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Hidden Springs/Estates
Spring Newsletter 2026
| Spring greetings, Hidden Springs/Estates residents. We hope you enjoy our quarterly newsletter, which highlights neighborhood news, area happenings and other useful community information. To contact the HOA, you can email us or visit our website. |
| Message from the President | | |
Hello, Hidden Springs/Estates Residents,
Quick Updates
• Zelle is now available for paying HOA contributions.
• $125 annual contribution (due September 2025) — please submit if you have not yet paid.
• Winter freeze caused landscaping damage, including plants at our entrances that will need replacement.
Zelle Now Available for HOA Payments
A quick reminder that the $125 annual neighborhood contribution was due in September 2025. If you have already paid, thank you for supporting our community. Your contribution helps maintain our entrances, landscaping, and neighborhood events that benefit everyone who lives here. If you have not yet had a chance to pay, we would appreciate you taking a moment to submit your contribution now. Our neighborhood depends on participation from all households to help keep Hidden Springs / Hidden Springs Estates looking its best. You can Zelle HOA@HiddenSpringsEstates.org.
Winter Freeze Impact
This winter brought unusually cold temperatures to Central Florida, and many tropical and subtropical plants unfortunately did not survive the extended freeze. Even plants that had thrived for years—such as Crotons and Hibiscus—were damaged or lost. Our neighborhood entrances were also affected. The Ixoras at Pine Springs did not survive, and we are still evaluating the condition of the Robellini palms. On a positive note, the Podocarpus planted along the Dr. Phillips Boulevard wall planters performed very well during the cold weather. If you plan to replant this spring, it’s a good idea to ask your nursery about the cold hardiness of plants and shrubs. Central Florida is located in USDA Hardiness Zones 9–10, and after the 2023 update many areas—including Orlando—are now classified as Zone 10a, reflecting generally warmer winters but still the possibility of occasional hard freezes.
Lawn Tip: ProVista St. Augustine
Several neighbors have recently installed ProVista St. Augustine grass, and it performed extremely well during the winter cold. ProVista was developed by ScottsMiracle-Gro after more than 20 years of research on the Floratam variety. It was designed to provide:
• Slower growth (about 50% less mowing)
• Denser turf that helps resist weeds
• A deeper green color
If you’re interested in learning more about ProVista lawns, feel free to reach out to Fred Hawkins, our Vice President, at FHaw360186@aol.com who would be happy to share his experience.
January Neighborhood Event
We had a wonderful community event in January hosted by Chima Brazilian Steakhouse at the retention pond. The head chef from Chima and his team prepared the food right on site, and everything was cooked to perfection. Although the weather looked questionable earlier in the day, it cleared up just in time and we had a great turnout. We were honored that Chima chose our neighborhood for the event—and especially grateful that it was free for our residents. To see photos from the event, click here.
Looking Ahead
Finally, it’s never too early to start thinking about hurricane season, which officially begins in June. It tends to sneak up on us, so a little early preparation can make a big difference. Thank you, and happy planting!
Sincerely,
Donna Fontaine
HOA President
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By Treasurer Tina Dottino
Thank you to all who have paid their 2025-2026 dues! Over 200 of our residents and 6 new homeowners have made contributions to the HOA so far. Thanks to each of you who have done so, and special thanks to the many of you who have been generous with your donation! We are in the latter half of our fiscal year. If you have not yet done so, please submit your dues by mailing a check or using our PayPal. You can also now use Zelle to pay your dues! Send payments to hoa@hiddenspringsestates.org directly from your bank. Your $125 annual HOA donations go toward providing for the maintenance and landscaping of our common areas, including mowing and tree trimming – as the summer approaches, preparation and cleanup from hurricanes of our common areas will be conducted. Our HOA also offers welcome baskets to new Hidden Springs/Estates residents; hosts events such as the National Night Out Block Party and our annual HOA meeting; and repairs or upgrades our neighborhood walls as needed. Dues also provide lighting, signage, and even holiday decorations at our entrances. We could not do all of this without the financial support of our residents. Please click here to contribute.
