We are well into the first month of 2010, a good time to reflect on the last year and beyond. For those who own high value properties, it may be of interest to see what the market development looks like now that we hear more positive news about stabilization in real estate.

Is the sales volume increasing again, and are prices stabilizing in the high end as well?

I am providing a snapshot below and used homes/condos in a price range of over $ 3 Million, which we can call the high end. The period covered is from October 2008 to December of 2009. To view the charts and graphs associated with this information, please click here.

Here are the results:

• Between 130 and 160 properties, valued over $ 3 Million were listed at any time during the 15 months period
• 28 properties went under contract during the period
• The inventory level is steady at around 135 months. This means that there is enough inventory out there to cover the next 10 years, at current sales levels.
• With one exception in November 2009, SF prices for homes over $ 3 Million have deteriorated from $ 885 per SF to $ 569 per SF.

What can we expect considering these facts?

• A continuing low sales volume in this high end is demonstrated again in January, a month in which we would expect a stellar performance. As of January 19th, 2010, two homes went under contract. This does not look like an improvement over last year.
• Many of the contracts are for short sale or bank owned properties, reducing the value potential of regular sales as well.
• Not all large deals are cash deals. Jumbo mortgages are very hard to get however.
• The general economic situation keeps many buyers on the sideline
• Price stabilization and appreciation will only take place after a considerable reduction of inventory.
• In order to achieve this, demand must go up. This can only be achieved by offering the properties at prices buyers see as bargains.
• Experts believe that even the modest 2009 price levels will deteriorate for another year or two and will only be back at 2009 levels by earliest 2012.

I realize that this message does not sound like a realtor talking. I, however, think that it is important to look at the situation realistically. This means I cannot suggest that everything will be ok again this year. We will hopefully see more sales in the high end but only because sellers realize that they have to reduce the prices and to remove the bubble effect.

For home owners who purchased before 2001 a good test is to use a 6% appreciation p.a. from the time the property was purchased until today and add the improvements. This will bring up today’s market price without the bubble effect. This is probably the realistic price for today’s sale as well.

Should buyers continue to sit on the sidelines? By no means. The inventory is considerable and dream homes can be purchased at prices as low as they can get. As in the stock market, one may not purchase at the absolute bottom, but one can be rest assured to purchase a home with a high potential of appreciation for the future.

I am available for any further questions. It will be my pleasure to provide more detailed statistics for specific areas.

Klaus Lang 941-320-1223 E-mail: klaus@klauslang.com

Posted by:Klaus Lang

In the first three weeks of the New Year, we already have contracts on five Sarasota luxury residential properties with list prices over $2,000,000. Smart buyers are in the market and deals are being made!! After a three year market correction, today’s list prices seem to be at market basement lows compared to the glory days of 2005.

Value Pricing + low interest rates + property movement & increasing horrid weather in our Northeast / Midwest feeder markets have created the ideal environment for selling Sarasota Luxury Real Estate. These factors enable buyers to stretch…….just a bit………to buy the best properties in town. Of course, in the Sarasota area, that means on the waterfront!

Five, out of the five luxury properties under contract, are on the water! A Mediterranean Bayfront home on Bird Key, two Casey Key residences and two 3000 sq. ft. + condominiums; a beauty in the Sarasota Downtown area and one on fabulous Longboat Key.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT THE WATER”

On January 31st, we are having five special, waterfront properties open for your perusal:

For more information call me at (941)376-6121 or visit my website. Come, take a look, make an offer…you never know. You just might be Sarasota’s next Smart Buyer!

Posted by:Marcia Salkin

As we move into the next millennium on Bird Key, we can see light at the end of the real estate decline tunnel. Our volume of sales has been generally consistent over the last three years in quantity, but has declined in dollar volume. We presently have 39 active listings of which 14 are off-water; 12 are canals; and 13 are bay homes. On the back are full statistics for 2009 sales.

A unique home sales per square foot has been added to the annual analysis. In an attempt to more accurately look at 2009 sold home valuation, I have brought together My Florida Regional Multiple List Statistics and the Sarasota County Tax assessors Just-Market Lot Statistics. By taking the actual sold price and subtracting the Sarasota County Tax assessors Just-Market Lot valuation an estimated home evaluation can be established. Several times this actually goes to the negative. This can be due to two factors (1) a great deal or (2) property is really a lot. If we then divide the difference by the actual square footage of the home, you can better see how much the home was sold for by the square foot vs potential build costs per square foot. I hope you enjoy this analysis of 2009 Bird Key Sale Statistics, click here to view it.

