Siesta Key Beach Sand Castles

Scott Smith and I headed out to Siesta Key Beach this morning about 7:45 am to beat the traffic as visitors arrived for the sand sculpture competition.  With Starbuck's, camera and phone in hand, we browsed the vendors and got as close as we could to the sculptures.  The gates for admission weren't opening until 9:00 am so our view was afar.

Vendors from the Key showcased everything from Jewelry, T-shirts, sunglasses, etc.  My favorite booth was Fairy Tails Dog Boutique - new on Siesta Key.  I have a 5% off 1st purchase coupon to use for Snuffy's Christmas gift -- the cutest little stuffed aligator!  The young couple from Fairy Tails promised Snuffy could not tear it up.

Scott and I were both amazed at the people already ahead of us this morning.  There were even swimmers and paddle boards in the Gulf.  Cameras were flicking, and I'm sure Facebook, Twitter and Flicker are all chattering about Siesta Key Beach today.  It was so much fun, and the weather fabulous!!!!

Since we were so early, and there were no food vendors selling breakfast food, we headed to Morton's Market afterwards for a huge Cinnamon Danish.  What a great Saturday morning!

If you are searching for any real estate on Siesta Key, don't forget to call the John Allen Team at 941-544-6467.  We have experienced agents who show the key regularly.  Siesta Key residents and visitors events such as the Sand Sculpting contest, arts and crafts shows and the Siesta Key Farmers Market.

Pending Sarasota Real Estate Sales Rise 10 Percent October 2010

Although overall Sarasota real estate sales dropped by 11 percent in October, compared to September 2010 and also 15 percent from last year in October, pending sales rose 10 percent over this time last year.  The drop in Sarasota real estate is anticipated to be from "a slowdown in foreclosures prompted by lender concerns over faulty paperwork."  A rise n the pending sales figure "signaling more closing in future months as the winter season begins in coast Florida.


The Sarasota real estate market over the last four month seems to be trending to stabilization of the market.
Eric Shumway, 2010 SAR President pointed out that "as we enter the traditionally busier season, the local real estate market appears to be on solid ground." "Now that the mid-term election is behind us, and the foreclosure freeze seems to have thawed, there is certainly reason for optimism. Sales and showing activity have been consistent, and even with 50 percent of the market dominated by distressed sales, the median prices are also relatively steady."

Contact the John Allen Team at 941-544-6467 if you are interested in purchasing Sarasota, Casey Key, Siesta Key, Bird Key, Lido Key or Longboat Key real estate.  We have agents who specialize in luxury waterfront homes as well as golf course properties in Sarasota's coastal paradise.

Waterfront Condos at Water Club on Longboat key

Constructed in 1996, the beach front condo of Water Club on Longboat Key offers just about everything anyone could ask for from a condo. From spacious units to beautiful views and high-end amenities, residents of Water Club Longboat Key have a seemingly endless list of things to do on a daily basis.


While there are many reasons to consider living in Water Club Longboat Key, one of the most compelling reasons is the spacious units. With units ranging in size from 1,392 to 5,225 square feet, nearly everyone is likely to find a unit at Water Club on Longboat Key to suit their lifestyle needs. In addition, because the buildings are still fairly new, they offer many of the construction features that are typically found in newer buildings. From the high ceilings to the large windows, everything in these buildings was designed to help residents take full advantage of the magnificent views.

In addition to the views, these Longboat Key condos offer its residents a number of onsite amenities. Some of these include access to a clubhouse, fitness facilities, a spa/hot tub, a heated swimming pool and tennis courts. The gated community also includes private garages, providing residents with a heightened level of security and privacy.

Should You Buy a Retirement Home Now?

According to a recent article in Money Magazine, it might be the right time to buy a retirement home.  The magazine's article points out that with home prices and interest rates so low and if you are approaching retirement age with a few years, it just might be a good idea to start your search.  Why not just take a look at some Sarasota FL real estate while you search!  Sarasota's barrier islands of Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido and Longboat Key as well as downtown Sarasota offer buyers a variety of real estate options from waterfront highrise, midrise condos to luxury homes in gated communities.

Sarasota, Florida's cultural venues and wide variety of shopping and restaurants put us on the map as a "hot" destination for buyers seeking a little piece of Paradise!