True Real Estate

Sarasota is On Sale

2008-05-19T10:57:00.002-05:00

There are certainly alot of different views on the state of the Sarasota real estate market. While some disagree on the "bottom", if we have reached it or have yet to; one fact seems to be above dispute...

Sarasota is on sale.

As buyer agents, we show properties all day, every day. Being well versed in this market, the market values and prices, we know without a doubt the values that exist for home buyers right now.

Especially for those looking for boating communities, beachfront properties or downtown waterfront, homes are at unprecedented levels.

If you are an investor and looking to flip a Sarasota property, we will advise against it. But if you are looking to purchase your first home, lock in your retirement place or simply wish to have a great property for the long term...

The sale is on.

True Real Estate are exclusive buyer agents in Sarasota and the surrounding area.

List Prices in Sarasota Offer Little Room

2008-04-10T14:15:00.003-05:00

The latest numbers from the Sarasota Association of REALTORS may surprise some people. Over the last 3 months, sales are up. Of those transactions, the sales amount has averaged 93% of list price.

This flies in the face of the popular opinion that people can lop 30-40% off the list price and take advantage of a desperate seller. The fact is, list prices are necessarily as low as they can go, if the Seller wants to sell their home competitively.

So although buyers shouldnt expect huge reductions off list price, the great news is that the homes are already priced competitively low and offer great value.

Sarasota Real Estate Deals - Siesta Key & Longboat Key

2008-04-07T11:52:00.005-05:00

Think you can't afford the beach? Check out a few of these opportunities - and this is only the beginning. Call today to find out how you can get your dream vacation, retirement or primary home at the beach! Sarasota Real Estate has never been hotter -and having a Sarasota Buyer Agent is the ONLY way to go.

RESIDENTIAL - SINGLE FAMILY ON LONGBOAT AND SIESTA KEY

$325,000 - 740 Longboat Court, Longboat Key - Value priced at lot value, secluded and charming. 3 BR /2 Ba

$347,000 - 5212 Calle de Costa Rica - Updated 3BR home, beautiful tropical landscaping, walk to Siesta Key Beach!

$349,000 - 636 Calle de Peru - Adorable 2 bedroom /1 Bath cottage, walk to Siesta Village and the world famous beach!

$399,900 - 5255 Winding Way - Less than 5 minutes by bike to Siesta Key Beach, shady mature canopy road. 3 Br/2 BA plus efficiency apt for extra income! 1300+ sq. ft

$445,000 - 660 Fox Street - Located in the historic village of Longboat Key. 2BR/2BA, 1500+ sq. ft.

$459,900 - 5159 Oakmont Place - Large family home that needs care but has great potential. 3 br/ 2 ba, with a pool! 1900+ sq. ft.

$484,900 - 549 St. Judes Drive - Remodeled and a mere 150 feet to a private beach on Longboat Key! 3BR/2BA, 1400+ sq ft

$489,000 - 700 Russell Street, Longboat Key - Totally updated and turnkey furnished pool home. 3/4 Bedrooms and 2 Baths

$549,900 - 508 Treasure Boat Way - Updated large pool home, with high end updates like bamboo flooring; large yard. 3 BR/ 2 BA. Over 2000 sq. ft.

$750,000 - 7180 Gulf of Mexico Drive - Canal front Longboat Key home, with a pool. Live the beach and boating lifestyle! 3BR / 3BA, 2500+ Sq. ft

CONDOMINIUMS ON LONGBOAT & SIESTA KEY

$247,500 - 4822 Ocean Blvd #4E - Gulf front Siesta Key views, turnkey furnished large (800 sq ft) 1 BR.

$249,000 - 3808 Gulf of Mexico Drive - On the Bay on Longboat Key, 2BR /2BA, needs updating and TLC but what a price!

$299,900 - 741 North Spanish Drive #30, Longboat Key - 55+ Turnkey furnished, steps to the pool, bay views. 2Br/2BA, 1600+ sq. ft

$325,000 - 6157 Midnight Pass Road #E 52 - Turnkey, classy unit, tropical pool. 2 Br, 1100+ sq. ft.

$379,000 - 1250 N. Portofino Drive #M307 - Updated spectacular 2 BR unit, intracoastal views. Deep sailboat water.

