Sarasota Marathon

Sarasota Marathon - Race with a View

In 2003, I was introduced to the Ironman competition when my son, Bill, called and said "pack your bags; we're going to Hawaii to watch Frank finish the Ironman. Frank, being Bill's former roommate from Washington DC, whom we have known since he attended WVU is quite the adventurer. He looked at a little Sarasota real estate last year while in town for the 2006 Sarasota Marathon.

In 2003, Frank dreamed of his father, a World War II veteran, being at the finish line of the famed Ironman in Kona, HI (he was), and then later that year of accompanying his father at the dedication of the new World War II Memorial (he did). George Fumich, Frank's father, taught him to set his lofty goals and to "never give up" to achieve them. George now rests in Arlington National Cemetery after a full military recognition, and Frank continues to strive for even higher goals.

Yesterday I got an email from Frank stating he will kick off 2007 on January 9 by flying to Argentina to attempt to climb Mt. Aconcagua, located in the Argentine-Chilean Central Andes. Ackon Cahuak, or "Stone Sentinel," one of the Seven Summits (the highest mountain in South America) rises majestically to 23,000 feet and is the highest mountain in the world outside the Himalayas. Frank expects this to be his hardest challenge yet, and since he's completed Ironmans, run 135 miles through Death Valley, 140 miles through the Sahara, climbed the highest mountains on two other continents (Africa and Europe), and recently married his beautiful, Chelsea, we'll be following along for the 14 day climb. 

When you set your goals for 2007, why not register for the 2007 Sarasota Marathon. Frank talks of the view he will see at his finish in Argentina. Our marathon doesn't take 14 days, and you don't have to go as far; yet the Sarasota Marathon does have an incredible view. This year's race will draw 3000+ runners and is sponsored by ABC 7. Mayor Ed Atkins is the Honorary Chairman.

If your 2007 goal is to search for Sarasota waterfront property with a view, contact Annette Smith at 941-504-3922 or send an email with your real estate goals.

The Lake Club at Lakewood Ranch

The Lake Club - Golf Course Community

Next 10 New Home Sites

Every homesite in the Lake Club offers spectacular views of water, preserves, exquisite landscaping in its 1,500 acres. A $10,000 deposit is required to reserve a home site.

Phase I

Park Lots from $187,000-$273,000
Meadow Lots from $212,000-$329,000
Manor Lots from $373,000-$504,000
Estate Lots from $369,000-$959,000
Plantation Lots from $707,000-$1,300,000

If you are ready to purchase Sarasota Real Estate, check out homes for sale in the many golf communities of Lakewood Ranch. The new Lake Club development at Lakewood Ranch is taking reservations.

For more details and information about Lakewood Ranch homes, give Annette a call at 941-504-3922 or send an email to annette@annettesellssarasota.com with Lakewood Ranch or Lake Club in the subject line.

New Downtown Sarasota Condo

Marquee on the Bay Now Taking Reservations


Notification of new 1800-2800 sq.ft. floorplans available at Marquee on the Bay have arrived. Reservations are now being accepted for this new Sarasota condo on the downtown bayfront across from Marina Jack's at the corner of Gulf Stream and Main. There are 10 remaining residences available from 1800-5000 sq.ft. with prices starting in the $1 millions.

Panoramic views of the bay, marina and city, along with heated swimming pool and spa overlooking Sarasota Bay highlight Marquee on the Bay. Other features are its fully equpped fitness center and 24 hr valet and concierge/doorman service.

If you think now is the time to start your search for a downtown Sarasota condo or a Sarasota home, email Annette Smith for updates on properties in Sarasota FL or to make an appointment to view floorplans and amenities at the Marquee's Design Center.

Sarasota Real Estate Sales

Sales Figures for October Indicate "Orderly Decline"

From the statistics gathered by the Sarasota Association of REALTORS MLS in November 2006, existing home sales in our market and nationwide are showing stablization.

The Sarasota MLS stats show 5,623 single-family homes and condos have sold year to date through October 31, 2006. These figures are closer to the sales figures for the same period in 2001 and 2002. The boom years of 2003, 2004 and 2005 produced sales of almost 10,000 per year. These figures tend to skew the results when comparing this year with the previous three years.

Prices are stablizing along with sales as the median price single-family home is now $345,000 year-to-date through October. This is a drop of only 1.4 percent. The median Sarasota condo sale price for the same period was $300,000, an increase of almost 2 percent from the $295,000 median price of 2005.

NAR's chief economist, David Lereah, says "when consumers recognize that home sales are stablilizing, we'll see the buyers who've been on the sidelines get back into the market, and sales will be at more normal levels in the wake of the unsustainable boom that we saw last year."

If you think now is the time to start your search for Sarasota homes or Sarasota condominiums, email Annette Smith for updates on properties in Sarasota.

Preconstruction Downtown Sarasota Condos

City Place Preview



Several years ago, I met Monica Waterman in an advanced mentoring class provided by our previous Sarasota real estate company. Monica moved on to Michael Saunders & Company and I moved to RE/MAX Properties. I had the pleasure this week of viewing Monica's presentation and tour of yet another new condo in Sarasota: City Place. Wow! What an excellent job -- kudos to Monica. You must go see what's in store for downtown Sarasota living and shopping. If you like
100 Central, you will love City Place!

