Sunday, June 11, 2006

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.

Tuesday, June 06, 2006

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.

Sunday, June 04, 2006

Lido Key Florida Condos


Lido Key Beach Club

On our Sunday morning walk today, my Sarasota REALTOR and I (Snuffy) strolled around Lido Key. I didn't get to walk on the beach because my Realtor wouldn't put me down. Although I did see a few residents or vacationers out at 7:00 am, it was a little hazy this early. Our first picture was shot down south toward the condos on the beach.

One of our good friends, Marsha, lives at the Lido Beach Club so we headed south for coffee and chit-chat. After chit-chatting about the Ritz-Carlton Beach Club, next door to the Lido Beach Club and other Sarasota real estate issues, we returned to St. Armands Circle for the best part of our walk. The birds on the Circle are vicious. They attacked me and my realtor while we were snapping pictures -- well not really attacked but one of them got on my back. I guess Sunday's at 7:00 am those birdies are hungry before the crowds, who feed the them, arrive at the Circle.

Our favorite shops were closed, of course, but we windowed shopped at
Dreamweavers, animale and Fanta Sea. Dreamweavers carries the most wonderful clothing for the sophisticated woman and to die for special occasion attire. For your perfect handbag to compliment that special outfit, just step in animale, as they carry quite a selection of Mary Frances purses.

If you need a special gift from the beach, don't miss a walk over on the other side of the Circle to Fanta Sea. The sea shells displayed are fabulous and what a huge array of choices.

By 9:00 am, I was ready for a cookie, and we headed back to our house. More on St. Armands Circle shopping tomorrow.

Monday, May 29, 2006

Siesta Key Florida



Siesta Key Village Walk

Early this morning, after getting coffee at the Starbuck's drive-through, Snuffy and I headed over to Siesta Key. We parked in Davidson's Drugstore parking lot and walked across the street to the Village Cafe where I broke my diet and had a delicious omelet to celebrate Memorial Day.

The Village was quiet as Snuffy and I strolled from the cafe past the Beach Club, usually bustling into the wee hours, toward Siesta Key Beach. We passed beach shops displaying everything from towels, sunglasses to bathing suits. Restaurants range from casual to a little bit "fancy" although dress on Siesta is always beachy casual.

Search results on the Sarasota MLS, this morning show 254 Siesta Key homes for sale. There is an abundance of island condos available on all of the Sarasota Keys with 498 Siesta Key condos currently listed. Sarasota is definitely a buyers market now.


Before leaving the key, Snuffy and I made a stop at the park before crossing the north Siesta Key bridge. This park is surrounded by water on two sides and ideal for fishing from the shore. Early morning fishermen this morning were a few Dads instructing their sons on the finer techniques of not falling into the brink.


Our last stop was on the other side of the north bridge where we viewed the new Ringling bridge and the skyline of Sarasota in the early morning haze. The new bridge connects the mainland to Bird Key, St. Armands and Longboat Key. Downtown Sarasota residents enjoy the world-class shops of St. Armands and also the beaches of Lido and Longboat Key. A few boats were on the water early and two young fishermen waded toward us with their poles in the air. Snuffy and I waved and headed for home.

Hope you had a wonderful Memorial Day too!

Las Vegas Realtor Visits Sarasota, FL


Checking out Sarasota for the Day

My Sarasota Realtor®'s good friend and top producer of Las Vegas real estate, Diann Tonneson with Prudential Americana Realtors took a side trip to Sarasota to visit us a few days ago. Diann and hubby Glenn were golfing all over Florida from the Doral in Miami to a golfing reunion with friends in Ft. Myers.
Knick's Tavern, a favorite of ours in Sarasota hosted us for a two-hour lunch and then back to Forest Lakes for a relaxing afternoon of real estate strategy sessions.

Diann is a dynamic agent who's been marketing real estate for over 23 years. Her internet marketing strategies are second to none. Statistics reveal that over 75% of buyers start their prelimenary search for property on the internet, and Diann's web site is positioned number 1 for Las Vegas real estate on Google searches. We're always open for innovative ways to sell Sarasota real estate and exchanging creative marketing ideas with Diann was most enjoyable. Snuffy and his Sarasota Realtor® really hated to say goodbye.



If you need a professional real estate contact in Vegas, Diann's the one!

Sunday, May 21, 2006

Sarasota Bayfront


What a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood!