$399,900 - 8635 Midnight Pass Road # 307C - Full bay views, private cabana, turnkey 2 BR. 1100+ sq. ft

$449,000 - 1930 Harbourside Drive, Unit #131 -Beautiful Longboat Key, bay views, full amenities, 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath

$475,000 - 1103 Lake House Circle #C-107 - Across from famous Siesta Key Beach, turnkey 2BR unit with garage! Over 1300 sq. ft

$499,000 - 5260 Gulf of Mexico Drive, #404, 3 BR /3BA furnished, Gulf to Bay Longboat Key complex, 1400+ sq. ft.

$699,000 - 1701 Gulf of Mexico Drive #4D, Designer turnkey furnished, over 1500 sq. ft, 2 master suites on Longboat Key, 2 BR/ 2BA

Agents do More than Open Doors

2008-03-12T12:59:00.006-05:00

Recently, while out to dinner, I overheard a gentleman ask his friends "Why should real estate agents get paid what they do? All they do is unlock doors!"

I try not to get offended when I hear such things. After all, not many people know the hours of work a Buyers Agent puts in - looking up appropriate properties that meet all of the clients requirements, scheduling showings through listing agents and sellers, and doing all the research on the home prior to (ahem) opening the door for you.

I work primarily with out of town buyers. They generally come to town with a good picture in their mind of what they want. Condo or home, beach or country, close to downtown or beaches...and I certainly love to work with someone who has thought it through. But I also know from experience that often, they end up buying something entirely different that what they envisioned.

As an effective agent, it is not just my job to open doors. It is my job to listen to the reason for the purchase, the lifestyle of the buyer, and those things which are truly important to them. Further, I need to step out and recommend to people those places which I think may fit perfectly, even if the suggestion is something totally different than they had originally considered. If we are spending several days together, the goal may change daily, as we identify what we love - and what we don't - each day.

A recent customer thought they wanted a downtown condo, yet settled on a private home in a vibrant area of Sarasota 20 minutes from downtown. Another was convinced that Sarasota would be home, yet fell in love with Venice. How did she get to Venice? After hearing her describe her "perfect lifestlye", I knew I had to bring her down there. It was a better fit, but she never would have known that had I just sold her a place in Sarasota like she had asked.

One of the things that makes an agent special is their willingness to be a willing and knowledgeable tour guide; not being so quick to sell a home as to find the right neighborhood, type of home and situation for their client.

(But I will be more than happy to open the door for you as well)

Mom and Dad are Moving In!

2008-02-14T22:18:00.002-05:00

Increasingly, I see builders offering courtyard homes that have a separate, small guest house across the pool from the main house.

I have made jokes about banishing the husband out there, or perhaps using it as an effective place to keep a barking puppy...but the reality is, as baby boomers are faced with retirement, they are also faced with caring for their parents. Not wanting to leave them alone or put them in a care facility, the courtyard/guest house option is growing in popularity. This allows the option of having aging parents close by, but still in their own space, and independent.

I hope my daughter buys one....

New Homes in a Buyer's Market

2008-02-14T22:11:00.003-05:00

I recently took out a client who asked me to find him a few resale homes in the $350,000 price range on Palmer Ranch. He also asked to see a certain new home community in the same area.

He was shocked to find out that the new homes were identical in price to those homes that were built 15 years ago. Try as he might, he couldn't even imagine buying a resale home when the new homes offered such quality at a comparable price.

I can't say that I blame him.

A tight market has caused builders to offer more in upgrades, better pricing and more aggressive strategies, putting them at a decided advantage over the single home seller. While touring the new homes, we learned of standard inclusions like "his and hers" bathrooms, hurricane shutters, and granite surfaces.

While there is charm to the older neighborhoods, with their mature landscaping and shady streets...now might just be the best time in years to get a brand new home loaded with upgrades - for a steal!

New Low Rates

2008-01-24T08:12:00.000-05:00

Sometimes as Realtors we really do feel like we are crying out in the wilderness...

New interest rates this week will make a HUGE difference in buyers ability to pay for a mortgage.

The prices are low. Beautiful homes in every price range are out there, waiting for a buyer.

And yet people wait...

