Pelican Cove, Sarasota, Florida - 07/30/10 05:16 PM
Pelican Cove, Sarasota, Florida
There is nothing ordinary about Pelican Cove. Located directly on Little Sarasota Bay in the southern part of Sarasota. The complex sits on real estate usually reserved for luxury mansions. Pelican Cove boasts spectacular bay views, and looks across to south Siesta Key.
Pelican Cove’s condos are available in one, two and three bedrooms and there are also town-home models available. But what sets Pelican cove apart is its amenities – the community has three clubhouses with fitness centers, six swimming pools, four tennis courts and miles of walking and nature trails.  
  … (0 comments)

Aqualane Estates, Sarasota, Florida - 07/24/10 06:37 PM
Aqualane Estates, Sarasota, Florida When people think Sarasota, they generally think of two things – beaches and boating. Aqualane Estates gives home buyers the opportunity to experience both easily.
Located on Little Sarasota Bay, the homes range from landlocked , affordable homes to sprawling waterfront mansions. Boaters have the choice of being on direct bay front, or on a series of long canals that lead directly out to the Bay.
A quaint New England style boutique center with several great restaurants is right next door, and the white sands of Crescent Beach are just over the bridge.
  … (2 comments)

Marina del Sol, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/24/10 05:59 PM
Marina del Sol, Siesta Key, Florida The advertisements claim that everyone in Marina del Sol is happy, and we can see why! Built in 2002, it is one of the newest complexes on Siesta Key, and up to all recent hurricane codes. But beyond the practical is the luxurious, and Marina del Sol goes above and beyond.
 
Marina del Sol also offers another rarity – a private, white sand beach on the Bay side of the Key. This beach is also a great launch site for canoes and kayaks. But should you want the true expansive crystal beach of Siesta, it is … (2 comments)

Dolphin Bay, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/24/10 05:49 PM
Dolphin Bay, Siesta Key, Florida Dolphin Bay is a tranquil oasis offering some of the best of Siesta Key life. Located on the water overlooking Little Sarasota Bay and the Intercoastal Waterway, Dolphin Bay is also across the street from Crescent Beach, and a short stroll to world famous Siesta Key Beach.
The complex was built in 1998, making it one of the newer condo complexes on the Key, and was built after the sweeping hurricane code reforms enacted in 1996. The complex has heated pool and spa, Har-Tru tennis courts, a Key West inspired clubhouse which has been newly renovated, … (0 comments)

Sarasota Pulls Together for Kids - 07/24/10 09:29 AM
Sarasota Pulls Together for Kids  
In another show of support for Sarasota kids, the GWiz Science Museum in Sarasota is a terrific hand-on learning experience for children of all ages. When we tell children ”Go ahead – try it!” instead of telling them not to touch, it opens up imaginations. Over the years, the learning opportunities and fun shared by thousands of kids at GWiz have formed great memories for all.
GWiz survives on grants from the Selby Foundation, as well as the membership dollars of citizens who choose to support the cause. But this is just the beginning of the community … (1 comments)

Sarasota County Beaches Remain Stunning - 07/23/10 09:12 AM
Sarasota County Beaches Remain Stunning While many people canceled their Florida vacations this year worried about the effects of the oil spill, Sarasota residents have enjoyed one of the most spectacular summers in recent memory on Siesta Key. The waters are clear and beautiful, and remain the best place to float around on a hot summers day.
With national scientific research centers recording the chance of Sarasota County beaches seeing oil at less than one percent, and the oil spill now contained, we expect our beaches to remain as crystal and white as ever.
… (1 comments)

Sarasota Real Estate Sales Continue to Soar! - 07/23/10 09:04 AM
Sarasota Real Estate Sales Continue to Soar! Even with the prospect of oil spill effects looming and the tax credit expired, Sarasota real estate sales continued to climb in June.
Buyers seem ready to cash in on the low prices in paradise and are not willing to miss their chance. Sales were at 776 homes, the highest monthly number yet this year, and Sarasota real estate agents see the number continuing to rise on positive press and negligent risk of the now capped oil ever reaching our beaches.
… (1 comments)

Whatever you do, always Call Around! - 07/22/10 10:32 AM
Whatever you do, always Call Around!
 It never hurts to have friend in the Sarasota real estate business.
When a customer recently needed a specialized inspection, I called three providers for quotes. I was amazed to see the quotes come back - all the same scope of work, all from reputable providers - and the quotes ranged from $150 to $675! So whatever you do, always call around!
I know this is nothing new, but make sure that you always get several quotes for all work unless you are familiar with or have a relationship with the provider. As local Sarasota … (1 comments)

