Welcome to 1207 Merry Water Drive, an exceptional Arthur Rutenberg–built estate located in the highly coveted Ladera neighborhood. One of only four Arthur Rutenberg homes in the community—and the only 5-car garage home in Ladera—this residence was proudly featured on the cover of Legendary Homes. Set on a premier large lake lot with low HOA fees and zoned for Steinbrenner High School, this property offers a rare blend of luxury, technology, and thoughtful design. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be impressed by over 2,000 square feet of newly sealed entry pavers (2025), extensive mature landscaping with irrigation and drip systems, dramatic landscape lighting, and nine mature Washingtonian palm trees creating stunning curb appeal—especially at night. Hurricane-impact windows throughout provide peace of mind with no shutters required. Inside, the home is fully integrated with a Control4 smart home system, allowing lighting, audio, security cameras, TVs, climate control, and more to be managed seamlessly from your phone. The gourmet kitchen features custom cabinetry, South African granite, GE Profile gas appliances (all under three years old), reverse-osmosis water, wine bar with refrigerator, and built-in security monitoring. Adjacent living and family spaces showcase custom ceiling details, wood beams, marble gas fireplace, expansive sliding doors, surround sound, and designer drapery—perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. The spacious primary suite offers private pool access, walk-in closets with custom built-ins, Control4 surround sound, and a spa-like bath with oversized dual-head shower. Additional bedrooms include private baths and balconies, while the upstairs family room opens to an outdoor balcony with surround sound and lake views. Outdoor living is exceptional with a full screened pool enclosure, travertine pavers, illuminated pool and spa with dual motors and fountain feature, and a custom gazebo complete with a 2025 built-in grill, cooktop, refrigerator, and TV. Whether hosting gatherings or relaxing lakeside, this space is designed to impress. Additional highlights include three separate AC units (primary unit just six months old), Vivint security system, hurricane protection, dedicated study, smart laundry room with Control4 rack system, and two garages totaling five parking spaces—one with EV-ready high-amp outlet, custom cabinetry, work area, and advanced lighting and irrigation controls. This is a truly rare opportunity to own a technologically advanced, meticulously maintained luxury home in one of the area’s most desirable communities. Schedule your private showing today.
- Built in 2012
- 5 garage spaces
- $438.92/sqft
- Lot size: 16,985 sqft
- 1 days on market
- Directions: Dale Mabry Hwy to east onto Van Dyke Rd. Turn into Ladera. Gate code is required. At roundabout, take 3rd exit onto Merry Water. House will be on the left. There is no sign. Thank you for showing!
- County: Hillsborough
- Geo subdivision: LADERA
Features
Interior
Exterior
Utilities
Structure
Pets, Accessibility & Amenities
Community Info
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Tax, Legal & Financing
Let's get in touch!
Let's get in touch!

Niles Harrison Pfeiffer
Central Florida REALTOR®
- Source: Stellar MLS
- MLS #: TB8465549
Listing updated: January 22, 2026 at 11:50AM
Listing provided by: Melissa DeMaria, KELLER WILLIAMS TAMPA PROP.
Last checked 0 seconds ago
Listing provided by: Melissa DeMaria, KELLER WILLIAMS TAMPA PROP.
Last checked 0 seconds ago
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