Thinking about a move to the Orlando area? Windermere might just be the spot for you. It’s a place that attracts all sorts of people, from sports stars to business leaders, and it’s super close to all the theme park fun. Plus, the homes here are pretty amazing, making Windermere a really popular choice in Florida.
Key Takeaways
- Windermere offers a mix of downtown charm and suburban living.
- It boasts excellent proximity to theme parks, shopping, and downtown Orlando.
- The area provides a wide range of housing styles and price points.
- Windermere has a strong sense of community with ongoing events.
- A-rated public and private schools are available.
Where in Windermere Do You Want to Live?
When you’re looking at Windermere, the first thing to figure out is where exactly you want to settle down. There’s the actual "Town of Windermere" downtown, which is the only part that’s officially a town. The rest is unincorporated Orange County. The downtown area is where you’ll find the lakes, older homes, and a lively downtown scene with plenty to do. Then there’s the suburban part, which has seen a lot of new construction over the last couple of decades. These areas offer townhouses and various other home styles, but they don’t quite have that same old-school charm as downtown.
Location, Location, Location!
One of the big draws of Windermere is how close it is to everything. On a Wednesday afternoon around 5:30, you’re looking at about a 20-minute drive to Universal Studios and 30 minutes to Disney. Trader Joe’s and Restaurant Row are just 10 minutes away, and you can get to downtown Orlando or the airport in about 30 to 35 minutes. It’s easy to see why this spot has been so popular for so long.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Your lifestyle is another big factor. What are you into? What amenities do you want nearby? Whether you’re in the downtown or suburban parts of Windermere, you’ll find golf communities and plenty of lakefront homes, both in neighborhoods and in the downtown area. If being super close to the theme parks is your thing, you can find that on the edge of Windermere, bordering unincorporated Orange County. Or, if you prefer to be further away, that’s an option too. Whatever your lifestyle, Windermere has something for you.
A Home for Every Budget
Windermere really shines when it comes to the variety of homes available. You can find newer townhouses, budget-friendly single-family homes with rear-entry garages, all the way up to some of the most expensive real estate in Central Florida. The highest sale in Windermere was a whopping $35 million! This huge range means there’s a home style and price point for almost everyone.
A Strong Sense of Community
If community is important to you, Windermere has it. The town has been around for over 100 years, so there’s a built-in sense of community. You’ll find weekend farmers’ markets, food truck rallies, 5Ks, and lots of other events. This is a big plus compared to some newer developments in Central Florida that are still building up their community feel.
Top-Notch Schools
And let’s not forget about schools. Windermere offers A-rated schools, with both public and private options available. With its great location, diverse real estate, and strong community, it’s no wonder so many people love calling Windermere home.
A Charming Downtown Home
Let’s take a look at a house right in downtown Windermere. It’s just a few blocks from shops, coffee spots, and a brewery. This house is nearly 4,200 square feet, built in 1978, and sits on almost half an acre. It has a really cool, unique layout that’s a departure from the typical production homes you see around here. The owners have updated it over the years, keeping its character. It features a split-level design with a living room that has vaulted ceilings and lots of natural light, plus a gas fireplace. The dining room flows into the kitchen, which has a neat greenhouse-style bump-out for extra storage and an island with a prep sink. The primary suite is spacious, with a seating area, walk-in closet, and access to a morning porch. The bathroom includes dual sinks, a jetted tub, and a walk-in shower. Downstairs, there’s a full suite, another bedroom that could be a gym, and access to the yard. The backyard is an oasis with a large pool, a caged area, and a treelined yard for privacy. It feels like a true escape and is listed at $1.65 million.
A Luxurious Gated Estate
Now, let’s head just outside of downtown to a gated community for a different kind of home. This property is in Lake Butler Sound, a community with just under 300 homes, featuring a variety of architectural styles. This Tuscan Mediterranean-inspired home is just under 6,000 square feet, with five bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms. Built 20 years ago, the owners have made many timeless updates. The layout includes a study and the primary suite downstairs. The main living area is the open kitchen and living space. The kitchen features updated two-tone cabinets, new lighting, ZLine appliances, and matte black hardware. The home offers stunning views and a parlor with a full wet bar and custom built-ins. Sliding doors open to a summer kitchen and a resort-style backyard with a pool, cabana, and waterfall. The primary suite is impressive, with floor-to-ceiling windows and access to the pool area. The ensuite bathroom has dual vanities, a soaking tub, and a walk-in shower. Upstairs, there’s a loft with a balcony overlooking the pool, plus three additional bedrooms and two bathrooms. This home truly offers a resort-like living experience.
