Jen Dantas
Orlando real estate broker specializing in the Central Florida real estate market.
In this chat, I'll open up about Florida's most charming planned community, where I myself sip my coffee watching herons over the lake. Get ready to discover why living here is much more than being "next door to Mickey Mouse"—it's embracing a complete, safe, and magical lifestyle.
What makes buy a house in Celebration so special?
Celebration was born in the 1990s within Disney's domain, but today it stands on its own two feet. Even so, nothing stops you from seeing the sky colored by the Magic Kingdom fireworks at night without leaving your backyard. Currently, the median listing price is US$522,000—a drop of 17% compared to 2024, making it a great window to negotiate! realtor.com
1. Disney Roots, Independent Heart
Disney designed the master plan, but local associations (CROA, CNOA, among others) manage the day-to-day operations. The result? Clear rules, immaculate streets, and the feeling that everything runs smoothly.
2. Villas for Every Lifestyle
North, South, East, West Village, Artisan Park, and Spring Lake form a mosaic of personalities. Do you want a Victorian house with a porch for swinging in a hammock? Or a modern loft steps from the cafes? There's room for every stage of your life—and your budget.
3. Outdoor Life: 23 Miles of Trails!
If you, like me, need a daily endorphin boost, you'll love the more than 23 km of trails that crisscross the neighborhood, perfect for running, cycling, or just pushing the stroller under the shade of the trees. en.wikipedia.org
4. Strong Community: No Short-Term Rentals
Celebration bans Airbnbs in residential areas. Translation: longtime neighbors, quiet streets, and no 3 a.m. check-ins. This is one of the secrets to the "small town" spirit everyone senses on their first stroll down Market Street. marciakovar.com
5. 40 Spectacular Pocket Parks and Clubs
Scattered around every corner, 40 "pocket parks" offer playgrounds for kids and strategic benches for those who just want to admire the lake. Add heated pools, courts, and residents-only fitness rooms, and you'll understand why no one here sits still. roadtrippers.com
6. Sustainability on Wheels
Electric golf carts are practically standard fare here; there are dedicated parking spaces in front of stores. Plus, you save fuel, earn smiles, and help the planet. Who said style and conscience don't go hand in hand?
7. Well-Struggled Administrative Structure
Having multiple associations may sound confusing, but it spreads costs and leaves each village free to decide on the details that truly matter to its residents—from landscaping to the cultural agenda.
8. Democratic Price Range
Yes, there are movie-worthy mansions that cost over US$1,000,000, but there are also condominiums cozy homes starting at US$$ 300,000. In practice, in May 2025, the median sales price reached US$$ 695,000, representing a year-over-year increase of 42.6 %—a sign of steady appreciation. redfin.com
9. Events That Keep the Magic Going All Year Long
Halloween with a parade of costumed dogs, Oktoberfest that paints the streets orange and the famous Snowing Event, where artificial snowflakes fall on Main Street in the middle of December. Is it boring? I doubt it!
10. Who Lives Here?
Doctors from AdventHealth, engineers from Lake Nona, professors from UCF—people who value safety, A-rated schools, and quick access to Orlando. And, of course, Brazilian families who want to raise children close to Disney culture without sacrificing quality of life.
Next Steps to Buying a Home in Celebration
- Talk about exchange: with the dollar hovering around R$ 5.00, a property worth US$ 522 thousand costs around R$ 2.6 million (today's exchange rate).
- Plan financing: American banks usually require 30 % down payment for foreigners.
- Think long term: Historical appreciation and demand for long-term rentals make the purchase financially sound, even without short-term rentals.
Have you ever imagined walking to the bakery and, on the way, passing a lake full of ducks and a saxophonist playing "The Girl from Ipanema"? What if your balcony became your "VIP box" for the Magic Kingdom fireworks every night?
Conclusion
If your heart skips a beat at the thought of living close to magic and investing in a growing market, buy a house in Celebration is the next logical step.
I'm here to guide you every step of the way, from the virtual tour to the handover of the keys, with the same passion that brought me from the courts in Brazil to the charm of Orlando. Thank you for your trust—and may God bless your journey toward a life full of celebrations!
