Sarasota's desirability makes it a magnet for developers. However, residents who are afraid of too much building, over-crowding and ruination of green spaces often create loud and powerful lobbies against the builders plans.
It is a battle played out every day, in every part of this region. In Sarasota's historic and charming Arlington Park, residents protested that developers Rand Hillview LLC should not be allowed to build their 65 foot tall condominium complex, Residences at Hyde Park, on a site across from the Sarasota Memorial Hospital - too big, too obtrusive onto the street, they argued. The trash dumpster area would be visible from the street; and city officials further required that a stately grand oak tree, rooted in the center of the 1.5 acre property, be preserved. Developers were sent away, back to the drawing board.
When they returned to re-pitch their project , they expected the stiff opposition to prevail once again. However, what happened instead is a lesson for all developers and associations in this growing area of the state - the residents applauded and approved the plan, which will now go before the Sarasota Planning Board in June. Why the dramatic turn-around? Residents say that they felt validated that the developers listened to their concerns, went back and seriously addressed the issues, and came up with workable solutions. These solutions included slanting the walls of the complex to create less austere presence on the street and relocating the areas for trash. The complex concept was also re-drawn by the project architect in order to save the old oak tree.
City officials are impressed by the developers willingness to create a project the community approves of, while the Arlington Park association was open minded in considering the re-design. We can only hope as Sarasota and the surrounding areas continue to grow and develop, that more such harmonious relationships can be struck, for the benefit of us all.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Buying "As-Is" Properties
In a market with a healthy inventory, there are many homes on the market being sold "as-is". Buyers often are averse to viewing or purchasing an "as-is" property, fearing something drastically wrong with the house that the Seller is trying to conceal. However, Buyers should not discount "as-is" homes for this reason - they are often great purchases with very minor work needed.
Traditionally, a home seller might be responsible for a certain percentage of the repairs needed to the home as determined by a licensed inspector. Sellers are more and more selling the home "as-is" to avert the possibility of unexpectedly paying for repairs out of pocket - but often will ask a lower price in return. Common misconceptions include the fear that the "as-is" home is a handyman special, in need of massive repair. This is rarely true - in reality, Sellers sell homes "as-is" for a variety of reasons, and may not be aware of any issue with the home.
Buyers are also protected in several ways. In Florida, Sellers fill out Sellers Property Disclosure forms which are readily available to prospective Buyers. In this form, the Seller is bound to disclose any material problem he knows about - prior roof leaks, proposed land use changes, or a broken security system, for instance. In a variety of categories that range from interior to exterior, heating/cooling, age of appliances, and neighborhood issues, Sellers relate their knowledge to prospects so that they might make an informed decision.
Buyers should always invoke their right to an inspection of any property they purchase. The inspection period is generally 10 days to 2 weeks, and gives Buyers the opportunity to conduct any inspections they wish, most commonly being a general home inspection and a pest control inspection.
As a Buyer's Agent, I recommend writing a contract "As-Is with Right To Inspect". When making an offer, Buyers can indicate a dollar figure they are willing to absorb in repairs - if a licensed inspector determines that the repairs needed exceed that amount, the Buyer has the right to cancel the contract and get his deposit back. This process allows the Seller to refrain from being responsible for any repairs, but also affords the Buyer protection that they are not locked into a contract if a serious issue is found.
It is important to note that a Seller is never responsible for aesthetic improvements - a new paint job, for instance. Conversely, a Buyer cannot use expected aesthetic costs as a basis for "needed repairs". But the Buyer will be protected from major issues with the home not readily noticeable to the untrained eye.
For more information on working with a Buyer's Agent who can walk you through an "as-is" purchase, visit www.TrueSarasota.com.
Traditionally, a home seller might be responsible for a certain percentage of the repairs needed to the home as determined by a licensed inspector. Sellers are more and more selling the home "as-is" to avert the possibility of unexpectedly paying for repairs out of pocket - but often will ask a lower price in return. Common misconceptions include the fear that the "as-is" home is a handyman special, in need of massive repair. This is rarely true - in reality, Sellers sell homes "as-is" for a variety of reasons, and may not be aware of any issue with the home.