Contact me at 941.388.4447 or johnaugust@MichaelSaunders.com if you have any questions.

Posted by:John August

Click here to read a great report on what occurred in the Sarasota County real esate market in 2009.

The chart below summarizes what occurred in each price segment. All figures below are as of the end of 2009.

Posted by:Michael Moulton

“La Bella Vita”

You do not have to be Italian to enjoy”The Good Life!” It is alive and well in the World of Sarasota Real Estate. Smart, world-wide buyers pursued their dreams of a life filled with sun, fun and waterfront living.

In 2009, there were 53 residential properties Sold with prices exceeding $2,000,000. Out of these 53 sales, 50 of these luxury properties were either on the beach or on boating water. Thirty-five of these sales were single family homes (32 waterfront) and 18 were luxury waterfront condominiums. Look below to see where the buyers choose to live.

If you or anyone that you know wants to be where the smart money is buying, please call me or my business partner, Paulene Soublis. We have been successfully selling Sarasota luxury real estate for over 23 years. Please check out our website SarasotaBestProperties.com and/or call me directly at 941-376-6121. We will bend over backwards to help you find your dream home in the Sarasota area.

Posted by:Marcia Salkin

Luxury waterfront properties continue to sell at a brisk pace in Sarasota. Look at these numbers for just 5 days of closed transactions, from December 14 to December 18, 2009. Buyers are taking advantage of reduced prices and sellers are moving on with their lives.

3302 SABAL COVE LN, Sarasota SELLS FOR $1,075,000

This 5-bedroom, 4000 sq. foot home in Bay Isles has an open plan featuring a large and comfortable family room with fireplace overlooking a lake and pool. Pool and summer living room invite quiet times or a place for spacious kitchen is adjacent to family room entertaining and outdoor spaces. Bedrooms are spacious with abundant natural light and adjacent well appointed bathrooms. Lush landscaping is habitat for birds and a takeoff point for hiking or canoeing. This property was sold after being on the market for two years with an original list price of $1,750,000 and sold on December 15, 2009 for $1,075,000.

415 L AMBIANCE Dr # D405, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,400,000

Truly spectacular sunset vistas can be viewed from this fabulous 2 bedroom, possibly 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath fourth floor residence located behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club. A semi-private elevator takes you to a private foyer and a unique open floor plan that allows views of the gulf as well as the bay and the city of Sarasota. Offering every desirable amenity, including guarded entry gates, 1,000’ of private beach, a 175,000 gallon heated pool, private lighted Har-Tru tennis courts and guest suites for extended family. Full concierge service and on-site resident manager. This property was on the market for over a year and a half with an original asking price of $2,385,000 and sold for $1,400,000 on December 15, 2009.

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR # 908, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,535,000

Come and live the great life at this 9th floor residences at the Water Club with Gulf to Bay unobstructed views from this wonderful end unit. Secured elevator right to your residence. Two nice size balconies to enjoy the Gulf and Beach views with one balcony on the other side to enjoy the Sarasota Bay and Downtown views. This 2 bedroom suites with den that is set up where you can close it off for guests or office. Very nice built in bar area. Large master bedroom suite with balcony to enjoy the beach and sunsets. Large eat-in-kitchen with large island and views of Sarasota Bay and Downtown. The Water Club has phenomenal amenities which include large lap pool next to beach, 2 hot tubs very large clubhouse with workout room, game room, 24 hour guard gated community, with a wonderful concierge staff and on site management. This residence was on the market for just over one year, with an original list price of $1,895,000. It sold for $1,535,000 on December 14, 2009, which represents 90.5% of list price.

