Homebuyer Summer 2023

Sixteen years ago, we started to see cracks in an overheated housing market. Mortgage approvals had been fast and loose. In the industry, it was said that “if you can fog a mirror, you can get a loan” regardless of creditworthiness. And then the cracks became giant canyons and people fell into the abyss.

But, as it always does, the pendulum swung the other way. Lending became tighter and home prices plummeted during the Great Recession. Although the recovery took years, equity in our homes returned and interest rates dropped to historic lows.

So, what did that do? Yep, created another overheated housing market. A contributing factor this time was COVID-19, which brought an influx of people who could work remotely and liked Florida’s tax climate and relatively low home prices.

After what seems like a lifetime of volatility, there are signs of stability. Inventory has been

slightly increasing and homes are remaining on the market an average of 41 days versus 20 days a year ago. Prices are holding up, especially in Orlando.

Interest rates increased sharply, but appear to have settled at around 6.5 percent. Not as wonderful as the rock-bottom 3 percent we enjoyed, but it sure beats the 18 percent rates of the 1980s.

New-home builders, recognizing the hesitancy of some buyers to commit to a 6.5 percent mortgage, are reaching into their tool chests and bringing out a long-ago used incentive — the mortgage rate buy-down.

A mortgage rate buy-down is when points are paid at the commencement of the loan to bring down the interest rate. It can be for the life of the loan or for an introductory period, usually 3-5 years.

So, when you factor in all the variables in this market, is it a good time to buy? Absolutely.

THERESA SWANSON Group Publisher/Director of Sales

RANDY NOLES Editor and Publisher

PHYLLIS M. MILLER Director of Administration

TINA ROBERS

Art Director

MYRON CARDEN

Distribution Manager

MICHAEL CANDELARIA, MARY SHANKLIN, PATRICIA LETAKIS

Contributing Writers

HARRY WESSEL

Contributing Editor

Winter Park Publishing Company LLC

JANE HAMES, CHAIR; RICK BALDWIN, JIM BARNES; KEN BRADLEY; HAL GEORGE; ISIS JONES; KRISTIN MATT; ELLEN PRAGUE

Board of Managers

MICHAEL OKATY, FOLEY & LARDNER LLP

Legal Counsel

ALLAN E. KEEN

Chairman Emeritus

Community Partners

THERESA SWANSON Group Publisher theresa@thefloridahomebuyer.com

CONTENTS | SUMMER 2023

DEPARTMENTS

2 FROM THE PUBLISHER

4 FEATURED BUILDER

Bruce Cole is the very definition of a builder who learned by doing. By Michael Candelaria

6 FEATURED COMMUNITY

Mirror Lake Village by Park Square Homes reflects Americana at its most welcoming. By Patricia

Letakis

8 FEATURED FLOORPLAN

K. Hovnanian Homes features a farmhouse style in its “Looks” collection. By Patricia Letakis

FEATURES

11 MANOR

Custom builder Ryan McNally builds custom homes, sure. But some of them are more like castles. By Patricia Letakis

16 HOME SWEET VACATION HOME

Thanks to the popularity of Orlando, building or buying a second home for short-term rentals can offer some attractive returns.

By Michael Candelaria

26 OUR TOWNS

There’s something for everyone in Central Florida. Let’s take a tour and you can see for yourself. By Michael Candelaria

RESOURCES

52 PUBLIC SCHOOLS

60 COMMUNITIES

Larry and Joanne Adams; The Albertson Company, Ltd.; Richard O. Baldwin Jr.; Jim and Diana Barnes; Brad Blum; Ken and Ruth Bradley; John and Dede Caron; Steve Goldman; Hal George; Michael Gonick; Micky Grindstaff; Sharon and Marc Hagle; Larry and Jane Hames; Eric and Diane Holm; Garry and Isis Jones; Allan E. and Linda S. Keen; Knob Hill Group (Rick and Trish Walsh, Jim and Beth DeSimone, Chris Schmidt); FAN Fund; Kevin and Jacqueline Maddron; Drew and Paula Madsen; Kenneth J. Meister; Ann Hicks Murrah; Jack Myers; Michael P. O’Donnell; Nicole and Mike Okaty; Bill and Jody Orosz; Martin and Ellen Prague; Serge and Kerri Rivera; Jon C. and Theresa Swanson; Sam and Heather Stark; Randall B. Robertson; Philip Tiedtke; Roger K. Thompson; Ed Timberlake; Harold and Libby Ward; Warren “Chip” Weston; Tom and Penny Yochum; and Victor and Jackie A. Zollo. Community Partners in Memoriam Bruce Douglas, George Sprinkel and Martin Prague

Contact Us

Homebuyer: Central Florida Edition 201 West Canton Avenue, Suite 125B Winter Park, Florida 32789 Phone: 407-647-0225 thefloridahomebuyer.com

Homebuyer: Central Florida Edition Spring 2023 is published quarterly by Winter Park Publishing Company LLC, 201 West Canton Avenue, Suite 125B, Winter Park, Florida 32789. Copyright 2023 by Winter Park Publishing Company LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Send all correspondence to Homebuyer: Central Florida Edition, 201 West Canton Avenue, Suite 125B, Winter Park, Florida 32789. Unsolicited manuscripts without return postage will not be returned. DISCLAIMER: Advertisements in this publication do not constitute an offer for sale in any state or country where prohibited or restricted by law.

FINALLY, SOME SIGNS OF STABILITY FOR BUYERS

*TM LiveWell™ features are subject to availability for new purchase agreements and based on region, community and specific plans. Products may be changed for comparable or newly improved replacements or additions and may not be available in a limited number of completed homes. Details available. Nothing contained herein or in any related materials regarding the TM LiveWell™ included features as of a buyer’s Purchase Agreement Date is a guaranteed commitment on performance results and health benefits or independently verified and remain subject to change daily without notice by third party suppliers outside of Taylor Morrison’s control. All information (including, but not limited to prices, views, availability, school assignments and ratings, incentives, floor plans, elevations, site plans, features, brands, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change, availability or delay without notice. Any community improvements, recreational features and amenities described are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change and under no obligation to be completed. Maps and plans are not to scale, are not intended to show specific detailing and all dimensions are approximate. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades and options depending on stage of construction. Community Association or other fees may be required. This communication is not intended to constitute an offering in violation of the law of any jurisdiction and in such cases our communications may be limited by the laws of your state. Please see a Taylor Morrison Community Sales Manager or Internet Home Consultant for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers and complete licensing details per jurisdiction. For our Age Qualified Communities only: At least one resident of household must be 55 or older, and additional restrictions apply. Some residents may be younger than 55 in limited circumstances. For minimum age requirements for permanent residents in a specific community, please see a Taylor Morrison Community Sales Manager for complete details. © February, 2021, Taylor Morrison, Inc. (“TM”). The TM LiveWell™ registered and unregistered marks are owned by TM. All rights reserved. ORL 02/18/21 3281

BRUCE COLE IS THE VERY DEFINITION OF A BUILDER WHO LEARNED BY DOING

Being a builder is like being a cowboy riding a wild bull, sometimes holding on for dear life. But Bruce Cole, who loves the business — he’s been at it since he was a teenager — says he wouldn’t have changed a thing.

He started in construction at age 13, working in the evenings for an electrical contractor who was dating his mother. That was mostly on remodeling projects when the family lived in rural New York state.

A few years later, after a move to South Florida, Cole made a decision about pursuing building as a career: “I enjoy this. This is something I can do — and I happen to be pretty good at it.”

Cole worked his way from punchout guy to carpenter and, ultimately, to manager, superintendent, head of purchasing, general manager and division manager. He worked for such major companies as Silliman Homes, Maronda Homes, Park Square Homes and K. Hovnanian Homes, among others.

He recalls: “I was wiring houses at 13 and14; I hung drywall at 15. I made cabinets. I was a trim carpenter. I’ve done most, if not all.” Cole has held a State Certified General Contractor license since 1987. He also holds a State Certified Home Inspectors license.

Aside from elegant floorplans and superior craftsmanship, Bruce Cole (below with wife Kathy) an offers an approach that has been cultivated through the decades by doing. “I am hands-on. I am in the field. I meet with the clients,” Cole says, adding that he emphasizes client involvement.

In 1993, Cole was appointed to the Structural Subcommittee for the South Florida Building Code. Afterward, he helped to consolidate various codes across Florida into a single statewide building code.

