Blog > Discover Waterstone, A Windermere Real Estate Haven
Discover why this exclusive gated community is Central Florida's best-kept secret for luxury living
By Andy Neal, Your Trusted Windermere Realtor
Picture this: You're sipping your morning coffee on your private screened lanai, watching the sunrise paint Lake Butler in golden hues while herons glide silently across the water. The only sounds are gentle waves lapping against the shore and birds welcoming the day. Yet you're just 15 minutes from Disney World and 25 minutes from downtown Orlando's business district.
This isn't a vacation fantasy, it's daily life in Waterstone, one of Windermere's most coveted lakefront communities. As a Windermere realtor who's helped numerous families find their dream homes in Central Florida, I can confidently say that Waterstone offers something truly extraordinary: the perfect marriage of luxury, location, and lifestyle that's increasingly rare in today's market.
A Prime Location That Changes Everything
Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Butler and the renowned Butler Chain of Lakes, Waterstone occupies one of the most desirable addresses in Orange County. This guard-gated sanctuary of approximately 120 luxury homes sits strategically in southwest Windermere (34786), where Mediterranean architecture creates an immediate sense of arrival.
What makes this location exceptional:
- Disney Proximity: Just 8 miles to Walt Disney World's main gates
- Airport Access: 22 minutes to Orlando International Airport via SR 417
- Business Centers: 25 minutes to downtown Orlando, 18 minutes to Dr. Phillips business district
- Shopping Paradise: 5 minutes to high-end retailers at Cornerstone at Summerport
- Dining Scene: Minutes to Downtown Windermere
The community's position on Winter Garden Vineland Road (SR 535) provides seamless access to major expressways, the Florida Turnpike, I-4, 408, and 429, making it a commuter's dream while maintaining that secluded, resort-like atmosphere that defines luxury living.
Entrance to Waterstone, Windermere, FL
Architectural Masterpieces That Define Luxury
Every home in Waterstone tells a story of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Built between 2010 and 2020 by Central Florida's premier builders, including Brerhill Homes, David Weekley Homes, Sillman Homes, and Toll Brothers, these residences showcase Mediterranean and Tuscan architectural influences that feel both timeless and contemporary.
Home Specifications:
- Size Range: 2,700 to 9,640 square feet
- Bedrooms: 4 to 7 bedrooms
- Price Range: $1.27M to $4.6M
- Lot Sizes: Up to one acre of manicured grounds
Signature Features You'll Find:
- Barrel tile roofs that withstand Florida's weather while adding Old World charm
- Brick paver driveways and walkways that never fade or crack
- Soaring coffered ceilings with crown molding throughout
- Gourmet kitchens with granite or quartz countertops and premium appliances
- Master suites with spa-like bathrooms featuring marble finishes
- Private screened lanais overlooking professionally landscaped gardens
- Many homes feature private boat docks and direct lake access
A Day in Your Waterstone Home: Imagine starting your morning with a workout in your home gym overlooking the lake, then preparing breakfast in your gourmet kitchen while your children get ready for nearby Windermere Prep. After work, you might enjoy an evening boat ride on the Butler Chain, followed by dinner on your screened porch as the sun sets over the water.
Market Performance That Speaks Volumes
The numbers don't lie, Waterstone consistently outperforms the broader luxury market, making it both a dream home and a sound investment.
Recent Market Activity (Past 12 Months):
- Homes Sold: 6 properties
- Average List Price: $2,930,500
- Average Sale Price: $2,748,167
- List-to-Sale Ratio: 94% (indicating strong demand)
- Price Per Square Foot: $412 average
- Days on Market: Typically 45-90 days
Current Inventory: Three exceptional homes currently available, ranging from a 4,421-square-foot custom residence to a 9,640-square-foot lakefront estate.
Investment Highlights:
- Property values have appreciated 8-12% annually over the past five years
- Rental potential: $8,000-$15,000 monthly for luxury vacation rentals
- Low property taxes relative to comparable luxury communities
- HOA fees ($4,800-$5,200 annually) cover extensive services including 24-hour security
World-Class Amenities and Recreation
Living in Waterstone means having access to amenities that rival the finest resorts, right outside your door.
