Sarasota Landmark Statue Moved For Repairs
Downtown Sarasota Bystanders gather watching a crew take apart the famous (or infamous depending on who you talk to) waterfront landmark statue “Unconditional Surrender” for repairs by the artist. For those who are unfamiliar with the statue, it is a lively sculpture of a navy sailor and a nurse celebrating the end of WWII located at the Sarasota downtown waterfront. The statue was recently damaged after being struck by an errant Mercedes (only in Sarasota!).
Damage from the accident cause a 3-foot hole in the sailors foot and additional hairline cracks to the sculpture’s frame. New Jersey Artist artist Seward Johnson by it’s owner Jack Curran. The statue though very large at 26 feet is made out of a thin aluminum skin and must be moved carefully on it’s way to being repaired.
Those lucky enough to have direct bayfront views from one of the luxury condos dotting the downtown waterfront may have mixed feelings about the removal of the statue as there was some controversy when it was decided to keep the sculpture at this prominent location for a decade. Many Sarasota residents adore the expressive statue but for others it’s not really there style. Everyone really is a critic.
Whether you like the statue or think it is tacky, the statue will be gone for some time as it makes it’s way to studio for repairs and the trip back.
Sarasota Housing Starts Rise Nearly Sixty Percent
Building permits for single-family homes in Sarasota County rose nearly 60 percent in during the first quarter of 2012. That is the highest activity in almost four years.
The collective value of building permits exceeded $10 million in back to back months for the first time in four years. In addition to the increase in housing starts and a small increase in home prices, Sarasota area businesses also experienced a 9% increase in overall sales and unemployment dropped a full point. All of these indicators send a hopeful signal the Sarasota / Gulf Coast area is slowly coming out of recession.
Wells Fargo economist Mark Vitner had this to say, “The rebound in Sarasota continues a trend of the last year or so, The recovery’s beginning to gain a little bit of momentum, particularly in Florida”
Foreign buyers and wealthy investors doing cash purchases is responsible for part of the increase in real estate activity, though it should be noted many of the wealthy home buyers are not as pleased as they could be with the quality of the homes, while there are many shortsales and foreclosures available on the market many of them are in the areas hit hardest by the downturn, in fact the more desirable areas in Sarasota like downtown condos, waterfront or waterview areas, quality homes for sale are in very short supply and sell quickly when priced correctly.
While definitely not anything close to a boom, it seems the market has been corrected at least in part and we may continue to see increased real estate activity as inventory is reduced. A few home builders have needed to add workers to their payroll to adjust for the increased home buying demand. Albert Sanchez, president and co-owner of Gibraltar Homes has added 7 people 5 employees were recently added to Taylor Morrison’s West Florida division to keep up with a 35% sales increase.
Established Neighborhood vs. New Home Subdivision?
I will begin by saying that the motivation of property sellers will ultimately determine the deal you can get.
While the real estate market in Manatee and Sarasota Counties are forecast to remain soft for a while longer the unit sales are the highest they have been in three years.
The absorption rate of homes with price points between 700k and 1.5 mil is at a three year high of 4.6% (6% being a normal market) so wile the prices are slowly dropping when the inventory hits an equilibrium the prices will begin to rise, I am not an economist but I can tell you from experience that when this occurs the demand makes a quick and steep spike for a short time.
As for the difference in existing Bradenton neighborhoods vs. a new home community it should be broken into two comparable’s, first being your long term plan for the home and the actual sales factors.
First your long term plan will impact my opinion, for example if you will be selling the home once your child in finished school or you will use it as a vacation or second home or you decide to lease the property and how long you plan on keeping the property will have a great effect due to the fact that they will be building in the new home community for years to come and a private home seller cannot compete with the builders when ot comes to pricing in a still growing development.
An established neighborhood on the other hand is built out and the market is solely dictated by other sellers not a builder that has more incentives or incitements to offer a buyer so pricing historically remains higher, it’s simple supply and demand.
If your plan is to hold the property for lets speculate 15 years then the new home community my be the better option due to the “newness” factor and people wanting the next best thing.
My personal opinion is that existing community is the better 15 year option due to price point and the fact that there are no builders to compete with only other homes. So ask yourself the following few questions when shopping for your next home
1. What are your long term plans for a home in Manatee County?
2. What position will I be in if the market stays the same?
3. Is the premium for “newness” worth the risk?
Real Estate Investing it’s not rocket science.
If you are like most people who have never invested in Bradenton real estate you might think it is too difficult or the risk is too great or the biggest misconception is that it’s too expensive. Don’t get me wrong there is a lot to learn and there is always risk when it involves investing, that’s where a professional comes in.
There is a big difference between a licensed sales person and an investment specialist and the differences can be very costly if you don’t choose wisely. The principles are broken into two parts you can buy and “flip” or buy and “hold”, the preferred method for building long term wealth is to buy and hold. That’s not to say you can’t get rich by flipping Florida properties but it is expensive to get started and can be a lot riskier unless you are clairvoyant or have a rich uncle ready to give you money. Buy and hold is simple; buy, rent, re-invest, it is a repeatable process that typically takes a little longer to “get rich” but the risk is less.
