Nick's Blog

8150 Manasota Key, Englewood, Florida The Herron Group / RE/MAX Alliance Group

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:29:45 -0600

A Wonderful Gulf to Bay Property that is the perfect family compound all newly turnkey furnished and ready for it's new owners. The main house and one of the guest houses are both Gulf Front with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Beach Guest house built in 1950 is really very charming and there is a lovely court yard in between the two. The main house built in 1993 has a large Gulf front family roomand a vaulted wood ceiling in living and dinning room and marble floors. The Main house has a very large private sundeck over the Gulf Front family room and the heated tropical landscaped pool and spa are centrally located for easy access from all areas. There is a 20 X 28 Bonus room off the pool with an extra room plus large pool bath. The other guest studio which was built in 2004 is toward the front of the property. It is built above its own garage. Plus there is and oversized four car garage with work area and a loft. There is a beach walkover and a ramp to get your jet skies down to the beach. The Bay side has a nice boat dock with boat lift and two davits and great views across the intracoastal waterway. Offered at $2,995,000 byThe Herron Group/ NickHerron 941-350-5035 nickherron@comcast.net YouTube Video

The Fantastic Gulf of Mexico Vew

Large Gulf Front Family Room in Main House

615 Casey key Road, Casey Key Nokomis, Florida

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:36:02 -0600

Buy a piece of the past and create your own future. This property is part of Casey Key's history. The original main house has been in the same family for over 60 years. Come enjoy beach front living at its best from this three bedroom, three bath main house and separate two car garage with caretaker's studio and bath. The formal dining room has a vaulted ceiling and fireplace. The great room (living room) has large glass windows across the front of the house so you won't miss any of the magnificent sunsets over your private wide sandy beach. Off of the great room to the South is a sliding glass door that opens onto a screened lanai with lush tropical florida landscaping on three sides. The property is nicely landscaped in low maintenance native Florida Vegetation. Step back in time and enjoy this wonderful opportunity. Reduced to $1,999,000 The Herron Group/REMAX Alliance Group 941-350-5035

If you are looking to build a large estate, the former guest house and swimming pool property to the North is also on the market for sale.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcDFBU5ZTHc

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...live the Dream

Living Green in Sarasota

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 10:18:10 -0500

The "Green Living" trend is now becoming a way of life and Sarasota residents are heeding the queue. Building eco-friendly houses and businesses, converting to draught-free and pesticide-free landscaping, driving hybrid vehicles or riding on the hybrid SCAT buses; green living is evident in Sarasota.

There are many local businesses offering services in all aspects of living an eco-friendly life in Sarasota. Green designated businesses for building homes (MyGreenBuildings, Josh Wynne Construction), eco-friendly landscaping (Environmental Landscape Management, Inc), apparel & décor for a sustainable lifestyle (Juno & Jove, Elysian Fields) and even organic "green" dining (Upper Crust Organic Café & Bakery, The Bean Stalk, Simon's Coffee House) have sprouted up all over Sarasota County in the past few years.

Realtors are now able to "go green" as well. The National Association of Realtors offers a "Green Designation" course for realtors to learn the concepts of sustainability, New Urbanism, and smart growth. The course teaches real estate professionals how to explain to consumers what makes a home, building, or property green, how to list and market green properties while fulfilling ones legal and professional obligations, and how to implement green practices on the road and in the office.

Kathleen Herron of The Herron Group received the "Green Designation" in June of this year.

As a county, we can all learn how going green and reducing environmental impact in the home, at work and in business will allow us to keep living in Paradise.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of Sarasota's Downtown Condos or any of the properties listed on Sarasota's Barrier Island of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key, and Manasota Key Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Towles Court Artist Colony Escape to a Magical World in Paradise

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 13:41:14 -0500

It may not be well known that within the Downtown Sarasota area lies a magical world, a residential artist's colony known as Towles Court. For more than 15 years, Towles Court has served as a retreat for local artists. Coastal Living magazine even named Towles Court a Top Ten Artist Colony to visit.

Brightly colored cottages line the mossy oak covered streets where working studios, artist-run galleries, boutiques, and open-air restaurants welcome you. There are all types of art to be found including paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, and jewelry. Graphic designers, interior designers, art therapists, and massage therapists are also found among this eclectic community.

Typical business hours for the community are Tuesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm, but on the third Friday of every month the colony hosts "Third Friday Art Walks". The Art Walks provide the opportunity for the public to meander through the galleries, studios, boutiques, and antique shops while enjoying live music, refreshments, and entertainment well into the night.

Towles Court is located off US 301 between Adams Lane and Morrill Street in Sarasota's Historic Downtown.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of Sarasota's Downtown Condos or any of the properties listed on Sarasota's Barrier Islands of Longboat Key, Lido Key, Bird Key, Siesta Key, Casey Key, and Manasota Key Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

"Downtown Sarasota Farmer’s Market" Fresh Food, Fine Art, Fun for All

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 11:04:40 -0500

For more than 30 years, the Downtown Sarasota Farmer's Market has been the place for Sarasota residents and visitors to gather for fresh produce, flowers and plants, baked goods, and more. Held every Saturday from 7 am to 12 noon on Lemon Avenue at the Main Street intersection, the Farmer's Market is conveniently located to the luxury Downtown Sarasota Condo community.