City Place is in the heart of downtown at Pineapple Square. Theaters, restaurants, shopping, cultural attractions are at your doorstep. Whole Foods Market is just half a block away, and the white sand beaches are minutes from downtown as well as St. Armands Circle, Ringling Museum of Art and the Sarasota airport.

Building amenities feature a large gathering room with bar, fireplace and flat screen TV, a large warming kitchen with storage, a professionally equipped fitness center, a theater/media room.

For more information on City Place or other downtown Sarasota condos, email Annette Smith.

Recent Sales Siesta Key Condominiums

Siesta Key Condo Sales

Searching the Sarasota MLS for recent sales of condominiums sold for the last three months on Siesta Key resulted in 27 condo units with selling prices from $250,000 to a direct gulf views unit at Siesta Dunes with a selling price of $2,900,000.

There are currently 520 condos actively listed on Siesta Key. Siesta Key condos are offered from $250,000 for approximately 300 sq. ft. to over $3 million for a new Siesta Key condo at the Crescent or Summer Cove, Siesta Key's newest highrises featuring all the new amenities of a luxury beach lifestyle.

For more information on Siesta Dunes, the Crescent or other Siesta Key real estate, email Annette Smith.

Sarasota Real Estate News

Looking for Your Home at the Beach

So you think you want a small home on the beach with the waves lulling you to sleep every night. You look at your savings and say that you've been faithful putting the money away for your dream of living by the sea. Next step: email a Florida real estate agent with a request for small home on the beach, minimum two bedrooms and two baths. Oh yes, we have children so this must be in a nice area within walking distance to shops, restaurants and attractions. Our price range is under $250,000.

Well, unfortunately, in Sarasota even with the downturn in the market, you have to add a few more zeros to your price range. Those tiny beach cottages have been replaced with estates or gated communities featuring mini mansions such as Solymar on Siesta Key. These new Siesta Key homes offer premium construction designs.

Yes, we've had major prices increases in the last three years and now these real estate prices are on a downturn, but even three or four years ago $250,000 for what I described above was out of the question for Sarasota, Siesta Key and Longboat Key. Beach property is prime property, and it is still prime! Now is the time to start your search for Sarasota real estate because if not at the bottom of the downturn, we are near the end according to many experts.

For more information on Solymar or Siesta Key new condos, email Annette Smith.

Burns Court - Sarasota, Florida

Sarasota Neighborhood Update

If you haven't seen Burns Court in Sarasota in the last year, you'll be surprised. Burns Court movie goers recently saw the changes. New construction is on every corner. As you can see from some of the snapshots, this inner city neighborhood still oozes with charm and could be the perfect spot for your Sarasota home.


From the handcrafted mosaic sidewalks to the new Burns Court Villas. The sidewalk on the Orange Street is creatively designed with fish, crab and other creatures of the sea.

Rising high above the neighborhood roofstops is the new Kanaya highrise. Kanaya is a balanced building with city and bay views located at the corner of Orange Avenue and Laurel Street.

For your information package on Burns Court Villas and new condos in Sarasota or info on Kanaya, call or email Annette Smith.

Luxury Condominiums on Siesta Key

Beach Villas

Just steps away from the Siesta Key Village, shopping, seashells, dining and entertainment, Beach Villas offer an ideal island lifestyle. These Siesta Key condos house just 22 spacious one and two story villas ranging from 1,350 to 3,400 sq.ft. Interiors provide from 2 bedrooms, 2 baths to 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and 2 half-baths with high ceiling and coffered foyers in select residences along with kitchens equipped with wood cabinetry, stone countertops and stainless steel appliances.

Building amenities include a freeform swimming pool with waterfalls, spa, central tropical courtyard, private terraces.

Villas are priced from the low $1 millions - Penthouse suites from $2+ million

For your information package on preconstruction pricing and new condos in Sarasota or your Beach Villas priority registration, call or email Annette Smith

Longboat Key Dining

Moore's for Stone Crabs

Recently I had stone crabs at Moore's, watched the dolphins and sipped some vino. Every season, my friend Melanie Wright, owner of The Wright Look on Pineapple Street in downtown Sarasota calls to extend her invitation for this festive season. We always enjoy the peacocks crossing the road just before Moore's too.

Before joining Melanie for dinner, I shopped St. Armands for some comfortable Florida outfits for showing Sarasota real estate. The windows of the shops just beckon shoppers as most storefronts are set for the upcoming winter season.


Crossing Fillmore Street, I peeked at shoes before heading back to my car for the ride out to Longboat.

Longboat Key property is worth a look if you are interested in Longboat Key real estate. There are currently over 200 single family homes on the market and over 400 condos are available. Longboat Key is a wonderful location for a Florida lifestyle in a pristine environment. St. Armands shopping is just a short drive away.

Call or email Annette Smith for more information on Longboat Key properties.

Lido Key Real Estate

The Lido Grille

Traffic is picking up in Sarasota, and the second home owners are returning for Sarasota's winter season.

