Home Description
ENGLISH VERSION
EXCEPTIONAL VALUE IN PREMIER 55+ LAKEFRONT COMMUNITY
Welcome to Hidden Cove, Lot #78 - a rare opportunity to own an affordable, move-in ready home in one of Winter Haven's most desirable 55+ gated lakefront communities. At just $50,000 with a competitive lot rent of only $435/month (21% below Polk County average), this property represents outstanding value in the Central Florida senior living market.
PROPERTY OVERVIEW
This well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom Homes of Merit single-wide manufactured home offers comfortable Florida living with peace of mind. Built by Homes of Merit, a trusted Florida-based manufacturer known for building homes designed specifically for our climate, this residence has been thoughtfully maintained and recently updated with major improvements.
Model: Homes of Merit M251
Year: 1984
Bedrooms: 2
Bathrooms: 1.5
Type: Single-Wide Manufactured Home
Lot: #78
RECENT MAJOR UPGRADES - NO BIG EXPENSES FOR YEARS TO COME
One of the biggest concerns for homebuyers is unexpected repair costs. This home eliminates that worry with two major recent upgrades:
NEW ROOF (Installed 2022): Only 3 years old, this roof provides decades of worry-free protection. Living in Florida means dealing with intense sun, heavy rains, and occasional storms - having a new roof gives you confidence and security for years to come.
NEW AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM (Installed 2023): Just 2 years old, the A/C system is in prime condition. In Florida's climate, a reliable A/C isn't a luxury - it's essential. With this recent installation, you won't be facing expensive HVAC replacements anytime soon.
These two upgrades alone represent thousands of dollars in value and eliminate the two most expensive repairs a homeowner typically faces.
EXTERIOR FEATURES
The home presents beautifully with clean, well-maintained exterior elements:
Vinyl Siding: Durable, low-maintenance white vinyl siding keeps the home looking fresh with minimal upkeep. No painting required - just occasional cleaning keeps it looking great.
Vinyl Skirting: Clean white vinyl skirting provides a finished look while protecting the underside of the home. Well-maintained and in good condition.
Carport: Covered parking protects your vehicle from Florida's intense sun and afternoon rain showers. A true convenience you'll appreciate daily.
Screened Porch: Enjoy the beautiful Florida weather without the bugs. Perfect for morning coffee, reading, or relaxing while watching the sunset. The screened porch extends your living space and is ideal for entertaining guests.
Well-Maintained Landscaping: The lot is neat and tidy, fitting perfectly within Hidden Cove's attractive community aesthetic.
INTERIOR FEATURES
Step inside to find a functional, comfortable layout perfect for singles, couples, or those looking to downsize:
Spacious Living Area: Open and bright, the main living space offers comfortable room for relaxation and entertaining.
Kitchen: Equipped with appliances and ample cabinet space for all your cooking needs. Functional layout makes meal preparation convenient and enjoyable.
Master Bedroom: Generously sized with good closet space for your belongings.
Second Bedroom: Perfect as a guest room, office, hobby room, or additional storage. Flexibility to use as you need.
1.5 Bathrooms: The convenience of a full bathroom plus a half bath means no waiting and easy accommodation for guests.
HIDDEN COVE COMMUNITY - YOUR NEW LIFESTYLE AWAITS
Hidden Cove isn't just a place to live - it's a lifestyle. This premier 55+ community offers everything active seniors are looking for:
GATED ENTRANCE: Security is the #1 priority for our residents. The gated entrance provides peace of mind, controlling access to the community and ensuring a safe, secure environment for all residents.
LAKEFRONT LOCATION: Hidden Cove's stunning lakefront setting offers beautiful water views and a serene atmosphere. Enjoy watching wildlife, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and the calming presence of water just steps from your door.
RESORT-STYLE AMENITIES: Enjoy amenities typically found at expensive resorts, including:
Community Clubhouse
Swimming Pool
Social Areas
Organized Activities and Events
Lakefront Access
ACTIVE SOCIAL CALENDAR: One of the best parts of living in Hidden Cove is the vibrant social scene. Regular community events, activities, and gatherings mean you'll never lack for things to do or opportunities to meet neighbors. From card games to holiday parties, there's always something happening.
FRIENDLY, CLOSE-KNIT NEIGHBORS: Hidden Cove residents consistently describe the community as welcoming and neighborly. This is a place where people look out for each other, friendships form naturally, and you'll feel at home from day one.
LOW-MAINTENANCE LIVING: Community management handles common areas, landscaping in shared spaces, and overall community upkeep. Spend your time enjoying life, not worrying about maintenance.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS - WHY THIS MAKES SENSE
Let's talk numbers, because this property makes excellent financial sense:
PURCHASE PRICE: $50,000
LOT RENT: $435/month ($5,220/year)
This is 21% BELOW the Polk County average of $550-$650/month
Lot rent includes access to all community amenities
TOTAL ESTIMATED MONTHLY COSTS:
Lot Rent: $435
Insurance (estimated): $100
Utilities (estimated): $150
Taxes & Maintenance (estimated): $100
TOTAL: Approximately $785/month
COMPARE TO RENTING:
The average 2-bedroom apartment rental in Florida runs $1,800/month or more. That's $21,600/year just in rent with nothing to show for it.