Spending by Category - Year to Date
11/26/2025-3/20/2026
| | | Administrative expenses | $ 1,664.00 | | Common area maintenance | $ 11,918 | | Community events and promotion | $ 413.00 | | Holiday decorations | $ 2,120.00 | | Utilities | $ 1,471.00 | | Insurance | $6,675.00 | | OVERALL TOTAL TO DATE | 24,261.00 | | | Chima Steakhouse Block Party a Success | | |
Residents were invited to enjoy an Afternoon Block Party here in Hidden Springs/Estates featuring Brazilian bites generously provided by Chima Steakhouse on January 11. Chima Steakhouse is an upscale dining destination located in the heart of Doctor Phillips on Restaurant Row, renowned for its authentic Brazilian Rodizio experience. Their special menu for our event at the retention pond included:
- Tenderloin Steak
- Pork Sausage in a Brazilian Style
- Marinated Chicken
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Street Corn Salad
To add to the fun, a gaucho was on hand for photo opportunities! Plus, 10 lucky residents won complimentary rodizios at Chima! To view more photos from the event, click here.
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About Chima Steakhouse
Experience the vibrant flavors of Brazil right here in Dr. Phillips! Located on Restaurant Row, Chima Steakhouse Orlando offers an authentic Brazilian churrasco experience featuring premium meats carved tableside by gauchos, a gourmet salad bar with fresh selections, and a stylish bar and lounge perfect for gathering with friends. Monday through Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. enjoy Happy Hour, featuring drink and appetizer specials in a relaxed, upscale atmosphere. Whether celebrating with family, enjoying a date night, or meeting friends after work, Chima combines exceptional cuisine, warm hospitality, and contemporary design for every occasion.
| | Thanks to Amber and Kevin for being wonderful hosts for our Happy Hour on February 20! It's always a great time getting to know our neighbors better. Save the date for our next Happy Hour tentatively scheduled for Friday, June 12. If you would like to host an upcoming Happy Hour, please contact Karen Butler at VLN7807@aol.com. | | Resident Realtor: Real Estate Market Update | | | | |
This neighborhood market report is brought to you by our Resident Realtor, Kendle Arribas with The Agency. She is a long-term resident of Hidden Springs and has a deep understanding of our community.
If you're thinking about selling your home and would like a free market evaluation, please contact her at Kendle.Arribas@TheAgencyRE.com.
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Orlando's State of the Market
As we head into the spring selling season, the latest market report provides some insight into Orlando's current housing market. Spring is historically when listings surge and families move before the school year. If you're planning to sell, condition matters and homes must be priced correctly. If you are interested to see what your home might worth in today's market, I am happy to provide a complimentary consultation. You can contact me at Kendle.Arribas@TheAgencyRE.com.
- The median home price for February was recorded at $375,000, up 1.4% from January’s median home price of $370,000.
- Overall sales rose by 15.5% from January to February. There were 1,634 sales in January and 1,888 sales in February.
- Inventory for February was recorded at 11,975, up 2.0% from January, when inventory was recorded at 11,741.
- February’s interest rate was recorded at 5.9% – down slightly from 6.0% in January. This is the first time interest rates fell into the 5.0%-range since September 2024.
- New listings fell 4.5% from January to February, with 3,678 new homes on the market in February, compared to 3,852 in January.
- 22 distressed homes (bank-owned properties and short sales) accounted for 1.2% of all home sales in February. This is a 37.1% decrease from January, when 35 distressed homes sold.
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Hidden Springs/Estates Activity
For the period of November 24, 2025-March 16, 2026, our neighborhood had 2 sales, and 1 home is pending sale. One closed on Caspian Ct. for $345,000, and the other closed on Cedar Pine Dr. for $549,900. It's important to note, the home on Caspian Ct that sold for $345,000 was an auction property and was not finished on the inside. The home that is pending on Pitch Pine Dr. is also an auction property and not finished on the inside. There are currently no homes for sale in our neighborhood as of 3/16/26.
Updates to your home, proper maintenance and curb appeal all add value. When our neighborhood looks good, it helps increase everyone’s home values. Please do what you can to keep your homes looking their best both with interior updates as well as landscaping and lawn maintenance.