There are plenty of lenders ready to lend on performing properties with as little as 20% down, the trick is to find preforming or even under-preforming properties that yield the return you are looking for. Finding these homes is where an investment specialist is critical to the process, any REALTOR can search and show homes but it takes a specialist to find the diamonds in the rough!
If you have any questions feel free to email me or call me anytime (941)920-5757. Don’t forget to visit my site to search all properties in the MLS, then email me the MLS # or address and I will run an evaluation to determine if it’s a diamond or CZ!!!!
University Park Golf & Country Club
University Park Golf & Country Club Home For Sale
A gated, master-planned community, University Park has been recognized as the “Best Community Design in America” by the National Association of Home Builders and “Best Development in Region” by the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council. The community consists of several Bradenton neighborhoods, each with its own entrance and a variety of residential options. The 27-hole course designed by Ron Garl has been called one of America’s best courses by golf magazines. University Park’s tennis and fitness center includes 11 lighted Har-Tru courts and pro shop. Other amenities include croquet, golf pro shop, golf instruction and a large golf practice area.
Rosedale Golf & Country Club
Rosedale Golf & Country Club
Located just east of I-75 on State Road 70 in Manatee County, Rosedale is a 440-acre master-planned community known for its signature boulevard of 80-foot pines and ancient oaks. Rosedale offers maintenance-free patio homes and single-family homes overlooking lakes, fairways or nature preserves. The community features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Ted McAnlis and a tennis facility with five lighted Har-Tru tennis courts. Amenities include a Junior Olympic-sized pool, a golf practice facility, private and group golf and tennis lessons, and a clubhouse with dining, fitness center, men’s and women’s locker facilities, golf and tennis pro shops and golf cart facilities.
homes for sale in Rosedale Golf & Country Club
Heritage Harbour
Heritage Harbour Home For Sale
Bordering on the Manatee River, Heritage Harbour is a U.S. Home master-planned community on more than 2,500 acres, including 200 acres of island. A magnificent lighted waterfall and lighthouse welcomes residents and guests. Amenities include the 18-hole Stoneybrook Golf Course designed by Arthur Hills and a 36-acre Central Park family-fun retreat with fishing, fishing, canoeing, a large swimming pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball court and in-line skating rink.
The Concession Golf Club & Residences
The Concession Golf Club & Residences
A private club and gated community, the Concession allows for only 236 Bradenton golf club residences on just over 1,200 acres. Pristine woodlands and waterways provide the backdrop for the Gulf Coast’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, designed in association with Tony Jacklin. The Nicklaus Manor neighborhood is an enclave of 33 homes, each set on a half-acre site. Purchase of a residence includes a Signature Membership to the club. The Birkdale and Lindrick neighborhoods offer custom estate homes one one-half to two-acre sites. Club amenities include a 23-acre practice facility with 10,000-square-foot putting green, traditional caddie program, sports clubhouse, pool, tennis courts, fitness center and croquet courts.
RE/MAX Alliance Group for Bradenton Homes For Sale in The Concession
Bradenton Conominiums In in 34205
River Dance – The Promenade at Riverwalk Waterfront Condo
Riverdance Bradenton Condominum
Live where the river meets downtown! Enjoy life in this new waterfront building that offers unlimited opportunities for the health enthusiast and/or the social butterfly. Building amenities include heated pool and hot tub, tennis, basketball, putting green, fitness, media center, social room, kitchen and more.
Blessed with breathtaking views of the Manatee River and the Tampa Bay, The Promenade at Riverwalk is waterfront condo living in a sophisticated urban setting. River Dance of The Promenade at Riverwalk, is exclusive and private; yet friendly and casual. River Dance offers homeowners, from all walks of life, an idyllic lifestyle, first-class amenities, peaceful ambiance, and much scenic beauty.
Designed with a Caribbean flair, River Dance’s architecture blends traditional and contemporary features. All units have designer kitchens, two covered parking spots, and verandahs. All units are designed to take advantage of panoramic water views and the cooling trade winds. Landscaping is meticulously maintained to harmonize with the area’s natural beauty.
Enter the secure building and you feel a world away from the stresses of daily life. The waterfront’s natural beauty surrounds you. Experience remarkable sunrises and sunsets. Observe beautiful birds and Manatees. See dolphins playing and fish jumping. The palms are swaying in the island breeze. Tropical flowers are everywhere. River Dance is a haven of relaxation, unlike any place on earth.
Riverdance Bradenton Condo Redering
River Dance is managed by Atlantic & Pacific Management Company, an experienced property management firm, and our On-Site Property Manager is Pattie Wasil. Homeowners often volunteer on committees, such as social, amenities, website and newsletter to keep create a friendly camaraderie among the residents. The social room is reserved monthly for a residents Wine and Cheese party. Popular movies are hosted twice a month in our high-definition Media Center.
River Dance a Bradenton Condominium
River Oaks Condos – On The Manatee River In Bradenton Florida
River Oaks Bradenton Condos
Located on the RIVER FRONT/RIVER WALK near the library, Play House and Museam area,conviently within walking distance to everything!