Is there a Tax Break for Sarasota Non-Resident Buyers? - 07/22/10 07:57 AM
Is there a Tax Break for Sarasota Non-Resident Buyers?
Many investors and purchasers of second homes have asked "Is there a tax break for non-resident buyers in Sarasota?". Last year a protection was put in place for those who own Sarasota real estate but live here only part-time.
The measure states that non-homestead Sarasota property will be protected from such an increase, and sets the limit per year. For example, if a property is worth $200,000 this year, the maximum value that can be assessed the following year is $220,000. To anyone who remembers the run up of 2004 through 2006, that is welcome news for … (0 comments)

Sarasota Top Choices to Live - 07/20/10 08:11 AM
There are so many great choices in Sarasota, it is not always easy to zero in on where to begin your home search. But this is the kind of problem home buyers should be happy to have! I chose Tropical Shores because of it's value, being the most affordable waterfront community in Sarasota, boasting available boat slips starting at about $400/year!!!
Via Regina Brassil, ABR, AHWD, e-Pro (True Real Estate):
As local buyers' agents, we are often asked "where would you live?" Siesta Key remains my favorite, but over the years, our customes have voted with their checkbook for other awesome places to call … (3 comments)

Grand Siesta, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/17/10 07:32 PM
Grand Siesta, Siesta Key, Florida
What would you include when creating a great Siesta Key getaway? The beach? A great tropical ambiance? Grand Siesta may be for you.
The town homes were built in 2003 and offer about 2600 square feet of living space. They have three bedrooms, private elevators, private pools and two car garages.
The time is now to get into Sarasota real estate, especially these great deals on the Key!
… (2 comments)

La Siesta, Great Siesta Key Investment - 07/17/10 07:24 PM
Investor alert! Get in on one of the most popular rental properties on popular Siesta Key! No parking woes for residents of La Siesta, when one of the top beaches in the world is just 100 steps away. The powder white sands draw people from all over yje globe, and in this property, they have a front row seat. Most units have beach and gulf views, some have pool views. La Siesta has a pool and clubhouse, but the main attraction is by far Siesta Key beach.
You won't even have to take the car out of your space to get a great meal - a gorgeous 15 minute … (0 comments)

Tax Break for Sarasota Non-Residents - 07/17/10 07:12 PM
Sarasota residents who own homestead property, that is they live here more than 6 months per year, are protected by the "Save our Homes" cap. This provision caps the amount that a property's assessed value can climb in any given year. This was created to protect homeowners from rising taxes in a hot Sarasota real estate market.
In 2009, protection was put in place for Sarasota real estate part-time residents. The provision allows for non-homestead property to be protected from such an increase, setting the limit 10% per annum.  For example, if a property is worth $200,000 this year, the maximum value that can be assessed the following year is $220,000. To anyone who remembers the … (0 comments)

Top Places To Live in Sarasota! - 07/16/10 07:55 AM
Top Places To Live in Sarasota! When considering the top places to live in Sarasota, there is the old saying “Vote with your pocketbook”. Over the years our clients have done just that. Based upon where clients have purchased their Sarasota home in the past, and where they are looking to purchase now, here are some of the favorite places in Sarasota real estate:
Sarasota Beach Living:  Lido Shores, Palm Island, Casey Key
Sarasota City Living: Laurel Park, Condo on the Bay,  Golden Gate Point, Avondale, Bungalow Hill
Sarasota Golf & Country Clubs: University Park, Stoneybrook
Sarasota Family Life: Palmer Ranch (Turtle Rock, … (0 comments)

Sarasota, Florida Property Taxes - 07/16/10 07:24 AM
Sarasota, Florida Property Taxes When looking at the taxes either on a listing or in the tax records, you seeing what the current owner paid in Sarasota property taxes last year. However, this information may be misleading as taxes are related to the individual situation, not only the property address. The market value is the amount the county determines the home to be worth based on comparable sales prior to exemptions. Assessed value is the number that the county uses to apply taxes, which often includes exemptions.
If you declare the home your primary residence, you will qualify for the Homestead Exemption. The exemption allows for $50,000 … (0 comments)