Investing 101

2007-12-27T08:44:00.000-05:00

Everyone knows the mantra: Buy LOW. Sell HIGH.

Which is why this market confuses me a bit. Several years ago, with prices spiralling out of control, and house values rising every day, people were scrambling to buy. The higher the prices went, the faster they bought.

Today, with home prices at levels not seen for many years, it seems only the savvy few are buying. Isn't that backward?

If the age old theorem is correct, BUY LOW. Prices are low. THIS is when people should buy. Prices are still LOW and will go UP eventually. This is sound investment strategy. Investment 101. Many have said that they are "waiting for the recovery to buy". However, by the time a recovery is reported, it will be because enough people have bought LOW, and the prices are RISING again. Don't be fooled, many people ARE already buying. To those who know the rule of investing, they are GLEEFULLY buying.

BUY LOW. SELL HIGH. It's simple, effective and proven strategy. Regina Brassil, REALTOR
All opinions are solely those of the author.

Who's Afraid of a Real Estate Agent?

2007-12-16T21:39:00.000-05:00

In a world where telemarketers hound us, junk mail clutters our mail box, and unsolicited requests seem to come from everywhere, it is understandable that no one wants to deal with more useless correspondence.

I suppose that is why so many people avoid speaking to real estate agents until they are ready to buy. Is it fear of high pressure tactics? Fear of committment to a certain agent or course of action before you are sure?

You can lay those fears to rest. We won't call if you ask us not to. We never force anyone to sign anything that obligates them to buy from us. But we do want you to talk to us. Especially if you are NOT sure of what you ultimate home looks like, or where it is. Because we can offer valuable advice and provide information on properties that goes far beyond a listing.

We believe that if you have just one conversation with us, you will stay with us. And you will realize that having someone with knowledge of the local market, neighborhoods and communities is a major plus in narrowing down what you are looking for, saving you alot of time.

You can read through testimonials of our customers. They all speak to the insight we can provide and the expertise we pride ourselves on. And many of those people were working with us for months, if not years, before their actual purchase. But why not make the call and find out for yourself? Have a conversation and let us help you zero in on what is the best property for you. It never hurts to have a sounding board, and we will respect whatever level of communication works for you.

I'm looking forward to talking with you.

Regina Brassil, REALTOR, Buyer Agent
All opinions posted are solely those of the author.

Sarasota is a Small Town at Christmas

2007-12-12T17:49:00.000-05:00

For the first time since I moved here in 2001, I had the opportunity to attend two Sarasota Holiday events. I found myself regretting that it had taken me so long.

We spend our days by the beach, which makes many think of us as a resort town. We enjoy a rich business, arts and culture environment, which makes others think we are a city. But at the parade, Sarasota Main Street looked eerily like small town mid-America.

Strolling down lit streets, it was comforting to see so many people lined up, side by side, enjoying the beautiful evening long before the parade began. I would only travel a few feet before seeing a familiar face to greet, even if I didn't know their name. There was a closeness there, a solidarity. We love our town and were out in force to enjoy it. As the parade progressed, you couldn't help but notice the quaintness of it..little children from a dance school pranced by, a small float with a local choir belting out Christmas carols, and the equestrians riding horses bedecked with garland. Small in number, large in joy and community. I was in tears as three local Marines marched past in full dress uniform, waving at the crowd who rightly rose to their feet with cheers of appreciation.

The following week, the same crowd was out at the Bayfront to view the Holiday Boat Parade. Local mariners enter a friendly competition for charity, and decorate their boats as festively as they can. It was a balmy night, and you would never have known how crowded it was by the friendliness and camraderie. I didn't hear one cross word, one angry tirade, all night. Just glowing, singing boats sailing along our beautiful Bayfront, celebrating this special season.

A few days later I found myself at the mall, battling lines, cringing as two cars raced for the same parking spot, and thinking how overpriced teenagers clothes are. But I can simply think back to those two special nights when we were all just common citizens of our amazing Sarasota at a special time of the year. Regina Brassil, REALTOR

Paradise Found

2007-11-26T19:43:00.000-05:00

Wait a minute - is that contentment I hear?

For months and years, it has seemed, the media has tried, for some inexplicable reason, to turn people off to this area. One would think the local paper would promote our city, but no... to read the news, we live in the most blighted spot on the planet. Woe is me, woe is me - no wonder the real estate market slowed.