The enticing smells of fresh coffee, baked breads, and spices lure you in as the vibrant colors of locally grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers line the streets.

Fresh produce from Brown's Grove, an array of Wisconsin cheeses and spreads from Green Leaf Cheeses, wonderful Italian and German sausages from Alpine Gourmet, fresh pastas and sauces from Peperonata Pasta, sweet breads from Sweet Bread by Grandma, packaged and brewed coffees from Latitude 23.5 Coffee, and fresh seafood from Maggie's Seafood are just some of the vendors selling their edibles for you to enjoy. Gorgeous plants and flowers are available from Plants by Adrian, Advanced Bromeliad Culture -Level 21, Awesome Orchids and many more. There are also many arts and crafts vendors such as: The Sarasota Candle Company, Sunny Day Soaps, Word Wood, Sue Handman, and Sarasota Art and Pottery.

So bring the family, bring your friends, even bring your dog to the Downtown Sarasota Farmer's Market and enjoy a morning of great food and fun.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the Downtown Condos listed in Sarasota. Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art "The Heart of Sarasota’s Cultural Community"

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:28:08 -0500

The Ringling Museum of Art was established in the 1920's by business and circus tycoon, John Ringling and his wife, Mable. Originally commissioned to showcase his own collection of masterpieces, the Museum is recognized today for housing one of the world's largest collections of the Baroque masters. The museum is home to an internationally known collection of more than 10,000 pieces of art, including works from masters such as Rubens, van Dyck, Velasquez, Titian, El Greco, and more.

Overlooking Sarasota Bay and the barrier island of Longboat Key, the museum is part of the Ringling Estate which also includes the Ringling mansion, Cà d'Zan, the Circus Museums, the Rose Garden, and the Historic Asolo Theater.

The wonderful courtyard of the Museum features casts of original antiquities and renaissance sculptures along with two Italian replica fountains, but it is the towering cast of Michelangelo's David that takes center stage and has become the symbol of the City of Sarasota. The museum also regularly presents temporary exhibitions from its own collections and traveling collections in the Ulla R. and Arthur F. Searing Wing, a 30,000-square-foot expansion completed in 2007.

The museum is a wonderful part of our Sarasota cultural community and offers many public and charity events including; Courtyard Concerts, Cocktails at Cà d'Zan, Finally Friday Fest, Forks and Corks Wine and Food Festival, the UnGala Gala, Circus Weekend, the Gallery Gala, and Breakfast with Santa.

The South Jetty and Anita’s Sandcastle Enjoy Picturesque Views and a “World Famous Beach Dog”

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 10:08:23 -0500

More commonly known as the "South Jetty" or Casey's Pass to area residents, Humphris Park is widely known as the perfect spot for fishing, surfing (during season), picnics, sailboat watching, and enjoying the beautiful Florida sunsets along the Gulf of Mexico. Located at the very end of Tarpon Center Drive on the Island of Venice, the 2-mile park is a great place to relax.

This is a wonderful spot to bring the whole family as there are restrooms on-site, picnic table, park benches, and of course, the iconic Anita's Sandcastle. Known for the "World's Best Beach Dog", Anita's is fast becoming one of Florida's famous Hot Dog Stands. But hot dogs are not the only thing on the menu: Up early for the first catch of the day? Come by for coffee and breakfast! Polish sausage, nachos and cheese, and an array of cold beverages and frozen treats are on hand to cool you off from a day in the sun.

The South Jetty and Anita's Sandcastle are just around corner from the Herron Group listing at the Beleza and across the Jetty to Casey Key.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on any of the golf course communities or Sarasota's Barrier Island of Casey Key, Manasota Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key or Island of Venice. Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Osprey, Florida’s Spanish Pointe Pub

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:50:17 -0500

Every coastal town has one of those places where the boaters can tie up their boats and come in their t-shirts and flip-flops for a great bite to eat. Along the Gulf Coast in Osprey that place is Spanish Pointe Pub & Marina. Located right on Little Sarasota Bay, just south of Historic Spanish Point, the Spanish Pointe Pub is a popular, laid-back eatery known by the locals for its delicious grouper sandwiches and cold beverages. Order at the outside window and sit at one of the many picnic tables adorned with red and blue umbrellas. Don't expect white linens and fancy silverware here as plastic baskets and utensils is the norm to serve up some of the best pub food on the water. Mushroom burgers, hot dogs, French fries, and cold beers are just some of the menu items to try out while taking in a spectacular view of the Intracoastal and North Casey Key.

When I first bought a home on Casey Key I lived up on the North end. I could look in my telescope and see if Spanish Pointe Pub was busy or not, then jump in the boat and go over for dinner or lunch. The Spanish Pointe Marina property has been sold and the new owners had closed down the Pub in anticipation of building condos. With the soft condo market they decided to put the condos on hold and re-open the Pub. With all of the development over the pass five years we have lost so many of these laid-back bars and restaurants on the water. Which I think was one of the best draws that attracted tourist and real estate buyers to the Sarasota area.

