Thursday, September 24, 2009

Sarasota Home Sales Up Sharply in August

Sales in Sarasota-Bradenton increased 23% in August, compared to the same month a year ago. At the same time, the medium price fell 25% during that time. it now stands at $164,200 for the Sarasota & Bradenton area.

Throughout Florida, the same trend of increased sales and lower prices prevailed. Statewide, the median price fell 22% while sales increased 28%.

As predicted by many of us, lower prices are leading to higher sales volume. Buyers once priced out of the super-heated real estate market are returning to claim their place in the sun!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Good News continues for Sarasota's real estate market

It is becoming increasingly obvious that Sarasota is becoming a hot place to buy property again. Numerous national articles, along with "word on the street" point to a sustainable recovery well under way. There are many well priced properties on the market among many over-priced properties. It is very important to enlist the services of a local Realtor who knows the area and has the experience to guide you in your search.
In some neighborhoods, the bottom has been here and gone and your best opportunity was actually winter and spring of this year. A case in point; A fellow Realtor listed a house last month in Southgate and based her price recommendation on comparable sales from May. The list price of $116,000 brought over 30 showings in less than a week, along with five offers over the list price. This is a basic 2/2 in need of updating. I showed it myself and it was nothing special. The good news for the seller is, instead of a short sale as they had expected, the property will be sold for enough to pay off all liens and avoid the need to short sale. Good news for all parties involved.
- Michael James