Sarasota Real Estate News Blog

Open House - Casey Key Waterfront Home

2008-06-29T08:01:00.003-05:00

Casey Key Waterfront Home - Open House
June 29, 2008

708 Casey Key Rd

3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths Single Family Home, 3 car garage

Year Built 1982

Square Footage 2,163 $ 1,299,000.00

Dock Your Boat!

Stop by our open house on Casey Key today to see some beautiful real estate and visit our Casey Key bayfront listing. You can bring your boat to the private boat dock. This Key West style home has 3 bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths and a 3 car garage. Within 2163 sq.ft., the house has vaulted ceiling, tile floors and two large decks where you can enjoy Gulf breezes as well as sunrises and sunsets. Put in a pool in the large back yard. Casey Key Beach is a short walk on your deeded beach easement. Bottom level of house is nonconforming space.

See this Casey Key waterfront home for sale and check out more information on our main Casey Key site. One of Sarasota's barrier island, Casey Key is approximately 2 hours from Tampa International Airport. Homes on this key range in style from small beach cottages to mega mansions and estate properties. Many celebrities including sports figures are known to own Casey Key homes and enjoy Sarasota's culture.

If you are searching for a Casey Key home for sale, call us for information on our Casey Key open houses. Visit the The Herron Group listings. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

New listing data also posted on Casey Key real estate.

Bird Key Real Estate

2008-06-27T07:13:00.002-05:00

Yesterday a gentleman from Michigan called for information on Bird Key real estate. He said he had visited Miami and some areas of Arizona but Bird Key was his favorite for pursuing real estate. I was driving out to Longboat Key to check on some property for a customer so I asked him to send me an email. He was also looking for a "deal". We hear that every day now.

Update on Bird Key real estate:

There are 53 homes for sale on Bird Key listed in the Sarasota MLS at prices starting at $599,900. The highest priced home on Bird Key is $14,900,000, a waterfront estate on Seagull Lane. In the last six months, there have been 16 closings and 8 Bird Key homes are under contract according to MLS data. Thanks to a blog reader this search data has been corrected!

With inventory levels high, many sellers are motivated to sell. Sellers have reduced their properties considerably and seem to be holding as pointed out in the Sarasota real estate market statistics this month. Making an offer and negotiating a price will be a win/win right now. Many want to sell their property and move on with their lives and are willing to go lower. Make an offer and see if the home you want may just be the deal instead of searching for distressed properties, short sales and foreclosures.

If you are interested in Bird Key real estate or other Sarasota properties, contact Annette Smith, the Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group at 941-504-3922.

Nick Herron Sells Casey Key Real Estate

2008-06-25T07:04:00.004-05:00

Casey Key Real Estate Agent, Nick Herron Sells Waterfront

In just 35 days from listing date to closing, 4024 Casey Key Road has been sold. The new owners took possession this week after just two weeks from signing a contract, attending inspections and negotiating a furniture package which was included in the $1,600,000 sales price. The Casey Key home has over 4,000 sq.ft. of living space, a private boat dock and a 10' beach easement for beachcombers. Sarasota waterfront real estate marketing is a specialty of the Herron Group.

Nick has been a realtor in Sarasota for over 20 years and his knowledge of waterfront properties is superior. He has sold many properties on Casey Key multiple times through the years and has many Casey Key stories to tell. For an appointment to view properties on the Key, call Nick at 941-350-5035. You'll be surprised how well Nick knows Casey Key real estate.

Originally posted on Casey Key real estate news.

Social Media Selling Sarasota Real Estate

2008-06-23T05:24:00.008-05:00

Selling Sarasota Real Estate Through Social Media Web 2 Sites

Do you Twitter? Are you LinkedIn? Do you have friends who have their mugs on Facebook or do you? What about a plot on MySpace? Is your business connected and networking through social bookmarking sites and web 2 sites?

Think of the old fashioned networking meeting at 7:00 am at your local java shop where hometown a mortgage broker, real estate agent, life coach, gift shop owner, young lawyer gathers once a week to grab that first cup of coffee after getting dressed and rushing through traffic . Now the 7:00 am meeting is at a computer in their own home. These professionals can wear pj's and make our own coffee, save money on gas and relax while their fingers do the talking.