Finally in 2008, he opened Cole Additions and Remodeling. In 2016, he established Longwood-based Cole Homes, where he now builds about three homes a year, mostly in Winter Park and surrounding areas. Currently, he’s building two homes: one measuring roughly 2,800 square feet and the other about 5,200 square feet, priced at approximately $800,000 and $5 million, respectively (excluding the lots).

Not coincidentally, aside from elegant floorplans and superior craftsmanship, Cole offers an approach that has been cultivated through the decades by doing. “I am hands-on. I am in the field. I meet with the clients,” Cole says, adding that he emphasizes client involvement.

“On my last build, I told my client, ‘You’re going to spend two-and-a-half to three days with me in the field, nine hours a day,” he says. “They didn’t believe me — and we almost went three-and-a-half days.”

That, Cole explains, is because “I go over everything. Most people can’t see the plan. So, I walk the house multiple times with them, placing everything in the house — every outlet, every switch. I talk about furniture placement. I bring their lifestyle into their spaces.”

It’s a learning process for the client as well as for Cole, who says the more he knows the better he’ll be able to build a home that’s exactly what the client expects. A favorite architectural design? “No,” says Cole. “It’s all about, ‘What does my client want?’”

Notably, as part of his process, Cole in July traveled to a Lutron facility in Austin, Texas, where he learned about the latest in personalized programmable LED lighting technology. He makes it a point to stay ahead of the curve on new building products and technologies.

Cole is an award recipient, too — winning three honors this spring in the Greater Orlando Builders Association’s Parade of Homes. Also, looking to the future, he has begun a new business partnership with Rikhil Amin, whom Cole calls a “designer extraordinaire” with “the kind of vision I have not worked with, ever.”

Amin is the principal/creative director of SMRS Design, a Winter Park-based interior design, home staging and concierge home building firm.

Turning 64 this year, Cole — who has two grown sons and a granddaughter — has no plans to slow down. When he does take a break, he’s likely with his wife, Kathy, riding their Harley in the mountains. Clearly, for now and for the foreseeable future, Cole prefers the accelerator, not the brake. n

—Michael Candelaria

Cole’s interiors are created by Rikhil Amin, the principal/creative director of SMRS Design, a Winter Park-based interior design, home staging and concierge home building firm.

MIRROR LAKE VILLAGE REFLECTS AMERICANA AT ITS MOST WELCOMING

Perhaps no Central Florida county is more Norman Rockwellian than Lake County. And many of the newhome communities sprouting up there exemplify that welcoming, down-home ambience.

Mirror Lake Village in Fruitland Park, a city of about 10,000 located northwest of Orlando and just south of The Villages, sits off U.S. Highway 441 buffered by swaths of green and big granddaddy oaks dripping with Spanish moss.

It’s just a few blocks away from Fruitland Park’s tiny town center, where American flag banners fly from old-fashioned streetlamps and drape the public library’s porch.

The first phase of Mirror Lake Village, which was completed in 2020, is well established with 76 single-family homes. The adjacent second phase, being built by Park Square Homes, will include another 76 single-family homes.

Among the planned amenities are a community playground and access to storage and parking for boats and recreational vehicles. Sales began in August and construction will follow in early fall.

“Lake County is experiencing tremendous demand for housing, and Mirror Lake Village will offer an affordable option in this desirable area with low monthly fees,” says Rachel Steele, corporate marketing director for Park Square Homes.

Steele adds that the community is especially appealing to retirees, move-up and move-down buyers, and active adults who want to be close to the activities of The Villages.

Also, she notes, those who work in the medical field will find Mirror Lake Village conveniently located near UF Health. Schools, retail establishments and restaurants are also easily accessible from the community, which is only two minutes from Interstate-75.

The 1,335-square-foot Amaze Model features three bedrooms and two to three bathrooms with a two-car garage. It’s one of nine plans available at Mirror Lake Village, where construction on the second phase will begin in early fall.

The Evolve Model, which features three bedrooms and two bathrooms in 1,662 square feet, offers an open floorplan with 9-foot, 4-inch ceilings. The kitchen boasts ample cabinetry, with 42-inch upper cabinets for extra storage, a spacious island with sink, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. Every home comes with a smart-home technology package.

At nearby Lake Griffin State Park, outdoor recreation abounds, from hiking to watersports. A boat ramp is available to the public, and such activities as paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyed year-round.

New homes offered by Park Square range in size from 1,335 to 2,034 square feet and have three to four bedrooms and two to three baths, plus a two-car garage. Prices start from the low $300s.

Buyers may choose from nine floorplans, all featuring 42inch cabinets, quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances plus an electric car-charging outlet in the garage and a smart-home technology and safety package.

Steele says that Park Square is introducing five brand-new floorplans — compact but with an open concept that perfectly complements smaller homesites, making them both affordable and efficient.

The Mirror Lake Village sales center will feature two model homes, Spirit and Imagine, by 2024. Until then, the sales team is housed in an on-site construction trailer and is available to meet with prospective homebuyers. n

Patricia Letakis

K. HOVNANIAN’S ‘LOOKS’ COLLECTION INCLUDES THIS COOL FARMHOUSE

Buyers shopping for a home that complements their lifestyles will no doubt find it in K. Hovnanian Homes’ Looks Collection. The collection encompasses four “Looks:” Classic, Elements, Farmhouse and Loft. Together, architects and interior designers worked to ensure that form meets function in these homes.

The two-story Santa Fe floorplan, with 3,149 square feet, is in the Farmhouse family, boasting a country-living vibe and vintage-inspired finishes and hardware. The four-bedroom, four-bathroom home with a two-car garage is offered in the Ivy Trail community in Apopka. It’s priced starting at $530,990.

Enter the home and you have a direct path straight through to the great room and adjacent covered patio. The generously sized space is designed for a living room, plus a dining area and an open kitchen. Its vaulted ceiling, with wood beams that carry through the farmhouse theme, gives it a grand feeling, and numerous large windows allow natural light to flow in, creating a soothing brightness.

Also on the first floor is a separate dining room, so homeowners may choose to use the entire great room area as a space for gathering and entertaining or designate part of it for enjoying meals. Which is easy to do since the open kitchen has

a huge island that can comfortably accommodate six stools. So the dining room is really bonus or flex space that can be used as a library, a playroom or a craft room.

The kitchen, with its crisp black-and-white design, features a quartz countertop and a white textured-tile backsplash. Pendant lights hang above the island, and Shaker-style cabinets abound.

The primary suite, with its bathroom and walk-in closet, sits just off the great room. The bedroom boasts a tray ceiling and optional barn doors for the bathroom, reinforcing the farmhouse design. The primary bathroom can easily accommodate a freestanding tub, which is optional, and has two sinks. The glass shower, with its white textured subway tiles, boasts vintage-inspired hardware with contemporary shapes.

When it’s time to work, the first floor has a home office, a laundry room and a drop zone from the garage that’s ideal for hanging jackets and depositing muddy shoes and wet umbrellas before entering. There’s also a hall bathroom on the first floor.

The staircase to the second floor, which is above the front half of the home, leads to a loft. Here, big windows welcome natural light. Furniture and such down-time diversions as a foosball table easily fit in the space, making it a great spot for youngsters to kick back. There are three upstairs bedrooms and two bathrooms, one with a tub and the other with a shower and two sinks.

K. Hovnanian Homes has been building homes across the country for more than 60 years. The family business, which started in New Jersey, entered the Central Florida market in 2005.

n

Patricia Letakis

K. Hovnanian’s two-story Santa Fe, with 3,149 square feet, is in the Farmhouse family. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom home with a two-car garage is offered in the Ivy Trail community in Apopka. It’s priced starting at $530,990.

second Floor

IN BRIEF

 HOME: Santa Fe

 SIZE: 3,149 square feet

 BEDROOMS/BATHROOMS: 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms

 STYLE: Single-family home

 PRICE: $530,990

 BUILDER: K. Hovnanian Homes

first Floor

 NOTES: The Santa Fe model is one of four styles in K. Hovnanian Homes’ “Looks” Series.

The open kitchen, featuring vintage-inspired finishes and hardware as well as a vaulted ceiling, features a giant island that can seat seven. That means you may choose to use the separate dining room as flex space.

