Both sit in the Mount Dora / Tavares area of Lake County — the seaplane capital of the US and one of Florida's most charming small-town settings. Both offer access to the Harris Chain of Lakes. Both are in Lake County with its favorable 0.85% tax rate. The differences are in community character, amenity focus, and the specific nature of their lake access.
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Talk to a Specialist →| Category | Lakes of Mount Dora (Mount Dora · Lake County · ~600 homes) | Cresswind at Lake Harris (Tavares · Lake County · ~530 homes) |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | ~600 homes | ~530 homes |
| Builder | Various — established community, resale and new mix | Kolter Homes — known for resort-quality amenity centers |
| County | Lake (0.85%) | Lake (0.85%) — identical |
| Lake Access | Direct boat launch to Harris Chain — full recreational boating, skiing, sailing | Community water amenities + access to Harris Chain, boat slip availability |
| Amenity Center | Standard active adult facility | Cresswind signature amenity center — typically resort-quality |
| HOA | ~$290/mo | ~$320/mo |
| CDD | None or minimal (established community) | May carry CDD on newer sections |
| Surrounding Area | Mount Dora — charming historic downtown, unique boutique character | Tavares — "America's Seaplane City," waterfront dining, casual character |
| Hospital | AdventHealth Waterman (Tavares) ~15 min | AdventHealth Waterman (Tavares) ~10 min |
| All-In at $380K | ~$710/mo (est.) | ~$730/mo (est.) |
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The surrounding area distinction is meaningful. Mount Dora is one of Florida's most genuinely charming small towns — antique shops, waterfront parks, a historic downtown that attracts visitors from across the state, and an arts community that has built around the area for decades. Tavares has a more casual waterfront character centered on seaplanes and recreational boating. Neither is better — they suit different personalities. Buyers who visit both towns usually know immediately which community atmosphere fits them.
Lakes of Mount Dora for buyers who want direct boat access to the Harris Chain, proximity to Mount Dora's distinctive historic downtown, and a community that integrates with the broader Mount Dora lifestyle. Cresswind at Lake Harris for buyers who want Kolter's resort-quality amenity center, the Tavares seaplane-city waterfront character, and a newer community construction standard. Both are excellent choices for buyers who prioritize the Lake County tax rate and the Harris Chain of Lakes access.
We can run the full all-in cost comparison at your purchase price and help you schedule visits to both communities.
Connect with a specialist who knows this market from the inside — real cost math, honest community comparisons, and what's actually happening right now. Every agent is personally vetted by the Nova55Living founder.
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