James Donovan Broker, Team Donovan
When we think of “buying an island,” our minds usually drift to the Exumas, the British Virgin Islands, or the remote Pacific. We imagine total seclusion, water on all sides, and a separation from the mainland that feels like a true escape.
But what if I told you that you can have that exact island lifestyle without leaving the 34786 zip code?
As a real estate broker in Central Florida, I see incredible waterfront properties every day. But 11900 Lake Butler Blvd, fittingly named “Sunset Isle,” represents a category of real estate that is virtually non-existent in our market: True Private Island Ownership.
Crossing the Moat
The psychology of island living is about separation. It’s about leaving the world behind the moment you arrive home.
At Sunset Isle, this isn’t a metaphor. To access this 3.75-acre estate, you must drive across a private electric drawbridge spanning a moat. The moment those wheels hit the bridge, you are physically disconnecting from the mainland and entering your own sovereign sanctuary.
Most “private” homes in Windermere rely on gates and hedges. This home relies on geology and engineering. It is the ultimate fortress of privacy.
700 Feet of “Coastline”
The value of an island is defined by its water frontage, and this estate commands a staggering 700 feet of shoreline on Lake Butler—the most coveted lake on the Butler Chain.
Because you are on a peninsula-turned-island, the panoramic views are unlike standard lakefront lots. You aren’t just looking at the lake; you are surrounded by it.
- The Beach: Yes, your island has its own white sandy beach.
- The Pool: The zero-entry infinity pool is designed to create an optical illusion where the pool water melts into the lake water.
- The Sunset: Situated on the northern shore, the property captures the full glory of Florida’s evening sky.
A Kingdom, Not Just a Castle
An island needs a castle, and this one delivers. The main residence is a Spanish Eclectic masterpiece boasting over 10,000 square feet of luxury. But true island living requires the ability to host.
Whether you have extended family or friends flying in, the estate is set up as a compound. The two-story detached guest house isn’t a simple “in-law suite”—it’s nearly 3,800 square feet with two separate 2-bedroom apartments. You can host a dozen people on your island, and everyone still has their own private retreat.
The Rarity Factor
From an investment and brokerage perspective, “scarcity” drives value. You can always build a bigger house. You can always upgrade finishes. You cannot build more islands.
On the Butler Chain of Lakes, land is finite. To own a parcel that is geographically distinct from the rest of Windermere is a level of exclusivity that goes beyond price per square foot. It is a trophy asset in the truest sense of the word.
The Cherry on Top
If the moat, the drawbridge, and the private beach weren’t enough to convince you to start living the island life, the sale currently includes a 2-year lease on a 2025 Rolls-Royce Dawn (with an acceptable offer).
It turns out, you don’t need a passport to own an island. You just need the right key.
This property is currently listed by Stockworth Realty Group.
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