Representing the area’s leading custom home builders, the Master Custom Builder Council has pledged to maintain the highest professional standards in the home building industry, dedicating themselves to using their craft to make Central Florida an even finer place to live.

Basso Homes

Cahill Homes

Charles Clayton Construction

Dave Brewer, Inc.

DeLorenzo Homes, Inc.

Derrick Builders, Inc.

Farina & Sons, Inc.

Goehring & Morgan Construction

Hannigan Homes

Hardwick General Contracting

Issa Homes

Jones Clayton Construction

J. Richard Watson Construction

LunDev Custom Homes

McNally Construction Group

Phil Kean Design Group

Posada Custom Homes

PSG Construction

Silliman Cityside Homes

Sorenson Construction

Stonebridge Homes

The Einheit Company

Woodruff Construction and Development

“The Seal of Homebuilding Excellence”

MANOR

THE GUIDE TO CENTRAL FLORIDA’S LUXURY BUILDERS AND COMMUNITIES

Ryan McNally says his family company “thrives on being eclectic” and prides itself on luxurious amenities and old-world workmanship.

McNally Construction Group has become known for castle-style homes like this one in Reunion Resort. But as a versatile custom builder, the company can do any kind of project in any architectural style.

CUSTOM BUILDER PROFILE

when your home is truly your castle.

By PATRICIA LETAKIS

Ryan McNally builds castles. Enter his conference room and you’ll spot the oversized blueprint of the Chandler Chateau, a design with towers, turrets and even a portcullis. A sculpture of a medieval-style gargoyle sits on the floor awaiting placement within one of the spectacular homes that the McNally Construction Group will build in Reunion Resort in Kissimmee.

Although it may seem farfetched, there is indeed a market for castles in Central Florida, where the lure of fantasy vacations complete with princesses and dragons draws millions of visitors every year — many of whom come back to build their permanent homes or vacation homes to occupy part-time and rent out when they aren’t in residence.

The castle concept took hold in Reunion Resort, where McNally Construction Group is a featured builder. The company’s earlier projects in the community were 8,000-square-foot

homes with eight bedrooms, a home theater and other amenities that have become almost routine.

“But now we’re getting up to 23,000-square-foot castles with bowling alleys, grotto pools, laser tag arenas and crazy-themed bunk rooms,” says Ryan McNally, vice president and owner.

The villas and mega mansions, usually rented on a weekly basis, boast up to 10 bedrooms with multiple master suites for extended families who enjoy staying and playing together in these over-the-top properties. That’s where McNally has found a niche.

McNally can trace the family business back to 1850 in the United Kingdom — coincidently a country that’s home to hundreds of medieval castles — where his ancestors were builders of schools and mills. The McNallys came to the United States and established themselves as homebuilders in New England.

Some 35 years ago, McNally’s grandfather came south to

Ryan McNally is known for extraordinary showplaces, but he’ll build any kind of custom home in any style you choose.

Ryan and E.J. McNally, a father-and-son team, are the most recent in an unbroken, six-generation line of builders. McNally Construction Group is truly a custom design-build firm with no two projects alike.

McNally’s Reunion Resort mega-projects are beautiful on the outside, sure. But wait until you take a tour.” Notes McNally, whose themed rooms and play areas are real jaw-droppers: “Now we’re getting up to 23,000-square-foot castles with bowling alleys, grotto pools, laser tag arenas and crazy-themed bunk rooms.” Facing page, a contemporary-style home at Reunion Resort.

Florida and set up an office in Orlando. McNally’s father eventually changed the name to McNally Construction Group.

“I’m sixth generation and everyone has been in construction,” the younger McNally points out. Today, he’s expanding the business and has already added real estate and interior design departments.

As a boy growing up around job sites, McNally recalls being fascinated by the drawing of floorplans. After graduating from high school in 2005, he attended Valencia Community College and the University of Central Florida and worked off and on for the family business.

However, when he was ready to enter the workforce full time, construction was in a slump. Playing it safe, McNally joined AT&T and worked his way up the ranks doing front-end web testing until the company outsourced his department.

That’s when his father, E.J. McNally said: “Hey, you want to come and work with me? I can use the help.”

Without hesitation, McNally came on board. Newly energized with the goal of expanding the company, he got his real estate license and recruited interior designer Debby Dearth, who is director of design.

Today, in addition to McNally and Dearth, the team consists of McNally’s father, who serves as president; a CFO; four project managers and supervisors; and two designers.

Complementing the castles in the McNally portfolio are smaller yet still elaborate custom homes that range in size from 6,000 to 8,000 square feet, with the occasional 10,000-squarefoot project on the boards.

When it comes to architectural style, McNally says, “we thrive on being eclectic. We’ve done a lot of modern, contemporary California-style homes, as well as transitional. We’re building a castle right now — then we’re building a Victorian home and a modern flat-roof home.”

Also a featured builder in Celebration, McNally has built Southern-inspired homes true to the architectural standards

of that community. In addition, the company has become known for building homes for sports celebrities. The client list includes NFL players Robert Griffin III and Chris Johnson, and the former Magic player E’Twaun Moore.

McNally offers clients a full package, including an architect, an interior designer, a landscape architect and a team of skilled craftspeople. “We are flexible to the client’s needs,” says McNally, adding that many customers prefer a one-stop-shopping approach.

Others, though, have their own architects, and McNally is happy to work collaboratively. “We do a lot of work that’s hands-on,” he adds. “We’ll look at the plans, the form and the functionality. Whether they want to take our input or not is up to them, but we’re certainly going to give it.”

Craftsmanship, from millwork to cabinetry and countertops to fine finishes, is another area where McNally excels. The company prides itself on making sure that no shortcuts are taken.

“No one in my office is restricted from walking a job site and looking for errors or imperfections and pointing them out,” says McNally, who believes that clients expect perfection. “It’s a difficult thing building custom homes. It’s not for the faint of heart. That’s for sure.”

Moving forward McNally is keeping his eye on land acquisition, mostly infills and teardowns. He’s also ramping up the real estate and design sides of his business and seeking opportunities in commercial development.

At the end of the day, when you ask McNally what he enjoys most about the business, he replies with a smile: “My favorite thing about building homes is finishing them.”

By that he means experiencing the feeling of accomplishment after a complex project comes to fruition and the buyer is thrilled with the result. Which is no small thing when you consider that for McNally, the phrase “every home is a castle” is almost literally true. n

vacation home home sweet

THANKS TO THE POPULARITY OF ORLANDO, BUILDING OR BUYING A SECOND HOME FOR SHORT-TERM RENTALS CAN OFFER SOME ATTRACTIVE RETURNS.

BY MICHAEL CANDELARIA

Reunion Resort offers an endless array of features to explore, including three signature golf courses, a 5-acre water park, tennis center and a variety of dining options.

How big is the vacation-home market in Florida? It’s $27 billion big, at least according to a 2020 study by the University of Central Florida that measured economic contributions to the state through vacation-home rentals.

In the words of one UCF official: “Our research confirms that Florida’s lodging industry for vacations, beyond traditional hotels and resorts — which includes rentals like houses, apartments and condos — boosts the economy significantly.”

Plus, although that UCF study is now three years old, other reports indicate that the numbers are rising. For example, according to a springtime analysis by San Francisco-based Pacaso, a company that helps people buy and co-own luxury second homes, eight of the top 15 counties nationwide for most second-home transactions are in Florida.

Central Florida’s popularity with buyers is near the top of the reasons for those impressive numbers. Consider that the Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford metro area is surpassed by only one other Florida market as a destination for vacation homes: Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, which is buoyed by buyers from Latin America.

Further, metro Orlando is widely recognized as the Vacation Capital of the World, totaling 74 million visitors in 2022. Meanwhile, Kissimmee — boasting an inventory of more than 30,000 “second” homes — is increasingly thought of as a Vacation Home Capital of the World.

Balmoral Resort, located in Haines City, features access to the community’s waterpark, restaurant, fitness center, arcade and more. Homes range from two to six bedrooms and all have a private pool.

Of course, that distinction equals big opportunities for buyers, including local buyers, who want a nearby vacation home with income potential.

COMMUNITIES TO WATCH

Such facts certainly aren’t lost on Garrett Kenny, who founded the Feltrim Group in 1996 and has turned it into a development and investment giant for vacation-home resorts, property management and related commercial development. With headquarters in Haines City (Polk County), just beyond the Osceola County line, the company has deep roots in the region.

