What Life is Like in Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach

mmcbuffett-f5798b7d6b5638c064b8e6bb331e1344

Choosing the year’s best community is never easy, but there is one neighborhood that really stood out in 2018, not just for its amenities and attractions, but also for the enthusiasm its residents feel for their new home.

The 55 Places Community of the Year for 2018 is Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach, Florida, where 6,900 single-family homes are being designed with Jimmy Buffett’s famous lifestyle in mind. The residents who have already moved in are quick to gush that their every expectation has been exceeded, and they have high hopes for the upcoming amenities.

Meeting New Friends: Including Jimmy Buffett

/><figcaption><em>Lane Byer (center) and Minto’s own Steve Schultz enjoying the community’s early social opportunities.</em></figcaption></figure> </div> <p>Lana Byer, one of the first residents to get her keys in early April, celebrated a birthday on January 1, and there were 103 new friends and neighbors singing happy birthday to her.</p> <p>“The community feels like a family,” Lana said. “I knew I’d love my house and I knew I’d love living in Daytona Beach, but I never expected to find such an inclusive environment.”</p> <p>Kelley and Bill Sarantis, who moved in on March 23, 2018, were surprised to meet Jimmy Buffett when the entertainer was touring the community and knocking on doors.</p> <p>“It was incredible to have him in our home,” Kelley said, “and it only could have happened here.”</p> <p>Kelley and her husband chose to buy a home at Latitude Margaritaville after visiting and thinking the community looked interesting. They hoped to find a group of like-minded individuals who would be both neighbors and friends.</p> <p>“It’s inspiring,” Kelley said. “The couple living across the street from us are in their nineties, and they moved here because they wanted to have more things to do.”</p> <p>But, you don’t have to be a social butterfly to enjoy the lifestyle in this active adult community. Ruth Houser, who closed on her home on October 31, 2018, is quick to admit she’s not a social person.</p> <p>“I get along with everyone, but I’m not here to meet people,” Ruth said. “I do love the lifestyle, I like being around people who want to be active and do things. I like having the option to be social or to stay home and read my book.”</p> <p>Ruth chose Latitude Margaritaville because she was looking for an active adult community whose social life did not revolve around golf.</p> <h3>Minto Has Worked Some Magic</h3> <div class=
/><figcaption>Early reviews on Latitude Margaritaville homes are in, and they’re positive.</figcaption></figure> </div> <p>Ruth also appreciates the quality of homes Minto is building. She has built seven or eight homes in her life, so she has extremely high standards. Ruth checked out Minto’s reputation for good construction, and she had a list of non-negotiables for her new home in Daytona Beach.</p> <p>“The base models are outstanding as they are,” Ruth said. “And then buyers have an entire catalog of options, so if you know what you want, you can absolutely get it. The homes are solidly built.”</p> <p>Three collections are offered. The Caribbean Collection is priced from the mid $200s to the high $200s and offers six floor plans with two bedrooms, some including dens. The Beach Collection offers five floor plans that have between 1,684 square feet and 2,392 square feet. They range in price from the high $200s to the mid $300s. The largest floor plans are found in the Island Collection, and buyers can choose two or three bedroom plans with dens. They start at 2,310 square feet and go up to 2,564 square feet. Prices for this collection start in the mid $300s and rise to the high $300s.</p> <p>Ruth says the buying process is comfortable. There are plenty of opportunities to meet with the builder, and she appreciated receiving recommendations right down to the tile patterns she’d have on her floors. Design packages are available to help with every detail. From weathered finishes to hand-tailored upholstered furniture, buyers will find something to love in every budget and taste.</p> <p>“It’s the caretaking that matters,” Ruth said.</p> <h3>Margaritaville Amenities: A Preview</h3> <div class=
/><figcaption><em>Even with amenities coming soon, Kelley and Bill Serantis and their neighbors have the made the community a neighborhood. </em></figcaption></figure> </div> <p>Kelley and Bill Sarantis have been taking lessons in pickleball.</p> <p>“We want to be ready for the pickleball courts,” Kelley said. “So we’re working with an instructor in the community. It’s great exercise and safer than tennis, and it’s also a great way to meet neighbors. We’ll all be learning and playing.”</p> <p>Kelley says she’s also looking forward to the pool, which will be important when the family is in town. Margaritaville will have both an outdoor resort-style pool with a patio and an indoor lap pool for residents who want to swim for exercise.</p> <p>Lana said she is also looking forward to the pool, as well as the fitness center and exercise facility.</p> <p>“They’re putting in shops adjacent to the community,” Lana said. “It will be nice to have a grocery store that’s within golf cart distance.”</p> <p>The Latitude Bar & Chill Restaurant will provide a casual dining spot for residents and their guests. Other amenities planned include an aerobics studio, a theater, a business center, and a pet spa named Barkaritaville.</p> <p>If these <a href=amenities aren’t enough, there’s also a strip of private beach that’s on its way.

