Deer Island Homes for Sale
Gated island golf community on the Harris Chain of Lakes with championship course and waterfront living.
Homes for sale in Deer Island
Inside Deer Island
Deer Island is a gated, golf-oriented residential community spanning approximately 400 acres on an island in Tavares, Lake County. Located between Lake Dora and Lake Beauclaire, it offers waterfront living with access to the Harris Chain of Lakes through private resident docks. The community was developed between 1997 and 2025 by multiple builders including Dream Finders Homes, Craft Homes, J. Lawrence Homes, and Maronda Homes.
The centerpiece of Deer Island is an 18-hole championship golf course designed by renowned architect Joe Lee, complemented by a double-ended driving range, chipping area, and putting green. The Deer Island Country Club operates a clubhouse, resort-style pool, tennis courts, and pickleball court. Most residents navigate the island by golf cart, bicycle, or on foot rather than automobile. The community sits approximately one mile by boat from downtown Mount Dora and is accessible by a 20-minute scenic drive via causeway.
Recent home prices have ranged from $450,000 to $740,000, with homes ranging from 1,712 to 6,406 square feet. The community attracts buyers seeking golf and waterfront lifestyle. New construction homes from Dream Finders Homes start at $740,000, while resale homes have shown median prices around $460,000 to $680,000. HOA fees vary significantly from $8 to $144 monthly depending on the specific property.
Lake County Schools serves residents, placing students at elementary, middle, and high school campuses in the Astatula and Mount Dora area. The island’s isolated location-only reachable by causeway-provides security and seclusion while maintaining reasonable proximity to regional amenities and services.
The facts
Frequently asked
What is the price range for homes in Deer Island?
Home prices in Deer Island range widely from approximately $450,000 to $740,000, depending on size and location. Recent new construction from Dream Finders Homes starts at $740,000 for homes 2,731+ square feet. Resale homes have shown median prices around $460,000 to $680,000. For current listings and available inventory, contact a Market Connect Realty agent.
Is Deer Island a gated community?
Yes, Deer Island is a gated community. The island is accessible only via a causeway on the western end, which provides security and limits traffic to residents and authorized visitors. This geographic isolation creates a secure, private setting for residents.
What schools are zoned for Deer Island?
Deer Island is served by Lake County Schools. Elementary students attend a Lake County Schools campus, while the assigned middle school is about 2.5 miles away and the assigned high school about 2.0 miles away. Attendance boundaries are subject to change; the district maintains the authoritative zoning map. All are public schools in the Lake County district.
What are the HOA fees in Deer Island?
HOA fees in Deer Island range from $8 to $144 per month, with one source citing $600 annually for new Dream Finders construction. The variation reflects different property types and amenity access levels. Contact the HOA directly or a local agent for property-specific fee details.
What amenities does Deer Island offer?
Amenities include an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Joe Lee, country club clubhouse with full bar, resort-style pool, tennis courts, pickleball court, fitness center, boat dock with access to the Harris Chain of Lakes, driving range, and restaurant. Most residents use golf carts for island transportation.
How many homes are in Deer Island?
The exact total number of homes is not definitively published, though the community spans approximately 400 acres. Recent listings indicate around 8 single-family homes and 10 lots available for sale as of the latest data. For precise current inventory, consult a Market Connect Realty agent.
Is short-term rental allowed in Deer Island?
Short-term rental policy for Deer Island is not publicly documented in available sources. Given the gated-community structure and the HOA's governing documents, restrictions may apply. Contact the Deer Island HOA directly or consult a Market Connect Realty agent for current rental restrictions and policies.
What year was Deer Island developed?
Development of Deer Island began in 1997 and has continued through 2025, spanning nearly three decades. The community was built in phases by multiple builders including Dream Finders Homes, Craft Homes, J. Lawrence Homes, and Maronda Homes, creating a diverse mix of homes across varying price points.