Thursday evening, I met West Virginia customers and friends who recently returned to Sarasota. St. Armands Circle - the Lido Grille was the meeting spot. The Grille is located in the same block, same side of the street as Tommy Bahama's. The martinis are huge, great bruchetta and fantastic scampi! This restaurant has a nice long bar with tvs for football watching or listen to jazz and let your hubby watch the game while dining in a cozy St. Armands atmosphere.

The Lido Grille is walking distance from your Lido Key home, and the beach just a breeze away.

Current St. Armands real estate and Lido Key listings:

Single family homes: 43 priced from high $700,000
Condos: 119 priced from high $300,000

If you are interested in Lido Key real estate or St. Armands real estate, email Annette Smith at annette@annettesellssarasota.com or call 941-504-3922 for up-to-date info in Sarasota, Florida.

Sarasota New Construction

The Forest - Hi Hat Ranch

On November 17, east of Intersate 75, The Forest of Hi Hat Ranch is holding its broker Grand Opening. This gated community of 54 three to six-acre homesites is slated for development by three prominent Sarasota builders:

John Cannon Homes, Inc.
Arthur Rutenberg Homes
Lee Wetherinton Homes

These homebuilders have agreed to follow low-impact development guidelines to preserve the environmental integrity of the land. Natural land beauty will be maintained while residents enjoy a "gracious country living!"

Homes site and residences from $1.1 million.

If you are interested in purchasing a home in Hi Hat Ranch or other Sarasota real estate, call Annette Smith at 941-504-3922 for an appointment.

Sarasota Living & Real Estate

Florida Life

Most of living in Florida is about the water, the sun and relaxation. Saturday I was invited to a football party to cheer for LSU. I've lived in Florida a long time and most of the fans I know here cheer for the Gators. Growing up with SEC football "roots," the adjustment of a move to West Virginia in 1968 was huge, mostly because I never thought any of my new friends liked anything but WVU football. I had to become a Mountaineer!

Well, after moving to Sarasota many years ago, I knew the Gators "got it!" Unfortunately, I was not a Gator, and I was always on the opposite end of the football season.
Then a few months ago, the Sarasota Herald had an article about a couple who re-did their backyard incorporating their beautiful Louisiana collected treasures into a fabulous landscape design featuring a pool, an outdoor fireplace, wrought iron gates!

In a recent blog post, I mentioned making the call to this adorable Southern couple after reading that article. Saturday afternoon, along with their other friends, we cheered the LSU Tigers to a victory against Tennessee. I assure it was all because of our "focus" and the jambalaya and crawfish pie.

Sarasota Florida is like coming "home" from wherever you move. It's not just all about Sarasota real estate, the sunshine and the water. It's about wonderful people from all parts of the country incorporating their old life into their new life and making Sarasota home.

Go Tigers!!!!

Sarasota Real Estate News

According to statistics from the Sarasota Association of Realtors MLS, homes sales in the Sarasota real estate market have eased off from the 2004 historic run-up in prices. The years 2003, 2004 and 2005 were the peak years. The total number of sales has returned to a more normal market such as 2002 and prior years. The median home price has risen significantly above figures from four years ago.

Felix Power, President of SAR 2006, explained that "real estate continues to sell in Sarasota, and at a pace not much lower than what was experienced in 2002, before we had our three peak years." "The median price for homes and condominiums is up significantly from 2002, the overall sales volume is also significantly higher this year than in 2002." We are now back to a more normal market.

The Concession, Sarasota Florida

Culinary Expertise at The Concession

If you are wavering on a purchasing a golf course home at the Concession, Beach Bistro's Sean Murphy is bringing his outstanding culinary style to this new Sarasota country club. Murphy is incorporating all his excellent elements at the Golf Clubhouse, which rated Beach Bistro "extraordinary to perfection" by Zagat, in designing of the kitchen, to menu creation, to dining spaces. Members will enjoy unforgettable experiences in dining pleasure at this new golf course while owning Sarasota real estate. So if you are wavering, The Concession offers the ultimate Sarasota lifestyle.

Lindrick homesites from one acre start at $1 million. Nicklaus Manor homes including Signature Membership are offered from the $2 millions.

Retiring in Sarasota

So You Want to Live in Florida

Many of the telephone calls we receive are from buyers who live in another area and want to buy a Sarasota property as an investment, rent it out and then retire here in ten years. It's a great long-term plan.

This week we spent some time with buyers who have a $1 million maximum price range. Since these prospective residents have never been to Sarasota, we gave them our "general tour" of our town. From Longboat Key's manicured lawns through downtown Sarasota to Siesta Key's beach-style community, we checked out available properties within their "wish" guidelines. Fortunately these buyers were very savy real estate investors and realize that you have to sometimes "give" to "get". Giving up some of your wish list is a toughy, but in today's Sarasota real estate market even in a buyer's market, you probably will have to compromise even at $1 million.

Want to live on the beach, with three bedrooms, a guest suite for an inlaw with an additional kitchen in a golf community? For a $1 million, you can live on the beach, maybe have three bedrooms, but the additional kitchen and golf community will probably not be part of the deal. For $6 million, you might can have it all!