For proof, one only needs to look at the growth of the Feltrim Group’s Balmoral Resort. Opened in 2017, the gated, 115acre community now totals approximately 250 single-family homes, each with its own pool. The amenity package includes a restaurant, game room, water park, wedding pavilion, resort-style pool and spa, multiple lakes and gardens and more.

New and existing homes typically consist of four bedrooms and range in size from about 1,500 to 2,700 square feet, with prices that range from $309,000 to $479,000 — although some

homes are priced higher.

Years earlier, the Feltrim Group had acquired hundreds of lots in the luxurious Reunion Resort near the Walt Disney World Resort to begin building there, as well as in nearby ChampionsGate. Today, gated Reunion Resort, opened in 2005 on 2,300 acres about 5.5 miles south of Disney World, has homes for sale in 14 neighborhoods. They range from one-bedroom condos to grand estates exceeding 25,000 square feet, with new home construction continuing apace.

In the Centre Court Ridge neighborhood, condominiums offer spacious dining and living rooms, granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances and private balconies. Prices, on average, are about $475,000.

At the Heritage Crossing neighborhood, condominiums and townhouses are surrounded by two community swimming pools and views of the Arnold Palmer Legacy golf course. As an example, one three-bedroom that measures 2,069 square feet is priced at $399,990.

ChampionsGate, also gated and master-planned, has luxury condominiums and villas as well as single-family and estate

Gated Reunion Resort, opened in 2005 on 2,300 acres about 5.5 miles south of Disney World, has homes for sale in 14 neighborhoods. The recreation areas, with their resort-style water features, are spectacular.

homes that sit amid numerous resort-style amenities. There are a wide variety of builders active, with homes priced starting in the low $400s.

Then there’s Disney’s Golden Oak. If ever there was a prototypical gated community of luxury single-family vacation homes tailor-made for Orlando, here it is.

Opened in 2010, the 980-acre community still has available homesites available, with a current capacity of 299 homes ranging in size from 1,800 to 12,000 square feet and priced from about $2 million and (way) up. The homes are divided into eight neighborhoods that were laid out by Walt Disney Imagineering — the same division that leads the design and construction of the theme parks..

With those marketplace dynamics as the backdrop, vacation-home construction continues throughout the region’s short-term (less than six months) rental zone, which encompasses nearly 100 different types of vacation-home resorts and communities.

Generally, the zone lies southwest of Orlando and consists of areas within Kissimmee, Davenport, Haines City and Clermont. (Even within those areas, however, some homeowners’ associations don’t permit such rentals.)

As a general rule, Orange County does not allow short-term rentals except in communities that were originally zoned and approved for that purpose. The City of Orlando, however, does allow short-term rentals, but requires the owner to live on the

Champions Gate offers housing in all styles, including condominiums that combine comfort and style. Prices generally start in the $400s.

Some of the most spectacular custom homes in Central Florida are in Golden Oak at Walt Disney World. Living near the theme park is a big attraction for families and for grandparents who want their visiting grandchildren to have a special experience when they visit from out of town.

premises and to be there during the term of the rental. The City of Winter Park allows short-term rentals, but they must be for a minimum of 28 days.

FINDING THE HOT SPOTS

Where are the hot spots? Short-term rentals — including condominiums, townhomes and single-family homes — are mostly being constructed under the “vacation home” banner along U.S. Highway 27 in Polk County, south International Drive, Lake Buena Vista and U.S. Highway 192 (east and west) near Disney.

For directions to those communities, perhaps ask someone from abroad. International buyers may well be your neighbors in both Orlando and across the state.

For international buyers looking to build or to purchase an existing property, Florida remains a bargain compared to many other locales nationwide. According to reports, 92 percent of foreign buyers visited Florida before purchasing in 2022 — with buyers from Canada, Colombia, Argentina, Brazil and Peru counted as the top five countries of origin for international buyers in the Sunshine State.

Some of the newest communities? Lennar Homes’ Storey Drive Resort, located on International Drive, is the company’s most recent. The 77-acre development will consist of 526 homes, including detached single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums.

Amenities will include multiple lakes, a clubhouse with resort-style pool and lazy river, beach volleyball and basketball courts, and the nearby Shingle Creek Regional Trail. Prices hadn’t been announced at press time.

In Reunion Resort, Spectrum+ will feature 296 luxury vaca-

Lennar Homes’ Storey Drive Resort is a 77-acre development consisting of 526 homes, including detached single-family homes, townhomes and condominiums. Below, Spectrum+ at Reunion Resort is offering 296 luxury vacation townhomes.

tion townhomes adjacent to the Spectrum+ Clubhouse, which is complemented by lush landscaping and near the development’s three golf courses and its five-acre AquaPark.

The community is located next to Encore Resort at Reunion as well as the Condos at Spectrum+ in Reunion. The average home price is $543,108, with the lowest price clocking in at $420,000.

A stone’s throw from Disney, the Townhomes at Tranquility by Zenodro Homes is a collection of 112 luxury vacation townhomes that sit on 25-plus acres. Each three- and four-bedroom floorplan — ranging in size from 2,256 to 2,266 square feet — features a spacious open layout, standard premium finishes and a private heated pool.

Every kitchen has stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops and modern cabinetry. The townhomes feature the Zen-Eco Home, which boasts state-of-the-art, eco-friendly construction technologies. Prices hadn’t been announced at press time.

Windsor Cay Resort by Pulte opened for preconstruction sales in December of last year. Located in Clermont (Lake County), the community consists of five-bedroom townhomes measuring 2,271 square feet, as well as six different models of single-family homes that range from five to 10 bedrooms and offer up to 4,383 square feet. Prices hadn’t been announced at press time.

Windsor Cay Resort by Pulte opened for preconstruction sales in December of last year. Located in Clermont, the community consists of five-bedroom townhomes as well as six different models of singlefamily homes. It’s just a few miles from the gates of Disney World.

Also located a stone’s throw from Disney, the Townhomes at Tranquility is a collection of 112 luxury vacation townhomes that sit on 25-plus acres.

To round out the examples — which only provide a sampling of all the construction activity — the newest Park Square Homes resort community is another that is well-positioned in the heart of Orlando’s shopping, dining and attractions corridor.

Next to SeaWorld’s Discovery Cove and Aquatica, gated Paradiso Grande spans 62 acres, with amenities highlighted by a resort pool, lazy river and kids splash zone, along with a game room, café and fitness center.

Another new community, Azur Resort — located in Davenport — encompasses 126 condominiums and townhomes. Homes range in size from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet, although prices have not been released at press time. The community will have resort-style amenities, including a clubhouse, pool, playground and gym, among many others. n

Due Diligence

There are more than 7 million second homes across the United States. Want to build one for ownership and possible use as a vacation rental? There are several significant considerations before making the move.

• Have enough money? That is, are you saving at least 15 percent of your current income for retirement? Are you clear of credit-related debt? Is your primary home mortgage paid off? Do you have sufficient emergency savings — such as six months of expenses — socked away? And how’s that credit score? Remember, there will be approximately twice the total of everyday expenses, which include an additional mortgage payment, utilities and upkeep, HOA fees and rental agreement fees.

• Zoned for short-term rental? Similarly, while collecting rent payments to subsidize your vacation home, be certain you can actually rent where the property is located. You don’t want a code-enforcement officer walking in on your rental guests.

• Did you remember the IRS? One other variable among an entire array of considerations is the Internal Revenue Service. A vacation home is classified as either a personal residence or a rental property by the IRS. It’s deemed a rental property if it’s rented out 14 days or more per year; otherwise, it’s a personal residence with additional tax consequences.

• What about ROI? Although there are numerous factors involved, published reports suggest that it’s reasonable to expect an annual return on investment of 6 to 10 percent or more (but no promises). Let’s assume you have paid cash for your vacation rental investment and paid $200,000. You are generating annual income of $40,000 and have $10,500 in annual expenses that include insurance, repairs and taxes. First, take your annual income of $40,000 and subtract your $10,500 annual expenses, which leaves $29,500. Then divide that figure by the property price of $200,000 and it will equal 14.75 percent. Pretty darned good — but there are no guarantees.

• A bit confused? Consider using a company that specializes in property management. Not surprisingly, there are literally dozens of them in Central Florida from which to choose.

