Central Florida Real Estate and Community News

May 12, 2022

‘Unsellable Houses’ Unveils 5 Cheap Changes That’ll Rain Cash When You Sell.

‘Unsellable Houses’ Unveils 5 Cheap Changes That’ll Rain Cash When You Sell.
As Published on Realtor.com (www.realtor.com) by Jillian Pretzel on May 11, 2022.

Twin sisters Lyndsay Lamb and Leslie Davis are experts at renovating run-down properties on their HGTV show, “Unsellable Houses.” But what if a house is already in good shape? Then their strategy shifts to shooting for the moon and maximizing profits.

That’s exactly what they aim to do in the Season 3 episode “Fancy Farmhouse,” when the sisters work with married couple Spencer and Molly. Their Marysville, WA, property, which they designed and built themselves 17 years earlier, is already nice and move-in ready. Lamb and Davis know that this house could sell for $700,000 as is.

The sisters also believe that they could sell this place for much more, maybe $850,000. Their tactic? Add $50,000 in upgrades that will make this house look unique and give it an edge. Find out the changes that help take an already great house to a whole new level.

1. Open up a tight staircase
When Lamb and Davis first step into this house, they’re not impressed with the tight entryway. Between the narrow walkway to the kitchen and the staircase, the space isn’t ideal. So, Lamb and Davis decide to open up the staircase wall and install a custom iron handrail to connect the staircase and hallway, making both feel bigger. Once the new railing is installed, the sisters are impressed. “Before, I would’ve rushed a buyer through that entryway,” Lamb says. “Now, I want a buyer to stop and enjoy and notice how beautiful and unique that entryway is.”

2. Try different island shapes
A large kitchen island can be a big selling point, but Lamb and Davis think this home’s large rectangular island could use some improvement—especially when they decide to add a long dining room table right next to the bar seating. Luckily, contractor Jeff Lawrence comes up with a brilliant idea to build the island in a pentagon shape. “The advantage of doing this is that we can get seating around here without encroaching into the room,” Lawrence says. Davis approves of the idea right away. “I actually really like this shape,” she says. “I feel like it’s just giving us that advantage, that step up from all the other homes on the market.” They go ahead with the pentagon island, and when the kitchen is done, it’s clear that the nontraditional shape was a great idea. The HGTV stars create more room to add a dining room table while still providing enough space for four seats at the island. It’s a smart, space-saving solution that other designers will surely borrow.

3. Add color in surprising places—like your sink
To finish this kitchen, Lamb wants to add a big farmhouse sink. However, Davis disapproves of the blue color she picks. “This is forcing a color on a buyer,” Davis says, gesturing to the blue sink. Then, pointing to a plain white sink, she says, “This is allowing a buyer to select their own color. In that price point, I think the buyer needs to make their own decision.” However, Lamb persuades her sister to use the blue sink, and it ends up looking perfect in the space. Next to the new black Shaker cabinets, the sink adds just the right amount of playful color to the room. While homeowners might not think to add a colorful sink, Lamb proves that it might be a risk worth taking.

4. Add high-end finishes to the bathroom
The main suite is already in good shape, but Lamb and Davis know that if they replace the builder-grade finishes, such as the laminate floors, they’ll really impress buyers. “Builder-grade materials totally make sense when you’re on a budget,” Lamb says. “And Molly and Spencer had four kids to raise.” Davis agrees: “To really maximize this home for a new buyer, we’re going to have to put in some new, upgraded product.” They rip up the laminate flooring and lay down stylish tile. They also replace the vanity and put in a black soaking tub. While Davis isn’t so sure about the tub at first, Lamb knows the black will bring some elegance to this farmhouse home. “That black tub, I don’t care what anybody says, it puts a bow on this whole design,” Lamb says.

5. Paint doors black for an elegant look throughout the house
To finish up the home update, Lamb decides to paint all the interior doors black, giving the whole home a more dramatic, elegant look. The new color not only looks chic, but it also matches the black cabinets in the kitchen as well as the black tub and the stair railing. The common color helps the entire home look cohesive and thoughtfully designed.

