Sarasota Florida Real Estate market

Looking for a perfect place to live? Well, Sarasota offers you homes that totally suit your standards. A cosmopolitan, Sarasota, a city in Florida, never forget its beautiful heritage. Its current official limits include Sarasota Bay and several barrier islands between the bay and the Gulf of Mexico.These islands separating Sarasota Bay from the gulf near the city, known as keys, include Lido Key and Siesta Key, which are famous worldwide for the quality of their sandy beaches. Living in Sarasota, gives you the luxury to experience world-class fishing and golf. You can never stop yourself from adoring its cultural activities plus its healthy sunny climate. It also has the America’s best beaches that will truly embrace you with serenity and comfort. A city that is both trendy and traditional you'll find a truly unique and refreshing lifestyle that surrounds Sarasota. Sarasota Real Estate ranges from luxury condos to a diverse selection of elegant waterfront properties and estates. Additionally, you can choose from Sarasota’s Neighborhoods depending on its location – Waterfront & Boating Neighborhoods, Golf Course Neighborhoods, Gated Communities, Sarasota’s Barrier Island, etc. Cherokee Park, Coral Cove, Harbor Acres, and Lido Acres are some of the Waterfront & Boating Neighborhoods of Sarasota. Likewise, Bent Tree, Country Club Sarasota, Gator Creek, Oaks Country Club Osprey, and Misty Creek are just few of the Golf Course Neighborhoods of the city. If you want to live in gated communities, the city has Devonshire Park, Laurel Lakes, Silver Oak, Saddle Creek, Palmer Ranch Real Estate, Turtle Rock and more. But if you prefer to enjoy living in a tropical island, try to check at Sarasota’s Barrier Island with communities namely Siesta Key, Longboat Key, Lido Key, Casey Key Homes, Bird Key Homes, and St. Armands. For those looking for condominiums, you can have different choices to choose from like being in downtown high rises or in golf-course properties. There are also condos for those who prefer maintenance-free living. Choose from spectacular bay and city views, rolling fairways or serene lake vistas. Here is the latest update for Sarasota Real Estate (trulia.com).Average price per square foot for Sarasota FL was $138, a decrease of 15.3% compared to the same period last year. The median sales price for homes in Sarasota FL for Dec 10 to Feb 11 was $149,900 based on 1,305 home sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median home sales price decreased 5.1%, or $8,100, and the number of home sales increased 1.2%. There are currently 4,231 resale and new homes in Sarasota on Trulia, including 29 open houses, as well as 1,959 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned stages of the foreclosure process. The average listing price for homes for sale in Sarasota FL was $508,591 for the week ending Mar 16, which represents a decrease of 0.5%, or $2,513, compared to the prior week. Popular neighborhoods in Sarasota include Park East and Arlington Park, with average listing prices of $63,720 and $155,848.

Climate and Storm History of Sarasota Florida

Sarasota is a city located in Sarasota County on the south western coast of the US state of Florida. It is south of the Tampa Bay Area and north of Fort Myers. Located near the tropics, Sarasota has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, mild winters, and high humidity year-round. The warm climate helped the Sarasota area become a popular golf destination, a sport brought to America by the Scots. The city also is being refreshed by the sea breeze coming from its numerous pristine beaches.

The place has a rainy season and dry season. Dry season occurs from October to May while the rainy season lasts from June to September. The precipitation in Sarasota is 54.14 inches. On the other hand, the average temperature ranges from 63°F (17.2°C) – 83°F (28.3°C). The highest temperature occurs in July and August (91°F/32.8°C). However, the lowest temperature occurs in January which is 51°F. Just like any city in Florida, hurricanes are also frequent in Sarasota. Here are some of the famous hurricanes that had passed Sarasota - Easy, How, Hazel, Judith, Donna, Abby, Alma, Keith, Marco, Gabrielle, Charley, Barry, and so on. The city is often brushed or hit by these hurricanes every 4.21 years. Recently, TS Barry was the latest major hurricane that has hit Sarasota on June 2, 2007. The said storm has 40 mph winds. It passed through the city westward while moving northeast. The average years between direct hurricane hits (usually within 40 miles to include small hurricanes, not including back door hurricanes) are once every 23.16 years. Here is a recap of the climate history of Sarasota. In 1894, September 26, a hurricane with 110mph from the south dumps over 12 inches of rain with high tides causing heavy damage here as it passes approx 40 miles to the east. Another hurricane that have passed Sarasota is the Labor Day Keys hurricane which passed approximately 25 miles to the west while moving north with 110mph winds on .This took place on September 4, 1935. Then in 1946, October 7th, an 80 mph hurricane press 28.95 which resulted to minor damage. In 1950, hurricane Easy strike the city 50 miles to the west which caused 7 ft storm surge while moving north with 125 mph winds . In 1960, Hurricane Donna hit the city from the south with gusts to 120 mph winds. Later on in 1990, Sarasota was again hit by a hurricane named Marco. Recently, in August 13, 2004, Hurricane Charley came ashore south of the city with 145 mph winds while moving NHE. It caused heavy damage in western Sarasota County. Statistically the area was estimated to be affected next by a major hurricane before the end of the 2012 season.