781 EMERALD HARBOR DR, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,300,000

Short Sale! Totally renovated in 2002 - all systems, interior, exterior and landscaping. Perfectly integrated into its environment with unencumbered water views accentuated by pristine, uninhabited islands. 100ft of Bay frontage can accommodate a large sailboat or yacht plus kayaks or jet skis with immediate bay and gulf access. Privacy and beauty that rivals any location on Longboat Key set within a friendly neighborhood that boasts the largest lots and widest canals on the island Features include: All wood cabinetry and granite counter tops throughout; a chef’s kitchen with 2 refrigerator/freezers, 2 separate 2 drawer dishwashers, 50lb ice maker, 500 bottle wine cellar, wine/beverage center, 2 full sinks, gas range with grill and griddle; a laundry room with 2 full washer/dryers; sound system all through the house and patio; custom light fixtures and accent lighting; large 20” porcelain tiles in social areas, bamboo flooring in bedrooms; brushed nickel hardware everyplace; palm frond fans, natural stone finished pool; stone paver outside areas; carpeted and air-conditioned garage; LBK Home & Garden Tour winning landscape. This property was on the market with an original list price of $2,375,000 and sold in 316 days for $1,300,000 on December 16, 2009.

December is getting off to a great start with luxury waterfront sales. Here are 5 sales from Casey Key to Longboat Key ranging in sales price from $1,050,000 on Bird Key to the highest sale at $4,400,000 for a bayfront home on Casey Key.

2890 CASEY KEY Rd, Casey Key SELLS FOR $4,400,000

This 7700+ square foot spec home completed in 2008 includes travertine flooring, Pella windows, wood cabinetry, Wolf and SubZero appliances. The property offers some privacy with a wall; the home is elevated on pilings and the property includes a boat dock, and deeded beach access. This home was listed for sale in December 2007 with an original list price of $5.9 million. It sold on December 7, 2009 for $4,400,000 with a new conventional mortgage. This is the highest bayfront sale on Casey Key for 2009. The 8 sales through 12/7/09 range in price from $958,000 for a non-waterfront home to $9.9 million for a 2+ acre estate on the north end of the key.

3331 BAYOU SOUND, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,200,000

This 3200 sq. ft. home is in a neighborhood of fine homes behind Bay Isles gates on Longboat Key. The large lanai with pool and spa overlooks canal sailboat water with a private dock, boat and jet ski lifts, with no bridges to the bay and a mangrove background. Cathedral ceilings highlight a bright and elegant living area. This property was listed in October 2008 for $1,795,000 and sold on December 10, 2009 for $1,200,000.

635 N OWL DR, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $1,050,000

This spec home became a bank owned property on Bird Key. The new owner will complete the interior finishes. There is potential for 4800+ sq. ft. of luxury living in this multi-level, 4 bedroom home featuring tray ceilings, island kitchen with walk-in pantry, living room with built-ins and wet bar; pool and spa. Located on Tarpon Bend canal, there is deep water boating from the private dock with no bridges to the bay or Gulf. The property was listed in January 2009 for $1.85 million and sold on December 11, 2009 for $1,050,000 in a cash transaction.

444 N WASHINGTON DR, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $1,325,000

This courtyard canal front home near St. Armand’s circle was remodeled, including plumbing, roof, new kitchen and baths, flooring, window treatments and more. This canal front home was listed for $1,595,000 in September 2009, was under contract in 50 days, and sold for $1,325,000 on December 11, 2009.

675 LONGBOAT CLUB RD # 23, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,900,000

Situated behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, Regent Place features two towers and includes 36 luxury units. Residences range from 2,900 to 3,500 square feet with three to four bedrooms. Located directly on the beautiful Gulf beaches of Longboat Key, residents enjoy spectacular sunsets or even the bay to the east from their expansive terraces. This 3100+ sq. ft. residence at Regent Place, behind the gates of the Longboat Key Club, was listed for $1,995,000 and sold for $1,900,000 on December 11, 2009 with a conventional mortgage.

The buyers are here and they are making end of year purchasing decisions and getting some good value. Visit Casey Key Real Estate to search the entire MLS and contact me to discuss your real estate goals.

Posted by:Deborah Beacham

The most beautiful penthouse in Sarasota is available at the lowest comparable price of any penthouse residence in the city.

This residence has the feel of a single-family home, yet offers all the conveniences of condominium living.

Perched above the heart of Sarasota’s vibrant downtown, one can enjoy expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico, Sarasota Bay, city skyline and spectacular sunsets from this mansion in the sky.

Located on prestigious South Palm Avenue, the two-story penthouse in Tessera offers 6,580 square feet of living space encompassing the entire top two floors of a building with only 22 residences.

Now available at only $672 per square foot.

The comparables shown below illustrate the excellent value of this property. Every other penthouse residence is listed between $50 to $500 per square foot higher than this residence.

