Banana Point
Welcome to 5415 Banana Point Drive, a waterfront equestrian estate on the Harris Chain of Lakes. From sunrises over Lake Harris to breathtaking Florida sunsets over your peaceful equestrian pasture, Banana Point is a 5-acre estate, which includes 2.5 acres of horse-grazing pasture. From the leading edge of The Villages, the estate is only 3.9 miles east on The Villages’ Central Parkway and 45 minutes to Orlando International Airport.
This estate is a beautiful home, and a wise investment in the Central Florida real estate market.
With chain-of-lakes waterfront and horse-owner necessities in one private property, Banana Point is one lucky buyer’s future trophy home.
As you approach, a grand circular driveway leads to majestic live oaks and a private entrance with a unique indoor/outdoor pond featuring a waterfall ready for Koi. Your eye will catch the hand-carved solid wood staircase and overhead pecky cypress beams nestled in two stories of glass windows.
The residence features 3 bedrooms, 31/2 bathrooms, a newer shingle roof, and beautiful windows strategically designed to maximize the stunning lake views. The interior layout is distinctive, with bedrooms, great room, family room, kitchen, sunroom, and home office all facing the picturesque Lake Harris.
Wake up each morning to your Florida sunrise. Your spacious primary suite is located in a private wing of the home, ensuring complete privacy.
Boasting picture windows, a huge walk-in closet, and a master bathroom with double vanities, a Jacuzzi soaking tub, and a walk-in shower, the master suite is a luxurious retreat. On the upper floor of the house, the two additional bedrooms are intelligently arranged, creating a quasi-separate living space. Each bedroom enjoys its own private bathroom, and lake-facing private balcony, enhancing a sense of autonomy. Step outside to the beautiful waterfront where you’ll find your private boat dock and lift.
VIRTUALLY STAGED
The expansive three-car garage has a separate workshop and two other closets to use as a wine room or additional storage.
The Villages expansion of Middleton, The Villages Charter School, Eastport, and the planned world-class senior healthcare research and development Wellness Village, along with the move inland to combat the insurance crisis has reset the Banana Point real estate market.
This real estate reset of Banana Point value is just the beginning. Interested parties of 5415 Banana Point would serve their financial interest well by doing their investor and Villages’ expansion homework.
To be clear, 5415 Banana Point Drive is not priced relative to comparative properties in the secret yet sought-after Banana Point neighborhood. Those remarkable properties were last purchased years, if not decades, before The Villages expansion to Central Parkway. 5415 Banana Point Drive is priced relative to its location to The Villages’ future business marketplace along The Villages’ Central Parkway.
Seller is accepting offers at or above $1.7M
The following links reveal the long-term growth of the area surrounding Banana Point and demonstrate that the decision to make 5415 Banana Point Drive your primary home or second home is a wise investment.
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Redtree Drive
Welcome to 30215 Redtree Drive, Lake Harris. Discover an unrivaled waterfront paradise nestled directly on the shores of Lake Harris, part of the esteemed Harris Chain of Lakes. This expansive estate, accessible through a private gated driveway, offers a unique fusion of privacy, luxury,
and leisure. The immediate homesite consists of 3.06 acres, while enjoying private ownership of an adjacent 46+/conservation acres for additional privacy. Step into the custom-built 8,542 square foot sanctuary, masterfully designed to showcase breathtaking lake views from virtually every room. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, from the elegantly laid diagonal hardwood floors and porcelain tiles to the intricate ceilings showcasing tongue & groove, barrel, coffered, and tray designs. Delight in the custom millwork, leaded glass entry door, granite countertops, multiple fireplaces, and designer finishes that grace every corner. Oversized windows throughout invite an abundance of natural light, framing the tranquil water vistas. Embrace the epitome of outdoor living that caters to both relaxation as well as formal entertaining. Your private backyard oasis awaits, complete with a serene walking path leading down to your personal firepit area and composite
dock and boathouse, equipped with two lifts. Indoors, the thoughtfully designed floorplan offers a myriad of living spaces for everyone to enjoy. The open chef’s kitchen and dining areas provide the perfect setting for hosting unforgettable gatherings, seamlessly flowing into the massive pool area. Discover additional living spaces, including a dedicated homework station, a first-floor game room, and an office boasting custom wood details. Each bedroom hosts its own luxurious ensuite, while the versatile room above the garage can be transformed from a movie theater to guest quarters, home gym, or any flex space desired. Nestled within the renowned Harris Chain of Lakes in Central Florida, this exclusive retreat offers an unparalleled sense of seclusion while remaining mere minutes from a wealth of amenities including access to a public dock and boat ramp for additional ease. Explore the charming downtowns of Leesburg and nearby Mount Dora. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Villages, and enjoy convenient access to UF Health & Advent Health, golf courses, and sports complexes. A myriad of shopping and dining options along US Hwy 441
await, and Leesburg International Airport is just a short drive away. Disney and Orlando International Airport are both within an hour’s reach, making this estate the epitome of tranquility and convenience.
