By Jim Carchidi
March 4, 2026
A piece of Central Florida history is under new ownership. Mount Dora’s William Watt House, aka Grandview Bed and Breakfast, sold on March 4 for $1.54 million after just over four months on the market.
An expansive estate
Photos by Bailey Headrick
The residence at 442 E 3rd Ave. was built in 1906 by citrus grower, William Watt. Two additional buildings were added later, expanding the property to 6,460 square feet with a total of seven bedrooms and eight bathrooms.
A windmill cottage was constructed in the 1930s with the windmill servicing irrigation for Watt’s neighboring orange grove. A carriage house was built in 1996 with a ground-level guest suite and an upstairs bedroom, living room, and a full kitchen and full bath. The house also features a 3-car garage with outdoor spaces situated around a private saltwater pool.
Original features
The sellers owned the property for 10 years, continuing its operation as a bed and breakfast and maintaining a tradition of preserving its historic features.
A cypress porch at the main residence was constructed with wood from the local mill. Original yellow heart pine floors, custom millwork, built-in bookcases, and two fireplaces have also withstood the test of time.
The windmill cottage is accented by juniper white cedar vaulted ceilings, French doors, and bamboo floors. The original frame also remains intact.
Respecting history
The sale was handled by Senior Agent Partner Bree Tucker of The Pozek Group, who said the new owners purchased the property fully furnished with the intent of preserving history, but will not be continuing the bed and breakfast the business. "The property will be their primary residence, but they intend to maintain all of the character and history of the house."
According to Pozek Group information, the average sale price in Mount Dora is $523,000 with the average price per square foot at $243. The total number of active listings is 362 with the average 119 days on the market.
Sponsor: The Orlando Real is sponsored by the Pozek Group — the #1 real estate team in Orlando and the Official Real Estate Team of the Orlando Magic.
About the Author
Jim Carchidi is an Orlando journalist and photographer with previous work at the Orlando Sentinel and Orlando Business Journal. He covers development, arts, culture, and local stories for The Orlando Real.
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