Homes in Paradiso Grande by Park Square Homes are designed with the latest modern features and have private pools and covered lanais. The attractions theme is carried forward in this Star Warsthemed game room.

volusia County At a Glance

Land Area: 1,103 square miles

Population: 555,000

2010-2020 Population Growth: 14%

2025 Projected Population Growth: 573,800

Mean Travel Time to Work (Minutes): 25.9

Mean Household Income: $49,494

Education: Bachelor’s Degree or Higher: 23.7%

Geographically, Volusia County sits 50 miles northeast of Orlando, between the St. Johns River and the Atlantic Ocean. But these days, in a region where the growth is pushing outward in all four directions, geography doesn’t mean as much as it once did.

Indeed, as metro Orlando spreads north and east along Interstate 4 through Seminole County, west Volusia is directly in growth’s path.

Today the area, once identified almost exclusively with Daytona Beach (population 72,600), is emerging as a suburb of Orlando. For example, with 96,000 residents, Deltona has long since surpassed Daytona Beach as the largest municipality in the county. It has seen monumental growth since 1980.

Much of the activity is spurred by commercial development along the High-Tech Corridor, which runs the length of Interstate 4 between Tampa and Daytona Beach.

In addition, the widening of the Interstate 4/St. Johns River Bridge alleviated one of the region’s most annoying traffic bottlenecks, making the western portion of Volusia an easy 30-minute commute to downtown Orlando.

Buyers have discovered the impressive stock of historic homes west of downtown DeLand (population 37,700), which is clearly one of the coolest small towns in Florida.

The quaint downtown district, which is on the National

Register of Historic Places, is thick with eateries and antique shops. And stately Stetson University, which has been located here since 1883, adds an air of permanence.

Meanwhile, tiny Lake Helen (population 2,800) is holding its breath as Victoria Park adds 4,000 homes and 10,000 residents right near the city’s border. The rural enclave is expected to grow nearly 20 percent by 2025.

Those interested in more natural settings, plus an unusual lunch, may head north on U.S. 17 to De León Springs State Park, where you can cook your own pancakes at the Old Spanish Sugar Mill and then paddle a canoe through the wilderness.

In the winter, manatees seeking warmer water can be seen lolling around at Blue Springs State Park. In the summer, humans seeking relief plunge into the same bubbling blue oasis.

Many of the changes in Volusia County involve Daytona Beach, especially around Interstate 95 and LPGA Boulevard.

Five or six years ago, big stories included the arrival of a Trader Joe’s distribution center, the opening of Tanger Outlets Mall and the Tomoka Town Center, and the completion of a new headquarters site for TopBuild Corp., a Fortune 1000 company.

Then came more retail, restaurants, apartment complexes and the massive live/work/play communities of Mosaic and Latitude Margaritaville.

leading employers

AdventHealth System

Halifax Hospital System

Publix Supermarkets

Walmart Associates Inc.

Stetson University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Florida Healthcare Plans

Sykes Communications

Winn Dixie Supermarkets

Brunswick Corp.

Daytona Beach’s brightly lit boardwalk is known to vacationers and spring breakers, of course. But the World’s Most Famous Beach is within easy driving distance of anywhere in Central Florida.

MAKING THE GRADE

School grades provide an easily understandable way to measure the performance of a school. Schools are graded A, B, C, D or F, and the grade is determined using up to 11 components. There are four achievement components, which are calculated using student performance on statewide standardized assessments, including comprehensive assessments, end-of-course (EOC) assessments and Florida Alternate Assessments (FAA). The achievement components measure the percentage of full-year enrolled students who achieve a passing score. There are also learning gains components and a middle school acceleration component, as well as high school acceleration and graduation rate components. Each component is worth up to 100 points in the overall calculation. The four achievement components — English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies — are shown on the following pages. Also shown are school grades for two years, high school graduation rates and the percentage of students on free or reduced lunch programs. For more information about the complexities of school grading, and to see results of the other components that determine school grades, visit the Florida Department of Education website at fldoe.com. School grades were not given for two prior years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

SEMINOLE COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

SEMINOLE COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS

SEMINOLE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

OSCEOLA COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

OSCEOLA COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS

OSCEOLA COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

OSCEOLA COUNTY COMBINED SCHOOLS

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY COMBINED SCHOOLS

ORANGE COUNTY COMBINED SCHOOLS

POLK COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

POLK COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS

POLK COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

POLK COUNTY COMBINED SCHOOLS

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

LAKE COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

LAKE COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS

LAKE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

LAKE COUNTY COMBINED SCHOOLS

VOLUSIA COUNTY ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

VOLUSIA COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOLS

VOLUSIA COUNTY HIGH SCHOOLS

VOLUSIA COUNTY COMBINED SCHOOLS

On the following pages you’ll find some of our favorite Central Florida new-home communities in Lake County. In addition to addresses, prices, product types, amenities and builders, the listings also show designated public schools. Elementary schools are first, middle schools are second and high schools are third. In parentheses alongside the schools are the 2022 school grades, which are based on Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) scores, among other factors. School grades were not given for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bella Collina

16690 Cavallo Drive, Montverde, FL 34756 • bellacollina.com

Schools/Grades: Grassy Lake (C); East Ridge (A); Lake Minneola (B)

Amenities: Nick Faldo-designed championship golf course, tennis club, fine-dining clubhouse, community pool, full-service spa and fitness center.

Builders: Builders: Dream Finders Homes, Vogel Building Group, Primo Homes, J. Drewes

Construction, Davila Custom Homes, Cam Bradford, McNally, Main Line Homes, Toll Brothers, Inc. 407-496-4980

Products/Prices: Condominiums, from the $400s; single-family, from the $600s to over $1 million

Notes: Near Florida’s Turnpike, S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway) and S.R. 528 (the Beachline Expressway).

Estates at Lakeview Preserve

3208 Sailing Pier Avenue, Winter Garden, FL 34787 • pulte.com

Schools/Grades: Lost Lake (C); Windy Hill (B); East Ridge (B)

Amenities: Gated, pool and pavilion, splash pad, fitness center, playground, picnic area

Builders: Pulte Homes, 407-641-4788

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the high $600s

Notes: Private enclave of 70-foot homesites within a gated community.

Hills of Minneola

2394 Gold Dust Drive, Minneola, FL • ashtonwoods.com

Schools/Grades: Astatula (C); East Ridge (A); Lake Minneola (B)

Amenities: Tot lot, dog park, 60-acre green space.

Builder: Ashton Woods Homes, 407-787-9995

Product/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$400s

Notes: Located just off Lake Apopka; near Winter Garden as well as Lake Louisa State Park.

lake lincoln

19530 Lake Lincoln Lane, Eustis, FL 32736 • LandseaHomes.com

Schools/Grades: Eustis (C); Eustis (C); Eustis (C)

Amenities: Dog park, walking trail, playground

Builder: Landsea Homes, 407-392-2601

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s

Notes: The stylish boutiques and restaurants of Eustis and the charm of historic downtown Mount Dora are both just a short drive away; greater Orlando is also easily accessible.

Las Colinas at Mission Inn Resort & Club

1080 San Luis Boulevard, Howey In The Hills, FL 34737 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Tavares (C); Tavares (C); Tavares (C)

Amenities: Golf courses, clubhouse, tennis, pool, trails, spa, fitness center, trap and skeet shooting, marina

Builder: Park Square Homes, 407-529-3108

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$400s

Notes: Golf-front homesites available; enjoy all the amenities at Mission Inn Resort & Club, including golf and social membership, two championship golf courses, hotel accommodations, dining, tennis, outdoor activities, pool, spa and a 55-slip marina.

Visit

Liberty Preserve

Leesburg, Florida 34788 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Treadway (C); Oak Park (C); Leesburg (C)

Amenities: Planned park that will include a tot lot and a shade pavilion

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-756-5025

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the high $200s

Notes: Located near S.R. 44, S.R 441, U.S. 27 and S.R. 429 (the Daniel Webster Western Beltway), which provide proximity to interstates, key state and county transportation corridors, employment centers and major healthcare systems.

Parkside at Cherry Lake

1155 Calico Pointe Circle, Groveland, FL 34736 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Clermont (C); Windy Hill (B); South Lake (C)

Amenities: National Wildlife Federation-certified butterfly garden, walking trails

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 352-989-8225

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Easy access to Cherry Lake Park, which is directly south of the community and includes 40 acres of scenic countryside views, a basketball court, a pavilion and restrooms.

