Sarasota, FL, is a beautiful coastal city known for its white sand beaches, cultural attractions, and vibrant downtown scene. The city offers a wide range of options for those looking to purchase a home, whether you're a retiree looking for a waterfront property, a young professional searching for a stylish condo, or a family seeking a spacious home in a great neighborhood.
With its sunny weather, endless outdoor activities, and fun-filled quality of life, Sarasota real estate is an ideal location for anyone looking to settle down. The city has something to offer everyone, making it an excellent choice for buyers searching for the perfect place to call home. Read on for a guide to what makes this area so amazing and what you can expect in your real estate journey.
Sarasota real estate market
When looking to buy a home in Sarasota, it's important to be aware of the current state of the housing market. According to data released in January 2023 by the Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee, the median price of single-family homes in Sarasota County has held relatively stable, dropping by just 1% since January 2022. Closed sales are also down by 37%, and properties are spending significantly more time on the market. These trends are good news for buyers who are hoping for more negotiation power, as sellers may be more willing to negotiate to sell their homes more quickly.
No matter the market trends, working with an experienced Sarasota real estate agent is highly beneficial. They can provide valuable insight into the current market conditions and trends, and they will help you navigate the home-buying process and close on a beautiful home in an ever-evolving market.
Homes in Sarasota: Top things to look for
Buying a home in Sarasota can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to keep a few key factors in mind.
1. Location
When buying a home, location is one of the most critical factors to take into consideration. Sarasota is a relatively large city, and different areas offer a variety of lifestyles and amenities. Sarasota promises plenty of luxury and enjoyment, with easy access to the Gulf of Mexico and other recreation spots.
For example, if you're looking for a more laid-back, beachy lifestyle, you might want to consider living in areas like Siesta Key or Longboat Key, which are known for their beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more bustling, urban lifestyle, consider searching for a home in downtown Sarasota, which offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options galore.
2. The home’s condition
While it's easy to be swayed by a home's aesthetic appeal, it's also important to pay close attention to the home's condition, such as the age and status of the roof, the HVAC system, and the plumbing. Hiring a professional home inspector to evaluate the property thoroughly can help you identify any potential issues and help you make a more informed decision. You may be able to negotiate further with the seller in order to address any areas of concern.
3. Size and layout
You'll want to think about how you'll be using the space and what your lifestyle needs are. If you're planning to have a family, for example, you'll want to look for a home with enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate your future plans. Similarly, if you like to entertain, you'll want to seek out a home with a spacious kitchen, dining room, living room, and outdoor areas for people to gather.
4. Price
The median home price in the Sarasota area is typically higher than the national average, but the area also has a relatively low unemployment rate and a diverse economy, which helps to support the demand for housing. It's important to be aware of the current state of the housing market and to work with an expert agent who has an in-depth understanding of market conditions and trends.
Your Sarasota real estate agent will connect you with properties that fit your criteria and budget. They can provide valuable insight into current market fluctuations and where the trends may be headed, and they can offer advice on what to look for in a potential home so that you set yourself up for happiness.
5. School district
If you plan to have children, the quality of the local schools is an important consideration. It’s essential to research the schools in the area, read reviews online, and talk to other parents to get a sense of what the schools have to offer in terms of education and extracurricular activities.
6. Amenities and services
Consider the amenities and services that are important to you. For example, if you're an avid golfer, you might want to look for a home that's close to a golf course. From the Palms Golf Club at Forest Lakes to the Groves Golf Course and more, there is no shortage of fantastic golfing opportunities in the area. In addition, a home near a park or nature reserve might be a good choice if you are an outdoor enthusiast. If you're looking for easy access to shopping and entertainment options, you'll have so much in store if you can find a home near downtown Sarasota.
Find your dream home in Sarasota
Sarasota's beautiful beaches, vibrant art scene, outdoor recreation spots, and strong sense of community make it easy to understand why so many people choose to live here. Expert Realtor® Melissa Gissinger has extensive experience helping people find their dream homes in Sarasota. As a 25-year veteran of real estate investing and a highly skilled interior designer, Melissa brings a strong understanding of what it takes to reach success.
Whether you're a first-time home buyer or an experienced investor, Melissa can provide you with top-notch guidance and advice. Sarasota homebuyers can be confident that with Melissa’s expertise and network, they'll find their perfect home and have a hassle-free purchase experience. Reach out today.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
