11865 Fort King Hwy Offers a Breathtaking $18.9M Lakefront Masterpiece in Thonotosassa

Date of Publishing: May 4, 2025

In the heart of Florida’s tranquil countryside, 11865 Fort King Hwy emerges as a rare architectural legacy-an opulent lakefront estate where history, craftsmanship, and grandeur converge. Listed at $18.9 million, this one-of-a-kind residence redefines Thonotosassa real estate and sets a new benchmark for ultra-luxury living in the Tampa Bay region.

Luxury lakefront estate at 11865 Fort King Hwy in Thonotosassa, Florida, featuring Mediterranean architecture, private dock, Oval Office replica, and tiered pool.

A Statement Property of Presidential Proportions

Originally built in 2012, 11865 Fort King Hwy encompasses 25,321 square feet of interior living space on a sprawling 14.18-acre parcel that sits directly on the shores of Lake Thonotosassa. The property includes over 34,000 total square feet under roof, offering a scale rarely seen in even the most exclusive home in Thonotosassa for sale.

“The magnitude of this estate is simply awe-inspiring,” shares Karen Hegemeier of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty. “It feels less like a home and more like a private cultural monument.” Designed in Mediterranean style, the estate features a circular drive, a gated entrance, and manicured gardens that lead into a regal portico. Beyond the grand foyer, a series of formal living spaces unfold – each framed by custom millwork, intricate ceiling treatments, and soaring proportions.

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A Home That Pays Tribute to American Grandeur

Perhaps the most unique element of 11865 Fort King Hwy is its tribute to American heritage. A fully realized replica of the Oval Office has been constructed within the estate-complete with presidential flourishes, traditional molding, and historic references. Meanwhile, the basement level includes a recreated Tampa Theatre, built to scale and filled with intricate period detail.

“This estate doesn’t just offer luxury-it delivers narrative,” adds Paul DeSantis, co-listing agent. “It tells a story through every curated finish, every room, and every handcrafted element.” A memorabilia gallery further enhances the estate’s tribute to cultural history, with display walls and curated lighting.

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A Masterfully Executed Floorplan

The residence includes six bedrooms and twelve full bathrooms, all of which feature high-end finishes, custom vanities, and walk-in closets. The owner’s suite alone spans nearly 1,000 square feet, featuring dual dressing rooms, a spa-inspired bath, and panoramic lake views.

An in-law suite occupies its own dedicated wing-complete with private entrance, garage access, and kitchen setup-perfect for extended family or long-term guests.

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Resort-Style Grounds Along Lake Thonotosassa

The outdoor experience at 11865 Fort King Hwy is nothing short of resort-level. A multi-tiered lagoon-style saltwater pool anchors the rear of the property, surrounded by stone decking, a zero-entry edge, and cascading waterfalls. A screened summer kitchen with bar, grill, and fireplace allows for year-round entertaining in Florida’s temperate climate.

“Every inch of this property has been thoughtfully considered to evoke both serenity and prestige,” says Hegemeier in a follow-up with Luxury Houses Magazine. “It’s not just a showplace-it’s a sanctuary.”

The lakefront, which offers direct access to water activities, is home to a private boat house and dock. Elevated terraces and wraparound porches make the most of the surrounding landscape, which includes mature oak trees, gentle slopes, and curated native plantings.

History, Legacy, and Investment Value

This Thonotosassa home for sale carries a fascinating backstory. In September 2004, the property was acquired for $850,000. Over the next eight years, it was transformed-through painstaking design and investment-into what is now arguably Hillsborough County’s most significant estate. With the 2025 listing price set at $18.9 million, the estate reflects both appreciation in market value and irreplaceable architectural effort.

Its positioning in the Florida real estate market is both strategic and exclusive. There is no other residential property in the immediate area that offers this level of privacy, craftsmanship, and grandeur-all while being just a 30-minute drive from Tampa.

Exceptional Community with Convenient Access

Beyond its gates, the location of 11865 Fort King Hwy balances natural seclusion with suburban convenience. Thonotosassa offers proximity to Hillsborough River State Park, Fort Foster Historic Site, and miles of equestrian trails. The nearby town of Temple Terrace provides access to everyday needs-grocery, dining, healthcare-while Tampa International Airport is reachable in under 40 minutes.

“Someone with vision will recognize that this home isn’t just real estate,” DeSantis tells Luxury Houses. “It’s legacy.”

Notable restaurants such as The Refinery and Ulele are within easy reach for those seeking fine dining options. Families will appreciate the proximity to private schools and recreational centers, and boating enthusiasts will love the calm, undeveloped beauty of Lake Thonotosassa itself.

11865 Fort King Hwy is more than a residence. It’s a cultural archive, a retreat, a showcase of ambition and artistry. From its handcrafted Oval Office to its resort-style lakefront amenities, the property offers buyers a chance to live not just in comfort, but with purpose.

View property on Zillow.

For inquiries or to schedule a private showing, please contact:

Karen Hegemeier
813-368-7433
PREMIER SOTHEBYS INTL REALTY

Paul DeSantis, PA
813-439-4816
PREMIER SOTHEBYS INTL REALTY

* This property might not for sale at the moment you read this post; please check property status at the above Zillow or Agent website links*