HGTV Dream House 2008 in Islamorada

When I found out the HGTV Dream House was in Islamorada this year and I was going to be in the Keys, I knew I had to see it. I didn't know how, but I was going to. I saw the special on TV New Year's day, and had been entering for a chance to win. To my delight, it was advertised in a Keys newspaper that tours were being offered. $20 was the fee, and all proceeds went to the Children's Shelter. We had to go, when was the next time we could see a HGTV Dream Home? We chose Tuesday to drive up to Islamorada to see it. I'm very glad we went, but was a little disappointed...the lush landscape shown on the special was kind of wilted and browned out, and the location really isn't that special. For 2.2 million? Hmmm...next door to a public beach/park and the sound of the road noise from US 1 was audible even though it was 1/2 mile in. The house is 1 of 5 that are being built there. It is very pretty, but very VERY costly. As with most everything in the Keys. I found that the winner is responsible for all taxes...upfront about $700,000~! Plus real estate taxes going forward, and hurricane insurance on 2+ million dollar property? Who has that kind of disposable income? I sure don't. Wowza. My favorite part of the home was the master bedroom suite, decorated in pale blue and cream and brown, located on the 3rd story. (yes...I climbed all those stairs--ugh, ouch!) Here are some picutures of the house.