Sarasota Home Ownership - 07/13/10 05:15 PM
Sarasota Home Ownership Sarasota home ownership has several benefits:
1) Florida Homestead Exemption- To qualify, your home must be your primary residence more than six months per year.  You will be asked to prove residency with a valid Florida drivers license and/or voters registration card. This exemption allows for the deduction of $50,000 from the assessed value of your home before taxes are calculated. Once homesteaded, the property also qualifies for the Save our Homes Cap, which may save you thousands over the years as the market recovers.
2) Home Mortgage Interest Deduction- In most cases you can deduct the interest you … (1 comments)

Offer Price versus List Price in Sarasota - 07/13/10 05:07 PM
Offer Price versus List Price in Sarasota It is probably the most frequent question I hear from people searching the MLS – “When I am looking at listings, how much can I take “off the top” of a list price, offer price vs list price.
Unfortunately, I can’t answer that question with any real certainty. Every seller has a different situation, and each property has been priced independently. I can, however, make some points that may help your understanding of this process.
* The Sarasota Board of Realtors has reported that the average sale is about 95% of the list price, a fact that surprises most people. … (0 comments)

Just Opening the Door! - 07/13/10 04:45 PM
 
Just opening the door!
Not long ago, I overheard someone at a restaurant complaining to his friend about something that got my attention.
His exact words, proclaimed loud enough for me to hear at the next table, were “Why should an agent representing the buyer get 3% commission – simply for opening a door?”
I genuinely hope that no one who has worked with True Real Estate would agree with the gentleman. We spend months in communication with you before your visit. We do hours of research, preview properties and send custom slideshows so you can better view properties of interest from … (0 comments)

Sands Point, Longboat Key, Florida - 07/13/10 03:28 PM
Sands Point, Longboat Key, Florida Sands Point condominiums sit on a truly privileged piece of real estate – the southernmost tip of Longboat Key. The units allow you to gaze out over the Gulf of Mexico, the north end of Lido Key, and your own private, pristine beach which no one else has access to…
Although secluded behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, these units are very affordable and membership to the Club’s golf and tennis is available, but not required. You can, however ,walk to all dining at the Club. The complex has a gulf front pool/spa and picnic … (1 comments)

Hidden Harbor, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/13/10 03:03 PM
Hidden Harbor, Siesta Key, Florida When people think Siesta Key, they most often think of beach cottages, gulf front condos and a bustling tourism haven. But a more exclusive and hidden side of Siesta Key exists on the bayside. Hidden Harbor is located directly on the deep waters of Roberts Bay, and offers a luxurious lifestyle to those who love boating.
Sweeping bay and city vistas are taken in from upscale and opulent homes of all types and styles. Hidden Harbor properties enjoy large lots, most over half an acre; and docks reaching to seventy feet and beyond sitting on deep canals or … (0 comments)

Oil Chance on Siesta Key Less than 1% - 07/12/10 09:33 AM
Gulf Oil Unlikely on Sarasota County's Beaches
A NOAA computer model suggests the likelihood of oil on Sarasota County's beaches, including Longboat Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key and Venice beach, is less than  1%. Whether this causes a boom for the Sarasota real estate market remains to be seen. Average home sale prices have already been on the upswing. Check out this webcam on Siesta Key Beach!
 
Via Regina Brassil, ABR, AHWD, e-Pro (True Real Estate):
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) has published a computer model that represents the likely path of the oil in the Gulf of … (0 comments)

Sarasota Best Real Estate Buy in the Galaxy? - 07/12/10 08:57 AM
Sarasota Attracts Smart Home Buyers
Sarasota remains one of the best values in the country, after having seen prices fall dramatically over the last half decade. With interest rates at all time lows and a steadily receding inventory, we expect home prices in the Sarasota real estate market to appreciate. Most of our current clients are deliberately buying now, not only because they love it here, but because they expect to be sitting pretty three years from now!
Via Regina Brassil, ABR, AHWD, e-Pro (True Real Estate):
Ok, maybe not in the galaxy...yet.
In October the Today Show proclaimed that Sarasota was the … (0 comments)

Riegels Landing, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/11/10 11:13 AM
Riegels Landing, Siesta Key, Florida Riegels Landing is situated at perhaps one of the best locations on Siesta Key to take advantage of everything the island has to offer. Sitting just beyond the Midnight Pass and Beach Road split, it is just a short 3 minute walk to the #2 beach in the country, Siesta Key Beach. Definitely a great option in Sarasota real estate. It is a leisurely bike ride through canopy streets to Siesta’s quaint and newly spruced up Siesta Key Village, and offers wonderful waterfront views. Click here for more info on Riegels Landing.
… (1 comments)