“Everyone is looking forward to the beach club,” Lana said.

A shuttle will run to the beach, where residents can enjoy the Atlantic Ocean, take walks on the sand, and enjoy coastal living within the privacy of their own community.

Daytona Beach Makes Sense

/><figcaption><em>Many Latitude Margaritaville homeowners have bought into the lifestyle, but the prime Dayton Beach locale has meant just as much to the community’s early success. (Image via Shutterstock.com)</em></figcaption></figure> </div> <p>Daytona Beach makes a perfect setting for the lifestyle promoted at Latitude Margaritaville. It’s an ideal combination of laid-back beach living and high-energy activities and recreation. Locals can enjoy art, shopping, and Daytona International Speedway. Daytona Beach’s international airport is just a few miles away, and it’s easy to travel throughout Florida from your home base.</p> <p>Ruth points out that the community is not far from great hospitals.</p> <p>“Doctors in just about every specialty are fewer than five miles away,” she said.</p> <p>All of the residents we spoke to agreed that the community had gone above and beyond the expectation they had before arriving. They believe that as more neighbors move in, things will get even better.</p> <p>“It’s like a dream come true for me,” Lana said. “I feel like I’m living in a resort.”</p> <p> </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <section class=

Can you spot the $207,744 difference between these identical homes?

Financing is the difference!

Get the details in The 62+ Loan™ Homebuyers Guide.
Download Guide

55places Mortgage is a joint venture between Mutual of Omaha Mortgage and 55places.com.
Details here.

Share this post:

Take me back to the top
We're here to help! (800) 928-2055

Call us to speak with a customer service representative.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get Weekly Updates

I agree that 55places and its affiliates, partner providers or agents may call, text, or email me about my inquiry, which may be made with automated means. I understand that my consent is not a prerequisite for buying a property. I may revoke my consent at any time by contacting [email protected] Message/data rates may apply. I also agree to 55places.com’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Our real estate experts can help.
Get started

The Best Places to Snowbird in 2021

Deana Becker October 18, 2021

We’ve gathered 25 of the best places for snowbirds, including cities in Florida, Arizona, California, Texas, South Carolina, and Nevada. For each entry, we’ve also provided a list of recommended 55+ communities in the area. If you’re ready to find your own winter retreat this season, here are some of the best places to consider.

A group of older adults socialize within their 55+ community.

Top 10 FAQs About Living in 55+ Communities

Alexis Wainwright October 3, 2022

We’re here to answer all of your questions about joining a mature living community, so you can feel empowered in your decision. This is the next great adventure of your life, and we’re firm believers in leaving the stress out. Check out these top 10 FAQs about living in 55+ communities.

A senior couple takes a hike in a low-humidity state they chose for their retirement.

Retirement: What Are the Top 5 States With the Lowest Humidity?

wpengine September 30, 2022

There are many factors in deciding where to retire, and the weather can be one of them. Luckily, many of the states with nice weather also offer additional benefits for people over 60 and have several exciting active adult communities. Here are the four best states for a low-humidity retirement.

Lake view during autumn at dusk of Table Rock Mountain in Pickens, South Carolina.

5 Reasons To Consider a South Carolina Retirement

Susan Quilty September 30, 2022

What does South Carolina have to offer active adults? A selection of over 80 active adult communities is just the beginning. These five reasons to consider a South Carolina retirement just might convince you that this southern coastal state has everything you’re looking for in a 55+ community.

The Best Places to Retire in South Carolina

Charles Moss September 29, 2022

South Carolina is known for having some of the best golf courses in the country, but that’s not all it has to offer active adults. The state has a rich history and culture, a wide selection of entertainment and recreation, and miles of beaches and coastal living.

North Carolina vs. South Carolina

Zach Phelps September 28, 2022

The Carolinas are a power couple when it comes to maintaining an active lifestyle in an amazing climate, but they’re separated by more than just a border. A side-by-side comparison of the two can quickly show which is better for you when it comes to your interests and needs.

Exterior view of a model home at Del Webb Carolina Gardens, Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina on a sunny day.

55+ Communities With New Homes for Sale Near Raleigh

Amy Trainum September 27, 2022

If you’re in the market for a new construction home in Raleigh, North Carolina there are plenty of options to consider. We’ve put together a list to help you start your search for the perfect neighborhood with new homes.

About 55places

We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.

Take me back to the top

© 2007 – 2022 55places.com, a division of Neighborhoods.com.

We’re changing the way people 55 and older are searching for their perfect next place. With a national network of hand-selected real estate experts, plus comprehensive information, unbiased content, and on-the-go insight about thousands of communities across the country, we’re a trusted resource paving the way from here to home. Whether you’re interested in a low-maintenance single-level residence, an active lifestyle or age-qualified community, an intimate enclave, or anything in between, we can help you make your next move the best one yet.

Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube
Scroll to Top