Mount Dora Business and Real Estate

Highest north Lake County home Sales in 2026’s First Quarter

4/1/2026

By Brooke Vermeulen
Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor and Lake County and Mount Dora realtor.

Luxury home sales across North Lake County are off to a strong start in 2026, with closings ranging from just over $1 million to $3.5 million through March 23. While one standout estate in Mount Dora reached the upper end of the market, the majority of activity continues to cluster between $1.2 million and $1.65 million—reinforcing steady demand for well-positioned homes throughout Mount Dora, Tavares, and Eustis.

This quarter’s activity reflects a continued preference for waterfront and well-located homes, with limited inventory keeping pricing strong across North Lake County’s luxury segment.

HIGHEST HOME SALES

1. $3,500,000 — 1206 Old Eustis Rd, Mount Dora (6 bedrooms, 7 baths, 10,201 square feet), sold January 23, 2026.

2. $1,950,000 — 631 Old Mount Dora Rd, Eustis (4 bedrooms, 5 bath, 5,287 square feet), sold March 17, 2026.

3. $1,650,000 — 1640 Peninsula Dr, Tavares (3 bedrooms, 3 baths, 3,894 square feet), sold February 9, 2026.

4. $1,625,000 — 15815 Acorn Cir, Tavares (5 bedrooms, 5 baths, 4,613 square feet), sold March 13, 2026.

5. $1,542,500 — 442 E 3rd Ave, Mount Dora (7 bedrooms, 8 baths, 4,552 square feet), sold March 4, 2026.

6. $1,500,000 — 1016 Juliette Blvd, Mount Dora (5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 5,441 square feet), sold February 26, 2026.

7. $1,425,000 — 1780 Sylvan Point Dr, Mount Dora (3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,852 square feet, sold March 2, 2026.

8. $1,365,000 — 33947 E Lake Joanna Dr, Eustis (5 bedrooms, 7 baths, 5,032 square feet), sold January 28, 2026.

9. $1,350,000 — 34301 Parkview Ave, Eustis (5 bedrooms, 5 baths, 5,418 square feet), sold January 27, 2026.

10. $1,300,000 — 2315 Overlook Dr, Mount Dora (4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 4,540 square feet), sold March 2, 2026.

11. $1,300,000 — 22220 Deer Park Ave, Eustis (5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 4,100 square feet), sold February 26, 2026.

12. $1,210,000 — 1749 Lake Terrace Dr, Eustis (4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 4,008 square feet), sold January 21, 2026.

13. $1,185,000 — 23247 Lake Seneca Rd, Eustis (4 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2,769 square feet), sold January 21, 2026.

14. $1,150,000 — 35635 High Pines Dr, Eustis (4 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3,199 square feet), sold March 16, 2026.

15. $1,010,000 — 27071 Moss View Dr, Tavares (5 bedrooms, 4 baths, 3,077 square feet), sold January 7, 2026.

This list reflects residential sales over $1 million in Mount Dora, Tavares, and Eustis from January 1 through March 23, 2026. Large acreage transactions not representative of typical residential sales have been excluded.

Data sourced from Realtors Property Resource (RPR), based on Stellar MLS records.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

New owners take the helm of The Dora Queen

3/26/2026

ABOVE: BJ and Brandy Herron (left) and Shannon and Sean Murphy (right).

The Dora Queen, the New Orleans-style paddle-wheel pleasure cruise boat docked in downtown Tavares, has sold, marking a transition for one of the area’s most recognizable attractions.

The new owners, Sean and Shannon Murphy of Leesburg, purchased it from Brandy and B.J. Herron, the Mount Dora couple who spent years bringing the vessel to life from concept to cruise-ready reality. While ownership is changing hands, the experience itself is expected to remain largely the same, including maintaining existing staff. To help ease the Murphys into cruise operations, the Herrons will provide assistance for the first two weeks of transition.

The Dora Queen will continue operating under its current cruise schedule, offering the same relaxed excursions across Lake Dora, complete with music, cocktails and lounge-style seating. The Murphys say they hope to build on that foundation with potential schedule expansions in the future, as well as to book more weddings and private events.