Harbour Towne, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/10/10 12:54 PM
Harbour Towne, Siesta Key, Florida In the Sarasota real estate market, some communities just seem to have it all.  Harbour Towne is one of them. Located virtually across the street from world famous Siesta Key Beach, you can walk to the white sand without having to jockey with anyone for a parking space. The complex is also located directly on a private inlet, with spectacular water views and resident-owned boat slips.
This gated condominium complex offers a community pool, tennis courts, and clubhouse and security. Units are spacious, nearly 1500 square feet, and have garages.
Pets are welcome, up to twenty pounds. Rentals are … (0 comments)

Crystal Sands, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/09/10 08:52 AM
Crystal Sands, Siesta Key, Florida What a perfect name for a beachfront condominium on Siesta Key! The white sand beach stretches for miles in both directions from this popular community, and the vistas are second to none. Click here for more detailed info on Crystal Sands.
For those interested in Sarasota real estate, Crystal Sands provides a wonderful possibility. Located on Crescent Beach, Crystal Sands includes the Gulf side tower offering one, two and three bedroom condos as well as the villas leading up to the beach.  The tower has elevators, covered parking, and allows pets; the gulf front pool is … (1 comments)

Fishermans Cove, Siesta Key, Florida - 07/09/10 07:58 AM
Fishermans Cove, Siesta Key, Florida Fisherman’s Cove, at the southern end of Siesta Key, is one of the best locations on Siesta Key. The beautiful Gulf views, beachfront lifestyle, and quiet seclusion make this community a winner! Fisherman’s Cove is a small enclave offering spectacular views of Turtle Beach direct from your unit. Click here for more information on Fishermans Cove. This is a true beach to bay complex, as out your front door is beautiful Heron Lagoon. The complex provides boat docks, a swimming pool, and has just completed an exterior renovation making this an excellent option in Sarasota real estate. Heron Lagoon … (1 comments)

Crescent Arms, Siesta Key, Sarasota, Florida - 07/07/10 08:50 AM
Crescent Arms, Siesta Key, Sarasota, Florida
Looking for a great beachfront condo on the white sand beaches of world famous Siesta Key? Crescent Arms is an excellent choice for vacationers and investors alike, as it has a flexible rental policy. The white sand stretches for miles in either direction from the complex, which is situated closer to the water than many of its neighbors, and has a spectacular view. Sarasota real estate in a prime beachfront location!
Like many condos on this part of the Key, Crescent Arms is made up of  gulf-side towers offering 1,2 and 3 BR units; and freestanding villas running from the main … (0 comments)

Assisted Living Communities in Sarasota, Florida - 07/07/10 08:28 AM
Assisted Living Communities in Sarasota, Florida There are many choices available to those in their golden years who require some degree of assistance or care. Below is a sampling of what the Sarasota real estate market has to offer. For a more complete list and contact info, please visit Assisted Living Communities in Sarasota.
Palmer Club At Prestancia – designed for gracious living and utmost comfort.Variety of activities include card games, live entertainment, dancing and discussion groups. Concierge service, and dining options at the Palmer Club dining room. Located across from Sarasota Square Mall and movie theaters.
Pines of Sarasota is … (1 comments)

Bertha Palmer arrives in Sarasota - 07/06/10 12:49 PM
This year, Sarasota recognizes the arrival of Bertha Palmer in Sarasota. During the spring of 1910, this dynamic woman of great wealth and international business renown showed up in the little known Sarasota and immediately fell in love. She built not only her own home, but Sarasota homes for many of her friends and relatives to join her in the little jewel on the Gulf she had discovered. She knew it was special.
Now, one hundred years later, we see she was absolutely correct! Sarasota is known world wide as a cultural haven, a sophisticated Gulf Coast city, and home to one … (0 comments)

The Virtual Realtor: How Technology Is Changing the Real Estate Game - 07/06/10 12:33 PM
Now more than ever, technology is changing the way consumers buy and sell homes. Over ninety percent of home buyers now begin their search on the Internet, leaving only ten percent who don't!
The Sarasota real estate market is very competitive and challenging for agents as it stands. Those unable to keep on top of technology will not be able to make a living.
On the other hand, the majority of the consumers are not real estate experts and require the use of an exclusive buyer agent when purchasing real estate to avoid getting ripped off!
Via Jon Knight (Go Pro Systems):
It … (0 comments)