Just North of Spanish Point is the "Oaks," one of Sarasota's premiere Country Clubs offering two eighteen hole courses and some of the best tennis facilities. The Oaks community is divided into three areas. The Oaks Bayside is just North of Spanish Point on the Bay and the Oaks Clubside is across the street with single family homes around the golf courses. The Oaks also has a third area called the Preserve it is just North of Oaks Bayside and has some single family and the Meridian condos overlooking the Bay.

According to My Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service as of this date:

Oaks Bayside: There are 16 active single family homes on the market for sale priced from $535,000 to $8,990,000. There is 1 sale pending and there have been 4 sold this year.

Oaks Clubside: There are 36 active single family homes on the market for sale priced from $695,000 to $3,600,000. There have been 6 single family homes sold this year.

Oaks Preserve: There are 11 active single family homes on the market for sale priced from $209,000 to $690,000. There are 2 sales pending and 1 single family has sold this year.

Oaks Preserve: There are 25 active condos for sale priced from $259,000 to $1,975,000. There are 2 condos sale pending and 4 condos have sold this year.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on Sarasota Barrier Islands of Casey Key, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Manasota Key, and Island of Venice. Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Fireworks in Paradise (Reflections of a Proud American)

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 11:19:23 -0500

The approach of the 4^th of July holiday weekend brings on a time of reflection. Reflection of the struggles we overcame to become the great nation we are today. Despite the economic hardships we face as a nation; despite the political, religious, and sociological differences we face as a people, we come together every year at this time to celebrate our independence.

The first Independence Day celebration was said to take place in Philadelphia in 1777. They held an official dinner, 13-gun salute, parades, picnics, fireworks, and decorated in red, white, and blue. Today we celebrate in much the same manner. Our cities and towns hold parades, our families get together for picnics and BBQ's, and then we all, in our own way, watch the fireworks. Whether it is out over the Statue of Liberty, over the Golden Gate Bridge, on the TV, or while sitting on the beach in paradise, we will watch the red, white, and blue bursts of light gleaming across the sky.

We will be watching from our own paradise listing (The Beleza on Venice Beach unit 704) as the fireworks burst over the Jetties. This year, as in all years past and all to come, those fireworks will bring on a renewed sense of how proud we are to live in this country, how proud we are of our service men and women who fight for our freedom, and how lucky we are to be living the American dream.

On the Island of Venice as of today according to MY Florida Regional Multiple Listing Service there are 84 active single family homes for sale priced from $97,800 to $2,700,000. There are 7 single family homes in sale pending and 33 homes have sold this year.

There are 153 active condos on the market priced from $64,900 to $1,599,000. There are 18 condos in sale pending and 59 Island of Venice condos have sold this year.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group / RE/MAX Alliance Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on Sarasota Barrier Islands of Island of Venice, Casey Key, Siesta Key, Manasota Key, Longboat and Lido Key. Call 941.350.5035 or 800.789.6580.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Curry Creek Café ----A little known gem with an eclectic flair

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 18:52:45 -0500

"Eclectic"

"Electric" is defined as selecting what appears to be best in various doctrines, methods, or styles and the Curry Creek Café does just that. They take the best in various types of cooking styles and serve them up with a hometown feel.

Housed in a diner-style building on Tamiami Trail South in Nokomis, just South of Casey Key this little-known gem is anything but "diner style'. Once you get past the building and its dirt parking lot you will find some of the most outstanding food in Sarasota County.

The dining area is small but its charm is immediately felt with the vintage photos and memorabilia from the area. The food is nothing short than amazing. Chef/owner David Arbuckle is a Nokomis native who left the area to become an award-winning chef. His wife, Rofie, is from Indonesia, and though fairly new to the restaurant business, adds her signature to the menu with her wonderful egg rolls, coconut milk shrimp curry, jasmine rice, and traditional rendang (a beef stew).

Between Rofie's Indonesian dishes and Chef David's creativeness with the more traditional favorites such as meatloaf, lamb chops, and crab cakes, this is a restaurant not be missed.

Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group / RE/MAX Alliance Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on Sarasota Barrier Islands of Casey Key. Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Manasota Key, Island of Venice, and Lido Key. Call 941.350.5035 or 1-800-789-6580

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Tropical Paradise at 7785 Manasota Key Road Englewood Florida

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:37:15 -0500

Once View the virtual tour:

Once you enter the gates of this bayfront Key West style home rebuilt in 1999, you'll realize that a sensational tropical paradise awaits you.

This 14-room retreat with 4,500 square feet of incredible Florida lifestyle living space, 5 bedrooms
and 5 baths features unbelievable bay views, a Gulf beach easement, a large heated caged pool with waterfall, a Koi pond, lush tropical plantings, boathouse with lift and dockage for larger boat, living area with vaulted ceiling and electronically controlled skylights, master retreat with loft sitting area, spacious office or nursery with its own balcony, and hurricane shutters throughout.

