Home Buyer Winter 2023

LOCAL MARKET STAYS STEADY AS SHE GOES.

The new year inevitably brings a new round of pundits offering up their predictions for the coming year. As in years past, they run the gamut from doom and gloom to happy-go-lucky and everything in between.

But as I have preached before, they are looking at the U.S. as a whole, not Central Florida as an individual market. So let’s take a look at this market.

The number of homes available for sale in December 2022 was 5 percent less than the number of homes available the previous month. December 2022 also saw a 10 percent increase from the number of homes sold in the previous month. So, there were 5 percent fewer homes on the market, but a rise in the number of homes sold.

And prices are holding steady. In fact, 34 percent of those homes were sold either at

asking price or over asking price. In fact, the area saw a healthy 8.3 percent boost in home prices over 2021.

However, another indicator that has gone up is the number of days a home is on the market. In this metro area, it’s 44 days — a significant 59 percent increase over 2021. When you stop and think about it, just 18 days on the market was an unsustainable pace and was bound to rise.

Needless to say, as you drill down the numbers for this market you quickly come to realize that we are simply steady as she goes — with a little kick in our step.

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

RANDY NOLES

Chief Executive Officer

ALLAN E. KEEN

Co-Chairman, Board of Managers

JANE HAMES

Co-Chairman, Board of Managers

THERESA SWANSON

Vice Chairman, Board of Managers

MICHAEL OKATY, ESQ.

General Counsel, Foley & Lardner LLP

Community Partners

CONTENTS | WINTER 2023

DEPARTMENTS

2 FROM THE PUBLISHER

4 FEATURED BUILDER

Diversification keeps Meridian Homes on a solid growth path. By Patricia Letakis

6 FEATURED COMMUNITY

Taylor Morrison opens Fire Creek in charming Gotha. By Patricia Letakis

8 FEATURED FLOORPLAN

Inside a Modern Farmhouse Cottage by Cahill Homes. By Patricia Letakis

FEATURES

11 MANOR

Greg Hardwick’s business combines technical expertise with a customer-centric approach. By Patricia Letakis

16 RIDING THE WAVE

Homebuyers, despite ever-shifting tides, are diving into the market in Volusia County.

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; Bruce Douglas; 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; George Sprinkel; Philip Tiedtke; Roger K. Thompson; Ed Timberlake; Harold and Libby Ward; Warren “Chip” Weston; Tom and Penny Yochum; and Victor and Jackie A. Zollo.

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 Winter 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.

THERESA SWANSON Group Publisher theresa@thefloridahomebuyer.com

DIVERSIFICATION KEEPS MERIDIAN HOMES ON A SOLID GROWTH PATH

Ryan Courech, principal and co-founder of Meridian Homes, entered the Central Florida homebuilding arena when the entire real estate market was getting crushed during the great recession.

Right after he completed his MBA at the Roy E. Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College, he was downsized from his management job at a Fortune 50 telecommunications company. So, what next?

“I thought, man, home prices are unbelievably cheap. This is a huge opportunity,” recalls Courech, whose undergraduate degree from FSU is in finance and economics.

Homes were cheap for a reason. Many developers had halted their projects and foreclosure filings had spiked by more than 81 percent.

Together with Howard Axner, a family-friend-turned-business-partner, Courech bought a home for $30,000, fixed it up and flipped it for a nice profit. From there they moved on to buying real estate-owned properties (REOs) from banks and other lenders. The partners managed to flip about 50 homes before flipping began to fizzle.

Things changed when Courech purchased a property in Lake Mary that was essentially destroyed by fire, with only the slab remaining. It turned out to be a pivotal purchase that launched Meridian Homes into ground-up new construction.

That was about seven years ago when no one was building, says Courech, “We sold that house before the framing was even done, and we had a line of people wanting to buy it.”

In the meantime, Courech had become a licensed Certified Building Contractor, a Certified Distressed Property Expert and a Realtor — all of which were necessary to become a successful new-home builder. By any objective measure, it worked out well.

Today, Meridian Homes is a multifaceted company, building everything from high-end custom homes to more modest homes aimed at first-time buyers. The company also builds

This contemporary craftsman home by Meridian Homes (above and below) won first place in the Greater Orlando Builders Association’s Parade of Homes in 2018. The category was Best Custom Home Priced from $499,000 to $574,000.

rental properties and homes for institutional investors.

Because the real estate market can be volatile, Courech believes it’s important to be diversified with many different options.

When it comes to design, Meridian Homes is best known for its contemporary/modern styles with square footage ranging from 3,220 to 4,200 under air. Prices in the last year or so have ranged from $489,000 to $1.4 million.

Courech admits that the less expensive homes, usually those sized at around 2,100 square feet, are now more difficult for builders to build. But they’re fun, he says, because they’re simple and the owners are so happy when they snap one up.

Although today’s builders are more environmentally conscious than ever before, new energy-efficient technology can easily escalate costs. Courech points out that Meridian Homes works closely with their vendors and tradespeople to find solutions that fit their clients’ budgets, lifestyles and needs.

“We have all options for our homebuyers if they want a really tight house with a low ACH (air changes per hour) or code minimum,” he says.

Over the years, the company has racked up multiple industry accolades, including a first-place award for Best Custom Home Priced from $499,000 to $574,000 from the Parade of Homes, sponsored by the Greater Orlando Builders Association in 2018.

More recently, in 2022, Meridian Homes won an Aurora Award from the Florida Home Builders Association and Southeast Building Conference for Best Custom Home Under 4,000

Square Feet. Both recent award-winners were built in Winter Park, where he lives with his wife, Sarah, and his son, Mac.