My Sarasota REALTOR®, says we will take a break from Sarasota real estate life and visit some Siesta Key real Estate, but we keep going to the bay. I think maybe this realtor thinks Sarasota bayfront property is very hot as we are here often. I, of course, am delighted to see my friends arrive every Saturday and Sunday morning, and we pooches catch up on all the week's real estate news, gossip and down to earth people and puppy chatter.

We notice the boat and yacht selling business seems brisk as buyers preview sailboats,catamarans, house boats and yachts in the harbor of Marina Jack's. Locals and tourists alike are relaxing or experiencing the many activities available at the park as seen in the feature pictures accompanying this entry. Snuffy wanted to chase the miniature sailboat and was promptly pulled away only to nearly knock a lady into the brink as she gazed at the elegant new condos rising from Golden Gate Point.

Golden Gate Point residents enjoy the amenities of the bayfront, city life and are just a short walk to the Ritz-Carlton Sarasota.

LaBellasara, one of the grand new condos on the point features spectacular water views from this luxury highrise. Views of Sarasota Bay, Marina Jacks and the downtown skyline are awesome. St. Armands Circle is a five minute drive to world-class shopping venues and gourmet restaurants.

Features in some of the units include bidet, dual sinks, marble/stone flooring, entry foyers from private elevators and large terraces with summer kitchens. Another plus -- two car garages! Residences listed in the Sarasota MLS at La Bellasara start in the $2 millions.


Snuffy's wonders, what happened to a million dollar view?

Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Sarasota New Construction


Neighborhood Preview

Located in popular Palmer Ranch, The Isles on Palmer Ranch is Divosta Homes' new community of luxury single-family homes, patio homes, and townhomes.

The Isles on Palmer Ranch is minutes from Westfield Shopping Mall, beaches of Siesta Key and all the amenities of Sarasota.

This community offers the award-winning Capri III, a two-bedroom plus den, two-bath, two car garage patio homes; or choose from four other models for your perfect Florida lifestyle. The amenities provided by the community are fitness center, heated lagoon pool, sports pavilion, 4 lighted tennis courts, bocce ball court, basketball court, tot lot, lakeside gazebo, covered verandas, multi-purpose areas, service kitchen and post office. If new Sarasota real estate is your choice, this community just might be for you.

Please visit our main website for contact information if you are interested in the new home development.

Friday, May 12, 2006

Sarasota Pooch


Siesta Key's First Annual Cinco de Poocho

Snuffy and his Sarasota realtor took a break from the business of selling Sarasota real estate on Saturday, May 6 and attended Siesta Key's first Cinco de Poocho fundraising event. The proceeds benefited the Humane Society of Sarasota County. Hundreds of Snuffy's friends were in attendance on Ocean Boulevard for this great event. Guests feasted and enjoyed music. Pets were available for adoption from the Humane Society. Snuffy looks forward to next year's event!

Tuesday, May 09, 2006

Builder Incentives

Builders Offering Unheard of Deals!

More evidence of a buyers market are the builder incentives being offered in Sarasota. The Village at Town Park is offering: $30,000 discounts, 12 months without homeowners insurance, zero closing costs, in addition to paid one-year leasebacks. Live in comfort and elegance at the Village enjoying the resort-style swimming pool and state-of-the-art fitness center. Sarasota real estate is a great way to enjoy a relaxed Florida lifestyle and now is the time to shop for your retirement with more home inventory to view. Two bedroom condos at the Village at Town Park start at $219,990 and $239,990 for a unit with an attached garage.

Tuesday, April 25, 2006

Sarasota Condos Preview


Regency House


For a fabulous marina view at affordable prices, check out Regency House for a downtown Sarasota condo. With all the new condos in Sarasota, providing luxurious living spaces in the area, these condos offer the best of Sarasota's famous sailboat view for less. Many of these units are being updated and some still are available for your special decorator touches. There are 9 properties on the market ranging from $415,000 to $1,050,000. Walk to the Tiki Bar at O'Leary's or have dinner at Marina Jack's -- walk to shops, restaurants, culture and fine dining of downtown. If you are interested in Sarasota real estate or have a question, please email us at annette@annettesellssarasota.com

Saturday, April 22, 2006

Downtown Sarasota Condos

Plaza at Five Points

In the last few months, Plaza at Five Points wins hands down as the most talked about of new Sarasota condos. It is a grand building with all the amenities offered by prestigious properties. Downtown living is becoming quite the style for the convenience of shopping, culture, dining, Starbuck's for coffee, Whole Foods for groceries -- all at your fingertips.