One look and you'll fall in love! Offered at $1,675,000

Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron

The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group

941-350-5035 Nickherron@comcast.net

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Sarasota Has So much to Offer

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 20:05:26 -0500

Another season comes to and end. We saw the last of the plays at the Asolo Repertory Theatre Friday night for 08-09 season. "Souvenir" is the last of the plays for this year. Souvenir will run through June 28 and I highly recommend Souvenir if you have time to go see it and can get a ticket.

"Souvenir" is a Fantasia on the life of Florence Foster Jenkins a musical play by Stephen Temperley directed by Vivian Matalon.

Florence one of many performers in the past fifty years that audiences can't get enough of. Reality television shows American Idol and Americans Got Talent bring this same idea into the present era.

Asolo Repertory is Florida's premier professional theatre, offers the highest quality in live theatre entertainment. Just another reason we say Sarasota has so much to offer.

And when it comes to making an offer there is no one better to make it for you than the Herron Group, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron RE/MAX Alliance Group 941-350-5035.

The Asolo has a unique partnership with Florida State University and is located right outside The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art. This is a lovely older area of Sarasota "The Museum Area" which is made up of Indian Beach and Sapphire Shores that run along Sarasota Bay just south of the Museum and North of Downtown Sarasota.

The Herron Group would enjoy showing you homes in this area and along Sarasota's Bay front and downtown condos which are all just a short distance from the Asolo and other wonderful happenings that Sarasota has to offer.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Casey Key Community Library—Hidden Treasures

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 12:16:39 -0500

Casey Key is laden with hidden treasures; gems of nature and community that makes this island truly home. Residents don't even seem to mind that the Blackburn Point swing bridge is out for repairs; it gives everyone a chance to drive the isle from tip to top-eight miles of beauty and neighbors; yards in full bloom; palm trees reminding us of the tropical delight that is Casey Key, Florida.

Just the other day, I took a guest for a joyride from one end of the island to the other. The sun was shining; breezes blowing; and Casey Key was looking her finest. Since the bridge was out, we turned the convertible around in the parking lot of the Casey Key Library. I'd never been inside before, so on a spur-of-the-moment impulse, we ventured in.

Neighbor and volunteer librarian Connie Davis was behind the desk, and her warm welcome made us feel right at home. We learned that the Casey Key Library is a not-for-profit corporation, founded by resident Marion Shaw in her spacious garage in 1984. This is a computer-free, friendly operation complete with a card catalog and self check-out. The library is stocked with hardcover bestsellers, most under two years old. A community room in the library hosts meetings and events. The library is open to residents of Casey Key who are members of the Casey Key Library Association, and has become a social gathering place for residents and friends.

The Casey Key Library not only keeps residents stocked with delightful reading materials, it also serves the community in many ways. The library board plans a few fundraisers each year, fine social events that raise funds for literacy programs and local schools. As we visited with Connie, I noticed on her desk a book by a local author and Casey Key resident Jack Perkins, formerly with NBC and A&E. It was the charming and visually stunning "Island Prayers," a collection of photographs and reflections that paid homage to nature and its creator. Such a fitting book to read later as I enjoyed another sunset on Casey Key, Florida.

Living on Casey Key, Florida, truly creates a lifestyle that dreams are made of, and the Casey Key Library simply adds to the dream of this welcoming, inspiring community. Nick Herron & Kathleen Herron of the Herron Group RE/MAX Alliance Group would be glad to show you any of the properties listed on Sarasota's Barrier Island of Casey Key. Call 941.350.5035.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Sarasota Association of Realtors Pending Sales Soar in April 2009

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:45:50 -0500

The Sarasota Board of Realtors just released the monthly statistics for April 2009. Pending sales soar to 981 in April 2009: sales top 500 mark for first time in 11 months. This is the highest since the boom years of local real estate in the 2003-2005 periods and topping the previous month by 21 percent. Click here to view the press release and statistical charts.

As for the Sarasota Barrier Islands here are the current statistics taken from Mid Florida Regional MLS as of today:

Bird Key: Single Family Homes: 38 Active Listings, 10 Sale Pending, and 13 Sold This Year

Lido Key: Single Family Homes: 49 Active Listings, 4 Sale Pending, and 11 Sold This Year

Lido Key: Condos: 171 Active Listings, 11 Sale Pending, and 27 Sold This Year

Longboat Key: Single Family Homes: 88 Active Listings, 12 Sale Pending, and 15 Sold This Year

Longboat Key: Condos: 421 Active Listings, 48 Sale Pending, and 59 Sold This Year

Siesta Key: Single Family Homes: 232 Active Listings, 51 Sale Pending, and 45 Sold This Year

Siesta Key: Condos: 419 Active Listings, 33 Sale Pending, and 58 Sold This Year

Casey Key: Single Family Homes: 57 Active Listings, 2 Sale Pending, and 0 Sold This Year

Casey Key: Lots: 11 Active Listings, 1 Sale Pending, and 0 Sold This Year

Manasota Key: Single Family Homes: 45 Active Listings, 1 Sale Pending, and 5 Sold This Year

Manasota Key: Lots: 9 Active Listings, 0 Sale Pending, and 0 Sales This Year

These are all positive signs that the Real Estate market in Sarasota is starting to rebound. As we have been saying: Now Is the Time to Buy! The Herron Group, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron, with RE/MAX Alliance Group are available to show you, your next home.