Now, don't get me wrong, the market DID need to cool off from its dizzying rise. We did need to see a return to realistic pricing. But as to all the naysayers predicting gloom and doom, I say - have you walked outside lately?

* It is no secret to those of us in Sarasota that a major hurricane hasn't landed here in over 100 years, and scientists have explained the reasons why we are far less likely to entertain such an event. (See "Legends and Weather Patterns" Post) As a matter of fact, we haven't even had a stiff breeze since the fall of 2004.

* We were blessed this year with minimal red tide occurences, making nearly all of 2007 idyllic on the water - most of the time, we felt like we were looking at the Carribbean Sea.

* Although we are often chastised for our "brutal" summers, this year (like most) we actually were NOT one of the 14 states suffering through 100+ degree temps. To the contrary, we've had terrific, moderate weather.

* The housing prices HAVE settled into a range that makes living here a reality for almost anyone. It is not fair to compare the Sarasota prices with that of small landlocked towns as a recent internet story did, trying to point out the high cost of living here. Compare us to any other resort, waterfront, cultural town -think Miami - and we are a BARGAIN. First time home buyers are finding ample inventory in their price range.

You may have seen me on the beach lately. I'm the one singing and skipping. Ok, maybe not SKIPPING, but certainly this is an awesome place to live and work, and I for one am ready for people to realize it!

Need a fix of paradise? Check out http://www.SeeSarasotaLive.com !

Regina A. Brassil , REALTOR

Opinions are solely those of the author. And the author is admittedly biased. A New York transplant, Regina LOVES Sarasota and unashamedly promotes her adopted home

Short Sales are Not for Everyone

2007-10-17T09:53:00.001-05:00

The current housing market nationwide has caused some distress. The number of foreclosures and short sales has increased, making an already strong buyers market look even better to investors and buyers.

While most understand foreclosures, the definition of short sale has caused some confusion. In a nutshell, the Bank or lender who owns the property has agreed to sell the property for less than currently owed, in order to recoup some of their money.

In other words, the owner of the property may have borrowed $200,000 from the bank, but the bank is agreeing to sell the property for $180,000 in order to protect most of their investment.

While deals are to be had in short sales, the mentality of negotiating with banks can be entirely different than what buyers are used to. The offer for a short sale has to go through bank red tape, often prolonging negotiations. The bank may require more information, fewer contingencies, and more patience. For instance, on a recent short sale offer, my Buyer didn't receive an answer for 6 weeks - and the "answer" was a request for further terms. If you are in a hurry to purchase or require an answer quickly so that you can move to the next offer, short sales may not be for you.

There are some questions to ask before entering into a short sale negotiation, and expectations to be managed. If you think these deals are worth fighting for, call a real estate agent and hang on for the ride. It is usually well worth the effort when you close on a property that you have instant equity in.

Regina Brassil, REALTOR, Exclusive Buyers Agent
Blog posts are the sole opinion of the author.

I Know when the Real Estate Recovery will be!

2007-08-25T10:56:00.000-05:00

Are you still waiting to buy? Before you answer, consider this:

* 1 BR condo, furnished, walking distance to Sarasota's vibrant downtown $83,000
* 2 BR Villa , garage, huge screened lanai, hardwood floors, new kitchen - $153,000
* 2 Br built in 2002, lake views, 3 miles to beach, turnkey with top of the line furniture - $199,900

These are all deals that I secured for my customers within the last 4 weeks. Sounds great, doesn't it? But you are still reluctant because you think the prices might drop more?

I don't really know when the prices will stop dropping. But I DO know when they will begin RISING. The simple answer is, when people start buying, the prices will rise. By the time the media tells you there is a recovery, its too late to get the best deals - the prices are already on the rise. As evidenced by the above, the Buyers ARE here. If you are looking for a long-term investment, retirement home or any property you plan on holding, it is a fantastic time to buy. Will prices go down? Possibly. In the longer term, will they go up? Absolutely. With Sarasota on track to be one of the most affluent cities in the Southeast, not to mention the recipient of virtually every award for growth and quality of life- we are positioned for a healthy recovery. Don't get caught wishing you had purchased when the prices were lower...Regina Brassil, REALTOR. All opinions are solely those of the author.