Determining the value of a home - 07/06/10 11:26 AM
Determining the Value of a Home As Exclusive Buyer Agents, we also are constantly figuring out the value of property. The fact is, even with the best of intentions by the listing agent, the list price of a home is simply a gauge for what the seller hopes to receive for their home – not necessarily what it is truly worth, or what you should pay for your Sarasota real estate purchase.
Several values are readily available to end users on the internet, and although information is important, it can be misleading if it is not complete. For a detailed description … (0 comments)

Beautiful on the Outside - 07/06/10 10:58 AM
It is certainly true that one shouldn't judge a book by it's cover. But even knowing the importance of curb appeal, many home buyers throughout the country, including those  interested in the Sarasota real estate market, get their hopes up before seeing the entire home or estimating the cost of any repairs that need to be done.
The best bet for any home buyer is to personally view a sufficient number of homes and hire a Sarasota buyer agent to protect your best interests.
Via Michael Haigh (W J Bradley / The Michael Haigh Team):
They say you can't judge a book … (1 comments)

What's Ahead For Mortgage Rates This Week : July 6, 2010 - 07/06/10 10:40 AM
As interest rates continue to hover at historic lows, many wonder how long before rates ever go up again, especially with inflation appearing to remain in check. And with the economy in for a slower-than-usual recovery, rates could, theoretically, remain low for years.
Using the Sarasota real estate market as an example, unless the economy improves, there will still be relatively high unemployment. And consumers cannot afford to buy Sarasota homes when they don't have a job, no matter what the interest rate may be.
Via Michael Haigh (W J Bradley / The Michael Haigh Team):
Mortgage markets improved last week as economic … (0 comments)

How Would You Handle An Agent Who Refuses To Deliver Your Buyers Offer To The Seller??? - 07/06/10 10:16 AM
In all cases, the seller is obligated by law to present the offer to the seller, even if the offer is only $1 and the listing is a beachfront mansion.
In the Sarasota real estate market, I would point out the reality of the situation to the agent and if that did not work, I would be forced to contact their broker. Worst case scenario would be to have to contact the seller directly, but in a perfect world, it shouldn't have to get that far.
Via Paula Hathaway (Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate):
Yesterday was one of the most interesting days of … (0 comments)

Avoiding the OUCH of the closing costs - 07/06/10 09:11 AM
Closing costs are a significant factor, and particularly for investors who are in and out of real estate transactions frequently, these costs really add up.
In Florida, closing costs are different for the buyer and seller, with the seller usually paying all real estate commissions and the "doc stamp" tax. You can calculate closing costs in the Sarasota real estate market by clicking here.
Caveat Emptor! - Always remember to use a Sarasota buyer agent to protect your interests when purchasing real estate!
Via Manny Munir (Century21 Professional Group):
Even seasoned home buyers can make the mistake of underestimating, or even forgetting about, … (0 comments)

Experts weigh in on getting rid of 30 year mortgages in the U.S. - 07/06/10 08:53 AM
As a licensed mortgage broker and Sarasota real estate agent, I see a need for more alternatives and programs for home buyers seeking financing. Forty or even fifty year fixed loans should be more commonly offered.
At the same time, borrowers should be required to take some type of financial awareness course before becoming engaged in an adjustable rate mortgage(ARM). Had this been the case before the financial meltdown, the world economy probably wouldn't be as bad off as it is now.
Via Stanley Barsch, REALTOR® 240.882.8512 (Long & Foster Realtors):

Do away with 30 year mortgages, really?
I just read … (1 comments)

Want More Money For Your House? Lower Your Price. - 07/06/10 08:41 AM
Many home sellers miss the point that if their home is not appropriately priced when it first is offered for sale, they will lose the best chance at selling it for the most amount of money in the least amount of time. Like most parts of the country, real estate in Sarasota is constantly changing, even evolving if you will.
As sellers are best served with an educated professional with market experience, home buyers are learning to use an Exclusive Buyer Agent to represent their best interests.
Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
Every so often, I have a … (1 comments)