Relax in your secure surroundings in the heart of Sarasota! Enjoy the pool view from the recreational level, workout at home. Prices on resales now from $925,000 to $1,350,000.

For Sarasota real estate information, please give us a call.

New Sarasota Town Houses


Siesta Tradewinds

Developer JM Communities LLC recently announced preconstruction prices on their new development just east of the Stickney Point Bridge (across from Siesta Key Beach). Focusing on West Indies architectural styles, Siesta Tradewinds offers a wonderful list of amenities including lush tropical landscaping with a center courtyard fountain on the second level.

These 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath town homes each include a one or two car garage with flexible floor plans for families or baby boomer retirees. Shopping, dining, the beach are all minutes away, and these new Sarasota town houses are a perfect fit for the Sarasota real estate market.

Preconstruction prices start from the high $600,000s.

Saturday, April 15, 2006

Lido Key Condos


Orchid Beach Club

Lido Key Condos - New Construction Condominiums

For the luxury buyer, exquisite beachfront Sarasota Real Estate is available on Lido Key. The new condo development at Orchid Beach Club is completed, and residences are priced from the $1.5 millions.

The units in this private island enclave feature views, luxury amenities and concierge services, exclusive beach club and private owner's club.

For more details and information about these condos on Lido Key, give Annette a call at 941-504-3922 or send an email to annette@annettesellssarasota.com with Orchid Beach Club in the subject line.

Friday, April 14, 2006

New Sarasota Condos

Summer Cove

Siesta key Condos - Under Construction
Sarasota Florida - New Construction Condominiums

Another condo development is underway after the successful effort with Sarasota County to preserve the Summerhouse Restaurant. The Sarasota Board of County Commissioners approved the plan for Summer Cove in December 2004, and the developer released plans to the public in March 2005. Located on Siesta Key-bayside, Summer Cove will consist of 45 three and four bedroom condos with 2,100 to 3,700 sq.ft. of living space. Enclosed garages are offered also.

The units will feature large windows, private terraces, granite countertops, fine wood cabinetry and high-end fixtures and appliances.
Few residences remain.

For more details or to register for these private Siesta Key condominiums at Summer Cove on Siesta Key, give Annette a call at 941-504-3922 or send an email to annette@annettesellssarasota.com with Summer Cove in the subject line.

Monday, April 10, 2006

Florida Home Sales

Florida Homes Market Remains Hot

Florida still holds the title as the hottest market in the Southeast for home prices, soaring nearly 27 percent last year, according to an analysis report issued by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.

The median price for a home in Florida rose by a record rate of $56,000 in 2005. Leading the pack was Naples at $113,000 in appreciation last year. The overall report also shows healthy job creation across the region. Florida is generating jobs at the fifth-fastest rate in the nation and tops in the Southeast. Construction, retail and temporary jobs are multiplying the most, creating pockets of worker shortages in southwestern parts of the state. As a result, the state has the third-best unemployment rate in the United States. -Source: The Florida Times-Unio n, (04/06/2006)

Sarasota Real Estate Auction



Sarasota is definitely a buyer's market and, along with an overflow of MLS listings, real estate auctions are part of the Sarasota real estate scene. This house in the wonderful Sarasota neighborhood of Tamaron will be auctioned on May 6 at 11:00 am

Details:
10% down day of sale
Must close within 30 days
Being sold "as is"
All inspections need to be complete BEFORE the day of the auction.

There are NO buyer premiums. In addition, a co-broke is being offered to Realtors. Call Chris Maier with RE/MAX Properties at 941-308-3978 for more information or if you need a copy of the "terms and conditions" of the sale.

More Sarasota Condos

Preconstruction Prices the Lakeshore on Main Street!

Another option at the award winning master-planned community of Lakewood Ranch! For a lifestyle of luxury, steps from the finest shopping and dining, surrounded by beauty with waterfront views, The Lakeshore at Main Street in Lakewood Ranch may be for you. This fabulous Sarasota real estate development offers two, three and penthouse condominiums for an exciting lifestyle and the convenience of Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, Florida.

Preconstruction pricing starts from the high $700,000s.

Sarasota Condominiums

Preconstruction Prices at Cottage Walk!

