CAL ATLANTIC'S SHOWSTOPPING SHOWCASE HOME

Builders always roll out their best during the Parade of Homes, sponsored by the Greater Orlando Builders Association. They know that the parade is the time of year when foot traffic is the highest — and, of course, everybody’s angling for a prestigious parade award.

So it’s no wonder that CalAtlantic Homes chose to showcase the Killarney, an oversized (5,491 square feet) two-story showstopper with six bedrooms, five bathrooms and a three-car garage. In fact, the Killarney is the parade’s Showcase Home, which means it’ll get even more attention.

But take our word for it: This spectacular home is more than ready for prime time. Or don’t take our word for it, and see it for yourself.

Although the parade will be over by the time you read this issue of Florida Homebuyer Orlando, you can still visit the entry at Markham Landings, 2128 Markham Landings Way in Sanford.

Base-priced at $997,990, the Killarney is expensive for a production home. But with all the upscale extras and finishes, it seems much more like a one-of-a-kind custom home that would typically be priced much higher.

Let’s start with the garage, which is unusually configured. It’s actually two garages — one standard, two-car garage with a large storage area and a separate but adjacent one-car garage that might be used as a workshop, or to shelter a boat or some other special vehicle.

The center of the home is a first-floor great room that’s really great — nearly 590 square feet — with the gourmet kitchen and informal dining area, which opens onto a lanai, in the back. There’s also a formal dining room, a den, a bedroom and a “club room” (perhaps an additional bedroom, if you need one) on the first floor.

The second floor features a loft, three more bedrooms and a huge master suite that features dual walk-in closets and opens onto an optional balcony. (Frankly, we can’t imagine anyone buying the Killarney and not opting for that balcony.)

One of the coolest things about the Killarney — at least in the version on display for the parade — is a circular tower-type room, designated as a retreat, that opens onto an interior balcony overlooking the great room. A very cool space.

Naturally, there’s a spectacular outdoor living area with a fire pit, a pool (check out the gorgeous water features) and a separate elevated soaking pool.

The Killarney offers three very different elevations. Elevation A, with the circular tower, gives off a Mission-style vibe, with lots of brick. Elevation B goes for elegance with Mediterranean touches, while Elevation C employs beautiful stonework.

For more information, visit calatlantichomes.com.