Sarasota Real Estate Beats the Market

2007-07-27T16:27:00.000-05:00

You know that children's cartoon when the little boy walks around with the black cloud raining on his head no matter what he does? Well, it seems Sarasota is walking around with just the opposite - as a matter of fact, the sun is shining pretty brightly on Sarasota.

In a recent accounting of the numbers showing existing home sales in all major Florida Metropolitan areas over the last 6 months, the results were bleak. Existing home sales are down 40-50% across the state when compared to last year. With one SHINING exception.

Sarasota was the only metro area in Florida to report net home sales have RISEN this year over last. That's right - we are up 10-15%, the only area in the state that can claim positive numbers. While the eternal pessimists will say that it is a fluke, or a cosmic mistake that will reverse ...I disagree. A recent article professed my assertion that the Buyers were creeping back. Tentatively, carefully...even gleefully when they realize the Sarasota real estate bargains to be had. And regardless of what the media is trumpeting, that its a bad time to buy, I simply refuse to believe that long term real estate investment, especially in a thriving area, is a bad thing. Ever.

Why the pocket of sunshine over Sarasota? Perhaps the answer can be found in our accolades - Top schools, the best place for entrepreneurs, one of the top places to live...Sarasota continues to offer Buyers good value, gorgeous locales, family amenities, ample opportunity and one of the most active community calendars I have ever seen. People know its a great time to move here, and they are doing just that.

No rain cloud here. Not by a long shot. Regina Brassil, REALTOR all opinions posted are solely those of the author.

Blonds, Lawyers, and Real Estate Agents

2007-06-23T08:01:00.000-05:00

How many real estate agents does it take to screw in a lightbulb?

Ok, I have not heard that joke yet, but I'm sure it is coming. The fact is, by "news magazine" standards, real estate agents are the new lawyers - deceptive, often incompetent, only out for a buck and largely unnecessary.

First let, me applaud the latest 20/20 episode for presenting some real estate topics beautifully - the benefits of home ownership versus renting, and tips for selling your home in a down market.

But the balance of the episode, in large part, dealt with why Realtors are , in some cases, nearly obsolete...in others, are pushing their clients to take deals they themselves wouldn't take. A panel of "experts" rattled off how Realtors have to have a lapse in conscience in order to survive; and my favorite, the authors (promoting their own book, by the way) who stated that using a Realtor assures you of getting a lower offer on your home.

Their example was a statistic that said that Realtors sell their homes for 3-4% higher than the general public, a fact which MUST mean they they counsel their clients to take low offers just to get a commission check. I have a different theory. When our clients have a solid offer in front of them, I cannot in good conscience counsel them to wait it out for a better offer. If they roll the dice that another offer will be higher, and if that offer never comes in, they are stuck. However, as a Realtor, I may be willing to assume that risk personally. I have always counseled my clients to work the numbers to a point that they have a bottom line fixed in their minds before the offer comes in - then the decision is mathematical and practical, not emotional.

There is no doubt that the Internet, and wide access to the MLS, has changed our industry. I have no problem with that. The brokerages that survive will be the ones that adapat and offer programs to their clients that work with the new capabilites, and don't try to resist them.

One final kudo to the show - in an effort to explain why Realtors don't care what the house sells for, they inadvertently pointed out that the average agent makes not 6%, but 1.5% after everyone gets paid. So instead of $24,000 paid on a $400,000 home, its more like $6,000, often for months and months of work. A drastic difference and one that is rarely discussed when it comes time to say Realtors make too much.

Regina Brassil, REALTOR, Buyer Agent
All opinions posted are solely those of the author.

When Considering a Home, Do All the Math

2007-06-04T10:48:00.001-05:00

As a buyer's agent in Sarasota, I talk to alot of prospective home owners. Given the state of the market over the last 24 months, I can understand why many of them have chosen to adopt a "wait and see" attitude.

But there are several factors involved in the true cost of a home. One is, of course, the list price. This is the magic number that everyone seems to watch.

At this point in the market, however, the more important number may be INTEREST RATES. Most data seems to indicate home prices are near the bottom, and may begin to slowly creep up. But even if they drop slightly lower, if the interest rates are rising, you will pay more, long term, for your home.