Summerbrooke

2250 Natoma Boulevard, Mount Dora, FL 32757 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Triangle (D); Mount Dora (C); Mount Dora (B)

Amenities: Pool, trails, basketball courts, fitness center, tot lot, clubhouse, dog park

Builder: Park Square Homes, 407-529-3108

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the high $300s

Notes: Set among the rolling hills of Lake County, the scenic beauty of Mount Dora is perfect for enjoying nature walks and the outdoors; just two miles from Mount Dora’s historic downtown shopping district.

preserve at Sunrise

121 Green Branch Boulevard, Groveland, FL 34736 • LandseaHomes.com

Schools/Grades: Groveland (D); Gray (C); South Lake (C)

Amenities: Conservation areas

Builder: Landsea Homes, 407-325-9838 or 352-348-5949

Product/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Low HOA dues, convenient to Florida’s Turnpike

thefloridahomebuyer.com

On the following pages you’ll find some of our favorite Central Florida new-home communities in Orange County. In addition to addresses, prices, product types, amenities and builders, the listings also show designated public schools. Elementary schools are first, middle schools are second and high schools are third. In parentheses alongside the schools are the 2022 school grades, which are based on Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) scores, among other factors. School grades were not given for the 2020-21 or 2021-22 school years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Avalon Ridge

3000 Avalon Road, Winter Garden, Florida 34787 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Whispering Oaks (A); Hamlin (N/A); West Orange (B)

Amenities: Recreation area, walking trail

Builder: Park Square Homes 844-774-4636

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $700s

Notes: Coming soon. Situated within a highly sought-after area of Winter Garden, will soon offer single-family quarter-acre homesites that have been thoughtfully designed for space and comfort.

Bridle Path

5486 Palomino Place, Apopka, FL 32712 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Zellwood (C); Wolf Lake (B); Apopka (C)

Amenities: Walking trails, pool and cabana

Builder: D.R. Horton Homes, 321-733-2080

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $400s

Notes: Easy access to S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway); nearby shopping, dining and entertainment.

Eagle Creek

10350 Emerson Lake Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32832 • joneshomesusa.com

Schools/Grades: Eagle Creek (A); Lake Nona (A); Lake Nona (A)

Amenities: Gated community; golf course, tennis courts, pool, health/fitness center, clubhouse Builder: Jones Homes USA, 407-636-9261

Products/Prices: Single-family homes, call for pricing details

Notes: Village Center with an elegant hotel planned; near Lake Nona’s Medical City and Orlando International Airport; 40 minutes to the Atlantic beaches.

Gatherings of Lake Nona

7573 Laureate Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32837 • beazer.com

Schools/Grades: Eagle Creek (A); Lake Nona (A); Lake Nona (A)

Amenities: Internet and cable included; each home has a private balcony and a one-car garage

Builder: Beazer Homes, 321-445-5050

Products/Prices: Condominiums, from the low $400s

Notes: 55-plus active-adult community featuring new condos with elevator access; residents enjoy maintenance-free living with easy access to Lake Nona’s Medical City and S.R. 417 (the Central Florida GreeneWay).

Harvest at Ovation

Winter Garden, FL 34787 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Water Spring (A); Bridgewater (A); Windermere (A)

Amenities: Planned lakefront amenity center and 5-acre park

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-756-5025

Products/Prices: Single-family homes from the mid-$500s

Notes: Flamingo Crossings Village with shopping and dining is within walking distance. Hamlin Town Center and Winter Garden Village are both within a short distance as well. Close to 429, connector roads to all major highways.

Isles of Lake Nona

10774 Pahokee Beach Place, Orlando, FL 32827 • pulte.com

Schools/Grades: Laureate Park (C); Lake Nona (A); Lake Nona (A)

Amenities: Gated, pool and cabana, splash pad, clubhouse, fitness center, playground, sports courts

Builders: Pulte Homes, 407-805-1637

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $500s; townhomes, from the low $400s

Notes: New single-family and townhomes on a large interconnected network of ponds that offer water views; location offers quick access to S.R. 417 (the Central Florida Greeneway).

Ivy Trail

2100 Emerald Springs Drive, Apopka, FL 32703 • khov.com

Schools/Grades: Rock Springs (C); Apopka (C); Apopka (C)

Amenities: Dog park, picnic area, tot lot, walking paths

Builders: K. Hovnanian Homes, 888-802-1050

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the high $400s

Notes: Close proximity to S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway), S.R. 414 (the Apopka Expressway) and I-4.

Laureate Park at Lake Nona

South Narcoossee Road, Orlando, FL 32827 • lakenona.com/live/neighborhoods/laureate-park

Schools/Grades: Eagle Creek (A); Lake Nona (A); Lake Nona (A)

Amenities: Pool, bike trails, dog park, pocket parks, fitness center, community garden

Builders: Craft Homes, 407-443-0528; David Weekley Homes, 407-865-8296; Dream Finders Homes, 904-738-0165

Products/Prices: Single-family and townhomes from the low $500s to over $1 million

Notes: Traditional neighborhood development adjacent to Lake Nona’s Medical City; variety of architectural styles available; planned Village Center; streets named for Nobel Prize winners.

Mezzano

Mezzano Lane, Winter Garden, FL 34787 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Summerlake (B); Hamlin (N/A); Horizon (B)

Amenities: Lake views, future community pool and cabana, recreation area

Builders: Park Square Homes, 407-529-3108

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$400s

Notes: Located between the Orange County National Golf course and Sawgrass Lake; close proximity to S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway), shopping, restaurants, healthcare, recreation and entertainment.

Oakland Park

15211 East Oakland Avenue, Winter Garden, FL 34787 • liveatoaklandpark.com

Schools/Grades: Tildenville (A); Lakeview (C); West Orange (B)

Amenities: Pool and recreation area, pocket parks, West Orange Trail runs through community, charming streetscape with sidewalks

Builders: David Weekley Homes, 407-865-8295; J&J Building, 407-476-7520; RCB Homes, 407-876-0729; Rockwell Homes, 407-890-0425

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $400s to over $1 million

Notes: Located just minutes from historic downtown Winter Garden on the shores of Lake Apopka; certified green homes in a traditionally styled neighborhood.

COMING SOON

Osprey Ranch

15143 Mayberry Drive, Winter Garden, FL 34787 • khov.com

Schools/Grades: Water Spring (A); Water Spring (A); Horizon (B)

Amenities: Community park, pool and cabana, tot lot

Builder: K. Hovnanian Homes, 888-802-1072

Product/Price: Single-family, from the high $400s; townhomes, from the low $400s

Notes: Numerous amenities in a sought-after location.

Pinewood Reserve

5973 Wooden Pine Drive, Orlando, FL 32829 • pulte.com

Schools/Grades: Hidden Oak (B); Odyssey (I); Colonial (C)

Amenities: Pool and cabana, playground, dog park

Builder: Pulte Homes, 407-845-9049

Product/Price: Townhomes, from the high $300s

FINAL OPPORTUNITY

Notes: Easy access to S.R. 417 (the Central Florida GreeneWay) offers easy access to top shopping and dining areas such as the Waterford Lakes Town Center and the Lake Nona Town Center.

Sunset Preserve

4125 Sunset Preserve Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32820 • pulte.com

Schools/Grades: East Lake (C); Corner Lake (B); East River (B)

Amenities: Gated community, private boat ramp, lakefront pavilion, children’s playground

Builder: Pulte Homes, 407-676-7843

Product/Prices: Single-family, from the low $600s

Notes: Tucked among the trees off of Lake Pickett in East Orlando; features a private community boat ramp, a lakefront open-air pavilion and a children’s playground; located near S.R. 417 (the Central Florida GreeneWay) and S.R. 408 (the East-West Expressway).

The Brix at The Packing District

3025 Edgewater Drive, Orlando, FL 32804 • tollbrothers.com

Schools/Grades: Lake Silver (D); College Park (C); Edgewater (C)

Amenities: Bike lane leading directly into College Park; food hall and beer garden; regional park with a pond overlook; 40-acre urban farm; sports fields and entertainment stage; scenic walking and jogging trails

Builder: Toll Brothers, 877-431-0444

Product/Prices: Townhomes, from the high $400s

Notes: Near downtown Orlando and College Park; an exclusive community featuring 135 townhomes; home designs will feature urban, transitional and industrial-inspired architecture.

