Hidden in plain sight on the North Trail (right across from the Super 8 Motel and the Bahi Hut) is this lavish half-acre-plus estate that makes no sense—in a delightful way—and is, in fact, named the Casa Loco. It started life as just another commercial building until the current owners got a hold of it and turned in into a home that would be more appropriate on Bird Key or the Country Club at Lakewood Ranch. 

It’s very large—over 8,000 square feet—and has six bedrooms and six-and-a-half baths. The style is a mix of contemporary and Spanish, with some Moorish arches thrown in. Inside you’ll find wood-paneled walls, embellished doorways, a grand hall, a home theater, an outdoor kitchen, various fireplaces, room-sized closets and a marble enclosed bath.

The property has a great many “possibilities,” as they say. It could remain a private home, or be turned into four apartments or become a bed and breakfast. It could also go back to its roots and become a commercial property. As the North Trail continues its long journey to respectability, this place sort of starts to make sense. 

The way the home is situated, it turns it back to the Trail. You may not even notice it as you drive by. Turn onto the Gary Street and drive behind the house to Osborne to get the full effect. 

903 Osborne Drive is listed at $1,795,000. For more information call Ann Martin of Michael Saunders and Co. at (941) 356-7717.