The Herrons purchased the Dora Contessa riverboat replica that was docked on the Dead River for several years. Fortuitously, it was the same boat that served as the location of their wedding rehearsal dinner in 2001. The couple then enlisted the help of Robbie Cunningham, of Trident Pontoon Boats in Tavares, to build The Dora Queen and incorporate The Dora Contessa’s paddle wheel and other elements into the new and larger vessel.

The boat’s story is rooted in local craftsmanship and vision. From the beginning, the Herrons, decades-long local residents, aimed to create something distinct from traditional narrated boat tours in the area — a floating venue focused on leisure and ambiance rather than sightseeing commentary. B.J. Herron played the key role in shaping the boat’s aesthetic, designing finishes and details that blended an upscale feel with a relaxed nautical style — a balance that has helped define the onboard experience.

The Dora Queen was more than two years in the making before arriving at the Tavares waterfront. The result was a 128-passenger replica riverboat concept featuring two levels for guests, a u-shaped bar, and comfortable seating designed for socializing and taking in the lake’s scenery.

The large and nostalgic attraction, approximately 80 feet long and 35 feet wide, and large twin engines, provides smooth and shaded cruises across the open waters of Lake Dora.  The oversized vessel was painstakingly transported in pieces through downtown Tavares streets before being reassembled at Wooton Park for its long-awaited launch in December, 2019.

B.J. took the helm as captain, while Brandy, known as the face of the Dora Queen, created the boat’s friendly, fun, and relaxed vibe.

Now under the Murphys’ ownership, the next phase of the Dora Queen appears focused on continuity with an eye toward growth. For passengers, that likely means the same easygoing cruises — beautiful sunsets, live music and lake breezes — with the possibility of more opportunities to step aboard in the months ahead.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app.  Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

The Current Reality of Lake County Real Estate: More Sales, Slower Pace

3/1/2026

By Brooke Vermeulen
Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor and Lake County and Mount Dora realtor.

Lake County’s housing market started 2026 with steady sales and a slower pace. January data shows home sales are leveling year over year, but buyers and sellers are moving with more time and fewer pressures.

Sales Activity
Lake County recorded 508 closed sales in January, a 7.9% increase from last year. Total sales reached $208.3 million, also higher than January 2025. Sales declined month over month, which is typical after the holidays and not unusual for this time of year.

Pricing
The median sale price in January, 2026, was $349,950, down 7.9% from last year. The average sale price was $410,192, reflecting a smaller year-over-year decline. Price per square foot held steady at $205, showing that most price changes remain modest.

Time on Market
Homes are taking longer to sell. The median home spent 50 days on the market, up 25% from last year, while the average reached 81 days. Buyers are taking more time to compare options, and sellers are adjusting to a less rushed market.

Market Activity
Pending and closed sales show steady movement across Lake County, without the sharp swings seen in recent years. Transactions are continuing at a more predictable pace.

The Bottom Line
Lake County’s real estate market isn’t slowing down—it’s leveling out. Homes are still selling, prices are adjusting slightly, and the pace has cooled enough to allow more thoughtful decisions on both sides.
Data Source: Stellar MLS SmartCharts — Lake County residential real estate statistics, January 2026.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor and Lake County and Mount Dora realtor.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Breakfast fans anticipate Feb. 9 debut of First Watch in Mount Dora

2/2/2026

(Photo credit: First Watch)

Breakfast and brunch lovers in Mount Dora will soon have a new daytime dining option as First Watch, the popular breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant chain, prepares to open a new location in the city. Known for its fresh ingredients, made-to-order dishes and relaxed atmosphere, the restaurant is expected to draw early-morning risers and weekend brunch crowds.

The Mount Dora restaurant will operate during daytime hours only, a hallmark of the brand, and will feature First Watch’s bright, welcoming design and seasonally- inspired menu. The company announced an opening date of February 9. The restaurant will add to Mount Dora’s expanding mix of dining options and is expected to appeal to residents and visitors looking for an alternative breakfast or lunch spot along U.S. 441.