Buyers are also protected in several ways. In Florida, Sellers fill out Sellers Property Disclosure forms which are readily available to prospective Buyers. In this form, the Seller is bound to disclose any material problem he knows about - prior roof leaks, proposed land use changes, or a broken security system, for instance. In a variety of categories that range from interior to exterior, heating/cooling, age of appliances, and neighborhood issues, Sellers relate their knowledge to prospects so that they might make an informed decision.
Buyers should always invoke their right to an inspection of any property they purchase. The inspection period is generally 10 days to 2 weeks, and gives Buyers the opportunity to conduct any inspections they wish, most commonly being a general home inspection and a pest control inspection.
As a Buyer's Agent, I recommend writing a contract "As-Is with Right To Inspect". When making an offer, Buyers can indicate a dollar figure they are willing to absorb in repairs - if a licensed inspector determines that the repairs needed exceed that amount, the Buyer has the right to cancel the contract and get his deposit back. This process allows the Seller to refrain from being responsible for any repairs, but also affords the Buyer protection that they are not locked into a contract if a serious issue is found.
It is important to note that a Seller is never responsible for aesthetic improvements - a new paint job, for instance. Conversely, a Buyer cannot use expected aesthetic costs as a basis for "needed repairs". But the Buyer will be protected from major issues with the home not readily noticeable to the untrained eye.
For more information on working with a Buyer's Agent who can walk you through an "as-is" purchase, visit www.TrueSarasota.com.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Hurricane Preparations Encouraging
As we near the summer months, thoughts naturally turn to preparing for another hurricane season. Experts are varied in their predictions of the likelihood of a major storm hitting the Sarasota region - but in the end, Nature herself will have the final word. Although the last two seasons have certainly been catastrophic in some areas, those communities better prepared for a major storm will certainly fare better. Living on the Florida Gulf Coast is a special lifestyle understood by our residents; and perhaps not by others nationwide who fear the storms. But while we cannot control Mother Nature, we are making great strides to better prepare for her inevitable arrival in the form of a major storm .
One of the factors that makes it a bit easier is that in large degree, we have ample warning that a storm is on its way. On a personal level, residents are well aware of their responsibility to stockpile water, non-perishable foods, batteries and the like. We know to watch carefully a storms path, gas up our cars and keep a spare gas can full as well. We have purchased hurricane film, shutters and millions of plywood barriers for our homes. But are our communities preparing at the same level of conscientiousness? In the Sarasota region the answer is a resounding yes.
Emergency management officials in the region report :
* New Red Cross offices have been set up to recruit volunteers and serve as additional backup sites
* New "hardened shelters (at least 18 feet above sea level) are being identified and readied, even in low lying counties
* Sarasota County has spent $2 million dollars equipping special-needs shelters, increasing capacity and hard wiring generators for oxygen for any patients who may need it.
* Pet-friendly shelters in the county have doubled
* A special team of 180 doctors, nurses and healthcare workers has been assembled for rapid responses in an emergency
* The Senior Friendship Center in Sarasota county is working with other faith based groups to assemble volunteers for debris clean up and water distribution after a storm
* The Sarasota K-9 Search and Rescue Team bought a new trailer not only for dispatch of supplies, but an air conditioned spot for the four-legged workers to rest.
Hurricanes can be scary, of course. But as we get better at predicting the paths, being pro-active, and responding to our neighbors, we lessen the impacts. Residents of South Florida understand that the benefits of living in such a paradise make this season a necessity to go through - but we are ready!
One of the factors that makes it a bit easier is that in large degree, we have ample warning that a storm is on its way. On a personal level, residents are well aware of their responsibility to stockpile water, non-perishable foods, batteries and the like. We know to watch carefully a storms path, gas up our cars and keep a spare gas can full as well. We have purchased hurricane film, shutters and millions of plywood barriers for our homes. But are our communities preparing at the same level of conscientiousness? In the Sarasota region the answer is a resounding yes.
Emergency management officials in the region report :
* New Red Cross offices have been set up to recruit volunteers and serve as additional backup sites
* New "hardened shelters (at least 18 feet above sea level) are being identified and readied, even in low lying counties
* Sarasota County has spent $2 million dollars equipping special-needs shelters, increasing capacity and hard wiring generators for oxygen for any patients who may need it.