How much does this house sell for in the end?

Once the $50,000 renovation is done, Lamb and Davis list this home for $850,000, well over the $700,000 they would have listed it for before the updates. After just 10 days on the market, Spencer and Molly accept an offer for $875,000. Davis and Lamb recoup their investment, and then the homeowners and the sisters split the difference, each side scoring $62,500.

It’s an amazing profit and an incredible home upgrade. Davis and Lamb prove that while a home may look great, there’s always room for improvement.

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April 12, 2022

Just Closed | Commercial Building | 8525 US Highway 441, Leesburg FL 34788

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
Just Closed | Commercial Building | $940,000.00
8525-8535 US Highway 441, Leesburg, FL 34788

Congratulations

to my Customer on the purchase & closing of their new multi-unit commercial building in Leesburg, Florida. This was a fantastic investment on a 100% occupied building & delivering an amazing ROI with an 8.6% Cap Rate. Located on busy US Highway 441 directly across the street from the Leesburg International Airport, the property also had many recent capital improvements including a new roof, windows and fencing.

We were able to utilize a 1031 Exchange which is a fantastic way to minimize your tax liability when selling/buying any investment property. Basically, under the Internal Revenue Code, Section 1031, any Seller of an investment property is allowed the opportunity to avoid paying capital gains tax when they sell an investment real estate property, then reinvest the profits into another similar property within a certain period of time.

If you or anyone you know is looking to sell/purchase a commercial or investment property and would like to learn more about the 1031 Exchange advantages, please contact Joe Bornstein, Broker, Rock Springs Realty at Cell# 407-252-8092, joe@rockspringsrealty.com and I'd be happy to assist.
"It's All About The Results"

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Joe Bornstein

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April 11, 2022

Strict Changes to Homeowners Insurance Requirements - Florida

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
STRICT CHANGES TO HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS!

Attention Customers', Friends and Family! If you haven't heard, strict changes have taken place to homeowners insurance requirements when binding insurance on a new home purchase, or possibly on your renewal depending on the age of your home. The new requirements are in regard to the major mechanical systems of your home, including but not limited to: Roofs, Plumbing, HVAC, Wiring, Electrical Panel Boxes and Water Heaters.

Please review the attached flyer "carefully" for specific details. It's very, very important to understand these changes to protect yourself and your home.

Also, not all companies are allowing the homeowner to make necessary changes within 30 days of binding a policy. In some cases, on an ineligible item, the homeowner will be required to provide proof of repairs/replacement of the work "BEFORE" being able to bind a policy.

Feel free to call me with any questions. I'll do my best to answer them directly or refer you to multiple insurance professionals that can assist. Thank you again for all your support and I can be reached at: Joe Bornstein, Broker, Rock Springs Realty, Cell# 407-252-8092, joe@rockspringsrealty.com and I'd be happy to assist. Also visit: www.RockSpringsRealty.com