Beach, Bay and Back Nine...Live the Dream

Courtyard Concerts on Sarasota Bay

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Fri, 08 May 2009 11:48:08 -0500

Last night we attended the last in the Courtyard Concerts series of Big Band Swing music at the John and Mable Ringling Museum in Sarasota on Sarasota Bay. This takes place in the Museum of Art Courtyard every first Thursday February through May.

With us in attendance were several of our past Real Estate clients some for the first time. Some sitting with us and others scattered around in other groups. It is nice to be present when people are discovering more of why they have come to love Sarasota and all it has to offer.

The Courtyard Concerts are fun to attend. You can reserve a chair or bring your own. Bring a picnic dinner; which can be as simple or as elegant as you choose and purchase your wine and beverages there. We had too much food as usual with table cloths and cloth napkins and fancy wine glasses. Everyone enjoyed the Big Band Swing music and several of us even danced a little.

Sarasota has so many cultural and social events which you can choose to participate in all year long.

The Ringling also has "Third Thursday Cocktails at Ca d' Zan" a popular social evening on the third Thursday monthly from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. This will run through July. This is at the old Ringling mansion over looking Sarasota Bay. You can enjoy the live music and watch the beautiful sunset over Sarasota Bay and the Barrier Islands. There is a variety of food to purchase and a cash bar.

The Herron Group, Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with RE/MAX Alliance Group would be glad to show you some of Sarasota's waterfront real estate properties on Sarasota Bay or one of Sarasota's Barrier Islands of Casey Key, Manasota Key, Siesta Key, Lido and Longboat Key.

March 2009 sales up 33 percent over February;single family median sale price rebounds

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 15:00:22 -0500

The Sarasota Association Of Realtors just announced real estate sale Statistics for March 2009.

Here is a copy of their press release dated April 16,2009.

The Sarasota real estate market saw sales rise to the highest level of the year in March 2009, besting the previous month by 33 percent. In addition, the median sales price for single family homes rose after steadily declining since late last year, indicating a potential sign of the bottoming of the local market.

The overall sales level of 481 was the highest since June 2008, and nearly equaled the level of 504 sales reported in March 2008. Of those sales, 353 were single family homes while 128 were condominiums.

The good news also extended to pending sales, which once again rose in March 2009 to 817. The last time pending sales climbed over 800 was in March 2006, when pending sales also were reported at 817. The total of 817 was 21 percent higher than the 679 pending sales reported in March 2008.

According to statistics from the Mid-Florida Regional MLS for members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors®, 645 single family homes and 175 condominiums went under contract in March 2009, compared to only 471 homes and 208 condos in March 2008.

Pending sales have now exceeded the 500 level for the 15th consecutive month, and the statistic bodes well for the next two or three months, when many of these pendings will become closed sales. Pending sales reflect contracts executed by buyers and sellers during the month. The report continues to reflect a steady, strong pattern, and indicates buyers are more active in the Sarasota market even in the face of difficult economic times.

"We believe the current climate of historically low interest rates, major incentives for first-time homebuyers, and the many other government programs designed to stabilize the economy and the housing industry is all having a very positive impact," said 2009 SAR President Bill Geller. "Every downturn is followed by an upturn - we know this to be true historically. We've been through a difficult time in the real estate industry, and hopefully we are seeing the beginnings of a new, dynamic era."

The recently enacted first-time homebuyers' tax credit of $8,000 will likely continue to boost sales this year, Geller said. Those who meet eligibility requirements and purchase a home this year prior to Dec. 1 are eligible for a tax credit of up to $8,000, and unlike the 2008 tax credit, this one does not have to be repaid.

The median sale price for single family homes rose to $152,125 in March 2009 from $142,000 in February 2009 - a 7 percent increase. The median sales price for condominiums fell to $166,750 in March 2009 from $198,000 in February 2009, for a 15 percent drop.

The median price of all single family homes sold in the last 12 months was $217,000, compared to a median of $299,900 for the 12 months ending in March 2008. For condominiums sold in the last 12 months, the median sales price was $256,000, compared to last year's figure of $295,000.

Another important market tracker - the absorption rate of properties on the market - continues to track lower than last year at this time for both single family homes and condominiums, as inventories have declined. Absorption rate is the number of months it would take to sell the entire remaining listed inventory in a particular category, based upon the sales for that particular month.

For March 2009, the absorption rate for single family homes stood at 17.1 months, compared to 24.1 months the previous month and 25.1 months in March 2008. For condominiums, the absorption rate was at 21.2 months, lower than the 28.5 months in the previous month, and much lower than the 34.1 months reported in March 2008.

*A 12-month rolling median price is not as susceptible to the volatility that can occur within any particular month, which sometimes results in drastic statistical swings up or down from one month to the next.

Click HERE for a PDF of the press release and two pages of statistical charts.