In June 2007, The Herron Group took our Sarasota real estate marketing to new heights adding multiple websites and multiple blogs for increased internet exposure for our customers. Now you can find profiles of the Herron Group on multiple social networking and bookmarking sites:

Sarasota Real Estate - Active Rain

Annette Ashley Smith LinkedIn

Sarasota Real Estate Agent on Digg

Naymz Profile Annette Smith

Sarasota My Space

Plaxo Profile Annette Ashley Smith

Sarasota Real Estate-Propeller

Annette Smith Facebook

Sarasota Real Estate on Del.icio.us

Sarasota Real Estate – Friendfeed

Longboat Key Real Estate Annette Smith

Annette Smith Business Networking on Ecademy

Sarasota Real Estate at My Blog Log
The Herron Group has your Sarasota property covered A-Z using websites, blogs and social media sites for full Internet Exposure. Call us at 941-504-3922 for more information and a listing appointment if you are selling your Sarasota home and are seeking local and global Internet marketing.

Waterfront Condos on Longboat Key

2008-06-19T06:12:00.003-05:00

Selling Waterfront Condos on Longboat Key

Real estate prices are down considerably on Longboat Key and buyers in the last few months are stepping in to purchase while the selection of condos remains high. Oceanfront or beach property is always a winner with our customer although some prefer the activity of the bay. Bayfront homes on Longboat Key offer outstanding vistas of sailboats, fishing boats and recreational boats. Activity on the Bay is always interesting including a variety of wildlife.

You can search for a Longboat Key waterfront condo from our main website or right within our blogs or call us if you need help. There are many rules and regulations to consider if are purchasing so be sure to ask plenty of questions. Can you have a pet? How much are the maintenance fees? Is there beach access?

Call the Herron Group with RE/MAX Alliance Group for your Sarasota real estate info! 941-504-3922

Toast to Sarasota Real Estate Market Uptrend

2008-06-09T13:07:00.004-05:00

Saturday I went with my friend and fellow realtor, Sandy Whitehead to see the acclaimed new movie Sex and the City. We loved the movie and headed for Ceviche, one of downtown Sarasota's new dining hotspot afterwards. Sandy and I used to comment on what a great building the old Times Building was as far back as 2000 when we each moved to Sarasota from Atlanta and Miami. The new owners have done a superb job of restoring and creating a unique dining spot in the heart of the city -- it seemed a perfect place to have a glass of wine and talk about the Saraosta real estate market. If you'd like a fun place for dining, try the tapas at Ceviche and toast an uptrend in our real estate market!

Sunday I held a great open house on Casey Key at 708 Casey Key Road. This charming Key West style cottage is spotless and includes furniture along with a view of the Bay. Details are on our Casey Key real estate site. After a nice thunderstorm that cooled off the island, I headed to a cookout at another Casey Key listing, right on the beach. The Herrons, Nick and Kathleen called and invited Snuffy and I to check out the new loggerhead sea turtle's nest in the backyard of the "beach house" listing.
The loggerheads are incredible and like all beachgoers seem to return to their favorite beach. Nick cooked delicious hamburgers and everyone went to the beach for an incredible sunset!

Here's to beachgoing, toasts, sunsets and a fairytale lifestyle in Sarasota!

Casey Key Waterfront Home Open Today

2008-06-08T06:50:00.006-05:00

Casey Key Waterfront Homes for Sale

Open Sunday, June 8 1:00-4:00 pm

708 Casey Key Road
$1,299,000.00

3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 Baths Single Family Home
Year Built 1982
Square Footage 2,163

Stop by this Casey Key waterfront home and enjoy the wonderful yard and views of Bay. This three bedroom, two and one-half Casey Key cottage has vaulted ceiling, tile floors and new decking on the front and the back of the house. There's a new dock for your boat too and deeded beach easement. New owners will have the privacy of Casey Key beach and enjoy the amenities of island living in South West Florida. Click to enjoy our Virtual Tour.

See homes listed by the Herron Group with RE/MAX Alliance Group in Sarasota, Florida. Open House Sarasota, 708 Casey Key Rd, Sunday, June 8 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Click for more Sarasota real estate info.

Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Sarasota Real Estate

2008-06-06T17:04:00.002-05:00

Some of the most beautiful Sarasota real estate is in downtown Sarasota. Condos on Gulfstream across the Trail from Marina Jack's provide owners a beautiful view of the water and the marina.

About 6ish on Wednesday evening, my good friend and customer from Cleveland, Ohio met me for a nice dinner at Marina Jack's. Marina Jack's has casual music at its outdoor bar and the best cocktail sunset in Sarasota! Try the Santa Fe wrap for a light meal. The wine is excellent also.