Top Sarasota Florida Restaurants

In going to Sarasota, anybody may have noticed its history, beautiful sceneries, and of course, diverse and pleasurable restaurants. Here are some of the best restaurants in Sarasota that you should visit. 

 

To start, let’s have Alpine Steakhouse. This famous restaurant in Sarasota is the home of TurDucKen! This resto is also known for its prime dry-aged steaks, veal, lamb, chops, chicken and fresh seafood. It also features traditional German specialties like wiener-schnitzel, sauerbraten, bratwurst and more. Steakburgers, Kobe Burgers, hot New York Reubens, Philly cheese steaks, salads and applestrudel can also be enjoyed here. You can enjoy take-out, party trays and sliced beef tenderloin platters available just for you. 

 

Now, for those who love to experience Amish dishes, take a look at Yoder’s Amish Restaurant. This restaurant has been a Sarasota tradition since 1975. In fact, Yoder's Amish Restaurant has been a long time favorite with local residents, voted first place by the People's Choice awards (Sarasota Herald Tribune & Channel 40) for: Best Dinner Under $10.00, Best Amish Restaurant, Best Homemade Desserts, Best Key Lime Pie, and more. Some of its delicious pies include Peanut Butter Cream, Chocolate Cream, Pumpkin, Dutch Apple Crumb, Coconut Cream, and Banana Cream Pie. 

 

Next, we have the Columbia Restaurant. From the name itself, the Columbia Restaurant serves the best Latin American delicacies like Albondigas, Shrimp “Al Ajillo”, Shrimp Supreme, Scallops “Casimiro”, Langostinos “1905”, and Tapeo. Relax in one of its Mediterranean style dining rooms or enjoy an outdoor table on the patio while sampling their award winning Spanish/Cuban cuisine. Enjoy lunch or dinner while surrounded by the circle's paradise of lush tropical landscaping that create an international atmosphere of friendly warmth, enduring elegance, and timeless style. Established in 1905, The Columbian Restaurant is now hailed as the oldest restaurant of Sarasota. 

 

Another must-see restaurant in Sarasota is Selva Grill. Selva is famous for its ceviches de la casa, each with its own distinct character and flavor profile. It has a rich selection of appetizer entradas and saladas pique the palate. Appetizers include La Buena Causa, Las Empanadas, Parihuela, Selva’s Crab Cake, and so on. You can also try their signature cocktail named Mojitos. Selva’s entrees range from the finest frutas del mar to such favoritos de la tierra as lamb, pork, beef and veal, prepared with exotic salsas, herbs, fruits and vegetables, presented exquisitely. You can also choose from its unique Ceviches like Ceviche de Choros, Chino Beef Ceviche, Maya Shrimp Ceviche, Mixto, Selva Wild Ceviche, Ceviche de Ostras, etc.

From steaks to pies, or from cevichos to albondigas- Sarasota has it all. So, with all these unique and exciting food stops, you can surely never afford to miss eating in Sarasota’s top restaurants.

Fun Activities and Historic Landmarks of Sarasota, Florida

Garden of flamingos

A city in the sunny state of Florida, Sarasota is one of the well-loved cities with its remarkable history and of the various activities and landmarks that can be enjoyed and explored. Here are some of the must-see areas in Sarasota. First, for those who love to see different plant and animal species, then one should include Sarasota Jungle Gardens in their top list. This zoological garden features exotic bird and reptile presentations daily. It is also one of the oldest continuously operating attractions in the State of Florida. In this place, you can see lush jungles, beautiful gardens, lakes and fountains, as well as many birds and other exotic animals. Many of the rare and endangered exotic birds were given to this garden by various rescue organizations nationwide. The native Florida Crocodiles, which are a “species of concern”, are on loan to them from the Saint Augustine Alligator Farm and a local breeder to use for educational and conservation purposes. There is also a children’s playground, a gift shop, and a café. 

