Lately, the fear and concerns over the sagging Real Estate Market, Adjustable rates mortgages, and lathargic economy have many homeowners worried their equity is evaporating. While this is true is most areas, there are still a few areas unimpacted by over development, and as a result the equity has held steadfast. Take for instance Bay Lake Ranch,located on the eastern side of St. Cloud, Florida in Osceola County.
Nestled between Melbourne and Disney, in the shadow of Harmony, off the main east west artery (192) Bay Lake Lake Ranch covers several miles. It is an equestrian estate community of custom built homes. The homes ranging in size from 1200 sq ft to 7000+ square feet are situated on lots varying in size from one to five acres. It borders Bay Lake. There are natural privately owned conservation areas which allow ample Green space.
What makes this community so unique are the large lots, equestrian zoning, the close proximity to town, and traveling to the attractions, beaches, airport, or Orlando can be done in forty minutes or less. It is a rather unconventional "development" in that all the homes were custom built by individuals not mass produced by the Big Builders. As a result, they are all unique and highly individualized.
Each property reflects the owners personalities and pride of ownership is evident. There are a variety of home styles, and prices range from $249,000 to $1.9 Million dollars. Vacant lot land improvements have appreciated as much as 1100% as newer, larger, lovely custom built homes were erected on ample acreage.
There are currently 18 lots being offered for sale. Prices range from $37,500 to $285,000. On the weekends, it is not uncommon to see horses and their mounts enjoying a peaceful walk or trot along the roadside. State Protected Lake Lizzie Preserve and trails are located just 2 miles up the road. As you drive through Bay Lake Ranch horses can be seen grazing on the privately owned mini estates. A stark contrast to the overcrowded planned Unit Developments and zero lot lines so many newer communities are building.
What one sees here is a vanishing commodity. Land. At night the stars blanket the skies, and are readily available for gazing. It is quiet and peaceful yet close to the conveniences of stores, banks, restaurants and shopping. Secluded yet accessible. A much sought after refuge from the choas and congestion of urban blight. Yes, twenty years ago, it likely was in the middle of no where, but a lot has changed since then; like the four lane road expansion of Hwy 192. Yet despite progress, there is a still remaining refuge for those seeking a quiet escape from the rest of the world.
Long before the "Green Theme" became a sales tool, Bay Lake Ranch captured the natural essence of what being green is really all about. Acreage. Folks here enjoy nature, have pride in ownership and disbanded the homeowners association years ago. Many of the local children participate in 4-H. Before high tech interactive water parks there were campfires, and tree climbing, bike riding and fort building and hay rides at Halloween. These kids have a rare and unique opportunity to make lasting memories of simple pleasures while the high tech world is only a short car ride away.
As the Mega Devlopments loom in the horizon, and consume the farmlands one thing will remain certain, there will always be a desire for wide open spaces.
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