Claudia and I walked along the marina picking out our favorite boats as the harbor twinkled. Downtown Sarasota condos are numerous in the MLS providing buyers quite an array of features. An urban lifestyle is a new way of life for many who want the amenities a city has to offer and the convenience of walking to each destination. With today's gas prices, walking is very popular! For a list of downtown sarasota condos including 100 Central, Plaxa at Five Points and 1350 Main, give call the Herron Group for all your Sarasota real estate.

Open House - Sarasota Waterfront Homes for Sale on Casey Key

2008-05-31T06:04:00.005-05:00

Sarasota Waterfront Homes for Sale on Casey Key - Open House

Sunday, June 1, 2008 - 1-4 pm

927 Casey Key Road - $5,600,000

Are you searching for a Sarasota waterfront home for sale on Casey Key? Watch the boats from the incredible Bay view! Exquisite architectural details and a flowing floor plan accent the easy livability of this new luxury residence. Presenting elegance with an Old Florida flair, this grand two-story estate home offers the finest in fits, finishes and appliances . . . and is a boater's paradise for the large yacht owner. In addition to the beautiful bay views, this home, built in 2007, offers exceptional living space and includes 5 bedroom and 5 1/2 baths, office/library, large dining room with Brazilian cherry floors, wine closet, gas fireplace, great room with wet bar, gourmet kitchen with breakfast room, outdoor kitchen, elevator, bayside pool and spa, and open airy verandas. Click HERE for Casey Key waterfront homes and MLS details and also enjoy our virtual tour.

For photos, virtual tours and area information on Sarasota waterfront homes, visit The Herron Group listings. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Click here for information about Sarasota FL Waterfront Homes.

Celebrating Memorial Day at Lido Beach Club with Friends and Family

2008-05-27T06:13:00.002-05:00

Friends and Family Gather at Lido Beach Club

Lido Beach Club is located directly on Lido Beach, Sarasota Florida, right next door to the Ritz-Carlton Beach Residences. My friend and customer, Marsha Albert and her husband Bob purchased their unit in 2000. The Alberts enjoy the amenities of the Lido beach living and their family visits often. Marsha and I have been friends for over 30 years so Scott, Snuffy and I were included in the Alberts family gathering on Memorial Day. Pictured are Marsha's daughter Lesli Kay, The Bold and the Beautiful with her children, Jackson and Alec Coulouris and brother Michael Pushkin. Zelda Pushkin is Lesli's niece and Snuffy often writes about her on his friends page. Zelda's parents are David, an artist, and Grace Pushkin of New York City, Marsha's son and daughter-in-law.

We didn't see much of Jackson this weekend because David was giving his nephew an art class. A model drove to Lido from her home in Bradenton to pose for this 7 year old protege. David has a new business on the horizon! He's an excellent artist and teacher. New Yorkers get out those checkbooks and call David Pushkin for a private art class.

Michael Pushkin, "Uncle Mike", Marsha's youngest son, grew up with my son Scott. They attended elementary, junior high and high school together. Michael once saved Scott's life in the parking lot of George Washington High School. The boys haven't seen each other in years. Mike is pictured with his nephew Alec.

Memorial Day is a day to remember our fallen soldiers, enjoy our family and old friends -- a day of remembrance of hardship, struggles, sacrifice and HOPE!

If you thought you saw a celebrity on St. Armands Circle, this weekend, you probably did. You can catch Lesli Kay as Felicia Forrester from 1:30 pm - 2:00 pm EST. Lesli took care of my kids when she was a teenager and worked at my shop, Kitchen Kaboodle too. I'm quite proud to call Lesli my friend, a wonderful mamma and an accomplished actress!

Million Dollar Homes in Sarasota, Florida

2008-05-26T06:57:00.004-05:00

Million Dollar Homes in Sarasota, Siesta Key and Longboat Key Florida

Inspired by CNN Money.com's quarterly million dollar homes articles, here are some Sarasota neighborhoods to start your million dollar home picks for Sarasota, Siesta Key and Longboat Key Florida.

West of the Trail's quaint neighborhood is one of our favorite places in Sarasota. Restaurants and shops in the Hillview area offer a wide variety for customers of Sam Snead's, Morton's Gourmet Market, and Knick's Tavern to name a few. Homes in this area range from old Florida to newly constructed homes and mega mansions on the water. See what a million buys you West of the Trail.

