“Look at your shopping centers.  Are they going down?  Or coming back?” With this simple query, Todd Mathes—the director of development for Benderson Development—prefaced his recent update on the retail market in Sarasota-Manatee before an audience of over 200 agents from [...]

Sometimes you are so close to something that you can’t entirely understand its worth. This is never as true as it is for those of us who live in Florida and take our slice of paradise for granted. We grow complacent - never quite appreciating how turquoise the Gulf is, how easy it is to reach the beach, or the countless colors in a [...]

A lot can be said about summers in Florida – the most obvious being that it’s hot. And while I would certainly agree with that, I am a huge fan of being in Sarasota during the off-season. Here are 17 splendid reasons why: 1. Crazy Cool Sunsets. Our summer sunsets are truly awe-inspiring to behold. The weather patterns over our warmer [...]

When a Siesta Key property sold for $10.25 million in late May, it not only established a new benchmark for the much sought-after barrier island but also spoke volumes about the reinvigorated state of the region’s luxury real estate market. After several years in which property sales above $1 million limped along listlessly, they are [...]

Michael Saunders & Company’s Brian and Mary McColgan are Realtors out of the Boca Grande office tasked with selling the lifestyle of Useppa Island.  And, they have a surprising number of allies.  Almost six hundred of them. “Once the island community kicks in, the idea of living here is a no-brainer,” explained Brian.  “It’s [...]

As a modern design junkie, I am always keeping an eye out for homes that speak the language of clean lines. And I consistently feel a little thrill upon discovering a just listed, mid-century modern, [...]

Father’s Day takes place this Sunday, June 15, and in honor of the occasion we rounded up five Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte homes for sale with opulent offices sure to delight dad: 1459 Bay Point Drive Tucked between Harbor Acres and downtown Sarasota, this exquisite home overlooks Sarasota Bay and Selby Gardens, with an incredible [...]

The official Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and ends November 30, and while many experts predict the 2014 season to be a tad quieter than normal, it’s always best to be prepared: - Stock up on supplies like bottled water, non-perishable food items and a first-aid kit. - Agree on the safest place to be during the storm. If you are [...]

We all dream about what it would be like to live someplace sleek and luxurious…somewhere on the beach - away from it all, and yet, you can still throw on a pretty dress and go to dinner at a chic restaurant. [...]

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