Welcome to The Retro River House — a lovingly restored 1970s ranch that blends classic mid-century charm with every modern upgrade you could dream of. Perfectly perched on nearly half an acre across from the Hillsborough River, this Temple Terrace treasure offers a rare combination of style, space, comfort, and versatility — whether you’re searching for a forever home, a spacious family retreat, or a top-performing vacation rental.
The property’s curb appeal and sprawling lot set the tone. A long paver driveway provides ample parking, while the expansive side yard offers plenty of room for a boat, RV, or multiple vehicles — plus a charming bench swing sitting area tucked under shady trees.
Step inside and you’re immediately welcomed by a swanky, bright and airy open-concept great room, where mid-century vibes meet modern design. Luxury vinyl plank flooring runs throughout the home, leading you through a seamless flow of spaces that include a stylish living area, a generous dining room with a beautiful bay window and designer wallpaper, and a fully reimagined chef’s kitchen.
The kitchen is a showpiece: a massive oversized island with seating for at least four, topped with stunning quartz countertops and surrounded by brand-new cabinetry with soft close drawers that offers abundant storage. A deep undermount sink makes cleanup easy — big enough to fit your largest casserole dish — while updated plumbing and electrical (including in-floor outlets) make the space as functional as it is beautiful. Every detail has been considered, right down to the dimmable designer light fixtures.
A few steps away, a cozy family room invites you to relax in front of a wood-burning fireplace.
From here, step out into your private outdoor oasis. A covered patio opens onto a stunning pool and spa area, complete with a heated Pentair heat pump system, rescreened enclosure, and a custom mural wall that transforms the backyard into a resort-style retreat. For added fun, there’s even a projector setup with Bluetooth speakers, ideal for movie nights by the pool.
This home features four spacious bedrooms, each filled with natural light and designed for comfort. Both bathrooms have been completely remodeled, showcasing sleek finishes and luxurious touches — including three-tone mirrors with built-in defogging features. The primary bathroom and several areas of the home incorporate wheelchair accessibility features, making this property as inclusive and practical as it is stylish.
No detail has been overlooked in this careful restoration. Major updates include a new metal roof (2021), new air conditioning system (2021), updated plumbing and electrical, and luxury vinyl flooring throughout. The laundry has been moved into the home’s heated and cooled square footage for added convenience.
Situated just minutes from the University of South Florida, Temple Terrace Golf & Country Club, major hospitals, and I-75/I-275, this home offers exceptional access to Tampa’s best amenities while retaining a serene, residential feel.
Adding even more value, The Retro River House has operated as a very successful, highly reviewed vacation rental — and it’s fully stocked and ready to continue as one if you choose.
Whether you’re looking for a stylish primary residence, a turnkey investment property, or a unique blend of both, this home is a rare find.