Siesta Key, one of Sarasota's barrier island is popular with beachgoers, vacationers and retirees. This family beach is famous for its "whitest" sand. In 2004, it was almost impossible to view more than four homes if you were shopping for real estate. Now see the inventory available and what your cool million affords you. Click for Siesta Key million dollar homes.

Longboat Key, known for its beautifully manicured tropical landscaping and beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico, offers its residents shopping for million dollar homes quite at selection since prices have adjusted. Here are some homes on Longboat Key where you can spend your million.

For more information and a custom list of homes available in the Sarasota MLS, contact Annette Smith, the Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group at 941-504-3922 or send an email with your parameters.

Venice Beach - Best Renourished Beach List

2008-05-21T07:55:00.004-05:00

Venice Beach
Condos for Sale at Beleza on Renourished Venice Beach

According to the Sarasota Herald Tribune, the City of Venice, Florida was notified by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association that it had been honored for the renourishment project on Venice Beach. The project started in 2005 and was just completed a few weeks ago.

Venice Beach is not as crowded as Siesta Key and Longboat Key and preferred by many who want a beach lifestyle. Venice Beach's newest luxury condominium is Beleza built in 2005. The Sarasota MLS list five condos in Beleza. Prices range from $1,495,000 to our listing on the 7th floor priced at $1,750,000. Views from the spacious terraces of this Venice condo of the Gulf of Mexico, the beach, bay and city are spectacular. This 3 bedroom, 3 bath unit has over 2000 sq.ft and residents enjoy the amenities: private elevator, lobby, club room, fitness room, pool & spa and garage. Being sold designer turnkey furnished.

Call the Herron Group for more information on Sarasota homes, Venetian Golf & River Club listings and condos for sale on Venice Beach or check our websites for daily updates on property listings. For photos, virtual tours and area information on Sarasota's barrier islands, visit our blogs and find more about Venice real estate. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Sarasota Named to Relocate America's Best Places to Live 2008 List

2008-05-20T06:18:00.001-05:00

Click here to find homes in Sarasota Florida

Relocate America's 11th Annual Top 100 Places To Live was just announced and Sarasota Florida is in the Top 100. Relocate America accepts nominations for each city and town throughout the United States to be considered as a "great place to live". Each nominating party must include "reasons why they feel their city should make the list. The nominations, along with key data regarding education, environmental greenworthiness, economic opportunity, parks & recreation choices and real estate & home ownership options are reviewed, rated & judged by Relocate America's editorial team" before announcing the list.

Top 10 Cities 2008:

Charlotte, North Carolina
San Antonio, Texas
Chattanooga, Tenniessee
Greenville, South Carolina
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
Asheville, North Carolina
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Huntsville, Alabama
Seattle, Washington

Click to see entire Best Places to Live 2008 list.

Three Casey Key Waterfront Homes Open

2008-05-17T17:56:00.006-05:00

Three Casey Key Waterfront Homes for Sale

All Open Sunday, May 18 1:00-4:00 pm

927 Casey Key Road
$5,600,000.00

5 bedrooms plus office/library, 5 1/2 Baths Single Family Home
Year Built 2007
Square Footage 5,337

Stop by this Casey Key waterfront home and enjoy the incredible views of Bay -- watch the boat parade! Exquisite architectural details and a flowing floor plan accent the easy livability of this new luxury residence that presents elegance with an Old Florida flair. This two-story estate home offers the finest in fits, finishes and appliances . . . and is a boater's paradise for the large yacht owner. In addition to the beautiful bay views, this home offers exceptional living space and includes 5 bedroom and 5 1/2 baths, office/library, large dining room with Brazilian cherry floors, wine closet, gas fireplace, great room with wet bar, gourmet kitchen with breakfast room, outdoor kitchen, elevator, bayside pool and spa, and open airy verandas. Click HERE for MLS more details and also enjoy our virtual tour.

2821 Casey Key Road

$2,800,000.00

3 bedrooms, 2 Baths Single Family Home
Year Built 1979
Square Footage 1,124

Direct Gulf of Mexico views from this cozy beach cottage on private Casey Key. Watch the dolphins play or walk the beach and search for shark teeth. This is real beach living. Great Florida room in this Casey Key home to relax and enjoy the beach activity and fabulous sunsets!