Courech has always been a hands-on kind of guy, working both the construction and business sides as the company grew. Recently the company hired two supervisors of construction to manage the day-to-day construction, which allows Courech more time to focus on developing new business.

Meridian Homes just opened a division in Palm Bay, where the company plans to build a slew of homes for a large institutional investor. It also has an exclusive opportunity to build in Vero Beach’s Grand Harbor. n

—Patricia Letakis

This custom contemporary beauty encompasses five bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The interior is highlighted by warm woods and such features as a chef’s kitchen (above) with a designer backsplash, a gas cooktop, stainless-steel appliances and a walk-in pantry. An eye-catching detail is the sleek staircase (below) near the foyer.

TAYLOR MORRISON OPENS FIRE CREEK IN CHARMING GOTHA

The exclusive community of Fire Creek is set on a parcel of land in Gotha, a historic rural settlement tucked between Ocoee and Windermere that was founded in 1885 by German immigrant H.A. Hempel and named after a town in Germany.

Although it measures only one square mile, tiny Gotha has managed to maintain its historic roots and charm despite Central Florida’s encroaching development.

A narrow two-lane country road, vintage cottages, a Carpenter Gothic church (the 1913 Church of Christ), Nehrling Gardens (the home and surrounding grounds of Dr. Henry Nehrling, one of Florida’s pioneer horticulturists and naturalists) and super-cool Yellow Dogs Eats (a restaurant housed in an erstwhile general store) are just a few of the charming attributes that make Gotha such a desirable place to live.

Nestled in this setting is one of Taylor Morrison’s newest luxury communities. Fire Creek, with only 42 oversized lots, boasts some of the widest homesites for new construction in the Orlando area.

Stacie Cornell, regional marketing manager for Taylor Morrison, says Phase One of the gated community will consist of 34 homes, including some with water views. Phase Two will be an intimate section of eight oversized lots.

Just past the gate of Phase One, a butterfly garden is taking shape. Certified by the National Wildlife Federation, the garden will be resplendent with flowering plants and framed by palm and magnolia trees — and, of course, it’ll be busy with butterflies.

At the far end of Phase One, there’ll be a tot lot. Sidewalks, currently under construction, will be lined with black lantern-style lampposts to provide an upscale finishing touch. Phase Two, which hasn’t yet begun construction, backs up to Gotha Park, a small recreational green space.

The two-story Humboldt in Fire Creek encompasses four bedrooms and four to five bathrooms in 3,502 square feet of living space. The home, which also boasts a three-car garage, is priced starting at $988,995.

Homeowners in Fire Creek will also enjoy proximity to the area’s lakes. Cornell notes that residents can launch their boats from Lake Down and Keene’s Park, two nearby access ramps for the Butler Chain of Lakes. Bird Island, a popular destination for water picnics, is an easy boat ride away.

As for the homes, Fire Creek will offer six luxurious, energy-efficient floorplans, each with three-car garages. Home prices start at $909,995.

The models include Lincoln (2,862 square feet) and Beacon (3,302 square feet), which are one-story with three-bedroom options. The other four floorplans are two stories.

Humboldt (3,502 square feet) has four bedrooms and four baths, while Encanto (4,120 square feet) has four bedrooms and 3.5 baths. Forsyth (4,720 square feet) has five bedrooms with four baths and a study, while Patterson (5,234 square feet) has seven bedrooms, 6.5 baths and a study.

Cornell adds that one of the factors setting Taylor Morrison homes apart from other builders is the company’s “TM LiveWell” suite of home features and products designed to provide cleaner air and water and reduce the amount of chemicals in the home.

Items included are MERV 13 air filters that can trap 90 percent of harmful air particles, hands-free kitchen faucets, antibacterial room fans and others. They come standard at no additional cost to the homeowner, she points out.

From Fire Creek it’s easy to get on state roads 429 and 408 as

The Humboldt has a large combined kitchen and living area (above) that overlooks a covered lanai with a summer kitchen flanked by a pool (below). Other popular models include Lincoln (2,862 square feet) and Beacon (3,302 square feet), which are one-story with three-bedroom options.

well as Florida’s Turnpike, and the drive from downtown Orlando is about 15 minutes. Fire Creek is truly a hidden gem, where you’ll feel like you’re away from the hustle bustle. n

Patricia Letakis

CAHILL’S FARMHOUSE COTTAGE COMBINES LUXURY AND COZINESS

Cahill Homes has been building in some of Orlando’s most prestigious neighborhoods for almost four decades. When CEO Steve Cahill founded the company, his goal was to build for discerning buyers who appreciated top quality as well as a realistic budget, on-time delivery and great communication.

That hasn’t changed. Over the years, Cahill has been joined by his son, Chad, who serves as company president and runs the day-to-day operation, and Judd Webster, executive vice president, who manages construction.

Among the communities in which Cahill Homes can be found are Golden Oak at Disney World, Lake Nona Golf & Country Club and, of course, Winter Park.

One of Cahill Homes’ newest floorplans is the Modern Farmhouse Cottage in Golden Oak. It’s a home that Chad devised with an architectural firm, Looney Ricks Kiss, for a client. And it’s one that he could certainly duplicate elsewhere if another homeowner falls in love with it.

And, really, what’s not to love? The two-story home measures 2,605 square feet and has four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. The first floor encompasses 2,213 square feet, while the second floor, atop the two-car garage, measures 392 square feet.

