Downtown Sarasota

“Cocktails at Twilight” were enjoyed by a select group of Sarasota real estate brokers and residents of Beau Ciel in Sarasota. Barbara Mei, Realtor at Surfside Properties on Siesta Key was the hostess of this elegant event to introduce one of Sarasota’s most beautiful buildings.

Barbara spoke shortly of the outstanding features of Beau Ciel before turning over the podium to the building’s architect, Chuck Jones of Tampa. Chuck took the audience through the beginning concept of Beau Ciel which was originally sketched on a cocktail napkin at a meeting with the building developers. The Manager of the Hyatt Hotel, Beau Ciel’s neighbor, pointed out the amenities provided to Beau Ciel from the Hyatt, and The President of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce…

Residents of downtown Sarasota Florida love the outstanding lifestyle provided in this walking neighborhood. Downtown Sarasota condos have become more popular as the United States turns green and gas prices remain high. Prices are much lower in the downtown Sarasota area and the selection of available condos is still outstanding.

Typical amenities at some of the best buildings such as 100 Central, 1350 Main, and Plaza at Five Points include: 24 hr concierge service, secure elevators, steam rooms, fitness facility, outdoor kitchen, heated pool and spa, two party rooms, plus a catering kitchen. All of the newer condominiums offer excellent public spaces and each building’s extras vary.

Condo buildings in the downtown areas such as the Sarasota Bayfront,…

Highlighting an action packed weekend in downtown Sarasota Florida was the 2nd Annual Chilllounge Night. Residents and visitors of Sarasota filled Palm Avenue for the event. The street was turned in to a huge South Beach Style outdoor lounge. Palm Ave was lined with stylish daybeds and outdoor furniture.

Chillounge was a night to remember. A few of the night's highlights included:

• Brazilian Samba parade
• A variety of upscale food vendors and 7 cocktail bars
• Tango Performances
• Fashion Show
• Live Jazz on center stage
• and much more!

If you didn’t get there, you missed something special so mark it on your calendar for next year. The chatter in the street was this event should happen more often. Maybe…

We recently closed on the sale of Penthouse B at Hudson Crossing.  This luxury condominium was originally listed for sale at $2,650,000. The buyers we represented were able to acquire the penthouse for $1,500,000.

"UNBELIEVABLE PRICE $500,000 UNDER OWNER PAID. BRING YOUR CLIENTS NOW! WATERFRONT PENTHOUSE Expansive water views with protected deepwater boat docks, new construction never occupied on Hudson Bayou with waterfront pool and cabana. 3 Bedroom penthouse with en-suite baths 2550 square feet of designer finishes with gourmet kitchen 10 feet ceiling and plantation shutters, private elevator, 2-car garage and private rooftop deck. Surrounded on two sides by Selby Botanical Gardens walk to the Bayfront Park, downtown shops and galleries. Unique…

Warren Buffet is buying. Of course we are referring to stocks, not real estate. However, I could not help but think of the Sarasota real estate market when I read his recent quote about his investment strategy.

"A simple rule dictates my buying: Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful.  And most certainly, fear is now widespread, gripping even seasoned investors." - Warren Buffet

It reminds me of the old saying - "The rich sell when everyone else is buying and buy when everyone is selling."

The real estate market will rebound eventually. Right now there are tremendous values out there. Financially strong buyers can take advantage of the housing turmoil. The keys to finding the best deal are patience and…