Call or text 352-552-8218 for an appointment to see this home with Scott A. Lepper.
The Villages
On the morning of Feb 7th, I made my way to my listing to officially clock the time between the home and all the above. Before I go further, if you’re not a golf cart enthusiast, you’re more of a walker, I clocked the walk too. It’s only a 3:52 morning stroll.
As I initially drove into the courtyard villa neighborhood, I saw two female Villagers walking their dogs. I then parked the Jeep at 878, reset the clock on my Android back to zeros, tapped start, and began to walk towards Tierra Del Sol.
I soon passed one of the ladies I saw walking her dog, and we exchanged good mornings. I then looked around to take in the vibe of the neighborhood. I looked behind me and a Villager was walking with his coffee cup. I then passed a female Villager on her bike, and we exchanged good mornings. I crossed San Marino Drive and arrived at everything Tierra Del Sol.
At that moment, I just about turned around, as I had lunched at the bar & grill before, been to the theatre, I could see the pool, courts, and golfers making their way to the starter shack, but I had never been in that rec center. So, there I went. Debbie was working the welcome desk. We exchanged good mornings, initial Villages’ humor, and began to chat. Debbie was unaware I was a Realtor on a reconnaissance mission for information about the neighborhood. Without prompting her, she told me everything about the history of the rec
center, the many activities at the rec, the upcoming 10-year celebration of the rec center, and the neighborhood eagles, hawks, and of course, gators too.
Debbie and I said our goodbyes and I made my way to the starter shack to chat with the starter guy. We exchanged good mornings, insider Villages’ humor, and then I started back towards 878. On the way, I met another Villager walking her dog. We stopped and started to chat. She is not a fan of Realtors! She said, all Realtors do is put a sign in the yard, that’s all they do. We talked more about real estate and then she opened up about her husband passing away in November, after 56 years of marriage, and how much she missed him. She was on the verge of tears. We talked awhile longer, and as we were saying our goodbyes, she asked me for my business card. She has a golf course home and may soon be selling. I then finished my walk back to 878.
I went to 878 that morning to clock the time to Tierra Del Sol, the walk between 878 and Tierra Del Sol gave a whole lot more.
Scott A. Lepper, Listing Realtor
P.S. Bond paid! Plantation Shutters. Furnished. Oversized courtyard with no grass to cut. 8 bonus parking spaces adjacent to 878. Roof and HVAC new in 2019. Close to Spanish Springs Town Square and Lake Sumter Landing. Move in Ready!
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Some people are surprised at how many grey areas there are when structuring an exchange. There are some important rules, which are generally clear, however it’s important to pay attention because a mistake can ruin your exchange. Here’s what NOT to do:
MISS THE 45-DAY IDENTIFICATION DEADLINE
Once you close on your relinquished property, you have 45 days to identify in writing what you intend to acquire in the exchange.
FAIL TO CLEARLY IDENTIFY
WHAT YOU ARE GOING TO BUY
You must identify it unambiguously. That generally means using a legal description or street address. If you are going to acquire a tenancy-in-common interest in the property, you should try to identify as closely as possible the percentage interest you will be acquiring.
MISS THE 180-DAY DEADLINE
Another crucial deadline is the 180-day exchange period. This rule states that you must acquire (close, or transfer) all replacement property(ies) by the 180th day. If the relinquished property closes escrow towards end of a tax year such that the 180th day falls after your tax filing date of the following year, you’ll need to complete your 1031 Exchange before filing your income tax return, or request an extension.
CLOSE BEFORE YOU SIGN EXCHANGE DOCUMENTS
Initially, exchanges could only be accomplished by two people simultaneously swapping properties. Eventually, the deferred exchange rules permitted taxpayers to use a qualified intermediary, such as First American Exchange Company, to act as an accommodator. The rules convert what looks like a sale followed by a purchase into an exchange. A basic requirement of this process is that an Exchange Agreement and Assignment Agreement must be signed by the taxpayer before the date the relinquished property closes escrow. In addition, the taxpayer must notify the buyer the contract has been assigned to a qualified Intermediary. The qualified intermediary will also be assigned into the replacement property contract, thus allowing the funds to be transferred within the “safe harbors”.
TAKE POSSESSION OF YOUR EXCHANGE FUNDS
Another important rule for a successful 1031 Exchange states that the taxpayer cannot have possession, or control, of the proceeds from the sale of the relinquished property. Upon closing of the relinquished property, the escrow holder will transfer the funds directly to First American Exchange Company, thus keeping the taxpayer from having receipt of the funds. One of the reasons it is so important to choose an intermediary
wisely is that they hold the proceeds of your sale until you are ready to acquire the replacement property. First American holds these funds only in FDICinsured bank accounts, and we never invest them in securities. Furthermore, funds are invested in a segregated account specific to the taxpayer’s tax ID number.