325 Casey Key Road

$1,599,000.00

2 bedrooms, 1 bath Single Family Home
Year Built 1947
Square Footage 892

Another one right on the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy the spectacular sunsets from your glass walled family room or your private sandy beach! This adorable two bedroom beach cottage has been updated and is move-in ready. Lowest priced Gulf Front home on Casey Key. Live and enjoy a beach lifestyle on this special barrier island.

All three homes listed by the Herron Group with RE/MAX Alliance Group in Sarasota, Florida and open today, Sunday, May 18 from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Sarasota Golf Course Homes Priced Under $500,000

2008-05-16T06:38:00.003-05:00

Sarasota Golf Course Homes Priced Under $500,000

If you've been thinking of retiring to Florida now that real estate prices have dropped, you may be amazed to know that there are golf course homes in Sarasota in some of the nicest communities for under $500,000. You can find these homes in the gated communities of University Park, Laurel Oak Estates, Oaks, Prestancia and Venetian Golf & River Club.

University Park has inventory available under $500,000 in its gated golf community with prices ranging from $349,000 for a 2017 sq.ft. villa to a homes with 2739 sq.ft. and a lagoon view priced at $499,500. In Laurel Oak Estates, buyers will find only two listings priced under $500,000 and maintenance free. Check with your real estate agent to see what the fees include.

Homes in Oaks are rarely available under $500,000 and currently the Sarasota MLS data reports three available homes which are maintenance free. Again, check to see what is included in your maintenance fees.

Prestancia's inventory is higher and there is quite a selection of homes under $500,000. Residents at Prestancia enjoy the TPA golf course and guard gated privacy in a convenient location.

Venetian Golf & River Club in North Venice, FL has a nice inventory of available homes under $500,000 also. Prices start at $219,900 in this gated community for a two bedroom, two bath villa.

If you are looking for a Sarasota golf course home, The Venetian Golf & River Club offers its residents a championship golf course, one main and two additional dining rooms, lounge, cabana bar without outdoor grill, day spa, aerobics, fitness center, tennis courts, pro shop, two resort swimming pools, nature park and canoe launch. The new Golf Club is now open.

Annette Smith and Nick Herron, the Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group , are experienced in Sarasota country club real estate sales and are ready to assist you in finding the perfect golf course home. Email us for a list of luxury Sarasota real estate available if Florida is your choice.

Sarasota' Syesha Mercado Hometown Idol

2008-05-10T05:40:00.000-05:00

Sarasota's American Idol Returns Home

Friday the top three contestants on American Idol returned to their hometowns. Sarasota Florida's Syesha Mercado returned home to dazzle crowds in Sarasota and Bradenton. Syesha belted out "Proud Mary" at an afternoon concert outside the waterfront Ca d'Zhan Mansion of the Ringling Museum. After multiple concerts, interviews, autograph signings and visits to Bradenton where she grew up and Booker High School where she graduated, Syesha will prepare for the American Idol finals on Tuesday night. Congratulations Syesha, you've made Sarasota proud!

Postcards from Siesta Key

2008-05-09T06:40:00.005-05:00

Bring a Camera When Searching for Siesta Key Homes

Take a walk or ride along Beach Road and Midnight Pass for a tour of the tropical paradise, Siesta Key. Residents of Siesta Key enjoy walking, biking, beach activities, fishing, painting, and just relaxing. Snuffy Smith and I take our camera on all our walks and this Key provides ample opportunity for photo clicks. Postcard scenes of children playing on the beach, the Siesta Key drum circle on Sundays and dolphin dipping in the Gulf are typical sights for shutter bugs.

Snuffy isn't happy that doggies aren't allowed on the beach but there are plenty of sidewalks on the key for nice walks. Take your pooper scoop. And beware of crosswalks if you are driving. Let the residents and visitors cross or be prepared to pay the fine.

Customers often ask for additional pictures at a showing so my digital camera always accompanies me on showings too. Our customers often come from England, Canada or Italy and sometimes send photos home to spouses for review before writing a purchase contract. Sarasota MLS idx listings report almost 300 homes for sale on Siesta Key FL priced from the low millions to $17,500,000. Five hundred condos are for sale on Siesta Key currently and range from the high $100,000s to almost $3 million. Search Siesta Key homes.

Call the Herron Group for more information on Sarasota homes, Casey Key listings and condos for sale or check our websites for daily updates on property listings. For photos, virtual tours and area information on Sarasota's barrier islands, visit our blogs and find more about Siesta Key real estate. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Condos on Siesta Key at Hamilton Club

2008-05-03T04:51:00.005-05:00

Condos on Siesta Key at Hamilton Club

Siesta Key Island Lifestyle

Enjoy your townhouse island condo, play tennis or take a boat ride. These Siesta Key condos at Hamilton are two story and seem like single family homes. Waterfront views are found in some of the complex's premier units. Hamilton Club is a short drive to the beach and Siesta Key Village.

