William True, Broker, ABR, ABRM, CRB, CRS, GRI

Ah, the beaches of Sarasota.

Once again, Siesta Key Beach has been named as one of the top beaches in the nation (#3, to be exact). Fine, powdery white sand that never gets hot, even on the hottest day. Crystal blue water. Nightly sunsets to die for.

Many people looking to buy in Sarasota these days begin their search at the beach. With the tales of foreclosures, tax woes and the like, they assume they can pick up beachfront, full Gulf view properties for a song. The reality is, although you CAN acquire waterfront property at 1/3 to 1/2 off 2005 prices, it will still cost quite a bit for a big water view.

The perfect solution? Buyer after buyer is discovering the alternative of downtown properties directly on Sarasota Bay - HUGE water views, with all the amenities of downtown, including dining, theater, art galleries, bookstores, concerts, botanical gardens, right outside your front door. The units seem to be far more cost effective, being cheaper per square foot.

But what about the beach? Well, unless you are someone who spends every day on the beach (which does sound fantastic!) the fact that you are about 5 minutes from fabulous Lido Key Beach by car - or better yet, about 20 minutes over the causeway by bicycle, is a great alternative, and one that is likely more practical for someone who plans on spending more than a few weeks a year in Sarasota.

Bay front properties truly embody the spirit of this amazing town - water, culture, dining...and nightly sunsets right out your living room window.

Call us today for a list of some of our favorite downtown Sarasota properties.

Dr. Leatherman's Beach Report is out again. Known as "Dr. Beach", Dr. Stephen P. Leatherman, a Florida professor has published his list of the nation's top beaches annually since 1991.

As reported by CNN.com, Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota was 2nd Runner up, but those of us who live here still think our beach is tops. With a beach as deep as several football fields, gleaming white sands that never get hot to the touch, and crystal blue-green water, Siesta Key Beach nearly single handedly sells Sarasota real estate.

While coming in third on this prestigious list is indeed an honor, I suggest that Dr. Leatherman visit the more remote beaches on Siesta Key, not just the world famous public beach. A short walk up from the crowds yeilds a windswept sandy landscape devoid of people, and reminiscent of stretches in Mexico or Hawaii...

Sarasotas beaches can't come in first in EVERY contest, we know. But in our hearts and minds, Siesta Key Beach is always a winner.

(and of course I cannot help but mention, that there has not been a better time in years to buy a bargain beachfront property...!)

The latest numbers from the Sarasota Association of REALTORS indicate that over the last 3 months, sales price has averaged 92-93% of list price.

This is in direct contradiction to many buyers idea that Sellers "will sell at any price" to get out of their home, and seems to indicate further a stabilizing market.

Good news for Sellers, but also good news for Buyers who can be assured that they are getting a good price for a great property, and arent paying too much.

The term Sarasota waterfront real estate conjures up thoughts of multi-millionaires or maybe "lifestyles of the rich and famous".

But there are Sarasota county real estate options for everyman, in quiet, tucked away communities that seem to have escaped notice.

In South Sarasota is the enclave colorfully named "Tropical Shores". The community of homes is located directly on boating water, and even has a resident boat dock and slips. The clubhouse is situated directly on the scenic waterway. All homes in the subdivision are walking distance to boating and fishing. And yet homes in this neighborhood currently range between $200,000 and $350,000,with the exception of a newly updated direct waterfront home with two boat docks.

Just south of Sarasota is Venice, and South Venice is another community located directly on the Intracoastal. With a boat ramp available to residents for only $75 per year; and non-deed restricted homes allow for boat parking on your property. Homes start less than $100,000 if you dont mind a little fixing up- and there are 175 homes under $200,000!

If you crave the boating lifestyle, these communities provide an excellent opportunity to purchase your little getaway for a steal!

For home buyers searching for a waterfront community in South Florida, sticker shock is a common affliction. Many of my clients are boaters and fishermen...but they don't have a million dollars for a home in a waterfront community. But I have an answer for them - South Venice Beach.

South Venice Beach is a waterfront community about 20 miles south of Sarasota proper. Located on the Intracoastal, it is the largest subdivision in the area, and is amazingly affordable. Residents enjoy access to a community boat ramp, as well as a ferry that runs out to a private, resident only beach on the Gulf of Mexico. The price for these great amenities? About $150 per year - and it is not even mandatory! Amazingly, the neighborhood is still non-deed restricted - a rare find in this part of Florida, and the double lots afford space to park your boat, without paying dock slip fees.

Shamrock Park is also located within the boundaries of South Venice - this is a terrific state park with miles of walking trails , bike trails along the Intracoastal, a nature/education center, fishing, basketball, tennis, playgrounds and picnic areas.

All this is located within a 30 minute drive to downtown Sarasota, for those who occasionally want to venture out for a 5 star dinner and a show. But if your lifestyle revolves more around tarpon and long days on the water, South Venice is the best deal going.

How good of a deal? Currently, homes are selling from about $130K, and you can purchase an upgraded pool home for about $220K. Buildable lots are as low as $20K - but you'd better hurry. I just let the cat out of the bag.