#504 “Barefoot Cottage” on Useppa Island is an intelligently renovated villa which features a blend of classic design and clean coastal finishes, all within a very manageable package. Situated on the western shoreline of this private, members-only island, the expansive water views reach across the Intracoastal Waterway to Charlotte Harbor, with Gasparilla Island and the famous Boca Grande Pass in the distance. A community dock dedicated to the neighborhood is a short walk away, making for easy access to the finest boating, fishing and beaches southwest Florida has to offer.
Surrounding this unit is a large open deck with more than enough space for a range of potential. The deck and handrailing were replaced in 2023, with robust 2×6 skirting surrounding the lower storage crawlspace. Remote-operated canvas awnings are poised to roll out when shade is needed but remain otherwise inconspicuous when retracted. New maritime ship’s lights provide outdoor illumination, and their sturdy design is fitting to withstand the tropical climate. A ramp on the waterside leads down to the mangrove shoreline, with the community dock a short walk away. Ownership of “Barefoot Cottage” comes with the cost-free right to dock a boat 24’ or less at the community dock, offering cost-effective and convenient direct water access.
Enter the front door to find an open kitchen a large living area, with clean coastal finishes throughout. Both the kitchen and living room possess unobstructed water views through a wall of sliding glass doors, which are protected by roll-down storm screens. Beyond the kitchen to the east is a ground floor Master bedroom with spacious bathroom and ample closet storage. The first floor underwent a thorough renovation in 2022. New interior lighting, fans and flooring were installed, and an entire interior repaint was performed during this effort. The kitchen received a new refrigerator, dishwasher, stove and microwave and a new LG washer/dryer set was installed. The air conditioning was also replaced with a new system and an on-demand propane water heater replaced the traditional electric unit. A new underground 500 gallon propane tank feeds the water heater and is ready for a generator to be installed at the hookup. The entire lower level was spray-foam insulated under the floors, encapsulating the electrical wiring and providing for noticeable conservation of cooling and energy.
The guest rooms upstairs offer enough space and convenience for family use or guest’s quarters. The westernmost bedroom is a loft design which overlooks the living area. The view to the west through the impact-rated sliding door is a bird’s-eye of the water and islands beyond, with a private open balcony available for when the outdoors needs to be brought to life. On the east side of the upper floor is an additional room which could serve a variety of purposes if additional beds aren’t a priority. The cozy space has room enough for multiple kid’s beds, a fully functional office or small exercise room. The cute shared bath in between serves its purpose by providing all one needs to do what’s necessary.
“Barefoot Cottage” has been consistently upgraded inside and out over recent years and presents an opportunity to have a very manageable island home without a long list of to-do’s. The colors and décor are timeless, resulting in an ambiance in keeping with its classic Key West design, with accents of quality modern accoutrements. It has stood the test of island-time for over 40-years, and most significantly so during these last three years of sporty tropical events. Not once has “Barefoot Cottage” been intruded by rising flood waters and it has weathered the winds remarkably well.
Bed/Bath: 3/2
Approx Living Area: 1,455
Approx Total Area: 2,069
Dockage: Useppa Village 24′ or less
Asking Price: $900,000
Furnishings: Mostly Furnished