Why didn't you show me this one?

As exclusive buyer agents, we look at a lot of property. We research neighborhoods, scour county records, and run out to preview homes that look like great deals as soon as they are listed. We pride ourselves in knowing the current inventory in Sarasota.

Often people will call us and give us their criteria, asking for our assistance in finding a great property. Criteria usually includes price range, monthly budget, lifestyle preference, and size of home. Most often, I begin to visualize great options before I even open up the search screen.

Because of the great tools on the internet, folks can search on their own. This is valuable to us, because we can begin to see those types of properties that catch your eye. The most common question I get, though, is "Why didn't you send me these homes? (see attached link) They look great!"

The answer lies in access. I simply have more access, and more information, than you do when looking at listings. It's a perk of the license. The most common reasons I didn't send you the "perfect home at the almost unbelievable price" include:

1) The home isn't in Sarasota. Yes, I know the listing says it is. But it isn't. Sometimes listing agents put a more desirable address on a property. You can't tell its 30 miles away and 15 miles from a beach. But I can.

2) It's a short sale. Some clients are well educated on the short sale process and are willing to take on the challenge, and the waiting game. Many others do not have the time luxury to wait around months for a bank. Unfortunately, the listing that you see doesn't always say that the crazy low price you see is actually not bank approved. If you are looking to buy within a time frame, a short sale is not for you. But you can't see the status.

3) I know why its so cheap. It backs up to a major road, or is located next door to a garbage dump. Or it may just have really small lot sizes. Whatever the reason, you have told me your criteria, and I know this won't cut it for you.

4) Country clubs cost money. In this market, many of the homes in the country clubs have dropped in price dramatically, making lovely homes seem too good to be true. But while the home is great, and the community is awesome, there is a required membership fee to the club - and what I have learned in in most cases, only the most avid golfer is willing to pay a membership fee that seems pricey given the price of the home. By the same token, some condos have low prices, and sky high condo fees. These are often not evident on your information.

5) Your kids, your dog, or your work truck are not welcome there - That sounds terrible, but 55+ communities often will not allow occupants under 18, many places have pet policies, or HOA rules. Based on what you told me, I know you aren't moving here without your dog - or your kids! :) So I didn't include the property. Another spin on this is when you are looking for investment/rental property, and the association does not allow rentals.

I understand that when you see a home that looks fantastic, you want to know the information on it! And I am happy to provide it. Just know that we are working diligently behind the scenes, looking at every listing, evaluating if it is good for one of our folks, and sending it along to you. We are also screening the homes that may look good on the surface, but we know to be contrary to your needs or budget.

Together, well find a great Sarasota home.