First Watch has built a loyal following around its mix of classic comfort food and modern twists, with many dishes made using cage-free eggs, fresh produce and house-made ingredients. The restaurant is also known for its rotating seasonal menus and fresh-squeezed juices made in -house daily. Among the chain’s most popular menu items are:

Million Dollar Bacon — Thick-cut hardwood-smoked bacon baked with brown sugar, black pepper, cayenne and a maple glaze, about $6.
Avocado Toast — Smashed avocado on multigrain toast topped with lemon, olive oil and Maldon sea salt, around $13.
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes — Light, fluffy pancakes with ricotta cheese, lemon curd and fresh berries, approximately $12–$13.
Smoked Salmon & Roasted Vegetable Frittata — Smoked salmon combined with roasted shallots and tomatoes, topped with Parmesan and a light chive cream drizzle and fresh herbs, around $13-$15.
Bacado Omelet — A customer favorite filled with bacon, avocado and Monterey Jack cheese, typically $13–$14.
Steak & Eggs Hash — Seared steak served over crispy potatoes with cage-free eggs and house-made sauces, about $15–$16.
Strawberry Tres Leches French Toast — Thick-cut brioche soaked in sweet cream and topped with strawberries, roughly $14.
Power Breakfast Quinoa Bowl — A lighter option featuring quinoa, fresh fruit, almond butter and house-made granola, around $12–$13.
Double Crunch Breakfast Tacos — Crispy tortillas filled with eggs, bacon or carnitas and fresh toppings, about $14.

Prices may vary slightly by location, but the menu is designed to be affordable while offering generous portions.

First Watch was founded in 1983 with a simple concept: focus exclusively on breakfast and lunch, and do it well. What began as a single café has grown steadily over four decades. Today, the company is headquartered in Bradenton, Florida, and operates more than 535 locations in approximately 30 states, making it one of the largest daytime-only restaurant chains in the country.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Lake County’s housing market enters a new phase

2/1/2026

By Brooke Vermeulen
Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor and Lake County realtor.

Lake County’s residential real estate market showed notable shifts in pricing, sales activity, and time-on-market in December 2025, according to MarketStats by ShowingTime (SmartCharts), which compiles MLS-reported closed sales data. December is the most recent month of fully reported MLS closings available at the time of publication.

A total of 696 homes closed across Lake County in December, representing a 15.6% increase from a year earlier and a 17.2% increase from November. Total closed sales volume reached $293.9 million, up 15.5% compared with December 2024.
Sale prices declined from the same period last year. The median sold price was $365,000, a 4.0% year-over-year decrease. The average sold price was $422,928, effectively unchanged from a year earlier. The average price per square foot was $206, down 2.4% year over year.

Homes took longer to sell compared with the prior year. Median days-on-market rose to 47 days, a 23.7% increase, while average days-on-market increased to 73 days, up 19.7% annually.
Despite longer marketing timelines, sales activity remained steady. Growth in closed transactions and total dollar volume points to continued buyer participation.

Month-over-month data also showed gains. Closed sales increased 17.2% from November to December, and total dollar volume rose 20.2% over the same period.

Overall, December 2025 data reflects a Lake County housing market marked by lower year-over-year pricing, longer time-on-market, and sustained sales volume, based on MLS-reported results rather than projections or estimates.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

“What the Pho” brings Vietnamese comfort food to Eustis

2/1/2026

A new and simple Vietnamese restaurant, “What the Pho,” has quietly become one of Eustis’ most talked-about new dining spots, serving up fragrant bowls of pho and a small menu of classic Vietnamese fare to enthusiastic locals and visitors alike.
Owners opened the restaurant in late 2025 at 459 Plaza Drive in Eustis with a mission to bring traditional Vietnamese white noodle soup — phở (pronounced "fuh") — and other Vietnamese favorites to Lake County. The quality is akin to what diners would find in some of the authentic Asian eateries in Orlando’s Mills 50 District. The small space in the Big Lots shopping center seats about 30 diners and gets busy at lunchtime.

The limited, but tasty, offerings center on flavorful and hearty phở served in a huge bowl, plus fresh Bánh Mì and appetizers at reasonable prices — most falling in the $10–$20 range. Thai tea is also served. Here are just some of the menu items.

