sarasota: J Wood Realty supports the Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival - 06/15/12 11:56 AM
 
Sarasota 2012 Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival
 
Hard to believe we are almost half way thru the year and the boat races are just around the corner.  This incredible event has become a signature for Sarasota and it benefits the Suncoast Charities for Children.  It is sanctioned by Superboat International Productions Inc. and encompasses 12 days of racing, reveling and relaxing in or around the water.  There are activities for everyone’s interests starting with the Aqua Plumbing & Air Grand Prix Golf Classic, a classic car show, Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament, High Heel Hike for Autism, Power Boats … (1 comments)

sarasota: Wilbur, this is not your ordinary horse of course! - 06/11/12 12:03 PM

While living in Vienna, Austria the Spanish Riding School was one of my most favorite destinations.  To be able to sit ringside and watch the fabulous Lippizzan Stallions going through their drills convinced me that these horses are among the most magnificent creatures on this earth.  Their history is dramatic and almost unbelievable and this link http://www.lipizzaner.com/home.asp  goes into depth about their past and miraculous rescue during World War II by General George Patton. 
 
Sarasota may be the arts capital of southwest Florida but it is also right next door to the Myakka home of Herrmann’s Original Royal … (4 comments)

sarasota: The Greatest "Little" Show on Earth! - 06/08/12 11:38 AM

In Sarasota we do not have to wait for the Circus to come to town because for the last 60 years we have been graced with the efforts of students from our very own city who perform annually for visitors and residents alike.  With its humble beginnings as a small show put on by a high school gymnastics class in 1949 to its present spectacular 4 ring circus production it has given young people from the 4th through the 12th grades the opportunity to participate in the performing arts at a very “high” level.  Touted as the Greatest “Little” Show … (1 comments)

sarasota: Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures - 06/07/12 10:39 AM
 
ALMOST HEAVEN KAYAK ADVENTURES
 
The white sandy beaches are one of our biggest draws for visitors to Sarasota along with the beautiful water of the Gulf of Mexico.  But, if you are someone who needs to satisfy your sense of adventure in addition to relaxing in a lounge chair, taking a kayaking tour may be a wonderful alternative for you. 
 
Depending upon the route that you choose you may meet up with Dolphins and Manatees, tropical and nesting birds, crystal-clear springs, exotic mangrove tunnels or even alligators.  The Sarasota area has so many beautiful locales and when … (0 comments)

sarasota: Jack Vinales Antiques in Sarasota - 06/06/12 01:10 PM
 
Burns Square in Sarasota is bursting with specialty shops and fabulous antique stores.  Located just a short walk from main street it is not to be missed.  One of my most favorite destinations is Jack Vinales Antiqueswith its eclectic collection of items from the 20th Century.  A Sarasota landmark since 1989, it attracts locals and tourists alike with some of the most interesting collectibles in the city.  Jack is usually in the shop and he is as likable as he is knowledgeable. 
 From pottery to jewelry to furniture and more, this is a wonderful place to browse and I just … (0 comments)

sarasota: Who Moved My Cheese? - 06/05/12 12:26 PM
 
 
Who Moved My Cheese?
 
Cheese is one of my most favorite temptations and I always succumb to it no matter what kind.  This new shop in Sarasota, Artisan Cheese Company, not only sells it but serves it and gives you an education about each type that they offer.  Walking into its convenient Main Street location is like being transported to a land of exquisite textures, tastes and scents.  Forget the tried and true, the same old standbys you have relied on for years.  Nose among the Stilton Colston Bassett from England, the Bayley Hazen Blue from Vermont, and … (1 comments)

sarasota: Lions and Tigers and Bears… Oh my! - 06/04/12 11:09 AM
 
Lions and Tigers and Bears… Oh my!