For location, convenience and affordability, check out the new Sarasota condominiums at Cottage Walk. This private enclave in the heart of Sarasota offers two-story townhomes with garden entrances. Shipping, dining and world-class entertainment are just a few blocks away.

3-bedroom floor plans
1700 to over 2125 sq.ft.
Granite countertops
Veranda and sundeck
Maintenance-free

Hurry -- only 8 units available!

Preconstruction Prices starting in the low $700,000s. For information on Sarasota preconstruction, contact Chris Maier, RE/MAX Properties at 941-954-5454.

Lakewood Ranch Real Estate


The Lake Club at the award-winning master planned community of Lakewood Ranch in Sarasota, Florida is now accepting reservations.

Amenities Include:

Community amidst 1,500 acres of manicured landscaping and interconnected by beautiful lakes.

Only 75 homes remain in Phase I

Expansive park

16,000 sq.ft. Tuscan-styled Clubhouse

Ten custom home builders

Custom Sarasota homes and home sites offered from $1 million

Saturday, April 08, 2006

Buy a House for your Boat!



Your boat needs this private dock, along with the wonderful views down the canal from this two bedroom, two bath Sarasota, Florida home. It's a boater's dream with water views from all rooms and magnificent sunsets.

This home offers a den, large living room, dining room, kitchen with newer appliances, free-standing ice maker, Florida room and more. What a convenient location to beaches, shopping, golf, fine dining, Sarasota downtown condos and cultural activities. Seller says boating water is excellent with no bridges to Bay. For the best of Sarasota Real Estate, check out this $1,295,000 home at our main website.

Sarasota Neighborhood Update


West of the Trail

With nearly 2,200 sq.ft. of living space, this new West of the Trail, Sarasota MLS listing is a gem. Positioned on one of Sarasota's best streets, this lovely three bedroom, three bath home is walking distance to the Hillview shops, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, restaurants and Morton's Gourmet Market in Southside Village. The backyard is huge with plenty of room for your Florida lifestyle pool. Recently renovated with new two car garage. Priced just right for Sarasota Real Estate at $795,000.

Monday, April 03, 2006

Sarasota Real Estate News


Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice on Best Cities list


Relocate America has included eight Florida cities in its 2006 list of the 100 best cities to live.

The list takes into account such factors as schools, economic health, population and crime rates.

Sarasota, Bradenton, Venice, Punta Gorda, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Jupiter and Mount Dora all made the list. Manatee Chamber of Commerce President Bob Bartz thinks Bradenton's inclusion proves that it has been discovered, and he anticipates new development and redevelopment projects to emerge as a result.

Saturday, April 01, 2006

Sarasota Luxury Homes


Sarasota Film Festival Kicks Off 8th Season

It's that time of year again when the movie stars hit Sarasota shopping for Sarasota Luxury Real Estate, fine dining and attending the 10-day events of the 8th film festival. Limos are seen daily from the Ritz, on the Bayfront, and on the main streets of Sarasota. This event has grown to one of the leading film festivals in North America, and is a busy time not only for the movie theaters, but for merchants, restaurants and Sarasota realtors alike.

Felicity Huffman headlines a list of elite filmmakers and specials guest at this year's event from March 31 through April 9.

Events and Parties

March 31 - Opening Night Film & Gala
April 1 - Saturday Night Surprise!
An Evening With ..."
April 5 - World Cinema Celebration
April 6 - Luncheon under the Banyans
April 7 - Night of a Thousand Stars
April 8 - Filmmakers' Tribute Dinner
April 8 - Late Night Wrap Party

For tickets and information regarding times, locations, films, etc., please log on www.SarasotaFilmFestival.com

Monday, March 27, 2006

Sarasota Luxury Condominiums

Affordable Luxury Condominiums in Sarasota Florida

According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, an Atlanta developer brings its first new residential project to the Sarasota real estate market calling the project "affordable luxury." White & White just finished a condo conversion here and is now building 119 units in six buildings at the corner of Tuttle Avenue and Myrtle Street. Completion is anticipated for November.

Overlooking an adjacent golf course, the gated community will contain several small lakes with fountains. The Lakeside, Sarasota units will be two bedrooms and two baths with screened lanais. Prices will range from $284,900 to more than $329,000. Three bedroom units will also be available.

Included in the amenities of these Sarasota condos are a community clubhouse, resort-style swimming pool, fitness center, elevator service and trash chutes in each building, and the condos will feature architectural embellishments of the latest in resort style living.