"It's All About The Results

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March 15, 2022

Just Listed | Sunset Groves | 28901 Sandy Lane, Tavares FL 32778

Just Listed | Sunset Groves | $509,900.00
28901 Sandy Lane, Tavares FL 32778

"MOVE-IN READY" 4-BEDROOMS, 3-BATHROOMS COUNTRY ESTATE POOL HOME ON 2-FULL ACRES, TAVARES, FL 32778. If you're looking for a Country Lifestyle with City Conveniences, look no further! This property is AMAZING & consists of a Main Single-Family Home, Guest House, Huge 24'x36' Workshop (Could be converted to another Guest House), 3-Car Enclosed Garage, Full RV/Boat Storage, Another 10'x20' Workshop and a 12'x15' Stable for your animals. The Owners have Updated & Upgraded this property which will Impress the Pickiest of Buyers. "THE MAIN HOUSE" is 3-Beds, 2-Baths and updated in 2018 which includes an Open Living/Dining Room Layout, Custom Designed Kitchen with 36" Solid Wood Cabinets, Soft Close & Insert Organizers, Custom Fabricated Stainless Counter Tops, Appliance Pkg including a Built-In Oven, Country Stainless Steel Deep Sink, Custom Tile Backsplash, Breakfast Bar, Tons of Counter/Storage Space, Recessed/Custom Lighting & Closet Panty. The Master Suite is a Perfect Retreat with a Large Bedroom, 8'x8' Walk-In Closet, Tile Floors and a "Safe Room" with Steel Walls and Door, perfect to protect the family in any storm. The Master Bath features a Custom Tub/Shower, Floor-To-Ceiling Ceramic Tile, Custom Hardware, Vintage Vanity, Blue Tooth Speaker and a Linen Closet. The Additional (2) Bedrooms are split with one set-up as a Home Office and the other as a Traditional Bedroom. Bathroom#2 includes a Walk-In Shower, Custom Vanity, New Toilet, Ship-Lap Wall Accent, New Hardware & Linen Closet. Addl Main Home Features: All items were Updated in 2018 - Roof, Electrical Panel, Plumbing & HVAC System. "PLUS"- Covered Front Porch, Screened Enclosed Rear Porch, (5) Panel Interior Doors, Double Paned/Tilt Sashed Windows, Pull Down Cordless Blinds, Tankless Water Heater, Brushed Nickel Hardware & more. "THE GUEST HOUSE" features a Large Living Room which is open to the Kitchen and includes 36" Solid Wood Upper & Lower Cabinets, Tile Counter-Tops, Custom Tile Backsplash, Appliance Pkg, Stainless Steel Sink, Tons of Counter & Storage Space and Dinette. Enjoy a Private Bedroom with a 10' Long Closet & Custom Doors. The Adjoining Bathroom features a Walk-In Shower, Floor-to-Ceiling Wall Tile, Custom Vanity, Linen Closet and a Custom Elegant Chandelier. Addl Features-Tankless Waterheater, Ceiling Fans & Light Kits, (2) Panel Doors, Stained Concrete Floors, Multiple Closets and Sliding Doors for relaxing on the "HUGE" 12'x35' Screened Enclosed Porch overlooking the pool. IF YOU ENJOY OUTDOOR SPACE, you will love the 16'x25' Custom Salt Pool, HUGE 40'x40' Pool Deck made from Custom Mother of Pearl and Coquina. The 6' Deep Pool features a Diamond Bright Finish, (3) Step-Stepout, Bench Seat, Pool Shower, Light & includes a 6' High Cedar Board-on-Board Safety Fence & Self-Locking Gate. DO YOU WANT TO BE THE ENVY OF YOUR FRIEND & FAMILY? Wow them with the Custom Domed Wood-Buring Oven sourced from Portugal. "ADDITIONAL PROPERTY FEATURES" - Remote Controlled Main Security Gate, Fully Fenced & Crossed Fenced, Open Parking Pads for (4) Vehicles, Upgraded Septic Tank & Oversized Drain Field, Dual "Rain Soft" Water Conditioners, Mature Oaks & Multiple Varieties of Citrus, Olive, Avocado Plants/Trees. Just 3 Minutes to Deer Island Country Club, 10-minutes to Publix, Dining, Shopping, Hwy 441, Hwy 429, Turnpike, etc. SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT, SERIOUS & QUALIFIED BUYERS ONLY. Call Listing Broker, Joe Bornstein, Rock Springs Realty, Ph# 407-252-8092, for more information or to schedule a "Covid Safe" Showing.

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28901 SandyLane, Tavares, FL 32778

"MOVE-IN READY" 4-BEDROOMS, 3-BATHROOMS COUNTRY ESTATE POOL HOME ON 2-FULL ACRES

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Jan. 11, 2022

Just Closed | Enclave Maitland | 1404 Caring Court, Maitland FL 32751

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
Just Closed | Enclave Maitland | $542,500.00
1404 Caring Court, Maitland FL 32751

Congratulations

 to my Customers on closing on their Beautiful 3-Bedroom, 2.5 Bathroom Mediterranean Design Single Family Home in the Exclusive Gated Community of the Enclave Maitland. This corner unit, move-in ready home had a ton of upgrades and a gorgeous covered patio overlooking a conservation area.  It truly was my pleasure working with you both and I know you will enjoy your new home for many years to come. 

