Taylor Morrison buys McKinnon Groves in Wellness Way for $60M

January 21, 2025

Taylor Morrison has initiated construction on its newest Esplanade resort-style community in Lake County’s Wellness Way area, following a significant $59.6 million land acquisition finalized just before Thanksgiving. This addition continues the Arizona-based homebuilder’s strategy of delivering luxury lifestyle communities across Central Florida.

Strategic Landbanking Partnership

In partnership with New York-based Kennedy Lewis Investment Services, Taylor Morrison secured the 358-acre McKinnon Groves subdivision in a series of high-profile transactions. The deal marks one of several large-scale acquisitions in Wellness Way, an area witnessing transformative growth. Notably, the region’s real estate market saw a record $165 million purchase of the Arnold Groves and Roper properties by GT USA earlier this year.

According to Orlando Division President Brian Brunhofer, sales for the new community are expected to launch in spring 2026. Unlike age-restricted neighborhoods, most Esplanade communities cater to residents of all ages, creating a welcoming resort-style environment for diverse demographics.

Esplanade at McKinnon Groves will offer a poolside bar and grill as part of its amenities. (Courtesy of Taylor Morrison)

The community features a variety of outdoor sports facilities, including bocce ball, tennis, and pickleball courts. (Courtesy of Taylor Morrison)

Residents can book spa services conveniently through the Esplanade concierge. (Courtesy of Taylor Morrison)

The community boasts a stunning resort-style pool, offering residents a perfect place to relax, unwind, and soak up the Florida sunshine. (Courtesy of Taylor Morrison)

Features of McKinnon Groves Esplanade Community

The McKinnon Groves property, spanning the Lake-Orange County line, has received PUD rezoning approval from Lake County Commissioners despite objections from local residents in 2021. The 658-home community will be developed in four phases:

• Phase 1: Includes 266 homes starting from Hartwood Marsh Road.
• Home Types: Offers front-loaded attached villas starting at $345,000 and single-story detached homes from $430,000.
• Largest Floorplans: Feature over 3,000 square feet and start in the low $600,000 range.

The planned community’s standout feature is its resort-style amenities, designed to deliver a vacation-like living experience year-round.

The centerpiece of the community will be The Venue, a state-of-the-art facility that includes:

• Fitness center
• Spa treatment room
• Full-service locker rooms
• Social gathering spaces

All Esplanade communities offer exclusive concierge services, enhancing residents’ lifestyle with amenities such as:

• Wine club
• Dry cleaning services
• Dog walking
• Private concerts
• Exclusive travel and resort experience

Expanding the Esplanade Footprint in Central Florida

This will be Taylor Morrison’s fourth Esplanade community in Central Florida. The brand debuted with the now sold-out Esplanade at Highland Ranch in Clermont, a 55+ community. Other ongoing projects include Esplanade at Westview and Esplanade at Center Lake Ranch.

The McKinnon Groves development underscores the growing appeal of Central Florida’s Wellness Way area for homebuyers seeking resort-style living, blending luxurious amenities with an all-ages community vibe.

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