In our general tour this week, we viewed condos instead of single family homes as maintenance is always an issue when owning an investment property or second home out of state. Downtown Sarasota condos hit a soft spot with these "wanna be" Sarasotans and the Burns Court Villas were more to their liking as this complex is similar to home-living and offers the convenience of a downtown lifestyle. One of the hottest new downtown addresses is 100 Central with prices ranging from $735,000 for approximately 1500 sq. ft. for a new Sarasota condo.

Sarasota Lifestyles

Enjoyment of Collecting in Sarasota, FL

In addition to previewing Sarasota listings and selling Sarasota real estate, I'm an avid treasure collector. When I see a treasure, I know it is for me and just where to work it into my Sarasota home or my next "fixer upper" project. So when I started glancing through Sunday's, August 27, 2006, Herald Tribune, I was intrigued by the main article in the real estate section about Sarasota residents, Karee and Ed Valek. The Valeks hired landscape designer, Robert Davie to create a New Orleans style courtyard for their Old Forest Lakes home. The article caught my eye as I've been collecting old relics which are now referred to as my "treasures" by anyone who asks for an explanation of these old pieces. An antique gate was featured in this article, and since my collection includes old columns, a knight in armor, pots, wrought iron pieces and pretty much anything that talks to me, I read more.

In the 1960s I enjoyed my T. Harry Williams history classes at LSU almost as much as going to a football game at Tiger Stadium. The LSU Tigers stayed with me and Mr. Williams history lessons trinkle my life through my collection of treasures each with their own history. The Herald article beautifully describes this Old Forest Lakes home and its passionate LSU residents -- not many of those fans in Gator country. Not knowing the Valeks but knowing that we were kindred LSU fans with a West Virginia connection too, I placed a call to Karee. We spoke shortly and her Southern graciousness was quite apparent from beginning to end of our conversation. I hope to be able to cheer with these Tigers at an LSU broadcast in the future and visit their special "garden" although I will miss seeing the LSU carved into their backyard -- the new swimming pool will just have to do.

Saturday or Sunday mornings are the best days to visit Sarasota's garage and estate sales. Visit South Gate or Forest Lakes on any weekend and you too can fill a seat, a trunk or a trailer full of "stuff." Some of my found treasures:

1. A wine goblet from Galatoire's in New Orleans -- brought back to me from a wedding in the French Quarter. The goblet houses a small matchbook collection from around the globe.

2. A very old newspaper clipping of the menu and offerings of "Doe's Eat Place" - a famous "hole in the wall" steakhouse in Greenville, MS, my hometown. Doe's has been visited by many celebrities and it is celebratory spot for many college graduates who got a degree to earn a steak at Doe's.

3. Many pieces of blue and white porcelain collected from Atlanta to Sarasota- each holds a different memory in my heart

4. A fabulous rhinestone pin sent to me from Baton Rouge by my former roomie and cousin Teegie Hamilton with the letter "LSU" found for $1.50, now worth about $150.

5. A very special autographed picture of Dick Clark from 1960 when I danced on American Bandstand in Philly.

6. An orginal Decca record of "Sugar Blues". My Dad played the sax in the recording. This one purchased on Ebay.

7. A chandellier bought at a Sarasota estate sale by a friend and presented to me as "just perfect" for your house. It was!

If you're a collector of treasures, be sure to make the South Gate and Forest Lakes rounds on a weekend in Sarasota!

Hot in Florida

Longboat Key Former Resident Writes:

"I used to live in LBK, and they closed down a Holiday Inn to build a condo... I
think the minimum price for a 1-bedroom condo was about $1,000, 000

--
Posted by Hot in Florida to Sarasota Real Estate News at 9/10/2006 09:09:09 PM

Sarasota Real Estate News

Sarasota Median Price Rises Slightly July 2006

Congratulations to Maria Sharapova! I took a little break from showing Sarasota real estate on Saturday, and doggie sat for friends and past clients. Snuffy, Kita (the Sarasota pooches)and I watched the men's semi finals of the US Open, LSU football and then flipped to the women's final of the Open. Maria trained at Nick Bollettieri's Tennis Academy in Bradenton so we were thrilled to see her win and convincingly too!

Saturday afternoon's mail delivered statistics from Sarasota Realtor Magazine with the median price statistics for July 2007. As sales ease, the median price rose slightly. In Sarasota, the median sales price for a single-family home a year ago was $350,000 compared to $360,000 in July of this year. The number of single-family Sarasota homes sold this year was 349, compared to 534 last year in July.

Market adjustments continue in Sarasota and the inventory of homes available for sale remain at very high levels.

Sarasota Vacation Home

Pattigeorge's Toasts New Sarasota Residents

Last evening, my customers from Atlanta and I celebrated the closing of their Sarasota vacation home at Emerald Pointe in Bay Isles.

After a miserable drive in blinding rain from Atlanta, these new Longboat Key residents arrived safely with their two kitties in tow, attended the closing, unpacked and then we celebrated with a wonderful dinner at Pattigeorge's enjoying sea bass and rack of lamb. Timing was perfect and the restaurant seated our party at the last waterfront table. Karen, our server, poured the wine as we enjoyed good conversation and a splendid view of Sarasota Bay.