Phở Options – Aromatic bowls of steaming rice noodle soup feature options with rare steak, meatballs and assorted beef cuts in savory broth with toppings served on the side.
Spring Rolls – Fresh spring rolls with shrimp and vegetables come with a rich peanut dipping sauce.
Bánh Mì – A traditional Vietnamese sandwich with grilled pork, Vietnamese ham, pork paste, fresh cilantro, and crispy julienned cucumbers and carrots on a fresh baguette (it’s a Mount Dora Buzz favorite).
Korean Barbecue Ribs – Thinly sliced across the bone and loaded with flavor.

On busier days, the restaurant has run out of phở, so it’s best to go early for best selection.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Texas Roadhouse preps to open in Mount Dora in January

1/3/2026

After hiring events last month, Texas Roadhouse in Mount Dora is getting closer to opening its new location on U.S. 441 south of Culver's. The casual steakhouse touts its hand-cut steaks, ribs, chicken, sides made from scratch, and plentiful peanuts on the table.

The new 8,000 square-foot restaurant located at 19210 U.S. Highway 441 is scheduled to open in late January for dining and take-out. Once open, Texas Roadhouse will only serve dinner Monday through Thursday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 pm. It will be open for lunch and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Texas Roadhouse opened its doors in 1993 and now has more than 721 locations in 49 states and 10 foreign countries. In addition to Texas Roadhouse, the company owns and operates Bubba’s 33 and Jaggers.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for more local info.

Simple changes to Lake County homes can yield big returns upon selling

1/1/2026

ABOVE: Mount Dora Buzz stock photo.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor and Lake County and Mount Dora realtor.

One of the biggest misconceptions in real estate is that selling for top dollar requires major renovations or large upfront costs. In reality, some of the strongest returns come from small, thoughtful investments made before a home ever hits the market. Whether planning to love it or list it, January is an ideal time to focus on these improvements in your Lake County home.

Buyers tend to be motivated and inventory is often lower, according to some real estate agents’ observations, plus there can be something energizing about starting a new year with a fresh perspective.

Why Small Changes Matter
Today’s buyers make decisions quickly, often within minutes of walking through a home. Details like lighting, cleanliness, and a home’s overall feel shape how buyers perceive value long before they analyze price per square foot.

High-Impact Improvements That Pay Off
Your opening act: A few bags of fresh mulch, a welcoming front-door plant, or a clean, understated wreath can instantly set the tone before buyers ever step inside.

• Paint: Never underestimate the value of paint. Fresh, neutral walls instantly brighten a home and help buyers focus on the space itself.

• Lighting: Updating dated fixtures and replacing old bulbs with bright white or soft white LED lighting can immediately make a home feel cleaner, brighter, and more modern.
• Cabinet hardware: Simply changing out cabinet knobs or pulls is an inexpensive way to give kitchens and bathrooms a more current, updated look.
• Door hardware: Updated door handles may seem minor, but they can instantly modernize a home.
• Decluttering: Taking down personal photos and minimizing décor allows buyers to focus on the home itself. According to the National Association of Realtors in 2025, a majority of buyer agents (83%) said staging, including decluttering, made it easier for buyers to envision the home as their future home — a key factor in higher offers.
• Scent: Scent is one of the strongest emotional triggers, according to the Cleveland Clinic. A subtle, familiar scent—like a light sugar cookie candle—can create warmth and comfort without being overpowering. Scents can measurably change people’s emotional state, according to the PubMed Central (PMC).

Big transformations don’t always come from big budgets. They can come from paying attention to the details buyers feel the moment they walk through the door. When those details are right, everything can fall into place.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor and Lake County and Mount Dora realtor.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz on Instagram for more local info.

Central Lake County: Where gratitude and good neighbors meet country charm

11/1/2025

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

November brings cooler air, glowing sunsets over Lake Dora, and a season of slowing down to appreciate the people and places that make life feel full. In Central Lake County, home isn’t just an address—it’s a way of living. It’s waving to a neighbor from your front porch, grabbing coffee from someone who already knows your order, and watching the the quaint downtown's light up for the holidays.