Saturday, March 25, 2006

Announcing New Downtown Sarasota Condos


Marquee on the Bay

With nearly 5,000 sq.ft. of living space, these condos are like no other community in the downtown the Sarasota real estate market. Located at Gulf Stream and Main Street, the most desirable location in downtown, with luxury features and amenities, these condos provide their owners with panoramic views of the bay, marina and the city. Relax in your heated pool and spa overlooking Sarasota Bay, exercise in the fully equipped fitness center or take a massage. The 24-hour valet and concierge doorman are at your service too.

What a fabulous downtown Sarasota condo lifestyle! Prices start from the $3 millions and pre-construction pricing is still available.

Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Downtown Sarasota Condos


Downtown Sarasota Highrise Living

"Few American cities can rival the economic growth and opportunity facing the City of Sarasota and its downtown." Tony Souza, President of The Downtown Partnership, wrote in the February 2006 issue of Destination Downtown, the Partnership's quarterly news magazine.

Souza says "we believe downtown will be the destination that everyone wished for." And along with this economic growth in our city, is the explosion of new Sarasota condos. The city's revitalizion is continuing with state of the art building designs including the developments of 100 Central, Plaza at Five Points and the Alinari in the center of the Sarasota arts district.

The possibilities of Sarasota are exciting, and as our skyline changes, we watch in awe!

Saturday, March 18, 2006

New Longboat Key Condos


Positano Condos Now Available

Positano is located on the Gulf of Mexico, Longboat Key Florida. All of the residences are directly on the Gulf with spectacular water views. Living space is more than 4,000 sq. ft. and select villas have private pools or your own private garden. These condos are currently listed in the Sarasota MLS from the $3 millions.

As city condo living replaces the traditional home, Sarasota keeps pace with the national trend to this lifestyle. For complete details, send us an email for a brochure or call for an appointment to view this new condo development.

Saturday, March 11, 2006

Sarasota Luxury Homes and Condos


Luxury Living Showcase

What a busy week! In addition to maintaining four web sites, this real estate event blog and selling Sarasota real estate, my business partner, Sandy Whitehead and I had the pleasure of attending the Luxury Living Showcase presented by Michael Saunders New Homes & Condominiums and Robb & Stucky Interiors in conjunction with Sarasota Magazine/Robb Report. We have brochures on all the new homes and condominiums being offered in the area to better assist you in your purchase in Sarasota. Strolling through Robb & Stucky, nibbling from several arrays of beautifully prepared stations of intriguing delectables, sipping spirits, and networking with our fellow Sarasota realtors -- we thank our gracious hosts for a most informative and enjoyable evening! Check our sites often as we will be adding new information to help you fulfill your real estate needs should you desire an opulent Sarasota lifestyle.

Thursday, March 09, 2006

Lido Key Condo Reduced


Originally Offered at $749,900 - Now Reduced to $645,000

This condo is directly across the street from Lido Key beach in St. Armands Towers. What a great buy for this wonderful third floor unit, boasting a canal view and a tiny peek-a-boo view of the Gulf from the master bedroom. The unit is completely renovated with granite kitchen and baths offering custom curved cabinetry. Floors are diagonally placed tiles. Walk-in cedar master bedroom closet and hurricane sliders add to the charm of this special beach condo. St. Armands Towers is only one block from St. Armands Circle's world-class shops and restaurants from casual outdoor cafes to fine-dining. To view this reasonably priced Lido Key real estate, all us today -- 941-928-3435.

Thursday, March 02, 2006

Sarasota Villa - Price Reduced to $849,900


Bring Your Boat - great reduction!

Boating buyers and gourmet cooks will love this listing on the Sarasota Bayfront at Baywood Colony. This waterfront condo has been redone from top to bootm. Unsurpassed water vistas and gorgeous sunsets are picture perfect from the inviting Florida living room. Bosch stainless appliances highlight the newly styled kitchen which features granite countertops and maple cabinets.

This wonderful villa is across from Siesta Key offering an excellent location close to the beach, shopping, restaurants. Amenities of the community include clubhouse and pool.

Sunsets are spectacular - the best of Sarasota condos!!!




Call us today to see this Sarasota condo reduced from $874,900 to $849,900.