Sarasota Association of REALTORS®

Sarasota Real Estate the Time to Buy

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 19:11:07 -0500

Sarasota, FL Real Estate stats for February 2009

Mid-FL Regional Board released good news for the real estate market in Sarasota, FL. pending sales highest in three years. Under contract according to the Sarasota MLS 171 condos and 611 single family homes. Almost 100 more pending sales than in January 2009.

2009 Sarasota Association of Realtors president, Bill Geller said "Buyers are becoming even more aware of the many opportunities in the Sarasota market and are making offers and executing contracts. Local Realtors are continuing to educate the public on our market and this excellent chance to purchase a great home at a very attractive price, with interest rates at historic lows."

Plus the new tax credit for first time home buyers.

Has there been a better time to buy?????

With affordable prices, could the time to purchase in the Sarasota real estate market be right now!!

YES!!!

The Herron Group, Nick Herron, RE/MAX Alliance Group, 941-350-5035

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream

Sarasota’s Chillounge Night—what a gorgeous night!

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 19:18:19 -0500

The Chillounge Night party planners couldn't have been more pleased with Saturday night's balmy, breezy weather-what an incredible night to be enjoying the music and the magic of Sarasota's Palm Avenue. We arrived at this 2^nd annual outdoor party before sunset-and a marvelous Sarasota sunset it was-and can't rave enough about total transformation we found on the street. (Brilliant idea-turning the street into an outdoor lounge complete with classy couches and comfortable seating areas.... "Magic" seems to be the only good word to describe it.)

At the VIP lounge, we enjoyed chatting with old friends and catching up. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves; it was a wonderful way to forget about the challenges of the times and just have a good time. We ran into several clients and colleagues, compared notes and shared memories. After 20 years of buying and selling Casey Key real estate, we've quite a few memories to share! (And not just Casey Key, memories either...we've enjoyed showing all of the Sarasota barrier islands to visitors and friends alike.)

The street was so full of energy...and the food and drinks were unsurpassed. Café L ‘Europe is always delicious, and sipping cocktails to the beat of the samba parade-it felt like we'd left the country for some exotic South American locale. Good people, good times, and a good cause; remember, this was all to benefit the United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee.

Where else in the country can you spend the first weekend in spring at an outdoor street party, dancing under the palm trees? Sarasota, Florida, where the blend of people, music, and arts is like none other.

With 20 years in the Sarasota real estate business, The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group is perfectly suited to guide you to just the right address among Sarasota's prestigious waterfront homes and luxury golf course communities. Call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group.

We also ran into several people who have relocated to Downtown Sarasota and now live close to the action of downtown. There has been a big re-birth of Downtown Sarasota with all the new condos close to the center of the action (restaurants, bars, stores & shops).

Beach, Bay or Back Nine...Live the Dream or one of the Downtown Condos at the Ritz-Carlton or Ritz-Carlton Tower, 1350 Main, 100 Central, or Orange Blossom Tower to mention a few.

Herron’s real estate tip of the day: Learn Green (and not just for St. Patrick’s Day, either!)

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:38:05 -0500

Today's homeowners are more conscious of environmental issues than at any other time in history. Concerns that top the list include local environmental issues, global warming, depletable and renewable natural resources, sustainability, and forestry issues. Many educated consumers care deeply about these issues, and carry this concern into home-buying decisions.

What can real estate professionals do?

•1. Get green smarts. Learn the latest in green building materials so you can speak the language and creatively market properties that feature green building technologies. Learn the terms: Energy Star, LEED ratings, energy efficiencies, passive solar design, water conservation methodologies, and local programs such as Florida-friendly landscaping programs-be able to discuss these with confidence.

•2. Partner with certified professionals in your area. If you are marketing a home that needs improvements, steering your client towards designers and trades people that are knowledgeable in the green movement will help you overcome possible objections to the sale by conscientious consumers.

There are plenty of resources online and through local, state, and national organizations that can equip you with the green knowledge you need to succeed in today's real estate climate. Here are just a few:

U.S. Green Building Council - LEED rating systems

Energy Star

Florida Green Building Coalition

Florida Friendly Landscaping

Sierra Club

Heading into St. Patrick's Day...good luck with going GREEN!

Herron's real estate tip of the day is brought to you by The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. Call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron or Kathleen Herron for you real estate needs including Casey Key, Longboat Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, and any of the lovely golf course homes in Sarasota, Osprey, Nokomis, Venice, and more.

Beach, Bay or Back Nine... Live the Dream

Spring Casey Key Broker Tour

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 08:51:29 -0500

We have just put together a Casey Key Broker tour for March 19, 2009 from four to seven. There is still time for agents to add more properties. We have fourteen Gulf front and Bay front properties at this time. Wine & Hors d' oeuvres will be served!