Back at the beautiful villa on Emerald Pointe, we tested the electric fireplace. The fireplace works, and the fish who will be visiting from Atlanta along with the kitties, found its home atop the mantel.

Emerald Point is an enclave of 16 two-story villas in Bay Isles on Longboat Key. Most of these villas are over 2000 sq.ft. and some have private pools and courtyards. The landscaping is Florida tropical and access to the Bay Isles beach club is included.


Located on the bay side of Longboat Key, Emerald Point is perfect for Sarasota vacation homes or for permanent residences too as they are quite spacious with plenty of storage and two-car garages. Currently two villas are available priced in the $900,00s. The lagoon and golf course views are panoramic!

Sarasota New Construction

Sarasota's New Golf Course Communities

So you're looking for a beach cottage -- what about a golf cottage? With the new construction boom of the last few years, along came the new golf communities. Sarasota is becoming a premier Florida golfing location. The new golf cottages at the Founders Club offer buyers a luxury golf course home with top amenities including club membership in the $2,497,500 price tag for the exquisite Magnolia. This inventory home's features include wood floors, a private guest suite, butler's pantry with wine storage and a fabulous kitchen featuring Wolfe and SubZero appliances. Hardly a cottage, with its spacious 3,998 square footage, the Magnolia, located on the 10th fairway of The Founders Golf Club will be ready for occupancy in January 2007.

The Founders Club is a premier Sarasota real estate golf community in Sarasota, Florida whose distinguished builders include: John Cannon Homes, Pruett Builders, Lee Wetherington, U.S Assets Group, Taylor Woodrow Homes and Todd Johnson Homes.

Sarasota Home for Sale

West of the Trail - Price Reduction

Hottest location on the Sarasota mainland, this Key-West styled charmer has the best in curb appeal and has been reduced to $649,000. The three bedroom, two bath house, new two-car garage was added in 2003 has a huge backyard waiting for a swimming pool. Enjoy the shops, restaurants, Morton's gourmet market as you stroll through this convenient Sarasota neighborhood. West of the Trail is the area west of Hwy 41 in Sarasota, the area closest to the water which provides homeowners more value for their investment in Sarasota real estate.

Sarasota Kiss

WWII Kiss Re-created in NY

Yesterday there was a great video on Yahoo showing how New Yorkers recreated the famous WWII kiss in Times Square ending the war from Monday's celebration. It was a delightful surprise to see the "Unconditional Surrender" statute again as Sarasota had "Unconsiditional Surrender" the fabulous sculture in the downtown Sarasota Bayfront display for six months. Sarasotans and visitors alike enjoyed the many diminsions of this wonderful exhibit. Snuffy and I couldn't stay away and as you can see from our November 2005 Sarasota Real Estate blog article, the camera shutters snapped away while we had the chance to capture this beautiful exhibit.

Florida's Median Home Prices

Existing Florida Home Median Prices Rise in June

From Sarasota MLS data, median sales price for a single-family Sarasota home in June 2006 was $352,700, compared to $378,950 in June 2005. The number of single-family homes sold in June 2006 was 422, compared to 716 in June 2005. Statewide, however, existing-home median price rose 3 percent to $257,800. A year ago the price was $249,800 according to the Florida Association of REALTORS(FAR).

There are signs that the market is stabilizing, according to NAR housing industry analysts. NAR does expects 2006 to be the third strongest sales year on record even with rising mortgage rates, rising inventory of homes, rising insurance rates and higher energy costs.

These statistics gathered from the Sarasota Association of Realtors (Sarasota MLS) on July 10, 2006 and were quoted from Sarasota Realtor Magazine.

New Downtown Sarasota Condos

Grande Sarasotan Now Taking Reservations With Interest Bearing Deposits

Notification arrived via email this morning that reservations are now being accepted for Sarasota's new condo project on the downtown bayfront across from Marina Jack's. With a $25,000 interest bearing deposit, buyers can select from several different luxury residences at the long awaited Grande Sarasotan:

The Palmer 2295 sq.ft.
The Booker 3096 sq.ft.
The McClellan 2456 sq.ft.
The Whitaker and the Gillespie 3105 sq.ft.
The Grande Villas 3644 sq.ft.
The Grande Penhouse 4733 sq.ft.

Each of these Sarasota condos will have two parking spaces and private cabanas are available on the bayfront pool deck overlooking the marina. This Kolter community is priced starting from the $1 millions. In 2005, the site of this condominium project sold for $40 million at the height of the Sarasota real estate craze.

Sarasota Waterfront Homes

Harbor Acres Conveniently Located

Harbor Acres is a changing. Many of the older West of the Trail homes have been torn down and beautiful canal and bayfront homes are emerging in this old Florida neighborhood. Residents all claim that convenience is a key benefit of this centrally located community. Shops, Morton's Gourmet Market and the restaurants of Southside Village are a short walk or drive away. Selby Gardens, the Bayfront and downtown Sarasota are minutes away too.

