • Medical facilities

Everything you need is just minutes away.

Schools

Reserve at Bogan Lakes is served by Gwinnett County Public Schools. Buyers should verify attendance boundaries before purchasing.

Why upsizers love Reserve at Bogan Lakes

  • Modern construction
  • Community amenities
  • Convenient location
  • Spacious family homes
  • Strong neighborhood atmosphere
Luxe local insight

Reserve at Bogan Lakes is ideal for buyers who want the convenience of newer construction while remaining close to shopping, dining, and major commuter routes. It's a neighborhood that blends lifestyle with practicality.

About the author

Ama Ayers

Ama is a metro Atlanta upsize specialist who works almost exclusively with families selling one home and buying a bigger one. She built the Luxe Upsize Method around the part of the move most agents botch, doing both at once.

Ready to explore Buford?

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