Siesta Key FL is approximately 90 minutes from Tampa International Airport

The Sarasota MLS currently lists only one Siesta Key condos at Hamilton Club for sale with a $895,000 list price. In a community with only 18 luxury homes behind majestic wrought iron gates, this 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath townhouse within a space of 2691 sq. ft. provides "large rooms, a bonus loft area" and much more. Bring your boat as there is a deeded boat dock too.
Private with lush tropical landscaping, Hamilton Club's luxury amenities include a heated pool and hard surface tennis courts.

Downtown Sarasota is an easy drive from your Hamilton Club condo. Shop, dine or just relax on Siesta Key. Try some restaurants on the mainland, go to a play or browse an art gallery just a short drive from your island home to the Sarasota mainland. Siesta Key's restaurants are great too. Try Broken Egg for a delightful breakfast. Sit by the water at Ophelia's or pull up with your boat, dock and find a table. Checking out pet policies at each building is very important because many condos do not allow pets. Your Sarasota realtor can give you this information. Hamilton Club allows 2 pets.

Call for more information on Sarasota homes and condos for sale or check our websites for daily updates on property listings. For photos, virtual tours and area information on Sarasota's barrier islands, visit our blogs and find more about Siesta Key Hamilton Club condos. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Longboat Key Condos at Beaches

2008-05-02T07:59:00.002-05:00

Longboat Key Condos for Sale at Beaches

Longboat Key Florida Beachfront Living

Settle back in your oceanfront condo and listen to the waves of the Gulf of Mexico in your own residence. Most of these Longboat Key condos at Beaches have Gulf views and some are offered with Gulf and Bay views providing views of sunrise and sunset.

Longboat Key FL is approximately 90 minutes from Tampa International Airport
The Sarasota MLS currently lists only 5 Longboat Key condos at Beaches for sale. Prices range from $639,000 for a 3 bedroom, 3 bath turnkey furnished condominium with 2183 sq.ft. to $1,199,000 for a totally remodeled 1524 sq.ft unit with full Gulf views.

Enjoy the convenience of a doorman and onsite manager at Beaches. Luxury amenities include Club house, elevator, fitness, kitchen, heated pool/spa and tennis courts. Beaches is a midrise building behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club.

St. Armands Circle or downtown Sarasota are easy drives from your Beaches condo. Shop, dine or participate in cultural events on the island or the mainland. Longboat Key's restaurants temp you too. Try Dry Dock and sit by the water for a relaxed meal, Euphemia Haye or Pattigeorge's for special occasions. Checking out pet policies at each building is very important because many buildings do not allow this family member. Your Sarasota realtor can give you this information. Beaches does not allow pets.

Call for more information on Sarasota Florida homes or check our websites for daily updates on condo listings. For photos, virtual tours and area information or information Sarasota's barrier islands, visit our blogs to find more about Longboat Key Fl Beaches condos. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Casey Key Real Estate Update

2008-04-26T08:06:00.006-05:00

2008 Casey Key FL Real Estate Sales

Casey Key Home Sales Last Six Months

Checking the Sarasota MLS stats and going back six months, MLS data shows Casey Key real estate sales: 5 single family homes, from a 1970s single family beachfront residence with over 4,000 sq., sold at $4,500,000 to another 1970s bayfront property which sold at $1,340,000 for 1690 sq.ft. Selling prices of the five homes were $4,500,000 (Gulf), $3,797,500 (Gulf to Bay), $3,097,500 (Gulf to Bay), $3,750,000 (Gulf), and $1,340,000(Bay). Our last report was in October 2007 showing a high sale of over $6 million. Check Casey Key home sales stats for previous six months in our archives. The highest sale is $4.5 million in this report. There are 2 pending sales at this time.

Active listings number 49 properties, up from 43 in our October report from the MLS real estate stats for Casey Key, FL. Prices range from the high $1 millions to $20 million. If you are looking for land to build a beach house or a mansion on the Gulf of Mexico, Annette Smith and Nick Herron are experienced in waterfront real estate sales and are ready to assist you in the Casey Key real estate market. Email us for a list of luxury Sarasota properties available if Florida luxury real estate is your choice.