* Pet-friendly shelters in the county have doubled
* A special team of 180 doctors, nurses and healthcare workers has been assembled for rapid responses in an emergency
* The Senior Friendship Center in Sarasota county is working with other faith based groups to assemble volunteers for debris clean up and water distribution after a storm
* The Sarasota K-9 Search and Rescue Team bought a new trailer not only for dispatch of supplies, but an air conditioned spot for the four-legged workers to rest.
Hurricanes can be scary, of course. But as we get better at predicting the paths, being pro-active, and responding to our neighbors, we lessen the impacts. Residents of South Florida understand that the benefits of living in such a paradise make this season a necessity to go through - but we are ready!
The Sarasota Boom By the Numbers
I was recently out with a prospective buyer who was very interested in a particular country club in the area. Brand new homes with high end upgrades, gorgeous amenities and a lush environment, this is a special oasis. He wondered, therefore - why was so much of the neighborhood for sale? Was there something wrong with the property he wasn't aware of?
The answer is fairly simple, and it lies in the numbers. In a study by the National Association of Realtors, much of the 2005 real estate boom was fueled not by "traditional" buyers, but by speculation and investment. Consider this fact - almost 40% of the homes and condos bought last year (nearly 3.35 million properties) were bought by people who had little to no intention of living in them full time. Approximately 2/3 of those were strictly investments while the remainder were presumed "vacation homes". In Florida statewide, traditionally 76% of all single family homeowners lived in the home they bought. In 2004-5, however, only 55% of buyers claimed that home as a residence, leaving nearly half as investments.
What does all this mean? Certainly, many people rightfully view this area as one that people will continue to flock to, making investments attractive. As long as the inventory is healthy, fueled by investors looking to cash in on their investment, a buyer looking for a residence or future retirement home is in a terrific position to find a great home in the Sarasota area.
The answer is fairly simple, and it lies in the numbers. In a study by the National Association of Realtors, much of the 2005 real estate boom was fueled not by "traditional" buyers, but by speculation and investment. Consider this fact - almost 40% of the homes and condos bought last year (nearly 3.35 million properties) were bought by people who had little to no intention of living in them full time. Approximately 2/3 of those were strictly investments while the remainder were presumed "vacation homes". In Florida statewide, traditionally 76% of all single family homeowners lived in the home they bought. In 2004-5, however, only 55% of buyers claimed that home as a residence, leaving nearly half as investments.
What does all this mean? Certainly, many people rightfully view this area as one that people will continue to flock to, making investments attractive. As long as the inventory is healthy, fueled by investors looking to cash in on their investment, a buyer looking for a residence or future retirement home is in a terrific position to find a great home in the Sarasota area.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Venice Catches Eye of Prospective Residents
Sarasota County is often associated only with Sarasota proper - Prospective homebuyers are often delighted to discover, just to our south, the charming (and growing) town of Venice.
Reaping all the benefits of being in Sarasota county - like fantastic schools and a short drive to all things "famous" about this area - Venice remains slightly detached with an energy all its own.
A few traditional reasons Venice is favorite - and a couple new ones - include:
* Homebuyers can still find a Florida boating and waterfront lifestyle for under $250,000
* Beachfront condos can run up to 30% less than in other areas
* Beaches are traditionally less crowded, and therefore more conducive to long walks, shelling, shark tooth hunts and sea turtle nesting. Venice Beaches, especially at the jetty parks, are often cited as "the" place to spot manatees and dolphins
* Venice has experienced a bit of a rebirth, with revitalization on the Community Center, the opening of a new modern movie theater, and the groundbreaking of a new YMCA complex
* Dog lovers will be thrilled at the "Paw Park", a pet friendly state park that encourages interaction with our favorite best friends ( an incredible 40 parks occupy the relatively little town of Venice, amazing in their diversity)
* Venice Main Street offers quaint "old time" events including Christmas walks complete with sidewalk carolers and hot chocolate. Year round, Main Street is reminiscent of the way things used to be, with unique "mom and pops" and ice cream parlors dotting the tree lined avenue.
All of this is within 20 miles of Sarasota's vibrant downtown, making Venice a terrfic place to consider for your family, your retirement, or your vacation.