 

Another cool place to visit is the Dome Flea and Farmers’ Market. Located on the site of Florida’s largest sawmill, Dome Flea and Farmers’ Market has been a Florida landmark since 1974 and over 18 million people have passed through its doors. This market has been a haven for flea and farmers market connoisseurs who desire a wide variety of products and services that are of high quality as well as reasonably priced. 

 

 

But if you want something thrilling and creepy, well, Sarasota Ghost Tours is the perfect activity for you. Guided by a local Sarasota ghost expert, this tour will really let you experience the mystery and thrill of Sarasota's historic past. The places and stories are truly chilling and fascinating. On the other hand, for those who like touring through boats, CB’s Boat Rentals can give that to you. This company has Featuring 17- and 19-ft. center consoles, runabouts, 23-ft. deck boats, 25-ft. pontoon boats and jet ski rentals plus, full-service tackle shop, live and frozen bait, plus travel and casual outdoor sportswear. CB’s Boat Rentals (half day & full day) are for cruising, fishing, picnicking, or enjoying the sites that Siesta Key, Sarasota, Longboat Key and her surrounding areas have to offer. From the south end of Longboat Key to the Venice Jetties see Dolphins, Pelicans, Ospreys and other wildlife. 

 

Meanwhile, if you want to make some of twist of your typical golf experience, then come to Smugglers Cove Adventure Golf Courses. It’s fun to visit this spot and play the best Florida Adventure Style Mini Golf amid rushing waters, mysterious caves, and waterfalls on mountainous tropical terrain for a truly unique Florida miniature golf experience! In fact, this place has been voted as Florida's Best Mini Golf three years in a row by Florida Monthly Magazine Readers. At Smugglers Cove, they have real live alligators at Smugglers Cove that you can feed for a memory that will last a lifetime. 

 

Maybe after you enjoy this super awesome tour, then you can take a quiet time and ponder at the beautiful artworks at Sarasota Museum of Art. Built by John Ringling to house his personal collection of masterpieces, today, Sarasota Museum of Art features paintings and sculptures by the great Old Masters including Rubens, van Dyck, Velázquez, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, El Greco, Gainsborough and more. The European, American and Asian masterworks available here make the Museum of Art an awe-inspiring retreat. It is a palace for treasures emulating the footprint of Florence’s Uffizi Gallery, echoing its grace and grandeur.

 

 

 

Oh! I almost forgot! If you happen to visit Sarasota, please don’t miss their beautiful white sand beaches.

City of Sarasota, Florida General Info (Statistics, Demographics, etc)

Sarasota, also commonly called as Paradise, is a city located in the Sarasota County on the western coast of Florida, USA. It is a principal city of the Bradenton-Sarasota-Venice, Florida Metropolitan Statistical Area, and is the seat of Sarasota County.

Location
 


Sarasota is located on the south western coast of Florida. It is north of Fort Myers and south of the Tampa Bay. Specifically, its location is 27°20′14″N 82°32′7″W / 27.33722°N 82.53528°W / 27.33722; -82.53528 (27.337273, -82.535318). The city also boasts for the islands located in it which are known for their sandy beaches. Some of these Keys are Lido Key, St. Armands Key, Otter Key, Coon Key, Bird Key, and Siesta Key,

Area

Its current official limits include Sarasota Bay and several barrier islands between the bay and the Gulf of Mexico. With a total area of 25.9 mi² (67.2 km²), Sarasota has 14.9 mi² (38.6 km²) of it is land and 11.0 mi² (28.6 km²) of it is water (United States Census Bureau).

Demographics

According to the U. S. Census Bureau, Sarasota had a population of 52,488 in 2007. In 2000, the population was 52,715 with 427 households, and 12,064 families residing in the city. Sarasota’s population density was 3,539.8/mi² (1,366.9/km²). The racial makeup of the city consists of 76.91% White, 16.02% African American, 0.35% Native American, 1.02% Asian, 0.05% Pacific Islander, 3.74% from other races, and 1.91% from two or more races. From 2005-2007, Sarasota County had a total population of 368,000 - 192,000 (52 percent) females and 176,000 (48 percent) males. The median age was 49.7 years. The average household size was 2.12 while the average family size was 2.81.