Tuesday, February 21, 2006

Sarasota Home - Price Reduction


The Lakes Estates

This three bedroom, two bath home on Oak View in the Lakes Estates is lovely, well maintained with great curb appeal and has just been reduced to $529,900. The split plan, large landscapted lot, open kitchen/family room with a fireplace, wood floors and an exceptionally updated caged pool with beautiful tile won't last long at this price.

The Lakes community ammenities include two pools, lighted tennis courts and a work out area. The Lakes is a special neighborhood!

Sandy Whitehead is hosting a Broker's Open House, Thursday, February 23, 2006 from 10:00am-1:00pm.

Monday, February 20, 2006

Sarasota Home for Sale - Reduced

The Meadows
This top-to-bottom redo was just reduced. What a beauty and a great buy, completely renovated and now priced at $418,900. Located in the Meadows the gorgeous wood and tile floors compliment the updated kitchen which features granite counters and stainless appliances. This home also offers beautiful baths, large crown and base molding. The roof is new and the outside freshly painted.

Three bedrooms, and two baths, two-car attached garage, a sparking pool make this Sarasota home on Glebe Farm Road a must see for the entire family. Search for Sarasota Real Estate using the MLS listing tool for your dream property in Sarasota. If Sarasota isn't your choice, you can search other cities for prime Florida real estate.

Tuesday, February 14, 2006

Sarasota Villa for Sale-Mainland


Bring Your Boat!

Boating buyers will love our new listing on the Sarasota Bayfront at Baywood Colony. The sellers have redone almost every inch of this waterfront condo. Enjoy unsurpassed water vistas and gorgeous sunsets from the inviting Florida living room. Bosch stainless appliances highlight the newly styled kitchen which features granite countertops and maple cabinets.

The living area showcases diagonal tiles. This fabulous villa is across from Siesta Key offering an excellent location close to the beach, shopping, restaurants. Amenities of the community include clubhouse and pool.

Sunsets are spectacular - the best of Sarasota real estate!!!




Call us today to see this Sarasota condo listed at $874,900.

Saturday, February 11, 2006

Sarasota Real Estate Prices

According to the Florida Association of Realtors, the median price for existing single-family Florida homes for sale continued to rise in December to $247,000. The statewide median price of $194,000 was reported in December 2004.

The median sales price for a single-family Sarasota home, FAR reports at $365,000 for 2005. In December 2004 the price was $293,000. The number of homes sold in Sarasota in December 2005 dropped from the year before (643) to 393.

Showing waterfront condos in 2005 under $1 million last year, was difficult as there was very little inventory. Currently buyers arriving in Sarasota found many condos for sale to view from the MLS listings available. Sarasota is now a buyer's market so if you are planning to buy Sarasota real estate, give us a call to view the many luxury waterfront properties being offered in Sarasota. Of course, the closer to the water in Sarasota, the beach, the better the view, the better the property condition, the higher the price!

Friday, February 10, 2006

Sarasota Real Estate News

Fran Caro, REALTOR, Las Vegas
Since Annette Smith couldn't get the entire Caro family to move to Sarasota to sell Sarasota Real Estate with her, Annette referred her good friend Fran to an agent she met online to sell Las Vegas Real Estate instead!
The Internet is easily the most powerful force in real estate sales today. Not only do more than 76% of buyers start their search for a home on the Internet, but agents too are forging lasting professional friendships across the country in ways that are affecting how they do business. Rather than randomly calling an agency in another town to help a client that is relocating, often the agent has already had extended contact with agents in other areas that can provide the highest level of expertise. And not only can they refer their clients to agencies they have come to know and trust, they can also refer their out of state friends who are becoming Realtors to companies that can train them properly!
So thanks to the auspices of this Sarasota Realtor with Re/Max Properties in Sarasota, The Tonnesen Team of Prudential Americana Group Realtors in Las Vegas is proud to announce that Fran Caro has joined their company and already gotten her first listing, a beautiful home in the guard gated golf community of Los Prados! Las Vegas Home for Sale
Fran has a background in management in the fast paced gaming industry, and is excited to turn her talents to the world of real estate sales. If you are looking for Las Vegas Homes or Las Vegas High Rise Condos, be sure to visit Fran at her new web site: www.Move2NorthwestVegas.com
Diann Tonnesen, The Tonnesen Team

Tuesday, February 07, 2006

Sarasota Real Estate News


100 Central - Open

Showing property at the beautiful 100 Central Building is the best of Sarasota condo shoppng. Entering the building from the drive-through motor court, a towering majestic, granite-backed fountain highlights the lobby. City view and water view abound and the 5th floor amenity level has all the bells and whistles including media room and exercise facility. The parking garage puts you right at your home's level for easy access. A 24 hour concierge service rounds out this downtown Sarasota condos finest of amenities.