Information is available by contacting Klaus Lang, at www.klauslang.com, or by email: Klaus@klauslang.com.

Posted by:Klaus Lang

As of today, December 2nd, we have 30 pending sales over $1 million in Sarasota scheduled to close by 12/31/2009. Buyers are getting some outstanding values on our cultural coastal town of Sarasota.

Look at these 6 sales in just two days. With the closed transaction at 1588 North Casey Key at $9,900,000, this marks the highest sale in Sarasota/Manatee counties for 2009. Add to that number the 5 sales above $4 million and the 8 sales in the $3 million range, and we are going to finish the year in strong numbers.

I’m working with buyers now from Connecticut to Hong Kong and the time could not be better to be taking advantage of some of these deals to be had. Won’t you join us soon? Contact me to see all of Sarasota’s offerings on my website. I look forward to working with you soon.

455 LONGBOAT CLUB RD # 305, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,125,000

One of the best values for a direct Gulf-front 3BR on Longboat Key was this residence at The Pierre, located behind the gates of the exclusive Longboat Key Club with panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Luxurious travertine floors lead the way through living areas with clean lines accented by custom moldings and lighting. The residence is furnished in modern beach-chic and well appointed with built-ins by Eurotech. The property was listed in December 2008 for $1,995,000 and closed on December 1, 2009 for $1,125,000.

1640 STANFORD LN, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $1,200,000

Stunning new construction (including seawall and dock) on great boating water, this quality-built five bedroom custom home, with 4900+ SF, offers amazing deepwater canal front living. Great mainland location–minutes to Siesta Key Beach, shopping and dining. This was a short sale. Original list price was $2,200,000 and it sold in 15 months for $1,200,000 on November 30, 2009.

445 MEADOW LARK DR, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $2,225,000

This European-style 4/5 bedroom, 4 bath home is located on Bird Key, one of Sarasota’s most prestigious areas, with close proximity to downtown. The upstairs is devoted solely to a master suite with wood burning fireplace, with an open deck for viewing the ever-changing bay panorama. A great home for entertaining, the layout, terrace, and large kitchen for cook or caterer lend itself to family gatherings. The property was originally listed for $3,495,000 in May 2008; it sold for $2,225,000 on December 1, 2009.

6512 MIDNIGHT PASS RD # 201, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $1,800,000

The Crescent, a small enclave of only 26 residences, has a beachfront pool and spa, entertainment area with grill and shaded loggias. An intimate garden terrace is tucked quietly in the center of the building accented by a refreshing fountain-lined splash pool and lush landscapes with poolside sitting areas, fireplace & summer kitchen. There is a resident Club room w/state-of-the-art fitness center and recreation room. With over 2100 sq ft of living area, 3 bedroom,3 full baths, formal dining room, volume ceilings, columns, and state-of-the-art appointments provide for elegant beachfront living. This condominium was priced at $2,190,000 and sold in just 55 days for $1,800,000.

350 GULF OF MEXICO DR # 236, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,075,000

Enjoy incredible Sarasota Bay views and luxury living from this corner penthouse in Tangerine Bay overlooking the most beautiful tropical resort pool on Longboat Key. This lovely home has been meticulously maintained including new carpeting and fresh paint throughout. This condominium was listed for $1,190,000 in August 2009 and was under contract in 39 days. It closed on 12/1/09 for $1,075,000 and was a cash transaction.

1588 N CASEY KEY RD, CASEY KEY, SELLS FOR $9,900,000

This elegant gulf-front estate with extreme privacy and exclusivity on the private road on Casey Key’s north end, was totally remodeled with an interior design blending both Italian and French architecture. The artisans gave it a sense of timelessness, while still providing the most modern details for a comfortable lifestyle. This home was designed for entertaining, and multiple cooks can enjoy the gourmet kitchen. The outdoor living area, bocce court, Olympic pool and beautiful 2 bedroom guest house complete the estate. This exquisite property was listed for $11,500,000 and sold on November 30, within 6 months of listing, for $9,900,000 with a conventional mortgage.

Posted by:Deborah Beacham

Inn on the Beach is a unique condominium complex on the South end of Longboat Key. For a virtual tour of the complex please click here.

This property has been a four-star resort since its creation in 1982-83. The complex is made up of seven midrise buildings. Buildings 1, 2, and 3 are directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Building 4 has partial Gulf of Mexico views, while Building 6 views the Golf Course. Buildings 6 and 7 view the bayou. The units are either 1 bedroom and 1 bath or 2 bedrooms and 2 baths.