Big Cat Habitat and Animal Sanctuary in Sarasota, Florida is a non-profit safe haven for big cats, bears, and other animals in need. The Big Cat Habitat was founded by Kay Rosaire who has more than 30 years of experience working with and caring for exotic animals. Her goal is to educate the public by fostering appreciation for animals and stressing the importance of habitat preservation.  This is such a fabulous place to visit because the animals are so well cared for and living in wonderfully designed quarters.  I never realized how … (6 comments)

sarasota: Mozzarella Fella - Sarasota's Newest Downtown Eatery! - 06/03/12 11:07 AM
 
What is one of my most favorite things about downtown Sarasota?  The selection of restaurants, sandwich shops and other eateries would be it!  A great new place just opened, Mozzarella Fella, and it certainly lives up to its name.   I haven’t had a sandwich this good since I left New York in 1984 and the Mozzarella is as tasty as the fresh chunks floating in water in the trattoria’s of Italy.  The shop is cozy and clean and the owners could not be more friendly or accommodating.  I ordered the Mozzarella and Tomato sandwich and was absolutely in heaven.  Please … (2 comments)

sarasota: The Orchids Are Awesome at Awesome Orchids! - 06/02/12 11:37 AM
 
Our office is right next door to one of the finest small businesses in all of Sarasota.  Have you ever been able to walk past an Orchid shop and not go in?  Awesome Orchids is our neighbor and they are quite the success story.  From humble beginnings at Sarasota’s Farmer’s Market they took the leap into brick and mortar and have prospered with hard work, ethical behavior and of course, awesome orchids!
 
Their description of themselves is: “We are a family-run business, connected by our love of orchids and our passion for our work. Drawing on our professional … (3 comments)

sarasota: FAQ - What are COA’s and HOA’s and how do they differ from assessments? - 06/01/12 12:26 PM
 
FAQ - What are COA’s and HOA’s and how do they differ from assessments?
 
In the state of Florida, COA stands for Condo Owner Association and HOA is for Homeowner Association.  Most of these associations have mandatory membership and require monthly or quarterly dues paid into them.
 
  An HOA or COA is represented as a whole by a Board of Directors. The board is a group of individuals who live in the community who have been elected to represent the majority. They are responsible for upholding the bylaws, covenants and restrictions of the association, as well … (1 comments)

sarasota: FAQ about Costs of Owning a Home - 05/30/12 04:22 AM
 
Besides the mortgage, what other monthly and annual expenses will I incur?
 
It is very important that you realize that your mortgage payment is not all you need to budget for.  Other expenses include
 
·         Homeowners insurance if not escrowed along with wind, storm and flood if needed
 
·         Real estate taxes if not escrowed
 
·         HOA or COA fees depending on the type of property you purchase
 
·         Utilities which could include gas, cable, electric, sewer and water, trash pick-up
 
·         Landscaping and snow removal if applicable
 
·         Repairs and maintenance to … (1 comments)

sarasota: Short Sale Processing Time cut in Half? Really? - 05/26/12 10:23 PM
 
Sorry, but I am not holding my breath for any true streamlining of the short sale process.  Supposedly, beginning June 15, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are going to be required by the Federal Housing Finance Agency to speed up the interminable waits that purchasing short sale properties always include.  They are now supposed to respond to offers within 30 days of receiving them and render a decision within 60 days.  I will believe it when I experience it.   
 
Pardon my disbelief but this is not going to happen.  First of all, where is all the staff going to … (1 comments)

sarasota: 3rd most asked Question by Sellers - 05/20/12 06:57 AM
Third most FAQ from Sellers
Q.  What is wrong with listing my home much higher than what you are recommending? 
A.  I did not pull the recommended listing price for your home out of a hat.  I spent hours comparing recently sold homes, currently active homes and homes that died a slow death and expired from the MLS.  The potential buyers of your home have access to much of the same information that I do and their realtor knows the value of your home and those homes around you.  Would you pay more for a home just because the … (3 comments)

sarasota: 76th Annual Sarasota County Fair - 03/16/12 03:39 AM

It is County Fair time in Sarasota, Florida and the smells and sounds are calling!  Rides, animals, food and entertainment of all kinds make this annual event one of the most popular in the city for people of all ages.  In its 76th year of bringing excitement and tradition to our beautiful city this is an event that no one wants to miss. Sarasota Fair Information  is the link that will give you all the info you need to enjoy it! Fried Twinkies, Strawberry Pie and other tempting treats are just waiting for you!