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Real Estate Report for Hidden Springs/Estates
November 24, 2025 - March 16, 2026
| | Accuracy of all information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and should be independently verified. © My Florida Regional Inc. DBA Stellar MLS, ©️ 2023 FMLS, ©️ 2023 GCMLS, all rights reserved. Matrix v11.2. Copyright © 2024 CoreLogic. All rights reserved. | |
Does Your Home Need the Septic Drain Field Replaced?
By Kendle Arribas
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In our neighborhood, many residents are now having to replace their septic drain field. They typically last about 20 to 30 years — depending on maintenance, soil conditions, and household usage. I recently had to do this with my own home, and thought it might be helpful to share the process and timeline.
I filed permits at the end of January, and about a month later, I was cleared to install the new drain field. But just a heads up — permit approval can take up to 5 months depending on the county workload. In Orange County, failing to acquire a septic permit can result in code compliance enforcement, with fines of up to $1,000 per day for initial violations. https://share.google/aimode/cRY4RlK3VZeTHKIGW
The day before digging, utilities were marked. I also had my irrigation company come out to cap the valves and mark the main line — because yes, your entire yard will get dug up.
My whole front yard was excavated and the brand-new drain field was installed the same day.
After installation and inspection, I had my irrigation company come back out to double-check everything and repair what was needed before installing new sod.
If you would like to know my costs or vendors used, I'm happy to share. You can send me a message to Kendle.Arribas@TheAgencyRE.com.
| | | | With the elimination of our deputy patrol services, it is more important than ever to get to know your neighbors, keep an eye out for each other and call 911 immediately to report suspicious activity. If you have a camera that has captured video of an event, please share it with the Sheriff's Department. | | |
If you notice anything suspicious in the neighborhood, please call 407-836-HELP (4357) for a non-emergency or 911 for an emergency.
Remember, this is a NO SOLICITING neighborhood. Please do not let solicitors in your house or buy anything from them. If you are interested in what they are selling, call the company directly and make an appointment.
The loud parties appear to have stopped. PLEASE contact the Sheriff Department via the non-emergency line 407-836-4357 if there are other disrupting issues -- they are very helpful.
| | Curbside Collection - New Pickup Days! | | |
A NEW SCHEDULE STARTED DECEMBER 29, 2025: Recycling and Yard Waste will be picked up on Mondays for Hidden Springs/Estates residents. Garbage and Large Items will be picked up on Tuesdays. Items should be placed at the curb no later earlier than 6:00 p.m. the night before and no later than 6:00 a.m. on your scheduled collection day. Roll carts should be placed behind your home/fence or in your garage, so they are no visible from the street when stored. For more information, please visit the Orange County website.
| | 311, Code Enforcement, AirBnB Update & Watering Days | | |
Dial 311 - It Works!
This is how Board members stay on top of code violations.
Be a good neighbor and call 311 if you see a hazard i.e.; broken sidewalk, mold/slippery sidewalk, falling tree branches, etc. The Orange County 311 system is a great way to connect with local government services. They can also help you with animal concerns, neighborhood inquiries, traffic matters, road conditions and more. You can contact them via phone, website or an easy-to-use app. Learn more at ocfl.net/311. There are a couple of houses that are being fined or charged for cleanup work performed by the county.
Short-term rentals are not allowed in Orange County. If you suspect a home is being used for short-term rentals, report it to Orange County 311 (see below) or send an email to hoa@hiddenspringsestates.org. For more information about zoning for short-term rentals call (407) 836-3111. We are keeping an eye on one that stopped but now may be starting up again.
Watering Restrictions:
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You may water your lawn TWO DAYS A WEEK until November 1. Orange County Watering Restrictions and Irrigation Schedule can be viewed here. Water only if necessary and not between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Water for no more than one hour per zone. Watering Violation Enforcement Process: First-time violators will receive a warning through a door hanger notice and by letter. Repeat violators will be subject to a fine of $25 per violation. A violator can appeal to a Hearing Officer after a written request is submitted and a $25 filing fee is made. Water enforcement has recently been seen in the neighborhood.
