The Blame Game – Are Appraisers Killing Deals?

I often team up with another agent, Doug Parks.  This summer we had a listing on a single family home on South Lido Key… priced well, in a great shape and a premium location – one block to Lido Beach and walking distance to St Armands Circle.  It went under contract before it hit MLS because I (…) Read more

Another Taste of Vintage & Historic Homes in Sarasota

The Sarasota Herald Tribune had two lovely articles featuring a 1940 home that has been greatly preserved and the fabulously eclectic Arlington Park. Sarasota has so much to offer in a variety of price points for those who favor charm and a bit vintage.  Arlington Park has homes listed from $59,000 to $399,000.  The location (…) Read more

The ABC’s of Borrowing

Among its many aftershocks, the financial meltdown of 2008 resulted in a tightening of credit standards for every potential borrower.  As such, would-be home buyers who wish to finance their purchases must now be prepared to submit full documentation—verifying their income stability and assets—before taking advantage of some of the lowest mortgage interest rates in (…) Read more

Celebrate Sarasota History – Owen Burns Festival – October 24-30, 2011

The second annual Owen Burns festival is October 24-30, 2011.  This year the John Hamilton Gillespie will be honored during the week long of activities. Many have heard of Gillespie park, but who is the man behind the name?  John Gillespie is known as the Father of Sarasota.  Go to www.owenburns.com to read more about (…) Read more

Federal Building, Fires & Food! Sarasota History Alive Newsletter

Another great newsletter from Larry Kehler & Sarasota History Alive!!  This week features the Federal Building, the volunteer fire department and research on historic foods. Newsletter Video on the Federal Building of Sarasota - Visit here to see all videos by Sarasota History Alive

Sarasota – Full Time Resident Appeal

We already know that Sarasota is a fantastic location to vacation or own a second home.  We are home to Siesta Key, America’s #1 beach.  World renown St Armands Circle offers charming shops and restaurants to satisfy any palate.  Then, there is the golf, boating, and the arts. But what about the full time resident?  (…) Read more

Sarasota is #6! Cities Where Listing Prices Are Rebounding

According to the REALTOR Mag (the magazine of National Association of Realtors), Sarasota is the 6th city in the country where listing prices are making a comeback. It could be because of the lack of foreclosures in the area or some other explainable reason… or maybe not.  But, the reality is, prices are stable in (…) Read more

Hospitals, Fountains and Jails! Sarasota History Alive Newsletter

This weeks highlights in the Sarasota History Alive newsletter include Sarasota’s first hospital, an update on the preservation of the Mable Ringling Memorial Fountain, the first jails and more! Click here to read more!

Great Tool For House Hunters

Google maps have upgraded the views in Sarasota County – only one of a handful in the country.  The aerial view is now at an angle for greater detail on a property. So, if you want to check out a neighborhood or a specific home, this handy tool can tell a lot. Unfortunately, when the (…) Read more

Foreign Buyers… What and Where They are Buying

The number of Buyers from outside of the United States is growing.  In southwest Florida, many are coming from Canada and Europe.  Low prices and the strength of their currency has been the lure.  Even the sales tax is lower! Ontario buyers alone accounted for a 78% jump in foreign-owned condos last year.  On Siesta (…) Read more