Including the garage, the outdoor living area and the front entry, the Modern Farmhouse Cottage’s total under-roof square footage is 3,017. Not too big, not too small for those who like custom-home panache but don’t need a palace that encompasses rooms that no one uses.

To make it all work, the design takes into account every square inch of space. It’s luxurious, alright, but nothing is superfluous or wasted.

The foyer opens onto a generously sized great room with an open kitchen, which measures roughly 17-by-36 feet. Beyond, through sliding glass doors, is the outdoor living area.

And above the glass doors are dormer windows specifically added to bring in loads of natural light, which makes the space, with its vaulted ceiling, feel extra spacious and airy.

The master bathroom is meticulously executed to fit a free-standing tub, a large walk-in glass-enclosed shower and a double vanity into limited space. The kitchen includes topof-the-line dual refrigerators and a wine cooler as well as a washer/dryer.

But the most special space in this home is, without a doubt, the second-floor bunkroom, a place for all the grandkids to sleep (which is important in Golden Oak, since many grandparents choose to live there in part because of its adjacency to Disney).

A staircase leads to the second level, where a bedroom and a bathroom are located. The bedroom would work for grownups and could accomodate a king-sized bed. But Cahill’s vision was to create a special kids’ room, with cleverly crafted bunk beds, away from the everyday living space. 

Patricia Letakis

Cahill Homes’s cozy Modern Farmhouse Cottage measures 2,605 square feet and has four bedrooms and 4.5 baths. The first floor encompasses 2,213 square feet, while the second floor, atop the two-car garage, measures 392 square feet.

The Modern Farmhouse Cottage feels even more open and airy in the light-drenched great room with its vaulted ceiling (above). The master bathroom (below left) has a freestanding tub and a walk-in shower, while the upstairs bedroom (below right) is designed for kids with built-in bunk beds.

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

Hardwick GC is a nationally recognized, award-winning custom home and renovation company that is known for customer-centric service and building spectacular custom homes like this one — which is also shown on pages 12 and 14.

The warm and woodsy great room of this custom home by Hardwick gives the feeling of an elaborate hunting lodge.

ENGINEERING FOR SUCCESS

Greg Hardwick’s business combines technical expertise with a customer-centric approach.

By PATRICIA LETAKIS

How to renovate a home is something Greg Hardwick learned as a youngster. He grew up in a military family that moved often, and almost every home he lived in became a remodeling project for his family.

His father, now a retired Air Force fighter pilot, and his mother, now a retired nurse, always wanted to put their personal touch on the family homes. “So home remodeling was nothing new to me,” says Greg Hardwick, founder and president/owner of Hardwick General Contracting in Maitland.

After graduating from Florida State University — where he was a swimmer — with a degree in civil engineering, Hardwick began his career in the construction industry as a project engineer. Later he went on to earn a master’s degree in engineering from the University of South Florida while working as a construction manager for a Fortune 250 utility company.

However, having his own company was always his goal. “As a construction manager and engineer early in my career, moving toward more of an ownership role in the industry was a natural transition,” says the builder.

Hardwick started his business in June 2004. Over the years, his remodeling projects led to building large custom homes with seven-figure price tags. In 2012 his wife, Donna, a CPA, joined as vice president of finance and accounting, and the company grew to a team of nine.

From the beginning, Hardwick General Contracting’s mission has been to provide what he calls a “client-centric” building experience. The team focuses on delivering cutting-edge processes and products, exceptional home quality and unparalleled customer service throughout the design and construction of the home.

Says Hardwick: “As a family owned and operated business, we pride ourselves in building a close partnership with our clients, making the entire custom home experience very personalized, collaborative and enjoyable.”

“We’re organized to take a team approach to every project, creating transparency, rapport and respect with our clients and construction team,” says Hardwick.

Known for building impressively large, high-end, luxury homes, Hardwick says that most of his projects range in size from 6,000 to 12,000 square feet and are usually priced at $2 million-plus. And his homes cover a gamut of styles: traditional, transitional and contemporary, depending upon what his clients want.

Hardwick has built everything from modern masterpieces with three-level roofs to stone-and-wood Tuscan-inspired farmhouses with turrets and porticos.

Details such as wood-beamed two-story ceilings, floor-toceiling illuminated window treatments, and ample kitchens with finely crafted cabinetry and well-equipped islands are attention-getters you’ll see in most homes built by Hardwick.

And his projects are loaded with technology. “We specialize in lighting control, home automation and proven green-building principles,” Hardwick says, with an emphasis on energy efficiency, indoor air quality and overall environmental impact of the structure.

Hardwick knows his stuff in that regard. He’s a National Association of Home Builders Master Certified Green Professional (CGP) and a U.S Green Building Council LEED Accredited Professional.

Not surprisingly, Hardwick General Contracting is no stranger to awards. The company received the 2020 Remodeling Excellence award from the Greater Orlando Builders Association and the 2020 Builder of the Year award from the Master

Custom Builder Council. (Hardwick was also past president of both organizations.)

The company has also won a dozen Parade of Homes Awards as well as 10 Aurora Awards from the Southeast Building Conference. In addition, Hardwick has been an officer in the Florida Home Builders Association and the National Association of Home Builders.

As Orlando and the surrounding area are built out, homeowners wanting to build a dream home from ground up are faced with either tearing down an old home in an established neighborhood or heading outside the urban core to find communities where generously sized lots are available.

It’s quite an achievement to meld rustic and luxurious, but Hardwick does so deftly with this home, which features a welcoming outdoor living area (above) and a well-equipped island kitchen (below).