For photos, virtual tours and area information on Casey Key or other Sarasota barrier islands of Siesta Key, Longboat Key, and Sarasota Florida real estate, visit The Herron Group listings. Our customers love our Sarasota MLS idx search capabilities. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

Sarasota Real Estate Market

2008-04-24T07:42:00.002-05:00

In a press release dated April 22, the Sarasota Board of Realtors stated

March sales in Sarasota top 500 for first time since July 2007

Pending sales highest in a year, indicating improving market for summer

Overall property sales in the local market for March 2008 topped 500 for the first time in eight months, according to statistics pulled from the Sarasota MLS system. There were 514 property sales reported in the Sarasota MLS, easily topping the February 2008 sales of 423.

There were 344 single family homes sold by SAR members in March 2008, along with 170 condominium units. This compares to 294 single family sales in February and 129 condominium sales, which means March saw an overall increase of 21.7 percent over February.

Single family homes saw a small decline in the median sale price, from $285,000 in February 2008 down to $266,750 in March 2008 - a 6.3 percent decline. But condominiums saw a small increase in the median sale price from $230,500 in February 2008 to $235,000 in March 2008.

"Once again, the local Sarasota market is proving its resilience, even as the state and national housing market statistics continue to show weakness," said Helen Sosso, 2008 SAR President. "It is remarkable how our local real estate practitioners are weathering this downturn, and proving once again the value of a professional Realtor® during difficult times. As we've been saying for more than a year, this is a prime buyer's market, with historically low interest rates, moderating prices, and an incredible, high quality inventory of homes on the market."

One of the continuing bright spots in the March 2008 report was the strength in pending sales, which stood at 674 - the highest level in the past year. In March 2007 pending sales were at 706. Pending sales have been edging upward since December 2007, when there were 374 pending sales.

Pending sales counts the number of signed contracts in a month, and is a leading indicator of sales activity. There is a direct correlation between pending sales and closed sales that are reported in the following month or two.

Inventory levels were lower in March 2008 at 10,025 single family homes, compared to 10,596 in March 2007, and down slightly from February 2008, when there were 10,035. Condominium levels also decreased from the March 2007 level of 6,180 to 5,702 in March 2008, but up slightly from the February 2008 level of 5,588.

The days on market, which translates to the average time it took to sell a property, was at 152 days for single family homes, slightly higher than the 144 days in March 2007, but lower than the 160 days in February 2008. Average days on the market for condos was 181, a healthy drop from the 199 days reported in March 2007, and much lower than the 219 days in February 2008. The days on market reflects a quicker pace of sales, meaning the size of the current inventory should begin to decline going forward.

The local Sarasota-Bradenton MSA continued to fare better than the overall state. The MSA was down by 15 percent for single family home sales and 17 percent for condominiums, comparing March 2008 to March 2007. For the overall state, single family homes declined 26 percent comparing March 2008 to March 2007, and condominium sales were down 24 percent month to month.

In fact, the smaller Sarasota-Bradenton market again sold more overall properties than the Miami market. There were 1,022 overall sales reported for the local MSA, compared to only 609 in Miami.

2008 Juke Joint Festival

2008-04-23T11:56:00.003-05:00

Clarksdale MS Welcomed the Blues World!

Inspired by the book by Sharony Green, my Mississipppi childhood friends and I dubbed ourselves, MS Maes, as we attended the 2008 Juke Joint Festival as Francine & Bill Luckett's guests in Clarksdale, MS. Francine and Bill gave us the royal treatment due dignitaries. We were wined and dined and saw a record night for blues customers at Bill and Morgan Freeman's Ground Zero Blues Club.

The Maes listened to world-class blues at Ground Zero on Friday and Saturday nights enjoying the company of blues fans from all over the world. I even did some Sarasota real estate networking. A Hendersonville North Carolina realtor with his wife and an Atlanta Georgia couple sat with us and Greg Lemke of Beverly-Hanks & Associates agreed to keep in touch. Sarasota and Hendersonville are both real estate hot spots. Read more on MS Maes.

Sarasota Waterfront Homes

2008-04-16T23:52:00.003-05:00

Sarasota Waterfront Real Estate

SW Florida Luxury Homes and Estates

Tropical Sarasota is a hot destination for waterfront real estate along South West Florida's Gulf Coast. Whether it's a luxury ocean front property or a bay front property, Sarasota's coastline is tops!

