When looking around Vero Beach for the perfect place to enjoy their retirement years, Barbara and John DiVenuto set their sights on the Oak Hammock section of Indian River Club. It had everything they were looking for to enjoy golfing, entertaining and a lovely laidback Florida lifestyle.
They asked David Croom and the architects at Croom Construction to build a home with all the little conveniences, which took into account that they loved to cook, play golf and enjoy outdoor entertaining, and the house turned out great, meeting all their expectations.
Since their children are grown with kids of their own, the DiVenutos have decided to move closer to their family, but have really enjoyed the property they bought in 2006 because of the customized details they had built in.
“My wife is a gourmet cook,” said Mr. DiVenuto. “She loves the custom chef’s kitchen which has a six-burner gas cooktop stove and the summer kitchen which has a great area for outdoor cooking too.”
Whether cooking steaks by the pool on the gas grill while enjoying a bottle of chardonnay selected from the wine refrigerator or creating scrumptious meals at their designer kitchen, the DiVenuto’s can take in expansive views.
From the first step into the entry foyer and throughout all the main living areas the owners enjoy gazing out over the sparkling pool to the beautiful lake beyond.
They chose the location because of Indian River Club’s high-quality private Audubon sanctioned golf course designed by Ron Garl, and the reputation of the community as very socially active.
Homeowners constantly remark on the serene beauty of the natural plantings that wrap their homes in privacy at the same time as they enjoy friendly neighbors who are quick to wave and stop to chat.
“Our house has lots of outdoor living space with two guest rooms, each with its own private bath and walk-in closet,” said Mrs. DiVenuto. “It has been great for our family and guests who enjoy their own private quarters when visiting.”
The owner’s en suite master bedroom also has its own private space with a spacious bath, glass-enclosed shower and lovely view of the pool and lake.
The large 60-foot x 150-foot lot keeps the house next door from feeling like it is too close and gives the DiVenutos’ grandkids room to play when visiting.
An oversized fenced lanai features a heated pool and spa perfect for outdoor parties and relaxing afternoons lounging in the Florida sunshine.
The DiVenutos added remote controlled screens on the patio; a central vacuum system for cleaning ease; granite countertops in the kitchen with a space for seating; a stereo sound system throughout the house and lanai; as well as interior wall insulation for sound proofing and temperature stabilization.
Luxurious finishes including crown molding, tray ceilings, indirect lighting and fine porcelain tile give the home a rich, polished atmosphere.
The owners have said they are willing to negotiate on the sale of the furnishings, which add to the home’s bright attractiveness.
Realtor Brenda Dwight lives in the neighborhood and finds it easy to sell and re-sell homes in Indian River Club.
“Indian River Club is a unique community,” said Dwight. “My husband and I have lived here for 15 years and while we were initially attracted to the golf course, we found very quickly that it’s the friendly and fun people who make this a great place to live and play. The 202 Oak Hammock home is perfect for entertaining friends and family, and is a great party house!”
Dwight said one of the more fun aspects of the community is that many owners ride through the neighborhood on their personal golf carts, hence the golf cart garage in addition to the large two-car garage at the DiVenuto’s home.
“Residents often use golf carts as a primary means of transportation within the community – great for driving to clubhouse for dinner, to the fitness center, to either of our two community pools or to a neighborhood party – and of course, to the golf course. It is such a lovely community for golfers and non-golfers alike,” said Dwight.
Offered at $540,000, this three-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath luxury home must be seen to take in the incredible views and to experience its special atmosphere.
Contact Realtor Brenda Dwight of Norris & Company Real Estate at 772-643-1144.