Dr. Phillips in west Orange County and Mount Dora and Eustis in Lake County are areas where Hardwick is currently building large custom homes. “We’re looking forward to 2023 and have an ideal number of new custom homes and whole-house renovations in our pipeline,” he says.

When it comes to working with clients, Hardwick says, “I explain the process as much as possible and then proceed as transparently as possible.” His advice to those seeking the right custom-home builder to bring their vision to life is summed up in his five simple tips.

• A ssess their overall reputation. How much experience do they have? What are their certifications? Have they earned industry awards?

• Ask for references; that’s the best way to get first-hand accounts of what it’s like to work with the builder.

• Investigate their previous projects, particularly those built in the style you prefer, and assess quality and craftsmanship.

• Gauge your personal compatibility, since you’ll be spending a great deal of time with the builder you choose.

• Finally, interview several potential builders and note how clearly they explain the process and set expectations.

After running his own company for almost two decades, Hardwick still finds joy in his profession. “Mostly I enjoy partnering with homeowners to achieve their dream home, and also the friends I’ve made in the industry.” n

Hardwick’s versatility is shown in this contemporary home, with its sleek lines and its interior emphasis on clean whites (with pops of color on some walls) and accents of marble and steel.

RIDING

HOMEBUYERS, DESPITE EVER-SHIFTING TIDES, ARE DIVING INTO THE MARKET IN VOLUSIA COUNTY.

BY MICHAEL CANDELARIA

Volusia County is defined by water — including the Halifax River, part of the Intracoastal Waterway — and, of course, the World’s Most Famous Beach in Daytona.

With a resident count of approximately 565,000 people, Volusia is the the 12th most populated county in Florida and is delineated and defined by water. The county, bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean and the on the west by the St. Johns River, covers 1,200 square miles and includes 16 municipalities as well as some of the most scenic landscapes in the Southeast.

That much is well known to many locals and visitors alike. But did you know this about Volusia? Just prior to the calendar turning to 2023 — while higher home prices, dwindling inventories and rising mortgage rates continued to stall the sales of existing homes — builders of new homes were busy.

Consider that in July 2022 there were 888 housing starts in the county, an increase of 73 percent from the same month in 2021, according to the U.S. Census Bureau Building Permits Survey.

By October, although the 478 housing permits pulled were roughly the same as in October 2021, the year-todate total was 7,523 compared to 4,776 during the same time the previous year. That’s because in late 2021 permitting activity sped up substantially — and the momentum hasn’t stopped.

One of the reasons can be found in neighboring Seminole County. Development there is beginning to slow, as revealed by the Seminole County Office of Economic Development and Tourism. Seminole, for decades a regional growth hot spot, is slowly but steadily running out of developable land.

At the same time, traffic at Orlando Sanford International Airport — just across the county line from Volusia — is now back to its pre-pandemic totals of some 3.5 million passengers annually.

In addition, airport expansion has recently been completed — which has helped spark new commercial and residential development in adjacent Volusia. Daytona Beach International Airport is doing its part for county homebuilders, too. Approximately 750,000 passengers are accommodated annually at the airport that serves the iconic beach town.

Even rising mortgage interest rates aren’t likely to deter builders in Volusia by virtue of the many all-cash homes sales coming from retirees, who continue to arrive in droves. The same goes for rising impact fees, which are paid by developers for such needs as education and infrastructure but are generally passed along to buyers.

In November, for example — for the first time since 2013 — the Volusia County School Board approved an increase to the amount developers pay the district per residential unit. But it’s not expected to pause homebuilding, which industry experts say will continue apace.

There’s one possible exception to all of this positive building news in Volusia. In October, following the wrath of Hurricane Ian, word surfaced that the Volusia County Council might consider a moratorium on new building and development moratorium in unincorporated areas of the county.

At last check, though, it was still only talk.

WHO AND WHERE

Which Volusia builders are the busiest? During 2022, Minto Communities topped the list, according to permitting activity recorded at the Volusia County Clerk of Court, followed by D.R. Horton, Lennar Corp., Pulte Group, NVR Corp., KB Home, Meritage Homes and ICI Homes.

Where are they building? For starters, look no further than Daytona Beach’s active-adult community Latitude Margaritaville, which is among the nation’s best-selling master-planned projects.

The 3,400-home community with the beachy, laid-back vibe is part of a $1 billion mixed-use development that got underway in 2017. It’s a collaboration effort between Minto and the

flagship business enterprise of popular entertainer (and entrepreneur) Jimmy Buffett, who’s obviously not wasting away anywhere regardless of what the song says.

Latitude Margaritaville offers cottages, villas and single-family homes that are priced from the $200s, along with resort-style amenities and an active lifestyle for residents.

Its most recent residential offerings include cottages that range in size from 1,204 to 1,466 square feet and are priced starting at $217,900; villas that range in size from 1,503 to 1,862 square feet and are priced starting at $261,990; and single-family homes that range in size from 1,684 to 2,564 square feet and are priced starting at $306,990.

Not far away — or a short drive down the fairway — Daytona Beach’s LPGA corridor is also especially vibrant. There, two infill neighborhoods that encompass more than 450 single-family homes with golf-course frontage are being marketed by Meritage Homes.

Latitude Margaritaville, an amenity-rich 3,400-home development with a beachy, laid-back vibe, is part of a collaboration effort between Minto Communities and the flagship business enterprise of popular entertainer (and entrepreneur) Jimmy Buffett. Homes include colorful cottages (below) that are priced starting at $217,900.

The builder also has two noteworthy developments in New Smyrna Beach: Sarinna Lakes and The Palms at Venetian Bay, where homes are priced starting at roughly $300,000.

