subject: What Is The Deal With Orlando Real Estate? How Do I Find The Perfect Community? [print this page] If you're anything like the majority of people who buy real estate in Orlando, you may have asked yourself this very question. You may even be asking yourself that question right this minute. The truth is, a large percentage of Orlando residents originated elsewhere. We are an area of transplants. Of course, most come into town with the idea of tourism in mind. While it's true, tourism does drive our local economy, Orlando, Florida is the vacation capitol of the world, people who visit have a limited view. They see the neon crassness down International Drive, a sea of hotels and "5 t-shirts for $10" stores, sidewalks filled with lobster red tourists as they exit Wet-n-Wild and look for the nearest all-you-can-eat buffet, but for the residents... this is not the heart of Orlando. Orlando is a blend of several small cities and communities that, over time, have grown together, integrating for an eclectic charm appreciated by those who live here.
You have Winter Park and Maitland with their blend of stately and modest homes, sidewalks and brick streets lined with aged oak trees, the restaurants along Park Avenue and the movies outdoors in Central Park. There's Downtown Orlando with the luxury high-rises featuring modern lobbies, roof-top swimming pools, and views of Lake Eola with the signature fountain and family of swans or the little historic bungalows all around Thornton Park within walking distance to several outdoor cafes. There's the suburban splendor of Waterford Lakes on the east side of town, with its newer planned neighborhoods filled with parks, walking trails, and shopping complexes or the custom-built homes on acreage just off of Markham-Woods Road in Longwood. Be sure to bring your horse...
In short... the Greater Orlando area has a community to fit anyone's lifestyle. As someone new coming into Orlando, there are so many things to consider. Are you looking for a house or a condominium? Do you like your privacy or do you prefer a close-knit community feel? Is the local school district of great importance to you? Who are the major employers in the area and how long will it take you to get to work? Do you like the architectural detail of older homes or do you prefer a more modern feel? Do you have animals and need to be close to parks or riding trails? All of these things will help narrow down your choices and allow you to identify that perfect fit you can call home.