Paying attention to these important issues will eliminate most reasons that exchanges can fail. When you are ready to open an exchange or have questions, call us at First American Exchange.
TRISH MACK
CALL (727) 494-5186
VISIT FIRSTEXCHANGE.COM
TMACK@FIRSTAM.COM
The Most Reliable Home Inspection in The Villages®
EveryDay Inspections provides Home Inspections, Four Point Inspections, Roof Inspections and Wind Mitigation to Sumter County, Lake County, and Marion County!
We offer Accurate and Affordable Home inspections services and can almost always accommodate your scheduling needs. We offer Home Inspection Services 7 Days a week! We want all of our customers to be confident in their purchases which is why we make sure to answer all of your questions and provide you with solutions to the issues we find. Give us a call today to schedule!
E40FX
The brand new EPIC E40FX is the best golf cart on the market today! Furnished with every imaginable feature, the forward-facing four-seater EPIC E40FX comes in six stylish colors and three height options. Premium 14” wheels and street-ready tires provide a solid foundation for every journey on every terrain, no matter what lift height is selected. With an abundance of storage, superior built-in marine-grade sound system and speakers, and stunning accent lighting, this EPIC golf cart illuminates the possibilities for fun and adventure.
KEY FEATURES
• 51V/105Ah ECO Lithium Battery
• 10” Multimedia Digital Display
• Marine-Grade Sound System & 4 Built-in Speakers
• 48V Onboard Charging System with Body Mounted Charge Indicator
• Storage Removable & Lockable Trunk in Rear, Latched and Lit Frunk, Storage Tray Beneath Rear Seats, Locking Glove Compartments
G40
Get on the road and go the distance with the ICON G40 gas golf cart. With a speed range of 19-24 MPH, this rugged and durable 4-passenger vehicle boasts an estimated fuel range of approximately 150+ miles. Well-equipped with a fully integrated digital instrument cluster, LED lighting and signals, and industry-leading brakes for extra safety, this gas golf cart can conquer any terrain!
KEY FEATURES
• Motor 401cc EFIA03, OHV with EFI
• Horsepower 13.5HP @3600rpm per SAE J1995
• Battery 12V
• Brakes 4-Wheel Disc Brakes & Dual Electronic Parking Brake
• Full Light Package LED Headlights, Taillights, Turn Signals
• Safety Side Hip Restraint & Retractable Seat Belts, Mirrors, Horn, Grab Bars, Windshield
• Dash Forward/Reverse Switch, USB and 12V Plugs, Cubby Storage, Multiple Cup Holders, Key Switch, Instrumentation Cluster
• Color White, Forest Green, Indigo Blue & Black
Attorney Shannon McLin, Founder of Florida Appeals Announces Name Change to her Maiden Name, McLin
Attorney Shannon McLin founder of Florida Appeals, recently announced a change back to her maiden name — McLin. With an established career and reputation spanning almost 30 years, this change reflects not only her plans for the future but also pays tribute to her family’s history. Pronounced “MACK’Lin,” the name has inspired the use of the phrase “The Mack is back” among Shannon and her friends and colleagues.
Shannon founded The Carlyle Appellate Law Firm in 1997 which her thenhusband Chris joined in 2004. The firm grew to seven lawyers with three offices across Florida. Following their dissolution of marriage in 2017, Shannon and Chris continued as law partners and Shannon maintained her married name. In 2019, Shannon left the firm and founded Florida Appeals, a boutique firm offering appellate representation and trial support to trial lawyers and their clients throughout Florida. Because the firm was new, Shannon continued to
maintain the name Carlyle, believing it was important for colleagues and clients to know she was the same attorney with a new appellate firm.
“The MACK is back. ”
With Florida Appeals now well established and with the full support of her three children, Shannon decided to go back to using the McLin name professionally. This change is rooted in enormous pride for her family’s history. Shannon is a fifthgeneration Florida McLin, with her father, Walter S. “Buddy” McLin III of McLin Burnsed, being a well-regarded Florida attorney for nearly 50 years. Shannon owes a large part of her success to her father who was known for his honesty and integrity, believing your word is your stock in trade. For Shannon, the McLin name represents the ethics, character, and values inspired by her father. Aside from her father’s legal profession, the McLin name has a long history in Florida stemming from her great, great, great grandfather Benjamin Earnest McLin,
who began as a citrus farmer in Lake County and when the Great Freeze of 1898 destroyed his livelihood, he ran for and was elected Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, a position he held until his death in 1912.
Shannon McLin and the Florida Appeals team are excited for a new chapter in their firm’s story — a story that now more clearly connects the firm to Shannon McLin’s deep roots in Florida’s history.
LOCATIONS: THE VILLAGES ORLANDO TAMPA FORT LAUDERDALE
CALL (866) 352-7732
VISIT FLORIDAAPPEALS.COM
