1427 FORTALEZA DRIVE, The Villages, FL 32162

This ONE OF A KIND 3/2 BLOCK & STUCCO Cancun (Oleander) model with a GOLF COURSE VIEW and EXPANSIVE (22×20) climate-controlled Florida Room boasts over 2,000 square feet of living space on a beautifully landscaped corner lot in the sought-after Village of Santiago – between Lake Sumter Landing and Spanish Springs Town Square. With a PAID BOND, NO CARPET, and countless upgrades – including DOUBLE CROWN MOLDING and PLANTATION SHUTTERS throughout – this home offers timeless elegance and modern convenience. The exterior captivates with paver-stacked landscaping, majestic palms, and a decorative painted driveway and sidewalk. Inside, the foyer welcomes you with a leaded glass front door and transom window, decorative tile, and convenient coat closet. The living room is LIGHT & BRIGHT with a CATHEDRAL CEILING, stunning PALLADIAN WINDOW, and sliding glass doors leading to the screened patio. Graceful arches connect the living and dining rooms, creating a seamless flow, while the dining room enjoys proximity to both the Florida Room and living room for effortless entertaining. The UPDATED KITCHEN is a chef’s dream, thoughtfully designed with GRANITE countertops, diagonal tile backsplash, center island with seating, custom-designed composite sink, pendant and recessed lighting, and all-new stainless appliances. CHERRY WOOD CABINETS with soft-close doors, a solar tube with a built-in nightlight, and DRY BAR with additional storage and a wine fridge between the kitchen and Florida Room add to its appeal. A charming dinette with a large window provides a sunny spot for casual meals, and bifold doors open to a spacious pantry. The primary suite is a luxurious retreat, featuring a tray ceiling, generous walk-in closet, and en suite bathroom with cherry cabinets, GRANITE vanity, linen closet, soaker tub, and tiled walk-in shower with glass door. The second bedroom includes a built-in closet and double window with plantation shutters, while the third bedroom (no closet) features a transom window and double doors, offering a versatile space for work or relaxation. The guest bathroom also features a GRANITE vanity, while the laundry room includes cabinetry for additional storage. Finally, the LARGE climate-controlled Florida Room is a MUST SEE, with windows on all sides providing panoramic views of the lush landscaping and El Santiago Executive Golf Course. This serene space is perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests with a sliding glass door transition to the outdoor PAVED PATIO. Additional updates include a 2019 roof, 2023 water heater, as well as attic access, a workbench in the garage, insulated garage doors, and gutters all around. Plank tile in living room, primary bedroom, and bedroom 2. The Village of Santiago boasts nearbyEl Santiago and El Diablo Executive Golf Courses; and El Santiago Recreation Center with a neighborhood pool, bocce, tennis, pickle ball, and shuffleboard. Just down the street, Glenview Country Club and Championship Golf Course provides additional opportunities for tennis, golf, and dining. Just minutes away, Savannah Regional Recreation Center, with Scarlett O’Hara Theater, features a variety of exciting shows and performances. Plus, you’ll find the nearest Sports Pool there, with Saddlebrook Recreation Center hosting the closest adult pool. This home is a MUST-SEE! PLEASE WATCH OUR WALKTHROUGH VIDEO OF THIS BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED HOME IN A FANTASTIC LOCATION, and CALL TODAY for your private showing or virtual tour!