The local community has a way of feeling both small and special. It’s where local business owners double as friends, artists capture lakefront scenes, and tight-knit musicians bring everyone together on weekend nights in vibrant venues. The song “Famous Friends” by Chris Young and Kane Brown could easily describe life here—because in this part of Lake County, everyone knows someone who makes a difference. The area's real celebrities are the teachers, small-business owners, and community leaders who show up for parades, fundraisers, and Friday-night games.

Maybe that’s what makes people to stay. The scenery is beautiful, sure—but the sense of connection seems to draw people in and keeps them here. The comfort of belonging, the pride of supporting everything local, and the joy of being part of something that still feels genuine is something that makes small-town life attractive.

As Thanksgiving rolls in, gratitude often comes easy to residents in central Lake County, where home is more than an address—it’s a feeling. And for those who call the area home, that’s something to be thankful for all year.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit the area's website and download the area's free mobile app. Be sure to follow Mount Dora Buzz's Instagram and Facebook page for more local info.

Top 10 highest home sales in Mount Dora, Tavares and Eustis in 2025

9/28/2025

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By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

Luxury living across Lake County reached new heights in 2025. As new rooftops rise throughout the region, the Tri-City area of Mount Dora, Tavares, and Eustis continued to draw high-end buyers seeking waterfront views, space, and lifestyle.

According to publicly reported property records, the year’s most exclusive single-family homes ranged in sale price from $1.5 million to just over $2.6 million, proving that Central Florida’s lakefront market remains among the most desirable in the state.

#10 | $1,505,000 – 36438 N. County Road 44A, Eustis
4,695 square-foot lakefront home
4 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms
A striking custom build on Eustis’s rolling hills, blending classic architecture with sunset lake views.

#9 | $1,595,000 – 588 Casey Loop, Mount Dora
2,665 square-foot pre-construction home
4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms
One of Mount Dora’s few new luxury builds, this modern farmhouse design captured attention even
before completion.

#8 | $1,598,398 – 3637 Hidden River Lane, Tavares
3,580 square-foot lakefront canal home on 2.7 acres
5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
Private canal access and acreage made this estate a standout for buyers seeking both space and serenity.

#7 | $1,760,000 – 30303 Island Club Drive, Eustis
3,204 square-foot lakefront home
4 bedrooms • 3 bathrooms
Situated in the Island Club community, this home balanced resort-style living with timeless Florida design.

#6 | $1,799,000 – 1750 Country Club Drive, Eustis
6,710 square-foot home
4 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
Spacious and stately, this residence offered expansive entertaining areas overlooking manicured
fairways.

#5 | $1,915,000 – 11200 Lane Park Road, Tavares
4,008 square-foot lakefront home on 5.38 acres
3 bedrooms • 3.5 bathrooms
Set on more than five acres, this property combined equestrian charm with luxury lake access.

#4 | $2,235,000 – 11226 Lane Park Road, Tavares
5,900 square-foot lakefront home
4 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
Neighboring estates along Lane Park Road continued to dominate sales charts, highlighting the
area’s enduring prestige.

#3 | $2,550,000 – 11106 Lane Park Road, Tavares
7,379 square-foot lakefront home on 6.42 acres
6 bedrooms • 5.5 bathrooms
A grand waterfront retreat offering acreage, privacy, and panoramic views.

#2 | $2,605,000 – 27700 County Road 44A, Eustis
3,818 square-foot home
4 bedrooms • 4 bathrooms
Modern styling and meticulous finishes placed this property among the year’s most coveted Eustis
addresses.

#1 | $2,619,500 – 15749 Acorn Circle, Tavares
6,803 square-foot lakefront estate
6 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms
The crown jewel of 2025 — a sweeping lakefront home that set a new benchmark for luxury sales across the Tri-City area.