Although there are several differing square footage configurations:

• Club Suites (Click here for details)
• One– & Two–Bedroom Suites (Click here for details)
• Deluxe Two-Bedroom Suites (Click here for details)

This complex is officially classified as a condo-tel. Condotel signifying a Condominium Hotel. Presently there are 18 units for sale, 10 are one bedroom and 8 are two bedrooms. The listed price for one bedroom units is $344,000 to $499,000, while two bedroom units are $975,000 to $1,350,000. Year to date 9 units have sold with 2 units pending the prices have ranged from $212,000 to $972,000 (Click here to view sold units YTD). These units are either in the Longboat Key Club rental pool or not.

1) The Longboat Key Club management runs the restaurants, golf courses and tennis complex/courts on the south end of Longboat Key. On the south end of Longboat Key this condo complex is unique in that they offer daily rentals. The owners of this condo that are “In the Program” are allowed to utilize their unit for 28 days. Fourteen in season and fourteen out of season. The remainder of the year the Longboat Key Club management rents and manages the condo. The renters of these units have availability of the golf course, tennis courts and four star restaurants. The Longboat Key Club is a cash-less environment; all payments are via the “In the Program” room keys. The amount of net income on these units varies but do cover their costs (maintenance fee, property tax, miscellaneous expenses and management fee that are approximately 50% of the gross income). On an average the net profit after all costs generally comes in at 3-4% (Click here to view an example profit and loss statement).

2) Units that are out of the Program. These units are rented by independent rental companies or are not rented at all. These renters do NOT have the Longboat Key Club amenities available during their stay. Nothing can be purchased due to the cash-less environment within the Inn on the Beach.

The value of these is influenced by the type of management available to the unit. Income is also influenced by the management type. Below is an example of the income potentially generated by units in the program listed at $499,000.

Visit www.4sarasotahomes.com for further information regarding St Armands Circle and Lido Key.

Posted by:John August

We are having a brisk November in Sarasota….and I’m not referring to the weather…..we have 15 pending contracts ranging in list price from $1,089,000 to $2,795,000 through November 16, and the following luxury waterfront sales.

3040 GRAND BAY BLVD # 221, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,100,000

With spectacular views of the city, bay and golf course in the Bay Isles section of Longboat Key, this spacious 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath Grand Bay Antigua residence comes tastefully finished with over sized neutral tile flooring throughout. The unit was on the market for just over one year and was originally listed at $1,495,000. It sold for $1,100,000 on November 16, 2009. At $376.00 per square foot, this was a very good price for this 2,925 square foot residence.

227 ROBIN DR, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $2,450,000

Located on Bird Key, this property has one of the best views in Sarasota. The home has 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and has been partially remodeled. With a wonderful outdoor space with pool and deep water dockage and its close proximity to downtown Sarasota, St. Armands Circle and the gulf beaches, this makes a perfect location. With 2,700+ square feet, this property was on the market for ten months with an original list price of $3,250,000. It sold on November 17, 2009 for $2,450,000.

608 Tremont St, Sarasota SELLS FOR $1,052,600

This custom built Key West style home on Siesta Key, remodeled in 2005, has expansive water views and a private dock, on some of the finest boating water on Siesta Key’s Grand Canal. This 2,800+ square foot home features soaring ceilings, hardwood flooring, and wonderful architectural details. Complete with an elevator, and two-car garage, this home was listed at $1,350,000 and sold within 17 days for $1,052,600.

560 HORNBLOWER LN, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $2,100,000

This 4000+ square foot home built in 2001 on Longboat Key has terrific bay and city views and is situated on deep sailboat water with choice southern exposure and a heated infinity edge pool with spa. There is also a new over sized dock for a boat and jet skis or a yacht. This home was listed in July 2008 with an original list price of $2,995,000, and sold on November 18, 2009 for $2,100,000.

5060 GULF OF MEXICO DR, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $4,000,000

This Addison Mizner-inspired home on north Longboat Key was recently damaged by fire. The owners were willing to sell the home either in an “as is” condition or to repair the home so that it could be purchased in an “as new” condition. Listed at only $666 per SF, this was by far the lowest priced Bay front estate on the market in Sarasota/Manatee counties, located on over 1 acre on the widest part of Sarasota Bay with magnificent Bay and sunset views. The property sold for $4,000,000 on November 19, 2009. It was first listed in September 2008 for $9,900,000 and had been reduced to $7,990,000.