In addition, master-planned Mosaic remains strong, with ICI Homes targeting buyers who are young and young at heart with plentiful social spaces and energy-efficient “smart” homes.

Mosaic amenities include gathering spots such as a boardwalk at the lake, a club pool, a fitness center and a fire pit as well as trails, pocket parks, a playground, a community garden and an amphitheater.

In all, approximately 1,200 completely customizable homes are planned for the next few years. They’ll measure 1,650 to 2,750 square feet in size and are currently priced from the $500s.

Not to be neglected, file Daytona Beach Avalon Park under “coming soon.” According to Stephanie Lerret, a spokesperson at Avalon Park Group: “We don’t have a groundbreaking set yet, but we’re planning for a 2023 date.”

At buildout, Daytona Beach Avalon Park will encompass more than 1,100 homes amid 15 acres of parks, walking paths and open green space. There’ll also be a boardwalk, ballfields, pocket parks, dog parks, a resort-style pool, an athletic center, a community center, a pedestrian trail and lakes.

The development, which will cover more than 3,000 acres on State Road 40, will follow a New Urbanist theme that blends residential, educational, recreational and commercial amenities. The setting will mirror sister communities in east Orlando, Wesley Chapel (near Tampa) and Tavares in Lake County.

Finally, one other bit of county news — among many oth-

er housing highlights — comes from Pulte Homes. In DeLand, Pulte’s plans are much smaller in scope than Avalon Park but they’re nonetheless significant. That’s because Pulte hasn’t turned a shovel of dirt in Volusia for a decade. Now, 36-acre Canopy Terrace is in preconstruction sales with single-family homes priced from $314,990. One selling point: It’s just a mile from I-4.

The homes, in a collection consisting of nine designs, will range in size from 1,580 to 2,894 square feet with three to five bedrooms. Community amenities will include a pool with a cabana, a playground and wooded walking trails along with a variety of smart-home technologies.

Pulte is touting DeLand’s conveniences, including shopping centers near U.S. Highway 17-92 and the city’s historic and charming downtown, which is anchored by Stetson University. Other builders are also sold on the picture-postcard city. In early 2022, the DeLand City Commission approved several projects for development — the largest of which, Trinity Gardens, spans 184 acres that will encompass 425 single-family homes and 118 townhomes.

How hot is DeLand? The city, with a population of 37,764 at last count, has more than a dozen communities in active construction.

At buildout, Daytona Beach Avalon Park will encompass more that 1,100 homes amid 15 acres of parks, walking paths and open green space. Its new urbanist theme will mirror its older developments in Orlando and Tavares.

Master-planned Mosaic by ICI Homes targets a wide swath of buyers with a big amenity center, plenty of gathering areas and energyefficient homes.

VOLUSIA COMMUNITIES AT A GLANCE

Daytona Beach

At Eagle Crest, Ryan Homes offers 139 homesites in a private natural setting surrounded by conservation areas with water views and walking trails, among other amenities. Single-family homes are priced from $340,990 to $419,990 and range in size from 1,501 to 2,748 square feet. One example is the Windermere, which features four bedrooms and 2.5 baths and is priced starting at $389,990.

The first floor provides versatile flex space that can be used as a study or a main-level bedroom. Upstairs, three bedrooms and a full bath offer privacy while a loft adds extra entertainment space. A deluxe owner’s suite includes double vanities, a seated shower and a walk-in closet. A large family room, an island kitchen and a lanai are other components.

The Preserve at LPGA, as the name implies, is a master-planned community by Lennar that’s surrounded by wetland preserves and consists of two distinct design collections.

The Legacy Collection offers single-family homes priced from $315,490 to $418,360 that range in size from 1,444 to 2,575 square feet. The collection has 12 home plans.

The Grand Collection, which encompasses seven plans, offers homes priced from $323,690 to $448,630 that range in size from 1,313 to 2,896 square feet. Aside from the pockets of wetland preserves, there’s an onsite swimming pool plus a playground.

DeBary

Multiple builders, including M/I Homes, are active in Rivington, which is located one mile from the DeBary SunRail Station and is

near the crossroads to I-4, S.R. 417 and U.S. Highway 17-92.

M/I offers 10 floorplans in two design series that range in size from 1,857 to 3,610 square feet with three to six bedrooms. The homes are priced from $394,990 to $701,580.

The Cottage Collection, with a traditional front garage, has a covered lanai, formal living and dining rooms, a flex room and a loft. The Avenue Collection, with alley-loaded garage plans (including one with a detached garage), is designed for living at the front of the home.

All of M/I’s homes in Rivington boast pleasing exteriors with welcoming front porches, added texture with stone and shaker-shingle accents or fun pops of color on shutters and front doors.

Community amenities include a park, a playground, a pool, trails, a greenbelt and a pond.

Spring Walk at The Junction, billed as “coming soon” by Landsea Homes, is another community that will take advantage of SunRail access and adjacency to I-4.

The community will feature a variety of thoughtful single-family floorplans that will range in size from 1,815 to 2,548 square feet. And outdoor recreational opportunities will be plentiful, with a variety of multiuse trails including Cross Florida, River-to-Sea Loop and Spring-to-Spring Trail with Gemini Springs Park right next door.

As of late 2022, home prices weren’t yet listed.

Deltona

Daytona Park Estates, a community by Maronda Homes, offers single-family homes priced from $278,990 to $336,990 that range in size from 1,272 to 2,114 square feet.

