Royal Harbor Homes for Sale
Gated 55+ waterfront community on Harris Chain of Lakes with 755 homes and resort-style amenities.
Homes for sale in Royal Harbor
Inside Royal Harbor
Royal Harbor is a gated 55+ active adult community located on the shores of Little Lake Harris in Tavares, Florida, approximately 30 miles northwest of Orlando. Developed by Pringle Development between 2000 and 2008, the community comprises 755 single-family homes ranging from 1,200 to 2,700 square feet, with 2-4 bedrooms and 1-3 bathrooms. The neighborhood’s elevated terrain provides scenic views of Little Lake Harris and surrounding marshes, making waterfront living accessible across multiple price points.
The community features a distinctive architectural identity anchored by a hilltop lighthouse visible from miles away. Royal Harbor’s waterfront clubhouse serves as the social center, housing a ballroom, dance hall, library, fitness center, and various activity rooms. Recreation facilities include a Junior Olympic heated pool and spa, tennis, pickleball, bocce, and horseshoe courts. A private fishing pier, boat dock, and RV storage support the waterfront lifestyle. The 24/7 gated security and low-maintenance amenities appeal to buyers who want a structured community environment without the upkeep demands of single-family homes elsewhere.
Home prices range from approximately $289,000 to $735,000, with recent median prices near $380,000. HOA fees range from $187 to $235 monthly and include cable, internet, lawn care, trash removal, and gate security. No CDD (Community Development District) assessment applies. The community is resale-only, with homes available through Realtor MLS. Nearby Tavares-known as America’s Seaplane City-offers restaurants, shopping, and historic charm. Mount Dora, Leesburg, and Eustis are short drives away, while Orlando’s theme parks, airports, and medical centers lie 30-45 minutes southeast.
Royal Harbor’s appeal to active adults rests on the combination of waterfront access, year-round activities, established landscaping, and proximity to cultural attractions. The community enforces deed restrictions to maintain property standards. Short-term rentals are permitted with a minimum 30-day stay. Pet-friendly policies and golf cart approval support a casual, accessible lifestyle built around both relaxation and social engagement.
The facts
Frequently asked
What is the price range for homes in Royal Harbor?
Home prices in Royal Harbor typically range from $289,000 to $735,000, with recent median sale prices around $380,000. The community is resale-only, with homes available through the MLS. Home sizes range from 1,200 to 2,700 square feet. For current listings and price trends, contact a Market Connect Realty agent specializing in Lake County 55+ communities.
Is Royal Harbor a gated community?
Yes, Royal Harbor is a fully gated community with 24/7 security guards at the entrance. The gated design provides residents with security and privacy while maintaining the character of a controlled residential environment. All residents receive gate access upon purchase.
What schools are zoned for Royal Harbor?
Royal Harbor is a 55+ age-restricted active adult community, so school assignment is not applicable to residents. If you have school-age dependents, speak with a Market Connect Realty agent about other Tavares neighborhoods or alternative arrangements. Royal Harbor operates as an active adult community.
What are the HOA fees in Royal Harbor?
HOA fees in Royal Harbor range from $187 to $235 per month. The fee includes cable, internet, lawn maintenance, trash removal, 24/7 gate security, irrigation water, clubhouse access, pool, fitness center, and common area maintenance. There is no CDD (Community Development District) assessment, which helps keep overall ownership costs competitive.
What amenities does Royal Harbor offer?
Royal Harbor offers extensive amenities including a waterfront clubhouse, grand ballroom, Junior Olympic heated pool and spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis, pickleball, bocce, shuffleboard, horseshoe courts, library, arts and crafts studio, card room, billiards room, private fishing pier, boat dock, RV and boat storage, walking and biking trails, and the community's signature hilltop lighthouse. A full-time activities director coordinates clubs and events year-round.
How many homes are in Royal Harbor?
Royal Harbor comprises approximately 755 single-family homes. The community was developed in phases between 2000 and 2008 by Pringle Development. All homes are now available on a resale-only basis. Home sizes range from 1,200 to 2,700 square feet with 2-4 bedrooms and 1-3 bathrooms.
Is short-term rental allowed in Royal Harbor?
Yes, short-term rentals are permitted in Royal Harbor with a minimum 30-day stay requirement. The community does not maintain a rental management service, so owners manage rentals independently or through third-party property managers. Deed restrictions and HOA rules govern rental use. Contact your HOA or a Market Connect Realty agent for specific rental policies.
What year was Royal Harbor developed?
Royal Harbor was developed by Pringle Development in phases from 2000 through 2008. The community is fully built out with no new construction planned. All homes are resale-only. The established landscaping and mature oak trees throughout the community reflect its quarter-century of development and maintenance.