If you, or anyone you know is looking to purchase a Luxury home in Maitland, Longwood or anywhere in the Central Florida area, please contact Joe Bornstein, Broker, Rock Springs Realty at Cell# 407-252-8092, joe@rockspringsrealty.com and I'd be happy to assist. 

"It's All About The Results"

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Jan. 11, 2022

Just Closed | Cross Tie Ranch | 25328 Derby Drive, Sorrento, FL 32776

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
Just Closed | Cross Tie Ranch | $849,600.00

Congratulations

 to the Benjamin's on the sale & closing of their "Gorgeous" 4-Bedroom, 3.5-Bath Pool Home on (4) Fully Fenced Acres in the Equestrian Community of Cross Tie Ranch. This Custom Built Home has been meticulously maintained and featured (3) Fully Fenced Pastures, Dressage Rink, Training Rink and a 40'x48' Monitor Style Barn featuring 3-Stalls and a full Tack Room. It truly was my pleasure to work with you all and I wish you the best of luck in your new home.

If you, or anyone you know is looking to sell an Equestrian or Luxury home in Sorrento, Apopka or anywhere in the Central Florida area, please contact Joe Bornstein, Broker, Rock Springs Realty at Cell# 407-252-8092, joe@rockspringsrealty.com and I'd be happy to assist.

"It's All About The Results"

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25328 Derby Drive, Sorrento FL 32776

"VERY RARE EQUESTRIAN OPPORTUNITY" - OWN THIS GORGEOUS 4-BED, 3.5-BATH, POOL

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Dec. 19, 2021

Just Listed | Errol Estate | 1290 Lake Francis Drive, Apopka FL 32712

Just Listed | Errol Estate | $459,900.00
1290 Lake Francis Drive, APOPKA, FL 32712

"MOVE-IN READY" 3-BEDROOM, 2-FULL BATH, POOL HOME IN SOUGHT AFTER ERROL ESTATE, APOPKA, FL 32712. This Family Home is situated on an "HUGE" oversized lot that includes Gorgeous Oaks, Magnolias, Palms and a variety of Citrus Trees. The home features impressive 14 ' High Cathedral Ceilings in the Main Living areas including the Separate Living, Family and Dining Rooms. The Kitchen Features 36" Wood Cabinets, Laminate Counter-tops, Kenmore Brand Appliance Package including a Side/Side Refrigerator, Range/Oven, Hood, Dishwasher, Breakfast Bar, 50/50 Stainless Steel Sink, Planter Shelves, Closet Pantry and Tons of Counter & Storage Space. Just off the Kitchen is a Large 8'x11' Dinette which overlooks the backyard & includes a wall of windows allowing an abundance of natural light to brighten up the home. Enter the Master Suite through a set of French Doors which leads into a Large Open Bedroom with a Tray Ceiling, Plush Carpeting, Dual Walk-in Closets and a Sliding door to the Patio & Pool area. The Master Bathroom features His/Her Sinks, Vanity, Wood Cabinets, Cultured Marble Counter-Tops, Wall Length Mirror, Walk-In Shower with a Glass Enclosure and a Large "Step-In" Jetted Soaking Tub for relaxing after a long day. If you enjoy outdoor space, there is an oversized 11' x 41' Screen Enclosed Lanai with a Ceramic Tile Floor, Dual Access Doors, Lighting and Electric Service to watch the big game and keep the bugs away. Just off the Lanai you will find the Pool Bath with includes a Single Vanity with Wood Cabinets & a Cultured Marble Counter-Top, Shower/Tub Combo and direct access to the Custom Designed 14' x 26' In-Ground Pool which features a (3) Step, Step Out, Multiple Bench Seats, Pool Sweep and a huge 22' x 40' Cool Deck. The back yard is Fully Fenced with 6' High Wood Privacy Fencing along with a Dual Gate which allows for extra Storage & Parking, Sprinkler System, Gutters/Downspouts. Additional Home Features Include: "NEWER" Energy Star Rated 40-Year Metal Roof (2015), "NEWER" RePlumb with PEX Piping (2020), "NEW" Interior Paint of Walls & Trim (2021), "NEWER" GE 40 Gallon Waterheater (2010), GE "Excel" Salt System Water Conditioner, Block/Stucco Construction with Upgraded Flagstone Exterior Finish, "Solid Core" 6-Panel Front Door w/Etched Glass Side Panel, Carrier 15-SEER HVAC System w/Duct Inspection & Sealing Certification, "NEWER" Aluminum Insulated Garage Door w/Glass Panels & Precision Garage Door Opener, Window treatments, Ceiling Fans & 6-Panel Doors throughout, Programmable Thermostat, Marble Window Sills, Multiple Storage & Coat Closets, Inside Laundry Room which includes a Kenmore "Elite" Washer & Dryer and Upper Wooden Storage Cabinets, Wash Tub, Storage Closet and much more. Available for a quick closing, call today to schedule a "Covid Safe" showing or for more information. Offered by Listing Broker Joe Bornstein, Rock Springs Realty, Cell# 407-252-8092, Toll# 877-333-2811, joe@rockspringsrealty.com
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1290 Lake Francis Drive, Apopka FL 32712