The Oaks at Kelly Park

2424 Park Ridge Street, Apopka, FL 32712 • tollbrothers.com

Schools/Grades: Zellwood (C); Wolf Lake (B); Apopka (C)

Amenities: Future swimming pool, cabana, tot lot, two parks with walking paths

Builder: Toll Brothers, 407-753-6191

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the high $400s

Notes: Located less than a mile from S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway) and near I-4 and major roadways, residents have easy access to schools, entertainment, shopping and dining and neighboring cities; nearby outdoor recreation includes hiking, biking and swimming in a natural spring at Wekiwa Springs State Park.

Waterleigh

10482 Atwater Bay Drive, Winter Garden, FL 34787 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Water Spring (A); Bridgewater (A); Windermere (A)

Amenities: Waterfront or water access; walking and nature trails; exercise and fitness center; two resort-style amenity centers; lakes, ponds and swimming pools; tot lots and sports fields; beach volleyball and minigolf; a community garden

Builders: D.R. Horton Homes, 407-395-9707; Emerald Homes, 407-395-9707

Product/Prices: Single-family, from the low $400s

Notes: Located in the Horizon West area with 1,400-plus acres encompassing more than a dozen lakes and clear water ponds; near shopping, dining, major attractions and top-notch medical facilities; served by excellent schools.

Westridge Park

11142 Amber Ridge Drive, Zellwood, FL 32798 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Zellwood (C); Wolf Lake (B); Apopka (C)

Amenities: Park, tot lot, pool and cabana

Builders: D.R. Horton Homes, 877-415-0030

Product/Price: Single-family, from the low $400s

Notes: Great location with easy access to S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway); Zellwood Station Golf Club and the West Orange Trail are nearby, as are shopping and entertainment venues.

On the following pages you’ll find some of our favorite Central Florida new-home communities in Osceola County. In addition to addresses, prices, product types, amenities and builders, the listings also show designated public schools. Elementary schools are first, middle schools are second and high schools are third. In parentheses alongside the schools are the 2022 school grades, which are based on Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) scores, among other factors. School grades were not given for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Alexander Park

2652 Ham Brown Road, Kissimmee, FL 34746 • mybellavista.com

Schools/Grades: Sunrise (C); Horizon (C); Poinciana (C)

Amenities: Community pool, cabana, tot park, recreation field

Builder: Bellavista Homes, 407-873-6316

Products/Prices: Townhomes, coming soon. Call for pricing

Notes: Intimate townhome community offering easy access to major roads and employment centers as well as shopping and dining.

Bellalago

1520 Gateway Lane, Kissimmee, FL 34746 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Bellalago Academy (K-8) (C); Liberty High (C)

FINAL OPPORTUNITY

Amenities: Two 7,000-square-foot clubhouses, lifestyle center, multipool aquatic center, fitness center, water park, tot lot, tennis and basketball courts; nature and bike trails including a 1,300foot lakefront boardwalk with gazebo, fishing pier and community boat ramp and lift

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-853-8598

Products/Prices: Single-family homes from the mid-$700s

Notes: Village Shoppes at Bellalago, located just outside the community, encompasses shops, restaurants, banks and a Publix supermarket with a drive-through pharmacy.

SPONSORED BY

Big Sky Townhomes

3921 Southern Vista Loop, Saint Cloud, FL 34772 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Partin Settlement (C); Neptune (B); Gateway (C)

Amenities: Amenity center, park

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-933-3020

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Located near U.S. Highway 192 and the Florida Turnpike; have easy access to retail, employment centers, entertainment, healthcare and much more.

brixton

5200 Jack Brack Road, Saint Cloud, FL 34771 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Narcoossee (B); Narcoossee (B); Harmony (A)

Amenities: Playground, recreational field, trails, dog run

Builder: Park Square Homes, 844-774-4636

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Located on the corner of Wiggins Road and Jack Brack Road, just off Narcoossee Road, the community is perfectly positioned minutes from Lake Nona, shopping and dining, public and private schools and sports fields.

Cypress Cay

4511 Cypress Cay Way, Kissimmee, Florida 34746 • centex.com

Schools/Grades: Flora Ridge (C); Kissimmee (C); Poinciana (C)

Amenities: Community pool, playground, walking trail, half-court basketball

Builder: Centex Homes, 407-863-6587

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Located just minutes from The Loop outdoor mall and area attractions.

Cypress Hammock

1237 Regal King Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34758 • LandseaHomes.com

Schools/Grades: Reedy Creek (C); Horizon (C); Poinciana (C)

Amenities: Clubhouse, pool, playground

Builder: Landsea Homes, 407-305-3701

Products/Prices: Single-family and townhomes, from the high $300s

Notes: Located on Poinciana Boulevard within walking distance of the Kissimmee SunRail station; interest list now forming.

Hanover Lakes

3325 Hickory Tree Road, St. Cloud, FL 34772 • LandseaHomes.com

Schools/Grades: Hickory Tree (B); St. Cloud (B); Harmony (B)

Amenities: Resort-style pool and splash pad; boat access to pristine chain of lakes; homesites with private docks available; nature park with dock and pavilion; low HOA dues

Builder: Landsea Homes, 407-315-2628

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$400s

Notes: Unique waterfront community on the Alligator Chain of Lakes.

Kindred

1508 Park Side Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34744 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Neptune (C); Neptune (B); Gateway (C)

Amenities: Clubhouse, pool, cabana, tennis, trails, playground, pavilion picnic areas, dog park, beach volleyball court, soccer fields

Builder: D.R. Horton Homes, 407-978-6035

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$300s; single-family, from the high $300s

Notes: Located in the heart of Kissimmee, with direct access to Florida’s Turnpike, Osceola Parkway, I-4; Osceola County’s NeoCity, a master-planned tech center, is nearby.

southern Pines

3921 Southern Vista Loop, St. Cloud, FL 34772 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Michigan Avenue (C); Saint Cloud (B); Saint Cloud (B)

Amenities: Community pool, cabana, tot lot, ponds and conservation areas

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-250-8109

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $400s

Notes: Located within the city of St. Cloud; easy access to Florida’s Turnpike as well as the employment and retail corridors of Narcoossee Road and U.S. 192.

The Townhomes at Anthem Park

4590 Calvary Way, St. Cloud, FL 34769 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Neptune (C); Neptune (B); St. Cloud (B)

Amenities: Fitness center; playground; pool; parks; tennis, pickleball and basketball courts

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-933-3020

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the low $300s

Notes: Close access to Florida’s Turnpike, lakefront, shopping, restaurants and theme parks.

TOHOQUA

1706 Flourish Avenue, Kissimmee, FL 34744 • tohoqua.com

Schools/Grades: Neptune (C); Neptune (B); St. Cloud (B)

Amenities: Resort-style pool, clubhouse and events room, fitness center, tennis courts, playground and five miles of community trails

Builders: Lennar Homes, 866-495-4059; Pulte Homes, 407-550-5534; Pulte Active Adult, 407-554-53733

Products/Prices: Single-family and townhomes from the high $300s

Notes: New amenities center now open; located adjacent to a 370-acre conservation area with trails to Lake Tohopekaliga; five minutes from Florida’s Turnpike and walking distance to schools; wide variety of home designs and prices.

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On the following pages you’ll find some of our favorite Central Florida new-home communities in Polk County. In addition to addresses, prices, product types, amenities and builders, the listings also show designated public schools. Elementary schools are first, middle schools are second and high schools are third. In parentheses alongside the schools are the 2022 school grades, which are based on Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) scores, among other factors. School grades were not given for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cypress Park Estates

339 Bottle Brush Drive, Haines City, FL 33844 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Eastside (C); Shelley S. Boone (C); Ridge Community School (C)

Amenities: Community pool and cabana, tot lot, dog park

Builder: Park Square Homes 407-529-3108

Products/Prices: Single-family, new phase coming soon

Notes: Haines City residents and visitors enjoy proximity to beautiful lakes, golf courses, sports venues and the Legoland theme park; minutes from grocery stores and shopping and dining options.