Fact is , that over 30 years, the interest is the more compelling number. And getting the home for $10,000 cheaper is actually far less of a concern than getting a home at a good interest rate.

Last week, interest rates rose on data that home sales were picking up. These are both good indicators that the market may be ready to turn around. Don't let the interest rates quietly climb while waiting for another price drop which experts say isn't coming - it could prove costly over the years.

Regina A. Brassil, REALTOR
This article is the sole opinion of the author.

Beach Retirement a Reality for 40 Year Olds

2007-05-29T08:22:00.000-05:00

One of the frustrating aspects of being a real estate agent is seeing all these great properties and wishing I could buy them. I have bought a couple...but of course, I can't buy up all the great deals. My current obsession is a terrific loft on Longboat Key - gulf views, beach front for an unbelievable price.

A story came out yesterday about how the investor market has dried up, yet the vacation home market is going strong. The reason for it, in my mind, is simple. People my age, years away from retirement, recognize this market for what it is, and realize we may never see beachfront property at this price again. If I retire in 20 years, and my loft has tripled in price, could I afford it?

There are many negative aspects to this market. But the overriding positive has been, and remains, that for someone with a dream of beach living, the market has not been more auspicious in years.

Yes, 60 Minutes Missed the Point...BUT....

2007-05-14T15:04:00.000-05:00

The recent 60 minutes airing regarding the battle between traditional, full services real estate brokerages and the discount brokerage model has realtors across the nation screaming "foul". They feel the full cost model was presented unfairly, and that they were portrayed unjustly. Not surprising, really, as I myself have been the recipient of such a speech.

I think it missed the mark as well. But not for the reasons they state. I think both models presented have strengths and weaknesses. The flaw lies in the fact that 60 Minutes only highlighted the two extremes of the real estate industry. By definition, "the extreme" is just that, the strongest possible example of an ideal. The inherent problem is, by only discussing the extremes, it does a disservice to all the other models in the middle.

Case in point - to illustrate "discount brokerages", the program interviewed the CEO of a large internet-based real estate company. The idea is, the consumer does all the footwork, until the deal goes to a contract. At that point someone on the other end of a phone line will assist with the paperwork and loan process until closing. As you can expect, the full service brokerages are loathe to even discuss this model, rightfully explaining that their commissions are based on comprehensive service.

The term discount brokerage is far more inclusive than a disembodied voice on a line, however. Their services range from telephone support, to partial service (customers must locate their own prospective homes but the Realtor will show it), to full service. The story did a disservice to those of us who provide quality, high level service, but just don't happen to charge as much. The clear insinuation, it seemed, was that discount brokerages provide little to no service, while full service companies provide service, but at too high of a cost.

The reality is this - the options to a home buyer or seller are vast. Feeling comfortable with the Realtor and the level of service they provide really should be paramount, and a cost structure secondary. If they happen to both work to your benefit, all the better.

True Real Estate provides full, comprehensive service to our customers while providing up to 2.5% commission rebate. Buyers give up nothing by way of support. Read more www.TrueSarasota.com

Naysayer Math Just Doesn't Add Up

2007-05-07T06:17:00.000-05:00

I read an article this morning that said in one breath that 1) prospective first time home buyers should continue to rent and 2) put their money into stocks, not real estate.

While I respect the opinion, the math just does not work, except perhaps in the wealthier enclaves of the country. Most first time home buyers I deal with are working with a strict budget - they have a small amount to put down, and plan on spending , say $1250 per month for their mortgage and taxes.

If they continue to rent, that same monthly budget goes to their landlord. It is not "extra" money. They cant rent for $1250 a month and put money into stocks.

If the monthly budget is either going to rent, or into the equity of a home, the choice is clear.

Buyers Welcome

2007-04-29T20:31:00.000-05:00

In a recent Realtor newsletter, the author of a story offered his criteria as to who was a "worthy buyer". His argument, essentially, was that the only real way to make money long term was with sellers..."list to live" as many have said. Buyers, he argued, can take alot of your time and should be carefully screened.