"MOVE-IN READY" 3-BEDROOM, 2-FULL BATH, POOL HOME IN SOUG

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Nov. 11, 2021

Just Closed | Sweetwater Country Club | 2578 Roveri Ave, Apopka FL 32712

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
Just Closed | Sweetwater Country Club | $495,000.00
2578 Roveri Ave, Apopka FL 32712

Congratulations

 to my friends and long time customer's Robert & Megan on the sale & closing of their "Gorgeous" 4-Bedroom, 3-Bath Home in the Estates at Sweetwater Country Club. Megan is a master at design and made this a one-of-a-kind home that deserved multiple-offers and a fantastic Buyer. We are all very excited about the new addition to your family & stepping-up to a much larger home in Parkside at Errol Estate. It truly was my pleasure to work with you both!

If you, or anyone you know is looking to sell a Luxury home in Apopka, Longwood, or anywhere in the Central Florida area, please contact Joe Bornstein, Broker, Rock Springs Realty at Cell# 407-252-8092, joe@rockspringsrealty.com and I'd be happy to assist.
"It's All About The Results"

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Nov. 11, 2021

Just Closed | Aras Acres-Heathrow | 1458 Sky Eagle Cove, Lake Mary FL 32746

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
Just Closed | Aras Acres-Heathrow | $1,200,000.00
1458 Sky Eagle Cove, Lake Mary FL 32746

Congratulations

to my friends Sara & Paul on the sale & closing of their "Custom Luxury" 4-Bedroom, 3.5-Bathroom, 6,800s/f+ Pool Home on 1-Full acre in the Heathrow Area. This truly was a one-of-a-kind home with amazing upgrades & features. The Buyer showings & offer response was incredible! I know this has been your family home for over 15 years and I want to wish you the best of luck in your job relocation to the Atlanta area. It truly was my pleasure to work with you both!

If you, or anyone you know is looking to sell a Luxury home in Lake Mary, Heathrow, or anywhere in the Central Florida area, please contact Joe Bornstein, Broker, Rock Springs Realty at Cell# 407-252-8092, joe@rockspringsrealty.com and I'd be happy to assist.
"It's All About The Results"

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Aug. 3, 2021

Just Listed | Aras Acres | 1458 Sky Eagle Cove, Lake Mary FL 32746

Wow!!!  The Market is "ON FIRE" 
Just Listed | Aras Acres | $1,299,000.00
1458 Sky Eagle Cove, Lake Mary FL 32746