If you are a boater, many of Harbor Acres' homes are offered with boat docks on canals or the bay. Sarasota waterfront homes are at a premium even in this buyer's market and a boat dock adds even more value to a waterfront home. There are currently 10 homes listed in the Sarasota MLS priced from the lows millions to over $9 million.

Sarasota Neighborhood Update

Isles of Palmer Ranch - New Construction Opportunities

Lot 375 is absolutely THE BEST one left in the community according to Alina Sezanaeva of Pulte Homes. This Oakmont model built by Divosta is priced over $80K below VillageWalk.

Inventory at Isles of Palmer Ranch currently:

2 Oakmonts left for 2006 closing:
Lot 528 - $405,900 w/water view
Lot 375 - $429,900 on a cul-de-sac, with panoramic water view, extra long driveway and 2 tile options

1 Capri left for 2006 closing:
Lot 522 - $399,900 longest water view in the community (over 600 feet) with pool and patio, close to amenities

4 Catalinas left for 2006 closing:
$299,900 with lanai and long water view

3 Caymans left for 2006 closing:
Lot 284 - $339,900
Lot 282 - $349,900 with lanai
Lot 289 - $359,900 with the pool

Except for the above homes, Sarasota new homes in Isles of Palmer Ranch will close in 2007.

Siesta Key New Condos

Beach Villas - New Construction on Siesta Key

Last summer it seemed as though daily there was a new announcement for a preconstruction project -- not so this year. Last year investors flocked to Sarasota to grab such properties. Now it's a buyer's market, building has slowed, builders are offering incentives and the real estate market in Sarasota is changing. Even so the Siesta Key, Sarasota market remains a strong spot to invest for your long term real estate goals. New construction is a popular way to chip into that market.

Siesta Key developers have announced preconstruction pricing of the much anticipated Beach Villas. Beach Villas is an island complex of 22 units: villas and penthouses. Beach Villas offers all the top-of-the-line amenities that buyers expect in million dollar plus properties. These island condos are steps away from the beach, shopping and restaurants of Siesta Key Village. With soaring ceiling and wonderful gulf vistas, villas start in the low millions and penthouses start in the $2 millions.

Sarasota Real Estate

Downtown Waterfront Living

Living on the water and now living in the city come together at irresistible hot new addresses as Golden Gate Point's downtown skyline changes.
Living, shopping, dining, parks and recreation are all within a short distance of this revitalized area.

Elegant new luxury highrise buildings and reinvented older buildings with pricing from $680,000 for a two bedroom, two bath condo to $2,800,000 for even more luxury. Lavishly appointed interiors with exquisite amenities including poolside waterfront terraces, spas and fitness facilities are just some of the highlights of the waterfront condos which offer an alternative to living on one of Sarasota's barrier islands. The new urban lifestyle in Sarasota brings the water to the city.

LaBellasara, one of the Sarasota luxury condos majestically overlooks Marina Jack's and Sarasota's new skyline.

The Ritz-Carlton, another exquisite highrise, is across the street from Golden Gate Point providing high-end services to luxury Sarasota real estate owners. Buyers can now choose from approximately 30 residences in the Tower Residences or the hotel residences of the Ritz-Carlton priced from $1,149,000 to $4,900,000.

Have a chocolate martini at the Ritz bar if you are visiting Sarasota, simply the best! Don't feel like getting dressed, order room service from your own Ritz Carlton home 24-hours a day.

Siesta Key Beach Condo

The Terrace - Siesta Key Florida

Positioned overlooking the famous Siesta Key beach, this complex is close to Siesta Key Village. Enjoy shopping, dining and just walking in the Village. The Broken Egg can become your early morning stop for the best of breakfast or if walking is your enjoyment, it's right out your doorstep.

From some of the balconies, residents and visitors view photographers setting up for wedding photos, vacation family portraits, or just snapping a fabulous sunset! Most weekends you can even catch a wedding on the beach.

Some units at the Terrace have sweeping views of the Gulf of Mexico. The building has a workout facility, pool and underground parking. According to the Sarasota MLS database, currently there are 5 of these Siesta Key condos available from the mid $800,000s.

Sarasota Real Estate News

Florida's Existing Home Median Price Rises

Statewide the median price for an existing home rose 11 percent last month. Homes sales across the country are slower which is a good thing for the housing sector according to NAR. Even so, NAR reports that it "expects 2006 to be the third strongest sales year on record."

According to Sarasota MLS data, the median sales price for a single-family home in May 2006 was $340,000, compaired to $350,000 in May 2006. The number of single-family homes sold in May 2006 was 482, compared to 683 in May 2005.

Mortgage rates are still rising and Florida's home prices in May continued to adjust to a changing market. Many areas including the Sarasota real estate market, continue to have a greater inventory of homes for sale than in the previous year.

Downtown Sarasota Condos

100 Central Downtown Condo Preview

100 Central, reviewed previously on the blog, is in the center of Sarasota's hot downtown district and is the place to be or so it seems. There is currently only one unit available in this "wanna be where the action is" address. The 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bedroom unit is over 1500 sq.ft. There are five units under contract and four units have sold in the last three months from $650,000 to $910,000.

