In the heart of Kissimmee, Florida, a quiet piece of history has been lovingly brought back to life. Once known as the Tucker/Ivey House, this 1915 estate stood as a testament to Central Florida’s citrus legacy—until time took its toll. Now, thanks to Vita Property Management’s deep respect for heritage and unwavering commitment to community, the newly restored Ivey Reserve stands not just as a preserved landmark, but as a renewed symbol of what thoughtful revitalization can achieve.
A House with a Story
The Tucker/Ivey House was originally built for J. Wade Tucker, a lumber executive from Georgia. Spanning over 13,700 square feet, the home once sat on an 11-acre estate that included a nine-hole golf course—a luxurious retreat in the days when the area was blanketed by orange groves and the citrus industry was thriving. Later purchased by Hilda and Lester Ivey in the 1930s, the estate became the heart of Ivey Groves, a pioneering citrus company known for its King Sun and Kiss-Me-Sweet brands. At its peak, the family business employed over 300 people and produced thousands of cases of fresh citrus daily.
The property remained in the Ivey family for decades, but by the early 2000s, it stood vacant, weathered by time and Florida’s tropical climate. And while developers had plans to build around it, the house’s designation on the National Register of Historic Places meant demolition wasn’t an option. Fortunately, that’s where Vita stepped in—with a vision to preserve, restore, and reintroduce this historic treasure to the community.
A Revival Rooted in Respect
At Vita, we believe that property management is more than just maintenance—it’s stewardship. Taking on the restoration of Ivey Reserve meant more than just stabilizing a structure. It meant honoring a legacy.
Our first steps focused on structural integrity: critical roof repairs to prevent further water damage, along with deep inspections to ensure the home’s original masonry and brickwork could be preserved. As part of the broader Ivey Reserve redevelopment, which includes the addition of 160 new condominiums, the historic house was reimagined as a future community hub—a clubhouse, event space, or gathering center that ties the new development to its roots.
And while the modern residences being built nearby will offer the comfort and quality Vita is known for, Ivey Reserve remains the crown jewel: a rare blend of heritage and modernity, bridging the past with the present in a way that feels intentional, beautiful, and alive.
Life, Restored
The name “Vita” means life—and nowhere is that more visible than in projects like Ivey Reserve. Much like the symbolic plant sprouting from our logo, this restoration reflects our belief in growth, care, and the value of nurturing what already exists.
This revival is more than just a nod to the past—it’s an investment in the future. For new residents, it’s an invitation to become part of a living story. For the Kissimmee community, it’s a reminder that heritage matters—and with the right vision, it can thrive once again.
Visit Ivey Reserve
We invite you to see the remarkable transformation for yourself. The Ivey Reserve project stands as a living tribute to Kissimmee’s past—now being carefully restored and brought into a vibrant future. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a future resident, or a property owner inspired by thoughtful revitalization, follow along as this iconic home continues to evolve. It’s a story of preservation in motion—and we’re proud to be writing the next chapter.