Mattie Pointe

1008 Mattie Pointe Way, Auburndale, FL 33823 • kbhome.com

Schools/Grades: Lake Alfred (B); Jere L. Stambaugh (C); Auburndale (C)

Amenities: Intimate community with water features

Builder: KB Home, 407-587-3580

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s

Notes: No CDD fees; convenient to I-4, S.R. 570 (the Polk Parkway) and U.S. 92; close to local employers including Winter Haven Hospital, Winter Haven Regional Airport and Publix Corporate; near local parks, including Lake Myrtle Sports Park, Auburndale Dog Park and Lake Hartridge Nature Park; easy commute to Orlando, Tampa and Lakeland.

tarpon bay

214 Tarpon Bay Boulevard, Haines City, FL 33844 • parksquarehomes.com

Schools/Grades: Sandhill (C); Lake Marion Creek (D); Haines City (C)

Amenities: Community pool and cabana, picnic area

Builder: Park Square Homes. 407-529-3108

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $300s

Notes: Located in fast-growing Haines City, placing residents within easy reach of Orlando’s theme parks, attractions and commerce; be sure to visit the Excite model, which won the 2021 Polk County Home Builders Association’s Home of the Year.

On the following pages you’ll find some of our favorite Central Florida new-home communities in Seminole County. In addition to addresses, prices, product types, amenities and builders, the listings also show designated public schools. Elementary schools are first, middle schools are second and high schools are third. In parentheses alongside the schools are the 2022 school grades, which are based on Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) scores, among other factors. School grades were not given for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Celery Oaks

2040 Celery Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771 • LandseaHomes.com

Schools/Grades: Hamilton (C); Markham Woods (B); Seminole (B)

Amenities: Recreation area, dog park, green space

Builders: Landsea Homes, 407-565-7450

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the high $400s

Notes: Located less than a mile from the Downtown Sanford Historic District with its award-winning restaurants, boutique shops, eclectic art galleries, tree-lined streets, parks and nature trails as well as a spectacular marina with boating, fishing and dinner cruises.

Eastgrove

3230 Eastgrove Terrace, Sanford, FL 32771 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Midway (B); Millennium (C); Seminole (B)

Amenities: Gated community, pool and cabana, walking trails

Builders: D.R. Horton Homes, 877-415-0030

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Easy Access to I-4 and S.R. 417 (the Central Florida GreeneWay); convenient to Orlando International and Sanford International airports and nearby Lake Mary and Historic Downtown Sanford.

Grayson Square

Jergo Road and Orava Lane, Winter Park, FL 32792 • pulte.com

Schools/Grades: Eastbrook (B); Tuskawilla (B); Lake Howell (I)

Amenities: Abundant water features

Builders: Pulte Homes, 407-337-8694

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the high $300s

Notes: Minutes to shopping and downtown Winter Park, three miles to S.R. 417 (the Central Florida GreeneWay).

Monterey

East Palmetto Avenue, Longwood, FL 32750 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Longwood (B); Milwee (B); Lyman (B)

Amenities: Abundant water features

Builders: D.R. Horton Homes, 877-415-0030

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Walk to Longwood SunRail station, close to heavily amenitized Reiter Park.

FINAL OPPORTUNITY

Riverbend

4101 Silverstream Terrace, Sanford, FL 32771 • drhorton.com

Schools/Grades: Midway (B); Millennium (C); Seminole (B)

Amenities: Pool and cabana, park

Builders: D.R. Horton Homes, 407-878-2284

Product/Price: Single-family, from the low $400s

Notes: The Downtown Sanford Historic District features art studios, local dining, unique shops, farmers markets, dog parks, performing arts theaters and Sanford’s Riverwalk.

River’s Edge

1501 Missouri Avenue, Sanford, FL 32771 • mybellavista.com

Schools/Grades: Wilson (A); Sanford (A); Seminole (B)

Amenities: Gated community, tot park, walking trail

Builder: Bellavista Homes, 407-873-6316

Products/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Located in a highly rated Seminole County school district, this gated community is near major transportation arteries and the Seminole Towne Center, the Downtown Sanford Historic District, Lake Monroe as well as the Central Florida Zoo.

Riverside Oaks

3682 Arbordale Loop, Sanford, FL 32771 • tollbrothers.com

Schools/Grades: Hamilton (C); Millennium (C); Seminole (B)

Amenities: Gated community, private residents’ clubhouse with a cabana and a swimming pool Builder: Toll Brothers, 407-605-6377

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$400s

Notes: Located along the St. John’s River, close to golf courses, the Sanford Riverwalk and the Downtown Sanford Historic District; near regional universities and colleges, shopping and dining, beaches, and major highways, including I-4 and S.R. 417 (the Central Florida GreeneWay).

LAKE HIGHLAND PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Highlanders receive an unparalleled education with long-lasting life lessons rooted in integrity, grit, and grace.

DEFINED BY

Mary, Grade 10

I am extremely grateful for the welcoming environment at LHP, created by encouraging peers and teachers. The demanding, yet rewarding, courses and athletic programs have taught me determination and commitment.

On the following pages you’ll find some of our favorite Central Florida new-home communities in Volusia County. In addition to addresses, prices, product types, amenities and builders, the listings also show designated public schools. Elementary schools are first, middle schools are second and high schools are third. In parentheses alongside the schools are the 2022 school grades, which are based on Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT) scores, among other factors. School grades were not given for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Halifax Plantation

3500 Merritt Drive, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 • halifaxplantation.com

Schools/Grades: Pine Trail (A); Ormond Beach (B); Seabreeze (C)

Amenities: Gated community; clubhouse, restaurant, lounge, golf course, tennis courts, pool, fitness center

Builders: D.R. Horton Homes, 877-415-0030, Landsea Homes, 407-759-6329, Vanacore Homes, 888-519-1309, Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-756-5025

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s

Notes: Minutes to the Atlantic Ocean, the Intercoastal Waterway and Tomoka State Park.

Venetian Bay

424 Luna Bella Lane, Suite 122, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168 • venetianbay.info

Schools/Grades: Chisholm (A); New Smyrna Beach (I); New Smyrna Beach (B)

Amenities: Golf course, driving range, putting green, splash pad, pool, clubhouse, restaurant, lounge

Builders: Paytas Homes, 386-402-8185; The Johnson Group, 386-767-8000; D.R. Horton Homes, 844-509-7695

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$300s; townhomes, from the low $300s

Notes: Close to beaches; miles of trails for walking or biking.

Windchase at Halifax Plantation

Ormond Beach, Florida 32174 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Pine Trail (A); Ormond Beach (B); Seabreeze (C)

Amenities: Gated community; clubhouse, restaurant, lounge, golf course, tennis courts, pool, fitness center

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-756-5025

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$500s

Notes: Minutes to the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway and Tomoka State Park.

We are proud to announce that

HOMEBUYER

is now available in more than 300

ORANGE, SEMINOLE, OSCEOLA, LAKE, POLK, VOLUSIA, BREVARD, MARION AND PINELLAS COUNTIES.

*TM LiveWell™ features are subject to availability for new purchase agreements and based on region, community and specific plans. Products may be changed for comparable or newly improved replacements or additions and may not be available in a limited number of completed homes. Details available. Nothing contained herein or in any related materials regarding the TM LiveWell™ included features as of a buyer’s Purchase Agreement Date is a guaranteed commitment on performance results and health benefits or independently verified and remain subject to change daily without notice by third party suppliers outside of Taylor Morrison’s control. All information (including, but not limited to prices, views, availability, school assignments and ratings, incentives, floor plans, elevations, site plans, features, brands, standards and options, assessments and fees, planned amenities, programs, conceptual artists’ renderings and community development plans) is not guaranteed and remains subject to change, availability or delay without notice. Any community improvements, recreational features and amenities described are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change and under no obligation to be completed. Maps and plans are not to scale, are not intended to show specific detailing and all dimensions are approximate. Prices may not include lot premiums, upgrades and options depending on stage of construction. Community Association or other fees may be required. This communication is not intended to constitute an offering in violation of the law of any jurisdiction and in such cases our communications may be limited by the laws of your state. Please see a Taylor Morrison Community Sales Manager or Internet Home Consultant for details and visit www.taylormorrison.com for additional disclaimers and complete licensing details per jurisdiction. For our Age Qualified Communities only: At least one resident of household must be 55 or older, and additional restrictions apply. Some residents may be younger than 55 in limited circumstances. For minimum age requirements for permanent residents in a specific community, please see a Taylor Morrison Community Sales Manager for complete details. © February, 2021, Taylor Morrison, Inc. (“TM”). The TM LiveWell™ registered and unregistered marks are owned by TM. All rights reserved. ORL 02/18/21 3281