Real Estate

The Sarasota, Longboat Key and Siesta Key real estate markets are among the largest and most affluent markets in Florida. More than 200,000 people now call these communities home, and the area is growing at a rate four times faster than the national average. What makes these communities so popular? The list seems endless – a warm climate, pristine beaches, world-class cultural attractions and a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities are just a few reasons why so many people are moving to the area and investing in the Sarasota, Siesta Key and Longboat Key real estate markets.

Buying a Home in the Sarasota Area
Many people invest in Sarasota real estate to live near the 35 miles of white sand beaches that have made the city famous. Sunbathing, swimming, sailing, water skiing and fishing are all popular pastimes along the beaches of Sarasota Bay. For a more secluded atmosphere, Longboat Key real estate has the reputation as a “private island paradise,” where residents can enjoy subtropical breezes and long walks along the beach in relative privacy. But the most pristine beaches in Sarasota can be found in Siesta Key. Comprised of finely-crushed quartz, Siesta Key has been named one of the World’s Best Beaches by the Travel Channel for two straight years.

Prices for homes near the beach vary depending on size and features. Large gulf front estates are usually the most expensive. A 12,000 square-foot 10-bedroom, 12-bath home overlooking Sarasota Bay recently went on the market for $12.9 million. A smaller five-bedroom, six-bath home with a private dock is listed at $8.25 million. Gulf front condominiums in the communities of Longboat Key and Siesta Key are much more affordable. Besides offering residents access to miles of beachfront, these luxury condominiums also come with a host of amenities, such as community swimming pools, private clubhouses and on-site fitness centers. A typical two-bedroom, two-bath oceanfront condominium in Longboat Key or Siesta Key can be yours for around $1.5 million.

Besides gulf front living, Sarasota real estate also offers residents the opportunity to live near some of the finest golf courses in the United States. The Bobby Jones Golf Complex, for example, is a 45-hole municipal complex that has been a regular stop on both the PGA and LPGA. Homes around some of these golf courses are surprisingly affordable. A 2,500 square-foot three-bedroom, two-bath home adjacent to both the Misty Creek Country Club and Gator Creek Golf Course can be yours for $725,000. Prices for golf course properties in Longboat Key are even more affordable. A 2,100 square-foot three-bedroom, two-bath home near Harbourside Golf Club is listed at $649,000.

Sarasota, Longboat Key and Siesta Key also have plenty of traditional homes for sale. But you’d better hurry! Sarasota real estate prices are on the rise – the median home price in Sarasota is now almost $360,000, up more than 40 percent since 2003. Longboat Key real estate prices are typically higher. The median home price in Longboat Key is around $420,000. Siesta Key real estate prices are somewhat lower. The median home price in Siesta Key is listed at $269,000.