All units in 100 Central don't have the Sarasota waterfront view most relocating baby boomers want. Since the bayfront is walking distance and all the amenities of Whole Foods, Starbuck's and new elite shops are part of the complex, 100 Central is a great alternative choice for a Florida move.

Jim Cramer of MSNBC fame, recently touted the stock of Whole Foods and Starbuck's as good investments. 100 Central has both and owners get to enjoy those hot amenities as part of their Sarasota real estate investment. The 100 Central building offers a beautiful club room, tropical resort style pool with grilling area, an excellent workout facility and guest accommodations for owners.

New Construction Sarasota Downtown

Buildings Continue to Go Up in Sarasota!

Sarasota's skyline and downtown area continue to change as new construction is popping up everywhere. It's not always a Sarasota condo project either. O'Leary's started an addition in the last week. They too are continuing the building mania in Sarasota. Their almost new tiki hut must have been such a huge success as they are expanding again. We look forward to the completion of this new project which will contribute to Sarasota's waterfront.


This morning the bayfront was alive earlier than usual as the days are getting a little warmer in Florida! Some wee hours devilish pranksters or some playful soul put soap in the entrance fountain which greeted Snuffy and I as we arrived for our Saturday morning walk.

Snuffy chatted with one our favorite friends: a little ball of fluff named Lily Pearl. She walks with a nice lady who lives in Lily Pearl's condo on Siesta Key. The nice lady told us that Lily Pearl owns the condo, and she just lives there. Snuffy owns a house in Forest Lakes also or so it seems.

Some of Snuffy's friends were going to obedience class right next to O'Leary's. We watched as they did their stuff and headed to Snuffy's house.

This afternoon we are headed to Longboat Key to preview several condos for customers from out of state. On our list are the waterfront condos of the beautiful Water Club on Longboat Key. There are 9 condos actively listed at the Water Club from $1,695,000 to $2,895,000. This Longboat Key condominium complex offers outstanding amenities with private beach access.

Siesta Key Real Estate

Siesta Key 4th of July Relaxation

Longtime friend originally from Charleston, WV and owner of Ashton Lakes Realty, Joe Bonsall and his lovely wife Jeannie were in attendance at the Riegels Landing home of Ray and Natalie Gibson for an informal gathering of friends on this 4th of July. Natalie, quite the hostess called about 1:00 pm on the 4th and said "come for dinner." She amazingly has the nack for putting a delectible dinner together in a matter of hours that would take this Sarasota realtor weeks. The Gibsons beautiful Siesta Key waterfront home always sparkles even if it's not the 4th of July.

Our small group feasted on fried chicken, Joe's homemade slaw (Jeannie made it, I think), barbecue ribs, baked beans, hot dogs with chili sauce and Natalie's special apple pie with cheese, ice cream and fresh berries. Yummy!

Leaving Siesta Key around 9:00 pm, I was lucky to find a parking spot close to the north Siesta Key bridge. All the hard work of the service workers on Bayfront Island Park paid off. The sky was ablaze with a dazzling fireworks display lighting up the cloudy night. There was a light sprinkle about 9:00 pm but the sky cleared right before blast off!

Talk about timing, just as I pulled back into my Forest Lakes home, the Boston Pops were cranking up for another outstanding 4th of July performance -- quite a great celebration and another tiny break from selling Sarasota real estate.

Currently there is only one home on the market in Riegels Landing -- a four plus bedroom, four and one-half baths with 5537 sq. ft. This spacious home is on the water and offered at $2,895,000.

Florida Condos for Sale

Ft. Lauderdale Real Estate

My Sarasota realtor and I took some time off to view some new Ft. Lauderdale real estate. Our Captain Bill bought a new Sea Ray which he docks at his condo at the Venetian in Ft. Lauderdale. Condos currently on the market in this gorgeous highrise are from as low as $500,000 for two bedrooms and two baths. The boat dock for "Paid Time Off" is $2,000 per year. What a deal! If you are searching for Sarasota real estate, similar properties would be much higher.

While in Ft. Lauderdale, we visited with our friend and realtor from Boca Raton, Caesar Parisi of Lang Realty. For the best of east coast Florida real estate, Caesar will graciously handle your real estate needs. With over 14 years of experience, he knows his Boca homes for sale. Caesar gave us quite an education and told us all about Delray Beach which he feels is the new "hot spot" on Florida's east coast. Call Caesar for any information on Delray Beach condos.

Captain Bill cruised us down the intercoastal to check out the preconstruction homes and took my realtor to dinner in Pompano Beach at Houston's. She hasn't had dinner at a Houston's since moving to Florida from Atlanta many years ago. The "traditional" salad and Houston's Hawaiian were yummy!


My Sarasota realtor and I were only gone for two days, and I was so happy to be back to my Sarasota home because I wasn't allowed in the Venetian and was banished to the cabin of the boat for two days except when I was helping Captain Bill pilot Paid Time Off. My Sarasota home is just the best!