Reaping all the benefits of being in Sarasota county - like fantastic schools and a short drive to all things "famous" about this area - Venice remains slightly detached with an energy all its own.
A few traditional reasons Venice is favorite - and a couple new ones - include:
* Homebuyers can still find a Florida boating and waterfront lifestyle for under $250,000
* Beachfront condos can run up to 30% less than in other areas
* Beaches are traditionally less crowded, and therefore more conducive to long walks, shelling, shark tooth hunts and sea turtle nesting. Venice Beaches, especially at the jetty parks, are often cited as "the" place to spot manatees and dolphins
* Venice has experienced a bit of a rebirth, with revitalization on the Community Center, the opening of a new modern movie theater, and the groundbreaking of a new YMCA complex
* Dog lovers will be thrilled at the "Paw Park", a pet friendly state park that encourages interaction with our favorite best friends ( an incredible 40 parks occupy the relatively little town of Venice, amazing in their diversity)
* Venice Main Street offers quaint "old time" events including Christmas walks complete with sidewalk carolers and hot chocolate. Year round, Main Street is reminiscent of the way things used to be, with unique "mom and pops" and ice cream parlors dotting the tree lined avenue.
All of this is within 20 miles of Sarasota's vibrant downtown, making Venice a terrfic place to consider for your family, your retirement, or your vacation.
Sarasota Arts & Events Make it Special
There are hundreds of miles of white sand beaches in Florida (although some would argue Siesta Key the best!) There are many places to watch for dolphins, enjoy the sun or play some golf. But there is only one Sarasota - truly unique in its character. Sarasota's unique blend of beach life and cultural richness make it the perfect place to consider calling home.
This is not a suprise to anyone living here, but important to those considering a move. Recently, Sarasota and Sarasota County was once again named Per Capita Arts Capital of Florida by Southern Living magazine. Long hailed as a cultural haven, Sarasota just keeps getting better - visitors and residents alike can enjoys literally hundreds of events at venues such as Sarasota symphony, Sarasota opera, Van Wezel Broadway Shows & concerts, John Ringling Museums, Sarasota Ballet, Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota Music Festival, Banyan Theater Company, Tampa Performing Arts, Sarasota Film Society, Venice Little Theater, Manatee Players, Circus Sarasota, G Wiz Museum, Golden Apple Theater, Sailor Circus, Players Theater, Sarasota Jazz Club, Burns Court, & Towles Court art communities.
There are gallery walks on Friday nights, popular outdoor art exhibits (don't miss the exhibit currently on display at Island Park "Embracing our Differences" ) and even an eclectic Farmers Market to stroll through on a beautiful sunny Saturday morning- enjoy some coffee, buy fresh produce and meet local artists. Whether the Selby Gardens Sunday Night Music series sounds like a great evening, or Shakespeare on the Bay is more your style, there is no excuse in Sarasota for not expanding your horizons and experiencing a truly special event.
This is not a suprise to anyone living here, but important to those considering a move. Recently, Sarasota and Sarasota County was once again named Per Capita Arts Capital of Florida by Southern Living magazine. Long hailed as a cultural haven, Sarasota just keeps getting better - visitors and residents alike can enjoys literally hundreds of events at venues such as Sarasota symphony, Sarasota opera, Van Wezel Broadway Shows & concerts, John Ringling Museums, Sarasota Ballet, Selby Botanical Gardens, Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota Music Festival, Banyan Theater Company, Tampa Performing Arts, Sarasota Film Society, Venice Little Theater, Manatee Players, Circus Sarasota, G Wiz Museum, Golden Apple Theater, Sailor Circus, Players Theater, Sarasota Jazz Club, Burns Court, & Towles Court art communities.
There are gallery walks on Friday nights, popular outdoor art exhibits (don't miss the exhibit currently on display at Island Park "Embracing our Differences" ) and even an eclectic Farmers Market to stroll through on a beautiful sunny Saturday morning- enjoy some coffee, buy fresh produce and meet local artists. Whether the Selby Gardens Sunday Night Music series sounds like a great evening, or Shakespeare on the Bay is more your style, there is no excuse in Sarasota for not expanding your horizons and experiencing a truly special event.
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