911 Casey Cove Drive A3899982 $1,400,000

2880 Casey Key Road A3902227 $3,995,000

3206 Casey Key Road A3893268 $4,595,000

1000 Gulf Winds Way A331216 $1,595,000

1060 Gulf Winds Way N5763484 $1,499,000

615 South Casey Key Road A3900588 $4,500,000

3820 Cutlass Bayou A3900080 $1,999,000

3716 Sandspur Lane N5763851 $1,000,000

502 South Casey Key Road A3896125 $2,489,000

13 North Casey Key Road A3896451 $3,500,000

1215 Casey Key Road A352579 $3,999,000

927 Casey Cove Drive A3898045 $4,900,000

4000 Casey Key Road A371836 $1,595,000

3744 Sandspur Lane A382225 $2,159,000

Most of these water front properties have had price reductions.

This is open to the public also, so we are hoping for a good crowd of Realtors and buyers.

If you can't make it to view the Gulf front, Bay front or any of the Gulf to Bay homes on

March 19. Please contact Nick Herron or Kathleen Herron with the Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group for a private showing. Beach, Bay or Back Nine....Live the Dream

Herron’s real estate tip of the day: get out there and support the community.

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 14:44:09 -0600

The real estate profession is like any other-it often comes down to networking; being out there; being present when it counts. Building long-term relationships in the community means you must make an effort to support good causes and mingle with the townspeople-especially when it's outstanding fun!

Here in Sarasota and her island neighbors, we live in such a classy, upscale town and every now and then a party comes along that perfectly highlights the strengths of what Sarasota has to offer. We're anticipating one classy party on March 21 at the second annual Chillounge Night. This is a street party full of energy, with South Beach style music, dancing, and fine food and drinks. This unique high season event completely transforms our beautiful downtown Art District and historic Palm Avenue into an outdoor lounge. One of the delights of this beautiful night on the town is that everyone has a great time while benefiting the United Cerebral Palsy of Sarasota-Manatee, an excellent cause.

Trust us-we'll have a great time out there networking. This year's Chillounge Night will prove to be exotic and chic, with a Brazilian Samba parade, a Kelietza, Juno and Jove fashion show presented by Piper Heidsieck, tango performance by Los Listos Lotus Fire, smatterings of opera and smooth jazz, and 40 inviting lounge areas set up with tropical outdoor daybeds and luxury lounge seating. Café L ‘Europe is sponsoring the VIP lounge, where Nick and Kathleen plan to mix and mingle. VIP tickets include complimentary drinks, food, and Cigars at the Maduro Cigar Lounge.

When locals decide to sell and buy, or visitors decide to call Sarasota home (and not just Sarasota-we're talking about Casey Key, Lido Key, Siesta Key, St. Armand's, Longboat Key, or any of the spectacular golf course home communities in the area), they might just recall events like these and the great conversations they enjoyed that night. After 20 years in the Sarasota real estate business, we at The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group have many fond memories of good company, great causes, and outstanding business connections.

Coming to our area? Call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. We'd love to schedule an afternoon on the Wild Welshman, our vintage 33 foot boat and the perfect accomplice to viewing waterfront properties in style.

Herron’s real estate tip of the day: Create a tradition of excellence

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 16:43:21 -0600

"Brand awareness" is a marketing buzzword; create your brand and make it stand out. In real estate, if you plan to be here for the long haul, the biggest boost to your brand is to create a tradition of excellence.

Speaking of traditions..."Stand by for news!" was the trademark call that Paul Harvey announced on his popular radio broadcasts. Here's a nod to this treasured American icon, who passed away this weekend at age 90. Harvey worked for ABC Radio Networks for more than 50 years, telling tales of American living with that distinctive voice. Paul Harvey led a long, creative, productive life and his story is now woven into our history-an American tradition.

Another American tradition popping up all over town are Girl Scout Cookies! Heading onto Lido Key on the way to Longboat Key in our part of Florida the other day, we turned right onto N. Adams Drive and there was a mom and daughter with a Girl Scout Cookie stand set up, selling to passers-by. We had to get several boxes of Thin Mints, partly because they taste so good and partly to promote old-fashioned hard work on the part of the Girl Scout selling her cookies.

Nothing says "American tradition" quite like baseball, and Sunday's Grapefruit League game at Sarasota's Ed Smith Stadium saw the Reds win over the Yankees 13-11. It was a bit windy for baseball, but a great day to be outside nonetheless. Spring training in Florida attracts all kinds of visitors, and local baseball fans get a chance to see their favorite players in our own backyard.

American Traditions-media icons, Girl Scout Cookies, baseball...and now for the rest of the story, as Paul Harvey liked to say. What kind of tradition are you creating in your real estate business?

Are you known around town for giving back to the community?

Do you have a reputation for accuracy and workability with the real estate attorneys in your area?

Is your business-and your staff-cultivating a reputation for excellent customer service?

Are you building a reputation of character? Do you leave good tips and treat the wait staff with respect when you dine out? Your reputation around town will help build a tradition of excellence. And word does get around.

Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron of The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group have created quite the tradition of excellence when it comes to matching up sellers with buyers-and buyers with the island home or golf course retreat that suits their style to perfection. Nick can be reached at 800-789-6580 for tours of waterfront homes that will wow the senses...beach, bay, or back nine. The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group has several exquisite Casey Key homes to offer, and there's never been a better time to buy.