"COMPLETELY CUSTOM", MOVE-IN READY 4-BEDROOM, 3.5 BATHROOM LUXURY POOL ESTATE ON 1+ACRE, LAKE MARY, FL 32746. If Only the Best Will Do, this Custom Built Luxury Home will Impress the Pickiest of Buyers. Located in a Semi-Private Gated Community of Only 5 Homesites, the home offers exceptional attention to detail and elegant custom craftsmanship. Incredibly well built, the home's focal point is the open Kitchen design featuring Custom Level IV 42" Maple Cabinets w/Upper & Lower Crown, Granite Counter-Tops with an 8' Long Breakfast Bar, Kitchenaide "Superba" Stainless Appliances, Built-In Refrigerator, Convection Ovens, Warming Drawer, Dishwasher, Microwave, Jenn-Air Flat Top Range, Custom Vented Hood, 4'x6' Matching Prep Island, Custom Porcelain Tile Backsplash, Under Cabinet & Recessed Lighting, Chandelier, Tons of Counter & Storage Space, Walk-In Pantry w/Custom Storage and a Spacious Dinette overlooking the Lanai. The Master Suite is an Elegant Retreat featuring a Large Bedroom with "Real" Cherry Wood Flooring, Custom Trey Ceiling w/Crown, 8'x10' Sitting Area, Custom Paint, Multiple French Doors and His & Hers "Separate" Walk-In Closets w/Cherry Floors & Custom Closet Organizers, Drawers, Shelves & Wardrobe. The Master Bathroom is Pure Heaven & includes Custom Crafted Level IV Solid Maple "Wrap Around" Elevated Vanities w/Granite Counter Tops, 6" Backsplash, 3-Panel Panoramic Wall Mirrors, 16"x16" Travertine Tile, Custom Paint & Stenciling, Escape into the Custom Jetted Extra Deep Tub with 14 Jets, Travertine Steps & Wall Accents, Custom Chandelier and a "HUGE" Walk-in Shower w/Custom "Floor-To-Ceiling" Travertine Tile with Custom Inserts, Dual Shower Head, Shelves, Dedicated Water Heater & a Matching 4' Long Bench Seat. The Split Plan layout also Features Formal Living, Dining, Family Rooms which include 13' High Ceilings, Porcelain Floor Tile, 2-Tier Custom Tray Ceilings, Custom Faux Wall & Ceiling Paint, Crown Molding, Upgraded Casework & Baseboards, Recessed & Chandelier Lighting. The Family Room Features Custom "Maple" Built-In Entertainment Centers with Shelving & Storage, Custom Isokern Wood Burning Fireplace w/Custom Stone River Rock Hearth & Face and Dual French Doors to the Lanai. The Study makes a perfect & private workspace accented with "Real" Cherry Flooring, 8" Natural Wood Crown & Baseboard along with a Custom Mahogany Solid Wood Desk w/Built-In Storage & Shelving. Additional Built-In's are featured in the Common Area with another 2-Person Solid Maple Desk, Shelves & Storage, perfect for any Student in the house. If you enjoy Entertaining & Outdoor Fun, you will love the Custom Shaped 15'x30' Fresh Water Pool w/Pebble Tec Finish, Custom Stone Water Feature, Benches, Sun Shelf, Lighting, Pool Sweep, Safety Fence & Fully Screened Enclosed. What would the pool be without a Custom 6-Person, Raised 8' Oval Spa with Spill Over, Hayward Gas Heater, 6-Jets, Step-In & Lighting. The Pool Area also features a 16'x60' wrap-around Covered & Screened enclosed Lanai with 12' Ceilings, Roll Down Sun Shades, Hexagon LP Firepit w/Matching Chairs, Pavers, Recessed Lighting & Custom Fans, Electric & Cable Ready & a Storage Room for all your toys & supplies. This home offers so much more then can be described here. If you're looking for something special, this home has it all! Call today for more info or to schedule a "Covid Safe" Showing. All Buyers must provide a "Written" PreApproval or Proof of Funds prior to Scheduling a Showing. Offered by Listing Broker, Joe Bornstein, Rock Springs Realty, Cell# 407-252-8092, Toll# 877-333-2811, joe@rockspringsrealty.com | Call today to schedule your "Covid-Safe" showing.

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1458 Sky Eagle Cove, Lake Mary FL 32746

"COMPLETELY CUSTOM", MOVE-IN READY 4-BEDROOM, 3.5 BATHROOM LUXUR

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