CURRENT MARKET LEADERS
While prices fluctuate, several listings are now poised to continue the upward trend in 2026:

$3,100,000 – 1945 Overlook Drive, Mount Dora
6,823 square feet
3 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

$2,699,000 – 11148 Lane Park Road, Tavares
6,562 square feet
5 bedrooms • 5 bathrooms

$2,500,000 – 35126 William Lane, Eustis
3,588 square feet
Lakefront home on 20 acres
4 bedrooms • 7 bathrooms

Lake County’s luxury market shows no signs of slowing down. Limited inventory, premier lakefront settings, and a growing appeal among out-of-area buyers continue to drive strong demand. For those drawn to the lifestyle, the Tri-City area remains one of Central Florida’s brightest gems — where timeless character meets elevated living.

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

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Mount Dora leads Central Lake County in home prices as neighboring markets shift

9/2/2025

ABOVE: Aerial of downtown Mount Dora. (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

By Brooke Vermeulen
Local Realtor and Mount Dora Buzz real estate contributor

Home prices across central Lake County show distinct trends, with Mount Dora continuing to command the highest values, while nearby communities offer varying opportunities for buyers seeking affordability or long-term growth.

Mount Dora’s housing market remains strong, with the median sold price reaching $450,000 in July, up 10% year-over-year, according to data from Stellar MLS. Homes in the city’s historic downtown and lakeside neighborhoods, coupled with its thriving arts scene, help keep demand resilient even as inventory rises. Properties are selling in a median of 55 days, slightly longer than last year but consistent with seasonal trends.

Sorrento follows closely behind as one of the higher-priced markets in Lake County. In July, the median sold price was $412,000, up 3.1% from last year. Homes spent a median of 50 days on the market, reflecting steady demand for larger lots, newer construction, and a semi-rural setting.

Eustis has shown notable momentum this summer. The city’s median sold price rose 2.4% year-over-year to $346,640, with homes selling in a median of just 39 days, nearly half the time compared to last year. This faster pace suggests renewed buyer activity, particularly among families and commuters seeking value.

Tavares, known as “America’s Seaplane City,” rounds out the group with a median sold price of $315,000 in July, down 12% from the previous year. Homes are taking longer to sell, with a median of 60 days on market, signaling a shift toward a more balanced environment as inventory expands. Across Lake County, inventory has increased 15% compared to last year, giving buyers more choices even as certain cities remain competitive.

The differences among these four communities highlight distinct lifestyle choices and market dynamics. Mount Dora attracts buyers seeking culture and lakefront living; Sorrento appeals to those wanting space and newer homes; Eustis offers affordability and faster-moving inventory; and Tavares provides waterfront living at one of the most accessible price points in the region.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Mount Dora’s inaugural Book Expo slated for September 20

9/1/2025

Pickleball won’t be the only fun activity in downtown Donnelly Park on Saturday, September 20. Bookworms, bibliophiles, and aspiring authors can enjoy the inaugural Mount Dora Book Expo from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Donnelly Building at the corner of Fifth Avenue and Donnelly Street.

The free event, hosted by Barrel of Books and Games, celebrates local talent and will feature more than a dozen area authors showcasing and selling their works, with genres ranging from children’s books to fantasy, novels, and nonfiction. Authors will also be available to sign copies for attendees.

At 1 p.m., bestselling local author Taryn Souders and editor/publisher Bill Opperman, who also serves as Mount Dora Buzz’s long-time editor, will give a keynote presentation followed by a Q&A session. Souders is known for mid-grade children’s novels including Dead Possums Are Fair Game, Coop Knows the Scoop and Whole-y Cow! Fractions Are Fun. Her books have appeared on state reading lists across the country and have been praised for blending humor with meaningful lessons for young readers.

Door prizes and raffles will round out the afternoon, with winners required to be present to claim door prizes but not raffle prizes.

The Donnelly Building is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. Only service animals are permitted. Cash and credit card payments will be accepted.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Fun pottery painting at Yada Yada Pottery helps feed those in need

8/1/2025

The annual community pottery painting has begun! For the next few months Yada Yada Pottery will once again host pottery painting in its studio to benefit Lake Cares Food Pantry. Anyone feeling creative or community-minded can stop in the downtown studio on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 5:30 to 8 p.m. to paint bowls to be used in the annual Empty Bowls Fundraiser that will take place later this year.