Geography & Climate

As a city situated in the sunny state of Florida, Sarasota has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers, mild winters, and high humidity year-round. Rainy seasons in this city occurs from June to September, and the dry season from October to May. Its average temperature ranges from 63°F (17.2°C) to 83°F (28.3°C).

Government

Sarasota used to have a municipal government which lasted in 1913 when it was incorporated. Its government title is City of Sarasota which is governed by a five-person commission elected by popular vote, two members of which serve in the ceremonial positions of mayor and vice-mayor as chosen by the commission every April.

Cultural Attractions

Sarasota has a number of cultural sites like the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Historic Asolo Theather, Sarasota School of Architecture, Sarasota Ballet, Sarasota Opera, Asolo Repertory Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre, and so on. Since 1998, the city has hosted the Sarasota Film Festival annually. The festival attracts independent films from around the world. It claims to be one of Florida's largest film festivals. In 2009 the annual Ringling International Arts Festival, held its premier and held its closing event in the historic Asolo Theater, which had been moved and rebuilt again. In 2010, the Sarasota Chalk Festival that is held yearly in the historic area Burns Square became the first international street painting festival in the United States of America. Celebrating the 16th century performance art of Italian street painting the festival hosted Maestro Madonnaro Edgar Mueller from Germany who created the first street painting that changed images from day to night (Wikipedia.com).

History of the city of Sarasota, Florida

Archeological sites in Sarasota shows that for five thousand years ago while the current sea level existed, fishing in Sarasota Bay protein and large mounds of discarded shells and fish bones attest to the prehistoric human settlements that existed in Sarasota and were sustained by the bounty of its bay. The place was first explored by Europeans in the early 16th century. It has been also identified on maps by the mid-18th century as Zara Zote. Then, there were fishing camps (ranchos) along the bay that were discovered and established by both Americans and Cubans. In 1819, after the acquisition of Florida as a territory by the United States and five years before it became a state in 1845, the army established Fort Armistead in Sarasota along the bay. Shortly after the fort was abandoned due to severe epidemics, the chiefs of the Seminole Indians gathered to discuss their impending forced march to the Oklahoma Territory. These were Native Americans who had moved into Florida during the Spanish occupation. Most of the indigenous natives of Florida, such as the Tocobaga and the Caloosa, perished from epidemics carried by the Spanish. During the 1840s, Europeans settled in Zara Zote which was later on changed into Sara Sota. On the other hand, the first documented settler of European descent in the place was William Whitaker. He came to Sarasota in the 1800s and built a house in the Yellow Bluffs. Then in 1867, the Webb Family from New York came to Sarasota and named their homestead Spanish point. Although there is no similar documentation regarding the name of Sarasota, that federal one-word rule for postal designations may be the reason that Zara Zota or Sara Sota becameSarasota. When Florida was included by the United States as one of its states, one of the new counties that were created was Sarasota, and the city was made its seat. In 1885 a Scots colony was established in Sarasota. However, only a few Scots remained in Sarasota. One of them was the developer named John Hamilton Gillespie. In 1887 he built the De Sota Hotel which opened on February 25 hosting a large social event and celebration. In May 1886 he completed a two-hole golf course which is thought to be one of the first golf courses in America.

 

 

 

Soon, Bertha Palmer became the region’s largest landholder, rancher, and developer after the turn of the 20th century, where she purchased more than 90,000 acres (360 km2) of property. Bertha Palmer also owned a large tract of land that now is Myakka State Park. She also built a resort and quickly made Sarasota as a fabulous destination for winter retreats of the wealthy. Following the end of World War I, an economic boom began in Sarasota. The city was flooded with new people seeking jobs, investment, and the chic social milieu that had been created by earlier developers. 

 

In 1925, John Nolen, a planner, developed a plan for the downtown of the city. New Urbanism concepts focused upon restoring Sarasota to being a walkable community and taking the greatest advantage of its most beautiful asset, Sarasota Bay. The economic history of Sarasota was constantly struggling. Today, Sarasota became indentified as the center of the 2008 real estate crash. But then the city continues to strive for progress and further development. was the primary source of