Today there are 10 current listings at 100 Central in Sarasota and prices range from $489,000 to $1,975,000.

Okay so Sarasota Real Estate is not for you, then give our preferred Delaware realtor, Jeffrey Fowler a call for beach property a little farther north. Beach weather is a little chilly in the winter, but for the breathtaking beach views and outstanding Delaware real estate, Jeff's waiting for your calls.

Sunday, January 29, 2006

Sarasota Real Estate News

New Subdivision: Oak Vistas, Sarasota

Approximately 21 acres with 62 single-family homes, 13 town houses and a 17,000 square foot office building is in the works off Cattleman Road in Sarasota. Home-lot packages start from the high $400,000s. Resort style amenities offer a quiet, gated community with a pool, lakes and nature preserves.

The builder/developer is Heritage Development, Sarasota. Residences by Maglich Homes, Legacy Homes and Jade Homes, all from the Sarasota community. Commercial building is by Impression Builders.

Vice-President of Jade Homes, points out that "vistas means view." The builders and developers of the new Sarasota neighborhood are capitalizing on Sarasota County's tree protection ordinance by protecting the oak trees that surround and dot the community.

Tuesday, January 24, 2006

Sarasota-Just Listed

The Meadows
What a great redo! Sandy Whitehead just listed this beautifully renovated home priced at $449,900 and located in the Meadows. Extras include wood and tile floors, updated kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances, beautiful baths, large crown and base molding. The roof is new and the outside freshly painted. Offering three bedrooms, and two baths, two-car attached garage, a sparking pool, this Sarasota home on Glebe Farm Road is sure to please the entire family. Check out our Sarasota MLS listing page for other Sarasota Real Estate or use our search tool to search for your dream property in Sarasota. If Sarasota isn't your choice, you can search other cities for prime Florida real estate.

Monday, January 23, 2006

Sarasota FL Neighborhood Update

Forest Lakes Country Club
The HOA Board of Forest Lakes Country Club was notified the end of December 2005, by the FLCCE Golf Course Super, Jay Nash, that "construction, spraying, heavy equipment, etc." will begin all over the course effective January 1. Jay asked that everyone stay off the course (no walking, jogging, dogs, kids, etc.). Spraying underway "is the beginning of the $2 million+ golf course renovation plan in which the first step is to kill the invasive grasses that currently exist on all holes." Please note the course is posted with "No Trespassing/Dedicated Construction Site" signs.

Redesign and renovation of the golf course started as reported on January 1 and there's lots of "big truck" activity as Sarasota County prepares for laying pipe and preparation for the construction of the new approved homes in Sarasota along the fairway off Hyde Park.

The clubhouse demolition is underway and crews have escalated mobilizing for the golf course renovation. We'll keep you updated on the improvements to this "hot" community as this Sarasota Real Estate News progresses.

Friday, January 20, 2006

Lido Key Condo for Sale


Offered at $749,900

Directly across the street from Lido Key beach is St. Armands Towers-Lido's number one address. Sandy Whitehead and I just listed a wonderful third floor unit, boasting a canal view and a tiny peek-a-boo view of the Gulf. The unit is completely renovated with granite kitchen and baths offering custom curved cabinetry. Floors are beautiful diagonally placed tiles. Walk-in cedar master bedroom closet and hurricane sliders makes this a very special place to live. St. Armands Towers is only one block from St. Armands Circle's world-class shops and restaurants from casual outdoor cafes to fine-dining. To view this reasonably priced Lido Key real estate, all us today -- 941-928-3435.

Monday, January 09, 2006

Sarasota Real Estate-Just Listed


The Lakes Estates
If you are looking for a close-in location at a reasonable price, you might want to look at this listing in Sarasota on Oak View at the Lakes Estates. This lovely, well maintained home has great curb appeal and is an excellent value at $559,900. Extras include a split plan, large landscapted lot, open kitchen/family room with a fireplace, wood floors and an exceptionally updated caged pool with beautiful brick pavers. The Lakes community also offers two pools, lighted tennis courts and a work out area. For a special place to live -- call us today!