While I agree that it is important to ascertain whether or not someone is willing and able to buy a home, certainly they are not always completely ready when I first encounter them. Perhaps they need more information on the area , or need to feel comfortable about the schools. But if I followed the unspoken rules, I never would have sold homes to some of my most loyal customers.

* The couple from NJ who viewed 75 homes before buying the perfect one - with a phone call.
* The couple from Tennessee who called five realtors in town and were told "Call me when you get here". We worked with them to narrow down the search before they got here. When they did, they bought a house in two days.
* The young couple who were buying their first home and just felt they were being rushed into unfamiliar territory. After a few long conversations answering every question they had, they happily bought their home.

There was an old rule - show a buyer 5 homes and then ask them which one they want. In today's market, Buyers rule and have lots of options, so likely won't rush. But in any market, at this brokerage , Buyers are welcome. Whatever stage, whatever comfort level, whatever you need. Because sometimes all you need is someone to understand YOUR personal buying style - whatever that may be.

Can you hear me now?

2007-04-25T12:02:00.000-05:00

Did you ever feel like you knew something amazing and no one would listen to you???

You've heard the interest rates are low. You've heard the inventories are high. You've heard that buyers have more bargaining power than ever before. You've even heard this Blogger telling you that the leading edge people were already here, buying up everything they could get their hands on in this market. And the good news just keeps on coming.

Last week Sarasota was named by Money Magazine as one of the best places to retire. Inc. Magazine has now named Sarasota as one of the best places for entreprenuers to set up shop.

Not convinced yet?

In March, the Sarasota-Bradenton real estate market seemingly shook off the gloom and doom as sales rose 19%. Naysayers will say its a fluke. That it won't last. But maybe they don't know what I know.

Sarasota is beautiful. It's lifestyle is amazing. People are buying here even when they aren't anywhere else, mainly because at these prices, paradise is on sale. When people get here, living anyplace else seems unthinkable. We win award after award. Come on down and see for yourself!

Romancing Real Estate

2007-04-20T09:10:00.000-05:00

I read an interesting article today that compared the decision to hold off on buying real estate to fear of commitment in relationships.
"This one is perfect - but what if I see something even better tomorrow?"
"My situation is not exactly what I want, but it is comfortable and at least I know what I have"
"It's a huge commitment, and so permanent - I am not sure if I am ready".

Any of those statements could, in reality, be applied to real estate, or real life. The reason being, either decision is highly emotional and carries long term ramifications. In actuality, they can be applied to any big decision, which can sometimes seem paralyzing. In the face of a significant change, human beings often opt for the safety of what we know. Its human nature.

The real estate process, however, should be looked at far more practically. If you are currently paying $1200 in rent, that money may be better served paying a mortgage instead - in effect, you are adding to your investment every time you make a payment. At the end of ten years, you either have paid ten years of rent, and you move out with only your personal possessions - or you have solid equity in your future. Although it is tough for sellers right now, the longer term investor will almost always be safe with a real estate purchase. The key is to not NEED to sell, but to be able to wait until it is favorable to sell. Which is exactly the situation of a person looking to buy a home in order to live here.

History has proven that in a slow market, buyers are waiting for someone else to buy first. In essence , it provides validation that it is "safe" to buy. Traditionally, it is the leading edge investors - the first ones back into the market - that get the deals. By the time the market is back in an upswing, many buyers realize they are now coping with rising prices, not falling ones.

Right now, "all of the good ones" are not taken. So get out there - you may be suprised at what you find.

Pretend You're A Tourist

2007-04-07T16:00:00.000-05:00

One of the strangest phenomena, it seems to me, is that people who live in a certain town rarely take advantage of the towns many attractions. Oh, we know where they are, we can tell visiting friends and family about them, we might even have snuck into one or two. But overwhelmingly, I meet people who confess to rarely getting to the beach...or have never seen a show at the Van Wezel. After recently extolling the virtues of Towles Court to an artistically inclined client, they asked "have you been there?"

Wow. I knew so much about the place, the schedule of their art walks, even some of the artists. But had I been there? It was almost a startling realization that I had not! With resolve I decided to go to the Friday night art walk that very week - by coincidence, a friend was exhibiting at the Sonnet Gallery. On Friday, I surprised the kids with our plans (no need to hear whining until absolutely necessary ) and we were off.

