5441 Myakka Valley Tr., Sarasota, FL 34241

Active with contract. Built by Mennonite craftsmen in 1987, and completely updated in 2011-12, this home boasts quality construction, and a beautiful, contemporary interior. This stunning residence is located on more than 7 high and dry acres in MYAKKA VALLEY RANCHES, Sarasota's biggest equestrian community. The lot has a great mixture of trees and pasture (see illustrations). The split-plan home has received an impressive makeover: kitchen, bathrooms, floors, ceilings, a/c, pool, water treatment system: everything has been replaced with top-of-the-line materials (ask your Realtor to send you the attached list of improvements). The living room and family room feature vaulted ceilings, and are separated by a double-sided fireplace. The family room is connected with the eat-in kitchen on one side, and a wine room with adjacent laundry room on the other side. Bay windows, French doors, light colors, and plenty of well-positioned lights, make the house bright and cheerful. The big pool deck has an outdoor shower and separate ½ bath. There is a barn, and the land is fenced and cross-fenced. Myakka Valley Ranches, a community of ca. 280 families, has miles of saddle trails. It is easy to make new friends: there is a book club, a saddle club, and a women's forum. Good public and private schools are in the area, as well as shopping and fine dining. Both the beach and Downtown Sarasota with its many cultural amenities are only 30 minutes away.