Sarasota FL - approximately 70 minutes from Tampa International Airport
Enjoy a waterfront lifestyle in one of multiple Sarasota coastal neighborhoods! If you are a boater, Bird Key could be your choice for waterfront real estate in Sarasota Florida.

The Sarasota MLS currently lists Sarasota waterfront real estate for sale in neighborhoods such as Harbor Acres, the Sanderling Club and Country Club Shores on Longboat Key. Prices for waterfront homes in Sarasota vary depending on many factors including location, views and depth of water and of course, in the buyer's market, the seller's motivation.

Beautiful downtown Sarasota showcases tree-lined streets where residents are part of an enthusiasm for shopping, dining, cultural attractions. Sarasota’s small town feel is charming and our city is home to culture of opera, ballet and museums. The barrier island beaches are a short drive away from most neighborhoods.

Where can find waterfront real estate in Sarasota FL?

Sanderling Club, Siesta Key Country Club Shores, Longboat Key
Bay Isles, Longboat Key Harbor Acres, Mainland Sarasota

There are hundreds of listings in the Sarasota MLS for waterfront properties on the barrier islands of Siesta Key, Bird Key, Longboat Key, Casey Key and Manasota Key. Let us be your guide.

Happenings in Sarasota

An active waterfront marina awaits you on the Sarasota Bayfront. Dock a boat or take a walk, visit the sculpture or other exhibits along the Trail. Watch the children splash in the fountain by the sea or take in the Dolphin Fountain. Stop at Starbuck's for morning coffee and enjoy Sarasota's vibrant downtown area. Take in a play at one of Sarasota's theaters or visit the Burn's Court Cinema. This year Sarasota celebrated 10 years of its film festival. Celebrities wined and dined in our city and many shopped for waterfront real estate in Sarasota.

The Towels Court area offers an array of art as many artist paint in their galleries in this charming neighborhood. Neighborhood restaurants dot the tree-lined streets.
For photos, virtual tours and area information on downtown Sarasota real estate or its barrier island real estate of Longboat Key, Lido Key, and Siesta Key, visit The Herron Group listings. Beach, bay or Back Nine . . . Live the Dream!

The Herron Group offers the highest of Internet exposure for selling your Sarasota waterfront real estate providing our customers with multiple websites and blogs on Sarasota and Longboat Key real estate as well as all of Sarasota's barrier islands. Email Annette with your questions or call at 941-504-3922 for a buying or listing appointment.

Buy a Sarasota Home?

2008-04-11T05:56:00.002-05:00

Is Now the Time to Buy a Sarasota Home?

The national news focuses on real estate daily and you see suggestions, marketing tips, buying a home in a down market, information is on overload -- so do you buy a Sarasota home now? Only you can decide what is best for you. History proves real estate is a long term investment, live in your Sarasota investment!

If you are leaning toward a purchase of Sarasota property or if you know you want to buy a Sarasota home, read details about these 5 helpful tips for buying in a down real estate market:

1. Accounting for Extraneous Expenses
2. Acknowledging Special Assessments
3. Finding a Manageable Mortgage
4. Determining How Much Home to Buy
5. Budge for Your New Home

Posted Tips Article: http://www.bankaholic.com/2008/buying-home-down-market or for more buying information see the Time2Buy Sarasota website.

Sarasota Golf Course Home - Venetian Golf & River Club

2008-04-10T07:07:00.002-05:00

Sarasota Golf Course Home - 113 Rimini Way, Venice FL

113 Rimini Way at Venetian Golf & River Club is such a wow Sarasota golf course home! From the dramatic entrance pictured above to the paver lanai and pool area,
this house personifies your relaxing Florida lifestyle. Priced at $527,000, this Venice Florida home is a great price with $100,000 of upgrades including a den with wood floors, living area of diagonally tiled floors, kitchen in stainless appliances and granite counter tops. Bring your golf clubs and relax in this active resort community.

If you are looking for a Sarasota golf course home, The Venetian Golf & River Club offers its residents a championship golf course, one main and two additional dining rooms, lounge, cabana bar without outdoor grill, day spa, aerobics, fitness center, tennis courts, pro shop, two resort swimming pools, nature park and canoe launch. The new Golf Club is now open.

Annette Smith and Nick Herron, the Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group , are experienced in Sarasota country club real estate sales and are ready to assist you in finding the perfect golf course home. Email us for a list of luxury Sarasota real estate available if Florida is your choice.