Longboat Key Real Estate

Reduced Sales Prices - Buyers Market

Prices in Sarasota have settled and the buyers are starting to look again. A condo closed this week on Longboat Key at Islands West for $1,025,000. Searching the Sarasota MLS, for full Gulf view sales in the last week on Longboat Key, resulted in this two-bedroom 1563 sq.ft. unit. The condo originally was listed for $1,249,000, reduced to the last listing price of $1,199,00 and final sales price was $1,025,000. We are in a buyers market and it's a great time to start your search for a Gulf of Mexico condo.

Two bedroom, two bath condos on Longboat Key are currently listed from $489,500 at Beach Harbor Club to $5 million at Beau Claire. There are 135 units available on the Gulf of Mexico with full Gulf views. The better the view, higher the sq.footage, better the condition, etc., prices get closer to that $5 million high.

For information about the Sarasota, Florida area, Longboat Key real estate, or any of Sarasota's barrier island, send me an email.

West of the Trail, Sarasota, Florida

Quiet Central Retreat

This West of the Trail neighborhood has been previewed previously and is still one of the hottest neighborhoods in Sarasota. With old Florida homes being renovated or demolished for new mini-mansions, this neighborhood because of its close proximity to Sarasota Memorial Hospital, downtown Sarasota, shops and restaurants of Southside Village and the ever popular beaches is still at the top of the showing list. Our new listing on Floyd Street has three bedrooms and two baths, lush landscaping on one of the best streets of the area. There's room for a pool too. Renovations have been done with a new garage addition completed in 2003. The home is owned by a licensed Florida real estate agent and offered for sale at $695,000.

According to the MLS statistics, currently there are 123 homes for sale in Area 41. Prices range from $379,900 to $9,950,000. There are waterfront homes in Harbour Acres which is part of this West of this Trail neighborhood.

Sarasota Golf Course Homes

Golf Cottages at the Founders Club Preview

Buyers who sign preconstruction contracts on the 13 exquisite Golf Cottages at The Founders Club can customize their one and two-story homes. These cottages are designed by the award-winning firm of Cooper Johnson Smith with a variety of styles to fit your real estate needs including a spectacular courtyard plan. Prices of these Sarasota homes are in the $2 millions and include:

200-foot deep homesite on 10th fairway or nestled among majestic ancient oaks.

Equity golf Membership in The Founders Golf Club

Maintained landscaping and lawns

Completion scheduled for Spring 2007

Downtown Saraosta Condo Sales

Ritz Carlton Condo Sells

According to the Sarasota MLS statistics, a fabulous unit sold in the last week at the Ritz Carlton Residences on the 14th floor. Unit 1404 sold for $1,800,000. Featuring 2754 sq.ft. of luxury space with full bay and partial Gulf views, this penthouse-like unit has 2 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. The newly expanded Founders room is now available to all residences atop the Ritz hotel as well as Ritz members club Founders sports memberships if so desired under a separate contract. All signature services of the Ritz Carlton are available to the residence owners as well as downtown amenities offering a wide array of restaurants, shops and cultural activities of Sarasota's downtown area.

Seven condos at the downtown Ritz Carlton are currently available for sale in the Sarasota MLS with prices ranging from $1,149,000 to $4,690,000.

Forest Lakes Country Club

Home for Sale in Forest Lakes Country Club

With a miniature Selby Gardens yard, this newly listed golf course home has 3 bedroom and 2.5 bathrooms. Completely renovated in 2003 with new electric, plumbing and design work, the house features include a double-beveled glass door entry into a travertine marble foyer adjacent to the living and dining rooms.

The huge living room with double-sided fireplace greets your guests and opens to the expansive lanai, pool and spa area. Great place for any party. Home overlooking the golf course is offered by owner/agent at $565,000.

Forest Lakes golf course is undergoing a major renovation to the golf course and a new Clubhouse with restaurant is on the drawing table. The golf course should be completed in the spring of 2007 and the new condos, Legends, should be available some time next year also. For a fabulous Florida lifestyle give us a call to view this home or other listings in Forest Lakes. The neighborhood is close to downtown, Southgate Mall, restaurants and beaches.

St. Armands Circle Shopping

More St. Armands Circle Shops


I was going post more about St. Armands shopping for our readers yesterday but made another trip Monday morning so was a little side-tracked. Since Snuffy and I window shopped on Sunday, my shopping yesterday was quick as I only dipped into a couple of my favorites stores. You should visit Oh My Gauze if you haven't been there previously. It is always a great place to browse as they are loaded with inventory of comfortable Florida outfits. The window as you can see beckons shoppers to try out the cool gauze clothing!


I quickly crossed over to Fillmore Street and took a peek at shoes before meeting a friend for lunch at the Crab & Fin. My West Virginia friends met at Crab & Fin about a month ago before returning to their mountain homes for the summer, and I was anxious to have the Cobb salad again.
If you go to Crab & Fin with a friend, you might want to order an appetizer and then share this salad -- it is huge!

St. Armands and Lido Key are worth a visit if you are interested in just shopping for St. Armands real estate, the least expensive home currently on the market is in the $600,000s and condos are available with two bedrooms in the $400,000s. St. Armands is a wonderful location for a Florida lifestyle with everything conveniently located a short walk or drive away.