4975 Gulf of Mexico Dr Dr # PH305, Longboat Key SELLS FOR $2,025,000

Positano is an exceptional condominium development on Longboat Key, built in 2007. This penthouse location features fantastic sunset views of the Gulf and has its own 3-car private garage. Luxury entertaining with gourmet DiGuilio kitchen, butler’s pantry, 10 foot ceilings, private elevators, and double entry doors. Each bedroom has its own private terrace and ensuite bath. The exclusive beach club has large pool, spa, fitness center, and owner’s lounge. The penthouse was listed in 2006 for $3,600,000 and sold for $2,025,000 on November 19, 2009.

14021 BELLAGIO WAY # 401, OSPREY SELLS FOR $1,149,000

My listing of this beautiful end Unit Penthouse, located in the building closest to the bay, at Osprey Harbor Village, near Casey Key, affords panoramic southwest to north intracoastal waterway views from the wrap-around terraces opening from the living room and all 3 bedrooms. The unit is tastefully furnished in a relaxing West Indies style décor. There are 9’ 4” ceiling heights in this penthouse unit. The 2-car assigned parking is conveniently located adjacent to the elevator entrance to the unit. This luxury waterfront condominium was listed for $1,229,000 on September 10 and was under contract in 55 days. It sold for $1,149,000 on November 20, 2009.

Judging from showing activity I hear from my colleagues as well as my own showings for my listing inventory, I am feeling very positive about these reported sales and the anticipation of more to come before year end. This increased activity and resulting sales are good signs of recovery in Sarasota and you need to be making your plane reservations and take advantage of these significantly reduced luxury waterfront properties. I look forward to assisting you soon.

Posted by:Deborah Beacham

Living in the Harbor Section of Bay Isles is about as good as it gets on the West Coast of Florida. Located behind two gates, the lush neighborhood of only 67 waterfront single family residences is perfect for those of us who love the water.

Large vessels can be accommodated on the wide, deepwater yacht basins behind each home. If boating is not your thing, you can enjoy the white, powder beach of the Bay Isles Beach Club. It’s a perfect location, near St. Armand’s Circle, shopping, dining and golfing at the Longboat Key Club.

We are very fortunate to be offering two special homes for sale in the Harbor Section. Our listing at 500 Harbor Cove Circle has over 5700 square feet of living space with plenty of room for multi-generational family gatherings. On a large park-like lot with two boat docks, pool and spa, this home is offered at $1,750,000.

Our newest listing in the Harbor Section is a Short Sale and is the lowest price home in the neighborhood at $1,350,000. In immaculate condition, this 3 en-suite bedroom pool home features vaulted ceilings, large lower bonus room and 4-car garage.

Please feel free to contact me to view either one of these homes at marciasalkin@michaelsaunders.com or visit my website. I would be happy to show you any of the Sarasota waterfront luxury homes.

Posted by:Marcia Salkin

Building a new home is a daunting task for most of us! There are just too many time consuming decisions and restrictions to perfect throughout the 2-3 year build process. Although inventory is scarce, we are currently marketing three luxury Sarasota never lived-in waterfront homes.

1204 HILLVIEW DRIVE - Harbor Acres

“The best address in town” with forever bay views. Classic 6 bedroom estate with perfect proportions and exquisite finishes spanning over 170’ of bay frontage, resort-like pool area and boat dock.

Was: $11,400,000. Now: $8,500,000.



457 ANCHORAGE DRIVE - Nokomis

In the small gated community of Enchanted Isles, this 6000 sq. ft. home will exceed all your expectations. Furniture grade cabinetry, wine grotto, intricate light and sound systems, poolside living room and boat dock.

Was: $4,750,000 Now: $2,975,000



521 RANGER LANE - Longboat Key

On sailboat water with a new dock and seawall, this richly-detailed four bedroom pool home features wood-trimmed ceilings, fireplace, bonus room and beach access.

Was :$1,695,000 Now: $1,580,000

It would be my pleasure to show you any and all of these new, luxury waterfront homes. Please contact me directly at 941-376-6121 or visit my website for additional information.