The cost to paint a bowl is $7 which will also be donated to Lake Cares. After the months-long effort to create hundreds of uniquely painted bowls, the Empty Bowls fundraiser will take place this fall. The community gathering features a fun soup supper where attendees select from the one-of-a-kind bowls and then fill them with delicious soup donated by generous area restaurants. Every penny raised goes directly to support Lake Cares Food Pantry, the local nonprofit food pantry. Typically, the event also features live music, a silent auction and more in the heart of downtown Mount Dora.

Founded in 1990, Empty Bowls has grown into an international project to fight hunger, personalized by artists on a community level. The event raises funds for local charitable organizations dedicated to providing nourishment to those in need within their immediate communities. Over the years, Empty Bowls has successfully generated millions of dollars to combat hunger in cities across the world.

Lake Cares is a local independent, nonprofit food pantry that provides food, resources and services to residents who are in need of assistance in Lake County, Florida. This is accomplished with the help of numerous donors, volunteers and a caring community.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

Crafted Scent Bar blossoms in Downtown Mount Dora with DIY fragrance magic

8/1/2025

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(Photo credit: Crafted Scent Bar)

Crafted Scent Bar, the DIY fragrance studio popular in Eustis, has officially relocated to 129 W. 5th Avenue, right next to Yada Yada Pottery.

Owner Mellisa McHaffie, a candle‑making expert with more than 26 years of experience, is also a 2024 local TEDx speaker on the power of smell. She welcomes locals and visitors alike to what she describes as “an experience, not just a product.”

Guests choose from over 60 phthalate‑free fragrances and craft their own signature items—candles, reed diffusers, wax melts, and room sprays—all in stylish vessels that reflect their style or event needs. The vibe is creative, relaxed and social: perfect for date nights, friend outings, solo escapes, or even team building and business‑branding events.

Workshops are guided and very hands‑on: you blend scents, pour wax or oils, and leave with a one‑of‑a‑kind creation. Walk‑ins are welcome when space allows; appointments are required for classes or private groups.

The studio exudes an inviting ambiance with sample fragrance displays, and plenty of vessel options—stylish jars, tins, and bottles to suit every creative mood.

Crafted Scent Bar is nestled among many of downtown Mount Dora’s unique boutiques, galleries and restaurants. It’s located at 129 W. 5th Avenue, Mount Dora, FL 32757 Its hours are Sunday, Monday & Wednesday: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. (classes at 12 p.m. & 3 p.m.). Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (classes also at 12 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m.) Walk-ins are welcome when space allows; bookings recommended. It’s closed on Tuesdays.

For more news and events in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, visit Mount Dora Buzz's website, its Instagram and Facebook page. Download the area's free mobile app for info on the go. For local food recommendations, follow Mount Dora Foodie's Facebook and its official Instagram account.

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Popular Tavares farm may transition into new development

6/1/2025

ABOVE: Entrance to Far Reach Ranch (Mount Dora Buzz photo)

A favorite Tavares destination may become a residential and commercial development. The landowners of Far Reach Ranch, a fun agri-tourism venue and working u-pick blueberry farm, is considering a plan to develop the property.

The sprawling farm is over 600 acres and includes 100 acres of farmland, 300 acres of timber, plus over 200 acres of wetland, including a scenic lake.

The farm is family-owned and operated since its first blueberry plantings in 1994. Previously, it was established as a cattle ranch and citrus groves in the 1940s.

Far Reach Ranch landowners’ representatives have reached out to their neighbors to invite them to a community meeting to inform them that a plan to develop the property is in the works. The City of Tavares has not received any formal submission for this project, but when it does, the proposal will proceed through the standard governmental review process. A mixed-use residential and commercial development typically spans a two-year period.

The landowners’ community meeting will be held Thursday, June 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Tavares Civic Center at 100 East Caroline Street. It’s important to note that this is not a City of Tavares meeting.

Far Reach Ranch joins nearby Long & Scott Farm in unincorporated Lake County to be in discussions to develop their property.

For more events and news in Mount Dora, Tavares & Eustis, click here. Find out what's happening locally with just a tap on your phone by downloading the area's free mobile app. Free monthly issues of Mount Dora Buzz are available here.

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