Community Features:
- 24-Hour Guard Gate: Peace of mind with professional security
- Private Community Park: Beautifully landscaped gathering spaces
- Nature Walking Trails: Scenic paths perfect for morning jogs or evening strolls
- Exclusive School Access: Private gated entrance to Windermere Preparatory School
Lake Butler Recreation: The Butler Chain of Lakes offers 2,000 acres of pristine waters perfect for:
- Boating and water skiing
- Fishing (bass, bluegill, and crappie)
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Swimming in crystal-clear spring-fed waters
Nearby Recreation (All Within 15 Minutes):
- Golden Bear Club: Jack Nicklaus-designed golf experience
- R.D. Keene Park: Tennis courts, playgrounds, and sports fields
- West Beach Park: Public beach and boat launch
- Dr. P. Phillips YMCA: Full fitness facility with pools and classes
Dining and Shopping at Your Doorstep
Waterstone's location puts you at the heart of Central Florida's best dining and shopping destinations.
Within 5 Miles:
- Downtown Windermere: Charming Main Street with Paloma Coffe, Horizon Foods, Tim's Wine and weekly farmers markets
- Cornerstone at Summerport: Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and upscale dining options
- Local Favorites: Nona Blue (modern sushi), The Osprey Tavern (waterfront dining)
Shopping Destinations:
- The Mall at Millenia (8 miles): Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Apple Store
- Disney Springs (9 miles): World-class shopping and entertainment
- Winter Garden Village (15 miles): Target, Best Buy, and restaurant chains
Education Excellence for Growing Families
Families choose Waterstone not just for luxury, but for access to some of Florida's top-rated schools.
Orange County Public Schools (Ranked #2 in Orlando Area):
- Windermere Elementary (5.8 miles): A-rated with innovative STEM programs
- Bridgewater Middle School (5.5 miles): Advanced academics and arts programs
- West Orange High School (6.8 miles): College prep focus with 95% graduation rate
Private Education Advantage: Waterstone's crown jewel is its private gated entrance to Windermere Preparatory School, ranked #1 private K-12 school in Orlando by Niche with an A+ rating. Students enjoy:
- Small class sizes (average 15:1 ratio)
- Advanced placement courses and dual enrollment
- Specialized programs in entrepreneurship and STEM
- 100% college acceptance rate
- Direct walking/biking access from Waterstone homes
Lifestyle Benefits That Matter
Security and Privacy:
- Gated community with controlled access
- Low crime rates in Windermere area
- Private streets maintained by HOA
- Tight-knit community atmosphere
Year-Round Outdoor Living: Florida's climate means your outdoor spaces are usable 300+ days per year. Most Waterstone homes feature:
- Screened lanais with outdoor kitchens
- Private pools with spa features
- Landscaped gardens with irrigation systems
- Outdoor entertainment areas perfect for hosting
Commuter Convenience:
- Major employers within 30 minutes: Universal Studios, AdventHealth, Lockheed Martin
- Orlando International Airport: 22 minutes via toll roads
- Theme parks: Disney (8 minutes), Universal (25 minutes)
- Downtown Orlando nightlife and dining: 25 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the HOA restrictions? A: The HOA maintains high standards while being reasonable. Pets are welcome (with some breed restrictions), architectural changes require approval, and short-term rentals are permitted with registration.
Q: Are boat docks available? A: Many lakefront homes include private docks. Additional dock permits may be available through Orange County.
Q: What's included in HOA fees? A: Security, common area maintenance, landscaping of entrance and common areas, road maintenance, and community amenities.
Q: How's the resale market? A: Excellent. Waterstone homes typically sell within 60-90 days, often receiving multiple offers.
Your Next Step Toward Luxury Living
Waterstone isn't just another luxury community, it's a lifestyle investment that pays dividends in daily happiness, long-term value, and family memories. Whether you're relocating to Orlando, seeking a vacation home, or ready to upgrade to lakefront living, Waterstone offers an opportunity that's becoming increasingly rare in Central Florida's competitive market.
Ready to Experience Waterstone?
📞 Call/Text: 407-619-3517
📧 Email: andy@maximrealtors.com
🌐 Website: yourrealtorandy.com
📅 Schedule: Book your private tour online 24/7
Exclusive Services I Provide:
- Private community tours with insider knowledge
- Complimentary market analysis for your current home
- Negotiation expertise
- White-glove service from contract to closing
Don't just take my word for it, let me show you why Waterstone families never want to leave. Contact me today to schedule your private tour of this extraordinary community.
Andy Neal is a licensed Realtor specializing in luxury communities throughout Windermere and Central Florida. With over 25 years of local market expertise 100's of successful transactions, Andy provides unparalleled service to discerning buyers and sellers.
Disclaimer: All real estate data is current as of June 2025 and sourced from Orlando Regional Realtor Association MLS. School information subject to change; verify with Orange County Public Schools. HOA fees and community information subject to change.