| | As we welcome the warmer days of spring, it’s the perfect time for all of us to take a few moments to freshen up the outside of our homes. A little seasonal cleanup goes a long way in keeping our neighborhood looking beautiful and well cared for. Simple things such as trimming landscaping, mowing and edging lawns, removing weeds, pressure washing driveways and sidewalks, and clearing away any debris can make a big difference. When each of us takes pride in maintaining our property, it helps create an inviting environment that we can all enjoy. Keeping our homes and yards looking their best also helps protect and support the value of our properties. A well-maintained neighborhood not only looks great but also makes a positive impression on visitors and potential buyers alike. Thank you to everyone who already puts in the effort to maintain their home and property. Your commitment helps make this a wonderful place to live. As we move into spring, let’s all do our part to keep our neighborhood looking great. Thank you for being part of a community that cares. | | |
Please welcome the following new residents to Hidden Springs/Estates! Each is given a welcome basket from the HOA filled with goodies and neighborhood information. Special thanks to Karen Butler for her work in putting together and delivering these wonderful welcome baskets to our new residents each quarter. If you have anything you can contribute to our welcome baskets, please contact us.
The HOA makes an effort to keep our directory of homeowners current. If you have a new neighbor and they are not receiving our newsletters, please have them reach out to the HOA to get added to our list.
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August 27, 2025
7703 Pine Vista Ct.
Nicholas Onderick
Sarah Onderick
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September 4, 2025
5760 Tamarack Dr.
Michael G Mendez
Alexander V Iskrenko
Mylene Iskrenko
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November 12, 2025
7619 Lake Marsha Dr
Andrew Karahalis
Ariel Karahalis
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Not pictured:
July 2, 2025
7549 Lake Marsha Dr.
Abdulrazak Gulamrassul Mansuri
Naghat Sultana Mansuri
August 29, 2025
5724 Pitch Pine Dr.
Erik Armiliato Gomes
Rafael Guilherme Lima Pinson
September 3, 2025
5705 Sago Palm Dr.
Aaron Benson
Amber Alloway
October 27, 2025
7626 Majestic Pine Ct.
Thomas D Hertzfeldt II
Tracy Lynn Hemingway
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October 28, 2025
5056 Caspian Ct
Lucas Oncins Gaudio
Luiza Oncins
Jaime Oliveira Oncins
November 2, 2025
5050 Hidden Springs Blvd.
Danielle and William Trimm
November 14, 2025
5224 Abelia Dr
Jerome J Nathan
December 2, 2025
6030 Cedar Pine Dr
Joshua Johnson
| | Please make sure that you keep the Hidden Springs/Estates Homeowners Association updated with your latest email address and any resident name changes. We continually update our records by adding proper names and email addresses into our database. If you know someone who has recently moved in or who does not receive our emails, please tell them to contact us so they can receive our quarterly newsletters, event updates and alerts form the HOA. | | Like and Follow Our Facebook Page | | Follow our Facebook page for Hidden Springs/Estates where we share news, events and updates related to our neighborhood! This page is another great place to stay informed about what’s happening in our community and to connect with fellow residents. Please note, this page is intended for sharing positive updates and information. If you have any concerns or issues, we kindly ask that you direct them to our HOA email at HOA@HiddenSpringsEstates.org. We invite you to like and follow our page at: Hidden Springs & Estates Facebook Page. We look forward to connecting with you online! | | |
President
Donna Fontaine
Vice President
Fred Hawkins
Treasurer
Tina Dottino
Secretary
Charles Simonel
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Contact Management & Welcoming Director
Karen Butler
Sr. Database Director
Denise Bradley
Communications Director
Kendle Arribas
Orange County Code Enforcement Liaison
Anonymous
| | Click here to see our supporters. If you are interested in promoting your business to Hidden Springs/Estates residents with a business card ad on our Supporters page for $25, please contact the HOA for more information. | | |
Although it is the Hidden Springs/Estates Homeowners Association's (HSE HOA) intent to provide accurate and up-to-date information, no warranty, express or implied, is made regarding accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information contained on the pages of this newsletter. The HSE HOA assumes no liability for damages, incurred by the user of this information, which occur directly or indirectly as a result of errors, omissions or discrepancies in the information. The HSE HOA provides this information on an "as is" basis. The HSE HOA reserves the right to make changes and updates to the information at any time and without notice. Any person or entity who relies on information contained herein does so at his or her own risk.
Copyright © 2026. All Rights Reserved.
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