With 20+ years in Sarasota real estate, Michael James attributes his success to an honest, authentic approach and genuine passion for seeing possibilities become realities. A specialist in the lifestyle options throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties, he maintains a special focus on downtown and the beach communities.Born in Memphis, TN, Michael moved to Toronto, Canada, at an early age, where he ult... more.imately graduated from the University of Western Ontario. He began his professional career selling computer software to Fortune 100 companies across the U.S., before switching gears to travel north and become a wilderness guide on the coast of British Columbia. This diverse background led him to consider a career in real estate, an industry where he could combine his sales expertise with his leadership skills. In 1997 he moved to Sarasota, and shortly after embarked upon a real estate career that would see him become one of the top professionals in the area. Michael takes great pride in being the navigator of his customers’ buying and selling experience, and often establishes relationships that go beyond the closing table.Michael and his wife, Laurel, are immensely proud to have raised their blended family of three boys here in Sarasota. In 2020, Laurel joined with Michael to form a real estate partnership and more success followed. In his spare time, Michael enjoys celebrating life with his family, time in the great outdoors, exploring lesser known beaches and listening to his extensive vinyl record collection. ...less.
We liked Michael's approach in handling the sale of our property right from the first handshake. He was on top of things at all times and kept us well informed of the progress of the sale. Feedback from open house events and any suggestions were always welcome. Since we were out of country sellers and dealing not only with distance but international sales logistics as well, we needed someone like Michael who was there for us at every step of the way to help guide us through the process. We can't say enough good things about Michael. If ever you are considering selling your property give him a call ... you will not find yourselves in better hands.
We had heard about a short sale from friends who also referred Michael to us. When the short sale was not going anywhere, Michael suggested the property we purchased. It turned out to be perfect for us. None of this would be possible if Michael hadn't been so knowledgeable about the market, the properties available and after meeting us....what would work for our needs. I have not hesitated to recommend him to any of our friends. He is the best!!!!
Michael did what excellent realtors do. He responded promptly to all of our requests, he listened and understood our priorities and had good local knowledge which we needed coming from out of state. The entire family felt so relaxed around him that it made the house hunt an awesome family experience. It is a testament to the kind of person he is by what he did after closing. After expressing the stress of getting rid of so much furniture already and having to do it again he helped us find a charity consignment for our excess furniture, made all the inquiries and changed his schedule to help us move it before a hurricane. Who does that? Michael. We could not have been happier.
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