Huntsville Houses; Lease purchase available just outside city. - 07/06/10 08:25 AM
In the Sarasota real estate market, many buyers unable to qualify for a home loan are hoping to find a landlord willing to do a lease to purchase deal.
The problem lies in the fact that most landlords are not interested in selling their holdings in a down market when they are usually better off waiting until market conditions improve to sell.
Either way, always be sure to use a Sarasota buyer agent to protect your interests when entering into a real estate transaction.
Via Huntsville MLS Homes in Huntsville Philip Winburn (Rosenblum Realty Inc.):
Offered by Christina Winburn, Huntsville Alabama Real … (0 comments)

UNDER CONSTRUCTION "Tico Style" Stage 1 ~ The Foundation - 07/06/10 08:18 AM
After having been to Costa Rica over fifty times since the 1980's, I can say that their construction techniques are not quite "bricks and sticks" and that they have come a long way in improving the safety and quality of the construction.
But it is still a far cry from South Florida building codes that we have in the Sarasota real estate market.
Via Debbie Hutchins ~CRS~Greater Birmingham and International Costa Rica New Homes (Re/Max First Choice):
UNDER CONSTRUCTION "Tico Style"  Stage 1 ~ The Foundation
Building a home in Costa Rica is a fascinating and amazing experience!  From the temporary Tico … (1 comments)

I know the Furniture is a great deal but PLEASE wait until after CLOSING! - 07/06/10 08:11 AM
In the Sarasota real estate market, too often have I run into home buyers who go ahead and buy a new car, furniture or some other large ticket item, only to diminish the chances of being approved for a home loan.
Often times they are unable to buy a home at all. Hopefully the furniture fits in their future rental!
Via David Karp Roswell, Marietta GA Real Estate (Peachtree Realty Group, LLC):
Sometimes it is just too much temptation when buying a home to not want to buy pretty, new things for it but in certain circumstances you just have to resist. As … (1 comments)

Marina Bay, Longboat Key, Florida - 07/05/10 10:06 AM
Marina Bay, Longboat Key, Florida
Marina Bay is located on the bay side on Longboat Key, behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, directly next door to the marina and cafe. There are three main building, each with four units per floor situated on five floors for a total of sixty units in Marina Bay. The buildings were built in two phases in 1990 and 1993 and pets up to 30 lbs are welcome.
 
Most units are between three and four thousand square under A/C. The complex offers a wide array of amenities including security, a heated swimming pool … (0 comments)

Sarasota's Bayfront Park - 07/05/10 09:54 AM
Sarasota's Bayfront Park One of the amazing perks of living downtown is the proximity to one of the hubs of activity in Sarasota – the beautiful Bayfront Park, also known as Island Park.
The park juts out into Sarasota Bay from its location at Gulfstream and Ringling Boulevards. The park is surrounded by water, and is flanked by the marina on one side, and private boats anchored in open water to the south. Views of Siesta Key; Lido, Longboat and Bird Key; and the John Ringling Bridge are all around you. Simply turn around to view the clean and sparkling Sarasota skyline.  Benches under huge banyan … (0 comments)

Top 10 Sarasota County Beaches - 07/04/10 12:02 PM
Top 10 Sarasota County Beaches Sarasota County is synonymous with beautiful beaches. These beaches are listed geographically, from north to south. We wouldn’t presume to pick your favorite, try them all and see what you love. Click here for more info on Sarasota County's beaches.
North Lido Beach- within walking distance to the famous St. Armand’s Circle, North Lido Beach is windswept and mostly deserted, with a walking trail that winds through natural dunes and sea-grass. This is more private than many Sarasota Beaches due to limited parking, and makes for great walking.
Lido Beach- a wide swath of white sand … (2 comments)

The Rockets Red Glare - 07/02/10 04:34 PM
The festivities in Sarasota are abundant this 4th of July weekend, with among many other things, the Suncoast Offshore Powerboat races. Race fans line the beach on Lido Key or arrive by boat jockeying for the best view. Fireworks can be viewed on several webcams:
Siesta Key Beach Cam
Sarasota Bay Cam
Downtown Sarasota Cam
Click here for information on Sarasota real estate.
Via Randy Randolph (RSVP Real Estate):
The Rockets Red Glare As American's gather to celebrate the 234th birthday of The United States neighborhoods, villages, communities, small towns, cities will be hosting festivals, parades, fairs and of course firework displays. … (1 comments)

