Debra
can not compare at allexcept for the fact that they are on the same side of the florida on the gulf of mexico. you are talking a differerence of about 2 hrs. So it is like comparing 2 major cities in your area. you really have to come down and get a feel for both. sarasota has alot more culture and art activities than Cape Coral, the beaches are different, people are differnent, restaurants, everything is different.
if you are looking for 75,000 or less metter chance in an area like north port. you can find homes/condos in sarasota for 75,000 but most if not all will need work
David Leventhal

Hi Debra,

I believe it is very important to work with a realtor who is knowledgeable about the area you are considering purchasing in. Buying a home is a very big commitment and someone who knows the town well, will have insight into every aspect of living in the community. They will know all the pluses and negatives about each area and be able to advise you with expertise.

It would be very advisable to find a realtor in each of these areas. Most agents will know other agents in these areas they can refer you to that will help.

It is important to work with a realtor who knows the local area, yes.

It is my strong contention that you are buying a lifestyle , not just a home. Therefore, it is important to understand the town into which you are buying.

I am very well versed in Venice and Sarasota, and have colleagues who work in North Port and Cape Coral. I would be happy to speak with you regarding your move, and give you any insight you may require. (941) 737-9189

Based on your responses, does it make sense to work with three realtors - one for cape coral, one for north port & one for sarasota?

Hi Debra - as all your responses have been from Sarasota - mine included - you may see a definite bias. The thing is, in my opinion there is simply no place like Sarasota anywhere else in Florida. Clients of mine who have been trying to pick between Sarasota and any other city have always landed here. There really is no comparison. I moved here 8 years ago after much research, and it was a fabulous decision.

Bill & Terri has brought up some good points, I would like to also offer another possible reason to look here -resale value. Because Sarasota has so many amenities, such a rich culture, a world famous beach, and so much to do, it is my firm belief that we are less affected by, and are recovering quicker from the housing crisis. Although you are just now looking to purchase, I assume one day you will hope to sell, or at least feel good about your purchase. Although it is just my opinion, I truly beleive Sarasota properties will retain and recover value much better than those hard hit areas of Florida, Cape Coral being one.

Bill is right that you will get more home for the money in Cape Coral or North Port, but remember you will have to step out your front door. Your best bet is to visit and experience the towns first hand. You may have to scale back in Sarasota, but you wont regret having a place here. Best of luck.

Debra,

In your price range you will most certainly get a bigger "bang for your buck" in the Cape Coral location that is one hardest hit "foreclosure" locations in the country.

On the other hand, there is no comparison to the advantage the Sarasota area has when it comes to "quality of life" for it's residents.

With the information you have provided, it is difficult to give you a good answer. More specific information would be beneficial.

By considering a location midway between Cape Coral and Sarasota..............North Port, there are some wonderful opportunities. For example, a week ago we closed on a single family home built in 2001, 3/2/2 in move in condition that sold for $59,500. There similar opportunities in the $75,000 range.

Give us a call...we welcome the opportunity to review your options further.

Good luck
Susan & Bill Eckler

Michael Saunders & Company
billeckler@michaelsaunders.com
941-408-5363

Hi Debra, My knowledge of the Cape Coral market is limited but I can tell you about Sarasota. Perhaps one of my colleagues on this site can better answer you on Cape Coral.

Sarasota is a beautiful little city with big city ideas and things to do. We are known for our cultural activities as well as our world class beaches. Besides all of the outdoor things you find in all Florida towns, such as tennis, boating, golf and, or, etc; we also have world class art museums and many assortment of theaters (The Asolo, The Florida Studio Theater, The Golden Apple Dinner Theater, The Player’s Theater. Just to name a few). Just google them along with the Ringling Museum or Ca da’ Zan. The Tibble Learning Center and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. If that is not enough to wet your appetite, look up Mote Marine, Marina Jacks and Sailors Circus and then Ringling College, New College and FSU. Sarasota also sports one of the best beaches in the world, Siesta Key Beach.

The coast of Sarasota is dotted with many little islands each with their own unique charm. The waterways going to and from form some of the most picturesque vistas imaginable. Downtown Sarasota has a plethora of fine restaurants and outdoor eating cafe’s where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or bottle of wine with good friends after work.

You may find that housing is some what more expensive in Sarasota but the market the way it is... We could possibly help you out in your price range.

My best to you wherever you end up.
Terri

Teresa M. Fellows
Broker/Associate
Waterside Realty LLC
942-350-4297
Tmf4257@mac.com http://www.floridawestproperties.com