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!

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?

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.

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!

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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