There are six floorplans from which to choose, including the Danbury, which, as the largest option, boasts four bedrooms and 2.5 baths with a kitchen, a dining room, a great room and flex space as well as a two-car garage.

All of M/I’s homes in Rivington boast pleasing exteriors with welcoming front porches, added texture with stone and shaker-shingle accents or fun, unexpected colors on shutters and front doors. Home prices range from $394,990 to $701,580.

Hampton Oaks, by Ashton Woods, is offering 19 floorplans priced from $355,990 to $542,990 that range in size from 1,637 to 3,897 square feet.

The three-bedroom, two-bath Reef plan, for example, is the smallest and includes dining and living rooms, walk-in closets, an extended uncovered back patio with French doors and professionally curated interior design palettes from The Ashton Woods Collections.

DeLand

The Reserve at Victoria, by Kolter Homes, is a gated community that offers single-family homes priced from $397,990 to $579,990 that range in size from 1,668 to 2,289 square feet.

An all-new collection of floorplans is designed with “optimal flexibility,” according to the builder. As one example, the three-bedroom, two-bath Julia plan — at 2,481 square feet and priced starting at $420,990 — has structural options that include three different exteriors and second-floor bonus room variations.

Community amenities include multiple parks, roundabouts and a complex consisting of a pool, a fitness center, pickleball courts and a playground. Buyers can also select upgraded landscaping and a controlled maintenance program. Paytas Homes is also a builder at The Reserve at Victoria.

Mattamy Homes’ Addison Landing is an intimate enclave of 83 homesites — from 55 to 85 feet wide — intended for architecturally diverse single-family homes that range in size from 1,894 to 3,529 square feet. Floorplans encompass from three to six bedrooms and homes are priced ranging from $329,990 to $551,177.

Spring Walk at The Junction (above) by Landsea Homes, coming soon to Debary, will feature thoughtful single-family floorplans and an array of recreational opportunities. Daytona Park Estates (below), a Maronda Homes community in DeLand, offers single-family homes priced from $278,990 to $336,990 that range in size from 1,272 to 2,114 square feet.

The Cascades plan, for example, is part of Mattamy’s Spirit 40 Series. At 1,894 square feet, it offers a thoughtful design with three bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage.

A walk-in pantry enhances the open, flowing space and connectedness of the kitchen and dining area. The owner’s suite has a large walk-in closet. It’s priced at $371,517.

Edgewater

The quaint city of Edgewater isn’t particularly well known. Nestled alongside the Indian River and Mosquito Lagoon, it provides a small-town feel to residents plus 150 acres of parks, river frontage and, of course, the Intracoastal Waterway.

That’s where you’ll find Majestic Oaks, by Lennar, an all-solar community of homes priced from $293,589 to $408,499 that range in size from 1,555 to 2,584 square feet.

The community delivers easy access to both sandy beaches along the Atlantic Coast and major thoroughfares such as U.S. Highway 1 and I-95.

There are multiple floorplans from which to choose, including the 1,817-square-foot Harrisburg, which features four bedrooms, three baths, an open kitchen, a dining room, a family room and an owner’s suite. Community amenities include a dog park.

Manor Estates, an elegant community by Maronda Homes, is a secluded project of large lots that features two design series, the Americana and Renaissance. Homes range in size from 1,856 to 4,767 square feet and are priced from $379,990 to $604,990.

The largest plan is the two-story Verona, part of the Renaissance Series, with 4,767 square feet and a choice of six or seven bedrooms and 5.5 or 6.5 bathrooms. There’s a conventional porch in the front and an exclusive lanai in the back.

The master bedroom and bath are on the first floor alongside a spacious great room, a dining room and a kitchen.

New Smyrna Beach

The Portofino Reserve at Venetian Bay, a gated community by Paytas Homes that exudes a country club lifestyle, offers single-family homes that range in size from 2,225 to 4,639 square feet and are priced from $508,000 to $659,900.

One example is the Barcelona III, at 2,457 square feet, which has three bedrooms, three baths and a two-car garage and is priced from $526,000.

Homes feature spectacular views of the championship golf course, lakes and conservation areas — and each home is located near the Venetian Bay Town Center.

Ormond Beach

Landsea Homes’ Bulow Creek Preserve — with homes priced from $469,990 to $559,990 — offers three or four bedrooms, two or three baths and range from 1,949 to 2,607 square feet.

For example, the 2,287-square-foot Begonia model, with three bedrroms and three bathrooms, is priced from $549,990. It features an open kitchen, dining nook and family room as well as a covered back porch.

Nestled next to Bulow Creek State Park and close to downtown

At Addison Landing in Deland, by Mattamy Homes, the single-family Astor floorplan, priced from $396,990, features four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms in 2,517 square feet.

Majestic Oaks (above), by Lennar, is an all-solar community with homes priced from $293,589 to $408,499 that range in size from 1,555 to 2,584 square feet. It’s in Edgewater, adjacent to New Smyrna Beach. The 2,457-square-foot Barcelona III model (below), is among the models available at The Portofino Reserve at Venetian Bay, a gated community by Paytas Homes. The three-bedroom, three-bathroom home is priced from $526,000.

Ormond Beach, the community also touts its championship golf course, fine dining, tennis, swimming and a fitness center.

Maronda Homes’ Huntington Green is a 55-plus community with an accent on active living is located within 5,500-acre master-planned Hunters Ridge, which contains a 2,200-acre nature preserve with trails for riding and hiking and lakes for fishing.

A community center, pools, sports courts and a clubhouse round out the amenities. As for the homes, they’re priced from 363,990 to $392,990 and range in size from 1,443 to 2,151 square feet.