Posted by:Marcia Salkin

Some great lifetime friends from Washington DC sent this Washington Post story by Andrea Sachs, featured in The Florida Issue Sunday, November 8, 2009. Please take a moment to read about some of my most favorite islands since childhood in Sarasota. Our islands are so diversified in their real estate opportunities. Plus they offer water sports of all kinds, sailing and power boating, golf, tennis and most of all - the powder white sand beaches and the glorious sunshine. And at the close of every day we have fabulous sunsets that never cease to amaze even the long-term natives. My DC great friend’s oldest daughter first came to Longboat Key at age six and said: “Daddy, look there’s water everywhere!”

As the author said “You might even find on Sundays, dozens of musicians forming a drum circle on the beach, composing a musical score for the setting sun.”

And…you know the best part, Real Estate is selling because there’s new real estate pricing that will take you back in time. Come down and see the variety of real estate, whether you wish vacation or investment property; single-family homes or condominiums on the Gulf or Bay; or bayou or canal front for power or sail; or a golfing community that allows your game to excel.

I have sailed all the waters of these islands, and know all the real estate, having been here since the early 50’s. Tell me what you’re looking for and I’ll find it. If I can help in any way don’t hesitate to call directly at 941.350.0332 or visit MY WEBSITE.

Sarasota and its islands are getting a lot of press lately as you may have seen. On October 6th the Today Show featured real estate guru Barbara Corcoran who dubbed Sarasota as the country’s BEST VALUE to purchase real estate today.

Our busy winter season is approaching and buyers are here now in mid Fall, finding values as the market appears to be bottoming. What are you waiting for? Come on down and explore our Islands with these new opportunities with values we haven’t seen in a very long time.

Posted by:Tim Field

Are you in the market for a luxury condominium on the various waterfront areas of this magical place known as “Sarasota”? Here are three that sold in the last ten days of October: two on Siesta Key and one on Longboat Key……..feast your eyes upon the fantastic views and amenities of these luxury condominiums. I have had the pleasure of spending time with customers from Connecticut this past week who are in search of their winter get-away and have discovered the joys of Sarasota and her barrier islands. It’s definitely a time to be pursuing these luxurious condominiums and the prices could not be better. Won’t you join us soon? Contact me to see all of Sarasota’s offerings on my website. I look forward to working with you soon.

6512 Midnight Pass Rd # 301, Sarasota SELLS FOR $1,500,000

Incredible beach front condo in luxurious new Crescent! Offered turnkey furnished with top of the line Poggenpohl cabinetry, bamboo floors, granite counter tops and designer home furnishings right down to custom Italian bedding This 3 bedroom, 3 bath condominium with 2,100+ sq. ft. of living space was originally listed at $2.495 million in February 2008 and sold on October 20, 2009 for $1.5 million.

1000 SEAGROVE LN # PHN8, SARASOTA SELLS FOR $3,150,000

Seagrove is a private enclave offering just 12 residences and is situated on Crescent Beach on Siesta Key. This 3,000+ sq. ft. residence boasts an open floor plan with fantastic views of the Gulf of Mexico from all primary living areas, high ceilings and rooftop skylights, summer kitchen, natural stone & hardwood flooring, a morning bar and exceptional master suite. The added bonus of the rooftop garden makes this setting unique. Encompassing the full area above the penthouse, this terrace is a Private Oasis with a 2nd rooftop kitchen, an ample bar that will seat a crowd & a hot tub too! This property was listed at $4,250,000 in October 2008 and sold for $3,150,000 on October 30, 2009.

1241 GULF OF MEXICO DR # 1005, LONGBOAT KEY SELLS FOR $1,285,000

This luxurious condominium on Longboat Key was selected as a “Best Opportunity” on the Michael Saunders & Company website, indicating it is the best value for the square footage in its peer group. With 2,760 sq ft of space, this 10th floor unit has wrap around panoramic view of the gulf, bay and downtown Sarasota.. It doesn’t get any better than this. Add to the package a 1 car garage, concierge and gate attendant and the lowest luxury property fees at $1,200 per month, and you have a sweet deal. The unit was originally listed at $1,679,000 and sold for $1,285,000 on October 29, 2009, in just under one year.

Judging on the enthusiasm of my recent buyers, I would say we are in for a very busy selling season, and it will be exciting to report to you the results as we move this inventory from “active” to “sold”. Stay tuned……

Posted by:Deborah Beacham