The short answer
Compare specific neighborhoods, not two broad names. A downtown Sarasota condominium, a West of Trail home and a Lakewood Ranch village can create very different routines. Your preferred balance of space, upkeep, social connection and travel should lead the decision.
Start with the journeys you repeat
List your regular destinations: work, healthcare, fitness, family and the airport you actually use. Test routes from individual homes at the hours you travel. A location that works beautifully on a quiet Sunday can feel different during your weekday schedule.
Decide how you want to connect
Would you rather walk out to a restaurant, join organized activities, spend time at a club or return to a quiet private garden? Lakewood Ranch has varied villages and town centers; Sarasota offers coastal, urban and established mainland settings. Memberships and amenities must be checked for the particular property.
Make ownership part of the comparison
Compare maintenance, association obligations, insurance quotes and the costs of the services you expect to use. Then put two or three settings on a shortlist and visit with a purpose. I help you compare the tradeoffs before a beautiful kitchen makes the decision for you.