This elegant Mediterranean style former model home will captivate you from the moment you arrive! Meticulously maintained and freshly updated with a newly repainted exterior, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath pool home is situated on a stunning landscaped lot with a private, expansive backyard, perfectly designed to embrace the best of Florida outdoor living while offering refined style and comfort throughout. The curb appeal is striking with its Italian-inspired elevation, ceramic barrel tile roof, pavered driveway, & inviting front porch that sets the stage for the elegance inside. Step through the entryway into the formal living and dining room, highlighted by soaring tray ceilings with a decorative inset pattern, accent walls framed by beautiful columns, & stunning Brazilian hardwood floors that nicely warm up this space. Just beyond, a versatile den with impressive double-door entry functions well as a home office and features a beautiful built-in wall unit flanked by beautiful bookcases and drawers. Nearby is the breakfast nook, which effortlessly accommodates both everyday dining and upscale gatherings with its beautiful tray ceiling. Overlooking the Great Room is the kitchen, featuring beautiful staggered cabinets accented with decorative crown molding, granite countertops with convenient center prep island, stainless appliances including natural gas range, dedicated pantry, and elevated breakfast bar to provide additional seating. A triple slider off the great room leads you to the crown jewel of the home...the magnificent, screened-in lanai and saltwater pool with BRAND NEW (2025) pool pump & filter, highlighted by a cascading waterfall bubbler. Southern-facing views, privacy hedging, and a generous backyard beyond the pool come together to create an outdoor setting that feels both private and expansive. In-ceiling speakers throughout the home, including the lanai, provide flexible, independent control for an immersive audio experience both indoors and out. Back inside, the Primary Retreat makes a lasting impression with its soaring ceiling and full-lite glass door opening directly to the lanai, creating a seamless connection to the outdoors. Your Primary Bath includes extended vanity with double sinks, walk-in shower, soaking garden tub, & generously sized walk-in closet. Two additional bedrooms are thoughtfully positioned down a hallway off the Great Room with a shared hall bath, and one of the bedrooms even offers its own full-lite door to the lanai for added flexibility. A spacious utility room across from the flex room includes washer, gas dryer, upper & lower cabinets, and convenient utility sink. Other notable features include: BRAND NEW Roof (2025); BRAND NEW Carrier A/C w UV filtration (2025); BRAND NEW Smart My-Q Garage Door Opener & Garage Door Springs; Impact windows throughout; Custom window treatments; Pull-down stairs to attic; Landscaping lighting; Tankless gas water heater; Irrigation system; Rain gutters & more! Residents of the maintenance-free The Residences at University Groves community are primely situated in Sarasota, just a short drive to shopping, dining, & entertainment including UTC Mall & SRQ International Airport; 20 minutes to St. Armand's Circle; 30 minutes to award-winning Siesta Key Beach; and quick & easy access to I-75.