




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.
SALE POSSIBLE PARTNERSHIPFORTHERIGHT SITUATION
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,
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.
Welcome to 878 Oviedo Road, The Villages, 57 Seconds, 57 Seconds, 57 Seconds. You read that right, this beauty is only a 57 second golf cart ride to dining at Tierra Del Sol Bar & Grill, Championship Golf at Tierra Del Sol Championship Golf Course, shopping at Tierra Del Sol Golf Shop, entertainment at Tierra Del Sol Theatre, exercise & friendships at Tierra Del Sol Recreation Center. Move-in ready, Snowbirds!
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.
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”.
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
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!
Day-1: Engage the developer with your Realtor. Purchasing a preconstruction or new construction condominium is significantly different than the traditional purchase of a home. Condominium developers incorporate specialized Realtors “Preferred Buyer Agents” into their sales and marketing to represent upcoming and under-construction projects to the marketplace. For their involvement, Preferred Buyer Agents are compensated by the developer, not the buyer.
Even more importantly for buyers to know is, if a potential buyer does not designate a specific Realtor by name upon first engagement with the developer’s website, digital ads, or sales office, they, likely unknowingly, forgo the opportunity to have a Realtor represent them should they decide to purchase. If you decide to engage the developer on your own and do not wish to forgo future representation by a Realtor, please designate me, Scott A. Lepper, Real Broker, as your Realtor.
Day-1: Engage the developer with your Realtor. Purchasing a preconstruction or new construction condominium is significantly different than the traditional purchase of a home. Condominium developers incorporate specialized Realtors “Preferred Buyer Agents” into their sales and marketing to represent upcoming and under-construction projects to the marketplace. For their involvement, Preferred Buyer Agents are compensated by the developer, not the buyer.
Even more importantly for buyers to know is, if a potential buyer does not designate a specific Realtor by name upon first engagement with the developer’s website, digital ads, or sales office, they, likely unknowingly, forgo the opportunity to have a Realtor represent them should they decide to purchase. If you decide to engage the developer on your own and do not wish to forgo future representation by a Realtor, please designate me, Scott A. Lepper, Real Broker, as your Realtor.
Elevate your lanai with a beautiful versatile glass enclosure. Our process is seamless beginning with a complimentary in-home estimate. Your customized glass products are installed by an experienced crew. We acquire permits and approvals. The Custom Windows and Exterior Design team is ready to assist you every step of the way. We have been creating amazing lanais for 38 years!
• Configurations to maximize airflow
• Single-pane or energy efficient double-pane low-e glass
• Sliding doors and horizontal sliding windows
• Picture and casement windows
• White or bronze aluminum frames
• White, bronze or almond vinyl frames
• Fixed or sliding screens
Cirrus today announced the new SR Series G7+ featuring Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland by Garmin®, the world’s first FAA-approved autonomous emergency landing system in a single-engine piston aircraft. With the integration of this technology, anyone in the cabin can activate Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland with the touch of a button in the event of an emergency, commanding the aircraft to navigate to a suitable nearby airport and land autonomously. This advancement in aviation safety provides pilots and passengers of the world’s best-selling high-performance single-engine piston aircraft with an automated emergency landing option in the event of pilot incapacitation or a similar inflight emergency. Cirrus is currently delivering the SR Series G7+ with Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland.
The Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system uses a combination of advanced sensors, sophisticated algorithms and automated flight control systems to enable the aircraft to autonomously land safely without pilot input. With a single push of a button, the system takes control of the aircraft, communicates with air traffic control, navigates to the nearest suitable airport while avoiding terrain and adverse weather, autonomously lands the aircraft bringing it to a complete stop, shuts down the engine and stops the propeller so that passengers can exit the aircraft safely.
• Straightforward Activation: In the event of an emergency, the pilot or passengers can activate the system with a simple push of a button, which is centrally positioned in the aircraft’s cabin ceiling, initiating Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland.
• Advanced Algorithms: The system is powered by sophisticated onboard sensors and algorithms that adapt to changing conditions and enable navigation through the airspace, calculate runway parameters, and detect real-time weather and terrain.
• Fully Automated Flight Control: Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland autonomously controls the autopilot and engine to fly the aircraft and execute a safe landing sequence.
• Air Traffic Control: The system continuously communicates with air traffic control during the flight and automatically switches to different frequencies as the aircraft travels to the most suitable airport.
• Passenger Experience: Passengers are kept informed with straightforward information on the flight displays, including airport destination, arrival time, and remaining fuel. Next steps are also clearly communicated over headsets. Passengers can press the “Talk” button on the flight display to speak directly to air traffic control.
Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland can be activated both manually and automatically. Anyone in the cabin can activate Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland at the press of a button. If a pilot is alone or those in the cabin are unable to activate it manually, Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland is designed to activate automatically if the system determines that the pilot is flying erratically or is unresponsive. Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland can be disconnected by pressing the autopilot disconnect button at any time the pilot decides.
With the SR Series G7+, Automatic Database Updates powered by Cirrus IQ PRO™ are now available through a subscription in the Cirrus IQ™ app for connected aircraft owners. Automatic Database Updates allow owners to receive automatic avionics database updates via Wi-Fi or LTE to ensure the most current and accurate data for navigation. These updates can occur while the aircraft is powered off and the owner is away from the aircraft. When the aircraft is powered up, essential databases are automatically synchronized across compatible avionics.
Runway Occupancy Awareness leverages ADS-B traffic data to predict and alert pilots of potential runway incursions from nearby airborne aircraft or other aircraft on or approaching the runway. Visual and aural alerts are provided on the pilot’s primary flight display and 3D SafeTaxi™ map to maximize situational awareness, a safety feature that is especially useful at busy airports.
Smart Pitot Heat is enabled by systems integration through Perspective Touch+™ to reduce pilot workload and automate the flying experience. The system performs a self-test before every flight and automatically turns on or off in flight depending on outside air temperatures, making it one less system to manage.
Cirrus has a long history of revolutionizing aviation safety and remains steadfast in its mission to continuously innovate, remove barriers of entry and invite more people to experience Personal Aviation™ with safety and peace of mind built into every aircraft. From advancing avionics systems to exploring autonomous flight, Cirrus is committed to manufacturing aircraft that not only meet today’s needs but also anticipate tomorrow’s challenges.
By adding the Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland system to the SR Series G7+, Cirrus is helping to ensure that pilots and their passengers can travel with a greater sense of security, knowing that if there is an in-flight emergency, their aircraft has the capability to respond autonomously.
To learn more about the SR Series G7+ with Safe Return™ Emergency Autoland, please visit cirrusaircraft.com/sr-series.
Cirrus is the recognized global leader in Personal Aviation™ and the maker of the best-selling SR Series piston aircraft and the Vision Jet®, the world’s first single-engine Personal Jet™, and the recipient of the Robert J. Collier Trophy. Founded in 1984, the company has redefined aviation performance, comfort and safety with innovations like the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System® (CAPS®) – the first FAAcertified whole-airframe parachute safety system included as standard equipment on an aircraft. To date, worldwide flight time on Cirrus aircraft is 18 million hours, and 270 people have returned home safely to their families as a result of the inclusion of CAPS as a standard feature on all Cirrus aircraft. The company has seven locations in the United States, including Duluth, Minnesota; Grand Forks, North Dakota; Greater Dallas, Texas; Greater Phoenix, Arizona; Greater Orlando, Florida; Knoxville, Tennessee and Benton Harbor, Michigan. Learn more at cirrusaircraft.com.
Villagers that explore other active areas of Florida will want to seek out Lake County. It was named for the many lakes contained within its borders, 250 named lakes and 1,735 other bodies of water.
In the 1800s, the two main industries in the area were growing cotton and breeding cattle. In the latter part of the 19th century, people started to grow citrus trees. Throughout the 1940s and 50s, citrus production increased and grew into the area’s leading industry. The December 1989 United States cold wave destroyed most of the citrus groves, dealing an economic blow from which many growers could not recover. Grove owners sold massive amounts of land to developers, resulting in increasing urban sprawl.
Travares Florida is less than an hour by car from the attractions of Orlando, the lakefront city of Tavares is an entirely different taste of Central Florida. Visitors of downtown Tavares will find an entertainment district that has an international assortment of restaurants, pubs and music
venues. You will also enjoy Wooton Park, home of the Tavares Seaplane Base, the children’s Splash Park and more than 16 major community events each year. Enjoy a seaplane ride, take a boat tour, or maybe glimpse long-gone historical figures on the Séance Ghost Tours.
Eustis Florida where you can enjoy a two hour glass bottom guided kayak tour.
Get a 360 degree look at Rock Springs Run on a small-group clear kayak excursion. The leisurely river tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, and photographers. With a completely clear frame, the kayak allows you to see any turtles, fish, or small alligators you pass over. Listen to entertaining commentary on the surrounding flora and fauna along the way.
Mount Dora: is a relaxing lakefront getaway with a bustling downtown, charming bed and breakfasts, and an abundance of parks and green spaces.
Dubbed “Festival City,” Mount Dora hosts more than 30 festivals a year, and its year-round entertainment schedule means there’s always something to do. In addition to the longstanding Mount Dora Arts Festival, the city’s arts and culture scene offers a variety of galleries and museums, including Modernism Museum Mount Dora, where visitors can also dine on contemporary Florida cuisine.