With this purchase:
Year 1 Total Cost: $59,420 (including $50,000 purchase)
Year 5 Total Cost: $97,100
Year 10 Total Cost: $144,200
RENTING comparison:
Year 1: $21,600
Year 5: $118,800
Year 10: $259,200
YOUR SAVINGS BY BUYING:
After Year 5: Save $21,700 vs. renting
After Year 10: Save $115,000 vs. renting
BREAK-EVEN POINT: Approximately 3.5 years
After just three and a half years, you're saving money every single month compared to renting. And you own your home.
LOCATION ADVANTAGES - WINTER HAVEN, POLK COUNTY
Winter Haven offers the perfect Central Florida location:
AFFORDABLE COST OF LIVING: Polk County offers significantly lower costs than coastal Florida areas while still providing easy access to beaches, attractions, and amenities.
LOWER INSURANCE COSTS: Located inland (40+ miles from coast), Polk County is in Wind Zone 2 (moderate) versus Zone 3 (high) on the coast. This means substantially lower insurance premiums compared to Miami-Dade, Monroe County, or other coastal areas. Estimated insurance costs of $800-$1,400/year versus $1,800-$3,500 on the coast.
CENTRAL LOCATION: Easy access to:
Orlando and major attractions (45 minutes)
Tampa (1 hour)
Beautiful Gulf and Atlantic beaches (day trip distance)
Major shopping centers
Quality healthcare facilities
Restaurants and entertainment
WINTER HAVEN CHARM: Known as the "Chain of Lakes City" with over 50 lakes, Winter Haven offers natural beauty, a relaxed pace of life, and genuine Florida charm without the tourist crowds.
IDEAL BUYER PROFILE
This home is perfect for:
Retirees aged 55+ seeking an active, social community
Those on fixed income (Social Security, pension) looking for affordable housing
Snowbirds wanting a Florida base without coastal prices
Anyone prioritizing security and low-maintenance living
Buyers who value community and social connections
Those flexible with extended family visit restrictions (standard 55+ community rules apply)
55+ COMMUNITY REGULATIONS (HOPA)
Hidden Cove operates under the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA) exemption:
At least one resident must be 55 years or older
80% of units must have at least one 55+ resident
No permanent residents under 18 years old
Grandchildren/minor visitors: Typically 15-30 days per year (verify with community)
Adult visitors under 55: Typically 30-60 days per year with notification
FLORIDA HOMESTEAD BENEFITS (For Permanent Residents)
If you establish Florida domicile, you may qualify for significant tax benefits:
Homestead Exemption: Up to $50,722 reduction in assessed value
Save Our Homes Cap: Maximum 2.9% annual assessment increase (2025)
Estimated Tax Savings: $500-$1,500/year
Requirements: FL driver's license, FL vehicle registration, FL voter registration, Declaration of Domicile, use FL address for IRS.
DON'T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY
Properties like this don't come along often. The combination of:
Below-market pricing ($50,000)
Competitive lot rent ($435/month - 21% below average)
Recent major upgrades (new roof, new A/C)
Premier 55+ gated lakefront community
Resort-style amenities
Excellent location in Winter Haven
...makes this an exceptional value that won't last long.
SCHEDULE YOUR SHOWING TODAY
Contact us now to arrange your private showing of Hidden Cove, Lot #78. Come see for yourself why this property represents one of the best values in Central Florida's 55+ community market.
Your affordable Florida dream lifestyle is waiting.
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VERSIÓN ESPAÑOL CORTA
¡OPORTUNIDAD ÚNICA EN HIDDEN COVE! Mobile home 2BR/1.5BA en comunidad 55+ con entrada controlada frente al lago en Winter Haven, FL.
PRECIO: $50,000 ' RENTA LOTE: $435/mes (21% bajo el promedio del área)
MEJORAS RECIENTES:
Techo nuevo (2022)
A/C nuevo (2023)
Sin gastos mayores por 10+ años
CARACTERÍSTICAS:
Homes of Merit M251
Siding y skirting de vinilo
Carport y porche con screen
COMUNIDAD HIDDEN COVE:
Entrada controlada 24/7
Frente al lago
Piscina y clubhouse
Calendario social activo
Vecinos amigables
COMPARACIÓN FINANCIERA:
Rentar en FL = $1,800/mes
Comprar aquí = ~$785/mes total
¡Recuperas inversión en 3.5 años!
Ubicación perfecta en Polk County: seguro m
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