Port Orange

Woodhaven, a gated community by ICI Homes, features

low-maintenance one- and two-story luxury townhomes and single-family homes that range in size from slightly more than 1,500 to nearly 3,500 square feet and are priced from $373,900 to $867,845.

A playground, a pool and cabana, a clubhouse and a tot lot highlight the community’s amenities. One example is the four-bedroom, three-bath Arden plan, which encompasses 2,402 square feet.

Among the attractions are an especially open floor plan with a spacious gourmet kitchen and dining area; a master suite with a luxurious bath and a large double-entry walk-in closet; and living areas that allow for entertainment and conversations to continue throughout each room. n

Woodhaven, a gated community by ICI Homes, features low-maintenance townhomes priced from $373,900 to $867,845. Shown here is the community’s pool and cabana.

Landsea Homes’ Bulow Creek Preserve has homes that range in size from 1,949 to 2,607 square feet that are priced from $469,990 to $559,990. Shown (above left) is the Begonia model — priced from $549,990 — and (above right) adjacent Bulow Creek State Park.

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.

D.R Horton & Express

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5

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D.R. Horton is an Equal Housing Opportunity Builder. *Home and community information, including pricing, included features, terms, availability and amenities, are subject to change and prior sale at any time without notice or obligation. Pictures, photographs, features, colors and sizes are approximate for illustration purposes only and will vary from the homes as built. ^Square footage dimensions are approximate. Certified Builder Contractor License # CBC1265174

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 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.

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 and townhomes, 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.

Fire Creek

10109 Brocksport Circle, Gotha, FL 34734 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Thornebrook (A); Gotha (B); Olympia (B)

Amenities: Gated community, tot lot

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-756-5025

Products/Prices: Single-family homes from the high $900s

Notes: Intimate community of 42 oversized homesites offering easy access to S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway), I-4, theme parks, entertainment and shopping.

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 $370s

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 Springs (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, coming soon

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

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: Ashton Woods Homes, 407-543-6451; Cardel Homes, 813-612-8001; Craft Homes, 407-443-0528; David Weekley Homes, 407-865-8296; Dream Finders Homes, 904-738-0165; Pulte Homes, 866-300-4793; Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-671-8838

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the $500s to over $1 million; townhomes, from the $400s 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 $500s

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

Phillips Grove

7965 Wandering Way, Doctor Phillips, FL 32836 • pulte.com

Schools/Grades: Sandlake (A); Southwest (I); Dr. Phillips (C)

Amenities: Gated community, lawn care included, outside summer kitchen, pool and cabana, sports courts.

Builder: Pulte Homes, 407-449-8039

Product/Prices: Single-family, call for pricing

Notes: Located within minutes of I-4; near Central Florida’s “Restaurant Row;” convenient to schools and shopping; limited number of lakefront homesites on the Butler Chain of Lakes available.

Pinewood Reserve

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

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

Amenities: Pool and cabana, playground, dog park

Builder: Pulte Homes, 407-845-9049

Product/Price: Single-family and townhomes, from the mid-$300s

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.

San Sebastian Reserve

2100 Emerald Springs Drive, Apopka, FL 32712 • khov.com

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

Amenities: Gated community, resort-style pool, cabana, playground, dog park

Builder: K. Hovnanian Homes, 321-263-2644

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

Notes: Close to S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway), 414 (the Apopka Expressway) and Florida’s Turnpike.

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 low $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 high $300s

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.

Westhaven at Ovation

8818 Lakeshore Pointe Drive, Winter Garden, FL 34787 • tollbrothers.com

Schools/Grades: Panther Lake (NA); Water Springs (A); Horizon (B)

Amenities: Community pool and cabana, wetlands and water features

Builder: Toll Brothers, 877-431-0444

Product/Prices: Townhomes, from the mid-$400s; single-family, from the low $500s Notes: Nestled in a natural setting; embodies tranquility with a picturesque location just minutes to shopping, dining, entertainment and 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 high $300s

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.

I love everything about being a Highlander! My teachers, friends, learning, and playing are the best! I can’t wait to go to school every morning.

Highlanders receive an unparalleled education with long-lasting life lessons rooted in integrity,

Caroline Lane Kindergarten

EMPOWERED

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: Hanover Family Builders, 407-565-7450

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the low $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: D.R. Horton Homes, 877-415-0030

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 Ave, 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 high $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 mid-$300s

Notes: The Downtown Sanford Historic District features art studios, local dining, unique shops, farmer’s 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 high $300s

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).

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, new phase 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)

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 1,300-foot lakefront boardwalk with gazebo, fishing pier and community boat ramp and lift

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-853-8598

Products/Prices: Single-family, from the mid-$400s; townhomes coming soon

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

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 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 low $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, call for pricing; 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.

Reedy Reserve Townhomes

3312 Reedy Glen Drive, Kissimmee, FL 34758 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: BellaLago Charter Academy K-8 (C); New Dimensions (A)

Amenities: Pool and cabana, playground, dog park

Builder: Taylor Morrison, 407-756-5025

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

Notes: Featuring thoughtfully designed floorplans from Taylor Morrison’s Canvas Studio.

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 mid-$300s

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.

split oak reserve

Franklin Road and Leon Tyson Road, St. Cloud, FL 34771 • pulte.com

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

Amenities: Resort-style pool, playground, walking trails

Builder: Pulte Homes, 407-554-4438

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

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, from the mid $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.