COUNTY
DISTANCE:
26.4 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 40 MINUTES BY CAR
While The Villages® itself boasts numerous amenities and activities, there’s no denying the allure of exploring the surrounding areas. One such gem is Tampa Bay, located just a short drive away. Here are some exciting things for Villagers to do in Tampa Bay, Florida.
Visit the Beaches: Tampa Bay is home to some stunning Gulf Coast beaches. St. Pete Beach, Clearwater Beach and Fort De Soto Park offer pristine white sands and crystalclear waters, perfect for a day of relaxation or water sports.
Explore the Arts: Tampa Bay has a vibrant arts scene. The Tampa Museum of Art and The Dali Museum in St. Petersburg are mustvisit spots for art enthusiasts. The Straz Center for the Performing Arts hosts various shows and concerts throughout the year.
Sports Fanatics Rejoice: Tampa Bay is a sports lover’s paradise. Catch a Tampa Bay Buccaneers
game at Raymond James Stadium, or cheer for the Tampa Bay Lightning team at Amalie Arena. Baseball fans can watch the Tampa Bay Rays in action at Tropicana Field.
Cruise Adventures: Enjoy a scenic cruise along Tampa Bay or the Hillsborough River. You can choose from dinner cruises, wildlife tours or even pirate-themed adventures. If a cruise ship is what you’re looking for, Tampa Bay is a major cruise port, making it easy for residents to embark on cruises to the Caribbean and other destinations.
Tampa Riverwalk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Tampa Riverwalk, a 2.6-mile path along the Hillsborough River. Enjoy beautiful views, public art installations and waterfront dining.
Foodie Paradise: Tampa Bay offers diverse culinary experiences. Try Cuban sandwiches, seafood and craft breweries. Don’t forget to sample some key lime pie for dessert.
Whether it’s soaking up the sun on the beach, indulging in culinary delights or immersing yourself in the local culture, Tampa Bay has something for every Villager.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
DISTANCE:
79.1 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 1 HOUR 20 MINUTES BY CAR
PINELLAS COUNTY
DISTANCE:
101 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 2 HOURS BY CAR
Villagers feeling the urge to burst through the bubble and explore Florida should indulge in the abundance of attractions and opportunities to enjoy in nearby Orange County.
Explore Orlando’s Fun Spots: Southeast of The Villages® lies the magical city of Orlando, home to world-renowned theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando. Whether you're seeking exhilarating rides, enchanting characters or aquatic adventures, Orlando offers endless entertainment for all ages.
Discover Natural Beauty: Orange County boasts several picturesque parks and outdoor spaces. The Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve is a serene oasis with hiking trails, wildlife and stunning views. Lake Eola Park, located in downtown Orlando, offers a scenic lake with a walking trail along its perimeter, swan-shaped paddleboats and regular events like farmers markets and concerts.
Shop and Dine: Shopaholics and food enthusiasts must visit The Florida Mall for modish stores and
a food court with a multitude of choices. Or try The Mall at Millenia for upscale shopping featuring renowned fashion brands and luxurious boutiques. For a more eclectic experience, explore Winter Garden, where charming streets are lined with independent shops, trendy restaurants and cozy cafes.
Cultural Immersion: The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts hosts world-class Broadway shows, concerts and ballet performances.
The Orlando Museum of Art and the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art showcase an impressive collection of visual arts.
Sports: Catch NBA action at the Amway Center, home of the up-andcoming Orlando Magic, led by 2023 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero. Hockey enthusiasts should check out the Orlando Solar Bears. Get a kick out of Major League Soccer at Exploria Stadium, where Orlando City SC plays. Football fans have two choices of teams to follow – the Orlando Guardians of the XFL or the Orlando Predators in the Arena League. Golf lovers will find a multitude of challenging courses throughout the county, perfect for honing their skills.
With all that just a hop, skip and jump away, head on out Villagers and enjoy a diverse range of activities and experiences beyond the bubble. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, culture or entertainment, Orange County offers something for everyone. So, take a day trip or weekend getaway and explore the many treasures of Orange County.
DISTANCE: 57.8 MILES FROM THE VILLAGES®
TRAVEL TIME: 1 HOUR BY CAR
The Arrival Guide leads the way into The Villages® community and into Florida. The guide provides valuable information to arriving Villagers, on businesses, local events, attractions and Florida travel. The Arrival Guide also offers advertising opportunities for businesses intent on reaching new Villagers even ahead of their arrival. The Arrival Guide is available in high-tech digital copy, ArrivalGuide.com, Facebook and Instagram.
The way I envision it, the Arrival Guide blends together two distinct categories of businesses that Villagers rely on for a smooth transition so they can “Get Things Done” and “Go Have Fun”.
Scott A. Lepper, Publisher Village of St. Johns Homeowner Scott@ArrivalGuide.com
Customer Service 352-552-8218