Tankless Hot Water Heaters - 07/02/10 04:08 PM
Efficient Tankless Hot Water Heaters Save Space by William Efficient Tankless Hot Water Heaters
Tankless hot water heaters, while not a new invention, are gaining popularity for their energy efficiency and space saving qualities.
Tankless hot water heater
Hot water is produced only on demand and remains at a constant temperature, as opposed to tanks that store hot water until it is used and are limited to the capacity of the tank before the water gets cold. These are also known to have exploded on occasion or even leak creating a flood like effect in your home.
Tankless hot water … (4 comments)

Federal Tax Credit Deadline Extension Aids Sarasota Real Estate Market - 07/02/10 10:25 AM
Federal Tax Credit Deadline aids Sarasota Real Estate Market The Senate last passed HR 5623, which extends the closing date to qualify for the home buyer tax credit. Home buyers must still have had a contract signed by April 30, 2010, but the previous closing deadline of June 30, 2010, has been extended to Sept. 30, 2010. 
The National Association of Realtors estimates that if the bill is approved by President Obama, it will benefit more than 14,000 contracts in Florida, benefiting the Sarasota real estate market as well.
For more info, visit Sarasota real estate!

… (2 comments)

All about Federal Housing Administraion Loans - 07/02/10 10:02 AM
 
All about Federal Housing Administraion Loans
FHA loans are mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), and issued by lenders who qualify. However, as a popular financing option, FHA loans are still largely misunderstood. The facts regarding FHA loans were provided in part by FHA Pros, LLC, a national FHA condo approval service.
* FHA Loans Are Not Only For Low Income Borrowers. FHA loans are available to everyone, with no maximum income restriction. Borrowers do need to submit income and asset verification documentation.
* FHA Loans Are Not Only For First-Time Buyers. For more information, visit Sarasota real estate FHA.
* FHA … (0 comments)

Sarasota Pleasure Boating - 07/02/10 09:53 AM
Sarasota Pleasure Boating – Part of our lifestyle! Sarasota Pleasure Boating!
Pleasure boating is more than a way of life in Sarasota. Whether water skiing, fishing in Sarasota Bay, cruising the many canals and waterways or diving in the Gulf of Mexico, tourists and locals alike are in heaven! From sail to power, there are many options, types and sizes available as South Florida is the boating capital of the world.
Sarasota real estate provides for many options in waterfront homes from frontage on Sarasota Bay to a canal off the Intercoastal Waterway, or even a Gulf to Bay estate … (0 comments)

Huge Gator dines on Wild Boar, Sarasota County, Florida - 07/02/10 09:34 AM
Huge Gator dines on Wild Boar, Sarasota County, Florida
The above image shows an American Alligator crossing River Road in Sarasota County, heading toward the Myakka River. The boar is estimated to weigh about 250lbs, making this a good snack for the alligator!
While ‘gators are common in Sarasota, they avoid people and will generally run or swim off if approached. To avoid any potential problems,  be sure not to feed any wild animals as they will begin to associate you with food. See what happens next!

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Fourth of July Fun in Union County NC Small Towns - 07/01/10 12:16 PM
4th of July weekend, Sarasota style!
 
The 4th of July is one of the best weekends to be in Sarasota. The city is host to the Suncoast Offshore Powerboat races which attract thousands of race fans from all over the universe! There are many parties that go with it, of course!
There are plenty of choices as far as where to go for fireworks. The two main launch points are downtown Sarasota near Marina Jack and world famous Siesta Key Beach. You can also see the fireworks from Sarasota Bay. Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
For more … (1 comments)

What is the Short Sale Selling Process? - 07/01/10 10:27 AM
The short sale selling process has been around for years, although many haven't heard of it until the last several years. In the Sarasota real estate market, like many other parts of the country, short sales make up a large percentage of total sales.
They are often favored by lenders, saving the cost of foreclosure, and by buyers seeking a great deal! Always use a Sarasota buyer agent to protect your interest!
Via Maria Mastrolonardo Realtor® Short Sale Specialist ~ Naperville,IL Real Estate (RE/MAX of Naperville):
What is the Short Sale Selling Process?
 

 
I have always been one to try … (1 comments)

Have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend! - 07/01/10 09:55 AM
Have a safe and happy 4th of July weekend, Sarasota style!
It is that time of year again when our country celebrates its independence, and while the economy has been lackluster, that won't stop the festivities in most parts of America! And that includes Sarasota, Florida.
The 4th of July is one of the best weekends to be in Sarasota. We are host to the Suncoast Offshore Powerboat races which attract thousands from all over the world! There are many parties that go with it, of course!
There are a plethora of choices from where to go for fireworks. The two … (1 comments)