The River Oaks Condominium is located near downtown Bradenton, a library, museum and, of course, the river walk. The majority of the condos are two-bedroom, two-bath units and are for sale, typically between $90,000 and $110,000. The condos are located right off the Manatee River, about five miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Also, the condos are a minute away from First Street, which becomes a bridge over the Manatee River and leads to Palmetto and St. Petersburg.
5 Affordable Neighborhoods For Bradenton Homes in Golf Communities
Looking for a great golf or gated community in Bradenton? Below are 10 of the best places to live for golf community living.
10 – Greenfield Plantation
In the heart of Manatee County just minutes from I-75 at State Route 64 lies The Links at Greenfield Plantation. The Links combines the rare mix of affordability with championship golf, outstanding course conditions and natural beauty. Generous landing areas off of the tee are coupled with well bunkered undulating greens as the course weaves its way through wildlife rich wetlands and lakes. Regardless of which of the four sets of tees you choose, The Links provides just the right amount of challenge in a relaxed and friendly environment.
homes for sale in Greenfield Plantation – Bradenton FL
9 – Peridia Golf and Country Club
Peridia Golf & Country Club is a country club and Bradenton golf course, full-service restaurant and bar, and Bradenton banquet/wedding facility. The course is considered Manatee County’s Premier Executive Golf Course. Redesigned by Jed Azinger and Gordon Lewis with newly renovated greens, it offers a challenge to all skill levels and the ability to play within three hours. Whether you’ll be walking or riding, our course is the perfect distance for every player including seniors, and families with young children. Our recently renovated clubhouse featuring the Terrace on the Green Restaurant offers weekly entertainment and a popular Sunday Brunch. Members and non-members can relax and enjoy dining in casual elegance while taking in views of the 18th green. We invite you to come experience Manatee County’s best kept secret. We are members in good standing with the USGA, The Audubon Sanctuary Cooperative Program and the Manatee Chamber of Commerce.
homes for sale in Peridia Golf & Country Club, Bradenton FL
8 – River Isles
premier community for vibrant adults 55 and better, River Isles is located just minutes from I-75, the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport, the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and many attractions. River Isles, a deed-restricted community of well-maintained, single family homes located along the Braden River, with quiet streets and a private community-owned golf course, has something for everyone.
he well-maintained executive length River Isles Golf Course has surprises for every player—both the novice and the experienced.
· 1st hole – a 205-yard (from white tees) Par 3
· 8th hole – a tree lined 211-yard (from white tees) Par 3
· 9th hole – only 111 yards, but water on left and behind a slightly elevated green
· Compact greens test one’s short game
· Water on 7 of the 9 holes
· Fairways bordered by houses, trees, fences
Residents of River Isles may join the River Isles Golf Association for a low annual fee of $480 per player. Play is unlimited—daily, weekly, yearly—no tee times required. Members may ride their own golf carts from their homes to the course. There is a nominal trail fee. A few rental carts are also available for course use. Limited number of Associate memberships is available for non-residents.
River Isles homes for sale, Bradenton FL
7 – Tara Golf and Country Club
Tara Golf & Country Club is located on the central west coast of Florida in the city of Bradenton. It is situated a few miles north of Sarasota and approximately forty miles south of Tampa. Tara is one-quarter mile west of Interstate 75 off of State Road 70, Exit 217, and is conveniently located to beaches, shopping centers, theaters, museums, and theme parks. The Sarasota/Bradenton International Airport is only a 15-minute drive, and Tampa International Airport is approximately 50 minutes driving distance.
Strategically located to major Florida attractions
- 14 miles to Gulf of Mexico Beaches
- 45 miles to Busch Gardens, Tampa
- 130 miles to Walt Disney World
- 180 miles to Kennedy Space Center
homes for sale in Tara Golf & Country Club, Bradenton FL
6 – Stoneybrook Golf Club at Heritage Harbour
Designed by top course designer Arthur Hills, Stoneybrook Golf Club at Heritage Harbour is truly a memorable test of championship caliber golf. The 18-hole, par-72 course plays through a landscape highlighted by mature woods, wetland preserves, ponds, and lakes creating a wonderful blend of strategic risk/reward holes.
It’s a true golfers course encouraging a wide verity of clubs and shots to put yourself in the correct position for your approach.
Stoneybrook Golf Club at Heritage Harbour homes for sale, Bradenton FL
5 – Waterlefe Golf And River Club
The Waterlefe® Golf Clubhouse and the Waterlefe® River Club offer two separate facilities where golfing and dining experiences begin in this beautiful, riverside community.
For tee times, golf merchandise, golf instruction, Grille Room casual dining, memberhship information and administrative assistance, the Golf Clubhouse is located adjacent to the first tee and to the right of the practice range.
For more elegant dining alternatives, special events, Fitness Center, swimming pool, administrative services and the Pointe family-gathering area, the River Club is situated atop a rise overlooking the majestic Manatee river.s, special events, Fitness Center, swimming pool, administrative services and the Pointe family-gathering area, the River Club is situated atop a rise overlooking the majestic Manatee river.
Waterlefe Golf And River Club homes for sale, Bradenton FL