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sarasota: Lynch's Landing for St. Patrick's Day - 03/16/12 02:36 AM
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in a big way in Sarasota!  It arrives in the middle of tourist season for us and we feel a responsibility to provide the most fabulous party for all of our visitors who are spending it away from home.  One of my favorite venues is “Lynch’s Landing” on St. Armands Circle.  Owned by two of the most Irish sisters you will ever meet, it has been the gathering place for revelers for decades.  Authentic “Cork Cottage Pie” and green beer are the obvious favorites and the entertainment is magical.  If you find yourself in our area … (0 comments)

sarasota: Third Annual Ponies for Pups - 03/08/12 10:36 AM
I am an avid animal lover and this is one of my most favorite events that supports a great cause.  Polo is a big sport in Sarasota and the Polo Field at Lakewood Ranch is a beautiful venue.  This fundraiser has all levels of support and ticket prices are affordable for everyone. Click here for more information and go spend the day in the beautiful outdoors with a picnic lunch and maybe even bring home a wondeful puppy who needs a home..  
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sarasota: Chillounge Returns to Sarasota for an Evening Under The Stars - 03/06/12 11:48 AM
March 10th brings Chillounge Night back to Sarasota for the 5th year!  Palm Avenue becomes one big outdoor living room with comfortable sofas and lounging chairs directly under the stars.  Music, dining, cigars and cocktails abound while people mingle and enjoy the beautiful night.  This charity event benefits Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota and is one of the most waited for events each year.  Click here for more information and don’t miss this South Beach kind of event!
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sarasota: Sarasota Jazz Festival at the Van Wezel - 03/04/12 07:14 AM
The well known purple clam shell, Van Wezel is offering a season of performances by musicians, comedians, broadway musicals and accomplished singers and dancers.  I am looking forward to the fabulous jazz that will be heard on March 7th in its halls.  Thank you to the Jazz Club of Sarasota for hosting this wonderful event.  See details below: Sarasota Jazz Festival - Jazz Caravan by Trolley When March 7, 2012 @ 6:30PM - 10:30PM
Where Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall
Host Jazz Club of Sarasota
Contact (941) 953-3368 or(941) 953-3368 or email
Read more: http://www.sarasotafl.org/event/sarasota-jazz-festival-jazz-caravan-by-trolley-/10822/#ixzz1oBzryYq8
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sarasota: Take Me Out To The Ball Game... At Beautiful Ed Smith Stadium - 03/03/12 11:38 PM
 
 
 
March brings the Baltimore Orioles to their spring training headquarters here in Sarasota. This is the third consecutive Spring Training for the Orioles in Sarasota, and the second in the renovated Ed Smith Stadium. "Birdland South" as it is affectionately called is a tribute to the love of baseball and an enjoyable place to view the game.
 
The first game of their 2012 spring training season on Monday, March 5, at will put them up against the Pittsburgh Pirates and in addition to the game there are a multitude of events happening that night.
 
The … (0 comments)

sarasota: I'm a Laurie Moore-Moore Fan! - 03/02/12 11:52 AM
 I feel so fortunate to be a member of the Sarasota Association of Realtors because they provide the best in educational opportunities for us right here in our own home town.  I just completed the 2-day Luxury Home Marketing class taught by Laurie Moore-Moore and feel invigorated, excited and ready to put all the solid information and resources to work.  No matter how much you think you know there is always so much more to learn.  I will be moving up from being a member of the Institute to becoming a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist as quickly as I can … (6 comments)