Sarasota is Affordable, But Not Free

I am a Buyer's Agent.

I work HARD to get my buyers a great deal. I am constantly searching out the best deals I can locate, and sending updates to buyers and investors. Although this is hard to believe, 2 years ago I actually told customers NOT to buy for investment, as it appeared the prices would drop.

But this market has resulted in buyers that have been misled...led to think

* That a down market means they can buy a $500,000 house for $100,000 (they can't)

* That a bank will take "any offer" on a foreclosure (they won't)

* That every home on the market is "overpriced" (it's not)

Absolutely, there are some great deals out there.

But a 3 Bedroom pool home, completely upgraded, close to the beach with a 3 car garage - does not exist for $150,000. No matter how many searches I perform, this property is not going to appear. It just isnt. Because even in a down market, Sarasota homes have value - this is a great place to live, work and visit. The latest numbers show the strongest sales month in years, and strong pending sales numbers. Neither of these indicate the prices falling.

Sarasota offers a thriving, beautiful community on the Gulf of Mexico. We have culture, 5 star dining, theater and arts. We have boating and fishing, year round events, great schools, and abundant sunshine. This is a highly desirable place to be, and it is the best time in recent memory to get your home for a fantastic price.

I work with buyers everyday. But they have been misled, and I worry about them.

I fear that they will miss great opportunities which exist in reality, while waiting for the "deals" which will likely never materialize.