Notes: Located just three miles south of Lake Nona with no CDD; dining and shopping located off Narcoossee Road. facebook.com/florida-homebuyer-orlando

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 $300s; single-family, from the $500s to over $1 million Notes: Near Florida’s Turnpike, S.R. 429 (the Western Beltway) and S.R. 528 (the Beachline Expressway).

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 $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.

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, coming soon

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.

FINAL OPPORTUNITY

Sawgrass Bay

Sawgrass Bay Boulevard, Clermont, FL 34714 • homedynamics.com

Schools/Grades: Sawgrass Bay (C); Windy Hill (B); East Ridge (B)

Amenities: Nature trails, playground, pool and cabana, conservation areas

Builder: Home Dynamics, 352-988-5955

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

Notes: Near Chain of Lakes, Lake Louisa State Park and Lakeridge Winery; 25 miles west of downtown Orlando; Sawgrass Bay Elementary School on site; close to championship golf courses.

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

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

The Canyons at Highland Ranch

516 Bellflower Way, Clermont, FL 34715 • taylormorrison.com

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

Amenities: Park, pool, cabana, splash pad, mail kiosk, pet stations, four miles of walking trails

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-756-5025

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

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. Visit

Notes: Three beautiful collections of homes are offered; easy access to the seven-mile South Lake Trail; five public golf courses nearby.

thefloridahomebuyer.com

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 • parkquarehomes.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, from the low $300s

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 and 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 high $200s

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

Tierra del sol

5219 Tuscany Lane, Davenport, FL 33897 • taylormorrison.com

Schools/Grades: Bella Cita (C); Citrus Ridge: A Civics Academy (C); Davenport (D)

Amenities: Pool, cabana, tot lot

Builder: Taylor Morrison Homes, 407-934-0075

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

Notes: Convenient to major employers including Walt Disney World Resort, Sea World and Universal Studios; nearby Posner Park, an 80-acre open-air shopping mall, offers an impressive variety of stores and restaurants as well as a Cinepolis IMAX Theater.

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; Platinum Home Builders, 386-690-5339; The Johnson Group, 386-767-8000; D.R. Horton Homes, 844-509-7695; Meritage Homes, 855-588-6374

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, coming soon

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

We are proud to announce that

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AT HOME WITH MARNI JAMESON

NOT ANOTHER PHOTO WALL!

BY Marni Jameson

hh, the family room photo wall. Just the phrase “family photo wall” makes me lift a nostril. They’re tricky to get right. Yet, when faced with the task of capturing our blended family of five in pictures in, where else, the family room, I was stumped.

Not that a wall of family photos can’t look great, but they almost always don’t. The ones I’ve seen suffer from too many photos, many of which are faded and discolored, and hang crookedly with bad spacing in cheap mismatched frames.

On top of that, the family historians tend to keep adding photos as time marches on until they need to add another wing on the house.

An interior designer friend sums it up this way: “A collection of photos of people who have meant a lot to you in your lifetime is wonderful to have and use to make a decorative impact. But put these collections in good, coordinating frames and arrange them on long side tables or built-in shelves, not on the walls. Photo walls are very hard to do well, and usually wind up looking dorky.”

Dorky. That’s precisely the word.

Another issue, which probably requires therapy, is that these family photo walls just make me feel so inadequate as a mother and step mom. In reality, all that stands between me and having a dorky family photo wall is the fact that my photos never get out of my camera and into a frame.

“You should thank me,” I say to the kids when they ask why I don’t have more pictures of them out, “for not lining our walls with awkward images of you naked on a sheepskin, or lurching through bad hairstyles and orthodontia.”

Another reason I balk at photo walls is the pressure they put on visitors to your home. Whenever I’m in someone’s family shrine, I never know how long to linger. Not long enough seems rude; too long seems creepy. Does anyone know the protocol here? Then there’s the issue of what to say.

“Oh, you look just like your mother!”

“That’s my father.”

So what do you do? I wanted a personal but not cheesy, tasteful not tacky, budget-friendly solution that didn’t necessarily look budget friendly. After some brainstorming with my designer pal, we determined that taking your photos (or self-impressions) to a new

level can be a great way to stylishly inject yourself or your family into your wall art. Here are some ways to do that:

be abstract

Companies such as canvaspop.com will take your favorite photos, stylize them so they have a vintage, sepia-toned, cartoon-like, stippled, or posterized effect, enlarge them and mount the images onto stretched canvas. For instance, you can take the same photo and have it made in four different treatments, or divide one photo across three vertical rectangular canvases to form a triptych.

Copy Warhol

Some companies will take your photo and reproduce it in a series of bold colors — yellow and turquoise, orange and fuchsia — turning your stills into pop art.

Get an artist’s impression

If you have a fabulous photo of a loved one, have a painter, whose work you also love, create a stylized painting from the snapshot. A friend of mine has a lovely oil painting of her black terrier hanging in her home. Where a framed photo would be cute, a painting looks even better.

Make it subtle

Work images discretely into other works of art. Another friend who lives in a Tuscan villa style home has in her entryway a floor-to-ceiling textural painting, which looks like a medieval tapestry. Look closer and that’s her daughter riding the unicorn, and her son wearing armor.

Leave your mark

At DNA11.com, a New York based company, you can have your DNA, fingerprints or lip prints, digitized and turned into one-of-a-kind images fit for your living room. Go online to pick the size and colors you want for your impression, and order a kit for your samples. (The DNA sample is a cheek swab, and the lip print involves applying lipstick they provide and kissing something.)

Syndicated columnist Marni Jameson is the author of the just released “House of Havoc,” and “The House Always Wins” (Da Capo Press). Contact her through www.marnijameson.com.

*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