As a lifelong art lover, I expected to be charmed. Wowed. Intrigued. And to totally fall in love with the open galleries, live music and softly lit walkways. I was not disappointed. What I didn't expect was the reaction of my children. My 7 year old son who couldn't get enough of talking about the "cool colors" of glass sculptures and asking me if we could try pastel painting. My 13 year old who was so intrigued with a photography gallery, that she asked to take a photography class and has begun filling her walls with her own shots. They made me visit every gallery, didn't miss a one. And as we strolled with our drinks (white wine for me, apple juice for them) and discussed art, I realized I was exposing them to a whole new world. And it had been in my own back yard all the time.

One of the best things about being in real estate is the exposure I have to all the neighborhoods, all the properties, and the varied personalities Sarasota offers. I was glad to be reminded what a fantastic, vibrant town this is - for those of you moving here, I would love to point out some of my favorite spots. But once you get here, don't forget to be a tourist in your own town - Sarasota is a great place to explore - no matter how long you've lived here. - Regina Brassil, REALTOR

Should you invest in a Sarasota Condo?

2007-04-02T14:58:00.000-05:00

I only had the previous post up for a few minutes when I received a call to clarify a point on condos - do the rules of investing hold true in the current condo market in Sarasota?

I will keep this short and to the point. If you are looking to purchase a condo as your primary residence, or for any personal use, it is actually a terrific time to buy. With such a glut of condos on the market, some still in pre-construction, you can scoop up a condo with great amenities for a really fantastic price.

If you are looking at condos as investments to re-sell within a few years, keep in mind that it is estimated that we may have as much as a 5 year inventory of condos in Sarasota County right now. Essentially, that means that for as many years, we will likely be experiencing a tough situation for sellers of condos. I would only consider a condo for a resale strategy if I were thinking very long term, at LEAST 5 years out. If investing is of interest to you, please read the post below as well. I hope you find it informative and helpful.

Regina Brassil, REALTOR

Real Estate Investing in Sarasota

2007-04-02T14:15:00.000-05:00

Much has been made of the plight of the real estate investor in the last 12 months. Foreclosures, abandoned deposits, and unwanted multiple mortgages on properties they couldn't sell are scary facts. As with any investment, whether it be real estate or stocks, it is the short term thinker that often gets burned. When the risk pays off, its big money, and that was the allure of too many people investing over their heads. The risk, unfortunately, didn't pay off.

However, history is quite clear that real estate as a long term investment is reliable and profitable. As someone who has invested in real estate most of my adult life, I can vouch for the fact that over the long haul, real estate has been very good to me. And I encourage others to invest in real estate if possible. But do so with a level head and some basic rules -

1. Have long term view. If conditions are favorable in the short term and you want to sell, terrific! But if your plan is to hold the property for a set period of time, market fluctuations are not nearly as intimidating.

2. Fix your mortgage. Yes, the rates can be a bit higher, but there is comfort and safety in a set, known payment - especially in uncertain times. If your plan is to rent the property out, know the going rental rates and make sure you can afford the payment if the property does not rent out immediately.

3. Buy when no one else wants to. Right now, many people are afraid to invest, but leading edge investors are buying, and buying aggressively. An investor friend of mine says his only frustration is that he wishes he could buy up more. Prices are low, the boomers are coming over the next several years and many neighborhoods in Sarasota are enjoying a renaissance. Deals are out there for the asking.

4. Find a neighborhood with promise. In Sarasota, waterfront acreage is all but gone. But there are several communities that are undiscovered gems, still unbelievably priced for their proximity to the water. Sure, the homes are older but the neighborhoods are changing; renovation and rebuilding is occurring as we speak. And if you think I am talking in terms of "Sarasota affordability" think again - I know of a few homes under $250,000 in waterfront neighborhoods. Locations within walking distance to downtown, but in quiet neighborhoods, also have fantastic upside.

5. Be realistic. The days of "flipping" on the same day of closing and making $50,000 are gone now. But Sarasota is growing, boomers are retiring, and we live in a beautiful town. The market is returning to normal. Just don't expect double digit returns within weeks and you will be fine.

If real estate investment is of interest to you, give us a call. Don't wait until the market starts to rise again - as an investor, the time is now.
Regina Brassil, REALTOR