Strawberries on Board

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:12:17 -0600

Herron's real estate tip of the day: make it memorable!

Think of new ways you can impress your clients...here's an example of how we do things at The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group.

Beyond its beaches, Florida is known for its fine fruits, especially oranges-and this time of year-strawberries. Plant City, Florida is once again the strawberry capital of the world as it celebrates another year of bounty in the strawberry fields. The annual Strawberry Festival is home to headline entertainment, (mostly country music), a midway, and more strawberry dishes than you can imagine. According to Strawberry Festival history, this celebration began in 1930 when the new Plant City Lions Club decided to celebrate a bountiful harvest. This taste of Americana starts Feb. 6 and runs through March 8.

Inspired by the season, we've created our own idea of a strawberry festival...and it can happen any day on the Wild Welshman-our vintage boat we take up and down the waters off of Casey Key, Florida. The Wild Welshman is our favorite method of showing waterfront real estate in Casey Key, and you're cordially invited! To make it memorable, we've discovered an easy recipe for strawberry daiquiris-only four ingredients, which makes it easy to take on the boat.

HERRON'S EASY STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRIS

•· 1 sm. box frozen strawberries or a 12 oz. bag (add fresh strawberries in season)

•· 1 6 oz. can frozen lemonade

•· 1 can water

•· 1 can rum

Blend, serve, and preview Casey Key real estate in style. These portions fit nicely in one blender, and we can always double the recipe as we coast along the Intracoastal with prospective buyers.

When clients are deciding on a seasonal home or permanent residence, we take time to smell the strawberries. Our clients enjoy a waterfront excursion as we help them find the right place to call home. Casey Key, one of Florida's barrier islands near Nokomis and Osprey, Florida, is just 8 miles long and 300 yards wide, one of the few places where properties can literally reach from bay to beach. We help clients picture docking their boat on the sheltered Intracoastal and walking the Gulf of Mexico beaches at sunset-without ever leaving home.

For information on Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, Longboat Key, and all of the fine Sarasota area communities around the barrier islands of Sarasota, call 800-789-6580 or email Nick Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. Whether beach, bay, or back nine, Nick Herron helps buyers find Casey Key real estate, waterfront homes, and golf course communities.

Real estate: the business of business—and beyond

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:20:40 -0600

Here in Sarasota, Florida, the world-famous Ringling School of Art and Design has added a new B.A. degree program-the Business of Art and Design. Interesting. Even the creatively brilliant artists and designers need a little number crunching, marketing, managing, and all the rest that goes along with being business-savvy.

The same is true in real estate. In this business, anyone can learn how to write up a contract. But staying successful over the long haul means learning the business of business-and beyond. As a seasoned professional-over 20 years in business, I might add-here are a few business tips for newcomers.

Technology and new media. Successful real estate professionals must be lifelong learners, keeping up with technology and new media. Maximizing office technology and mastering communications technology has to be a priority.

Multigenerational selling. Successful real estate professionals must be able to relate-and sell-to a multigenerational clientele. You must be able to converse with retirees and remain relevant to the younger generation with equal finesse.

Business planning. Successful real estate professionals are not successful by random accident. Success takes great focus. Figure out where you want to go, then make a plan to get there. Create and maintain a fine-tuned business plan, revising and honing the plan with each new season.

Strengths and weaknesses. Successful real estate professionals must maximize and capitalize on their strengths...and outsource their weaknesses. If marketing has you stumped-hire a marketer. Think about your least productive area and find someone who does it better. (This may include the mundane-like cooking, cleaning, and paying your bills.)

Warm-calling. Once you begin to build a referral base, keep in touch. Don't let your network grow cold. Instead, maintain relationships through social and business networking, correspondence, and even something as simple as a "home anniversary card" on the anniversary of their purchase.

Marketing. Someone once said that being in business without marketing is like winking in the dark-you know you are doing it but no one else does. Attack your market!

Tips are just that-short snippets of wisdom from an expert. Now it's up to you to apply a little muscle and improve your game.

Tips compliments of Nick Herron and Kathleen Herron with The Herron Group, RE/MAX Alliance Group. Nick and Kathleen are successfully selling luxury waterfront, golf course, and country club real estate on Florida's West Coast, including Casey Key, Siesta Key, Lido Key, St. Armands, Longboat Key, and all of Sarasota's barrier islands.

The Historic Orange Blossom Tower

Nick Herron (RE/MAX Alliance Group) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 20:43:21 -0600

We just attended a lovely Real Estate function at one of the condos at Orange Blossom Tower. It was a networking meeting (open house) put on by Real Magazine (Ed Bertha) and hosted by Stacy Haas with Michael Saunders and Company. Tina Darling owner of Innovative Agent Services (one of the sponsors) was also in attendance.

This property is truly lavish and livable as they promised.

We have a buyer looking for a special property in Sarasota next week. They have expressed interest and want to view this beautiful condo while they are here. So this was the ideal time to pre-view this wonderful property and the food and drink was as special.

If you want any information on any of the Downtown condos or water front properties please e-mail Nick Herron or Kathleen Herron The Herron Group with RE/MAX Alliance Group