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The Casa (or "the house" for you Spanish illiterates) was built in approximately 1930 to 1940 era. (The seller really saw Thad coming. No one else would have bought it, and he paid way too much.) It was (and remains) a modest structure that was just short of being abandoned. The previous owners had a mobile home located in what is now the citrus grove, and although they had furniture and belongings stored in the house, they were living in the mobile home. With an addition, the total living area amounted to approximately 1000 square feet.

The interior of the house showed extreme settlement. The house was constructed on concrete blocks, and a later leveling pushed the southwest end of the home 18 inches upward. Thad has been working on the house now for 12+ years and upgrading still is not complete. The improvements include a well and a septic system. Both of these, most likely, were installed at the same time the house was built. The septic system required replacement since the drain field had broken tile and the flow was poor. The driveway was and remains gravel. Thad enclosed a carport, which was in poor condition, and partially converted it to an aviary so as to provide a place to keep his loco parrot, Pedro.

Sidewalks were non-existent. Many repairs and upgrades were needed, but this property worked into Thad and Alice's plans and has become a suitable home for them with limited capital. (He never has made much money.) In the beginning, they had considered building a new home, but in the process of eliminating ongoing problems, they found the old house practical and actually quite enjoyable. The rustic character of the improvements provide a "camping out" feeling with a relaxed, comfortable environment and atmosphere. The surrounding "jungle" characteristics provides a primitive setting to the whole property. Exotic tropical fruit is readily picked as it ripens. The appeal is reflected in the faces of the many people who have wandered throughout Mango's Jungle. Friends often refer to them as Adam and Eve. I haven't seen them wearing fig leaves yet, but you never know what the future may bring with these two.

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