THE GRENIER GROUP

Hi Karla, Cedar Creek is a great family neighborhood with more established homes with larger rooms and lots of charm. The community has trees and space between the homes, which more of the newer communities do not have. I like the area because it is not only close to downtown, but also because University Parkway continues to be a growing corridor with lots of new homes, shopping, hotels, businesses and restaurants. This area (Universite Parkway) is probably one of the most sought after areas in Sarasota/Manatee. Homes south of University Parkway are in Sarasota County, and those north of University Parkway are in Manatee County - with a Sarasota address. Home values are adjusting back to more realistic levels, which is good for any buyer. Do not be weary of this because it is happening in all communities, not just here in our area, but across the nation. There should be many good opportunities in Cedar Creek for you. Good luck in your home search. (By the way, I lived in Kaneohe for three years and my eldest son was born at Tripler Hospital. Sarasota is similar in many ways to Hawaii. You will love it here!)
Nancy - Sun Oct 12 2008, 06:08

Hi Hank, Lake Sarasota is located just east of I-75 off Bee Ridge (a major east west corridor). There are two distinct areas in Lake Sarasota - a newer section and an older section. Some of the home in th older section have been fixed up and updated. Some of the homeowners keep their properties up, but others are not so conscientious. Most of Lake Sarasota does not have deed restrictions. As for values, during the boom they were high, but have recently dropped back to a more reasonable level. Do you know the age of the property you are inquiring about. If you would like, I could take a drive by or even check it out for you if it is on the market. Let me know if I can be of assistance. Nancy - Tue Sep 30 2008, 04:44

Hello, There is no exact percentage that is the rule of thumb. A lot depends on the home, location, length of time on the market and several other conditions. Your first offer could start about 10% off the list price and work up from there. If the seller is anxious/desperate to sell, he may not counter. There is no real magic number. Also, you have to decide how badly you want this house and make a realistic offer. Many homes have had considerable price reductions already and perhaps their asking price is reasonable. Ask you agent to do a market analysis for you, see what sales were like in the same development over the last 3 months for a home that is similar in size and bedrooms. Look also at what is on the market, although the current active inventory is not a true reflection of what a property is worth. Basically, the market analysis and ultimately the bank appraisal will determine its value. If you are financing your home, the bank appraisal will determine how much the lender will loan against this home. Good luck in your home search. I think you can find a great home in the area you describe. - Wed Sep 24 2008, 05:31

Hi Woody, Glad to hear that you have selected Sarasota for your future home. Sarasota, as you know, is a great community, has a great location, wonderful beaches, a walk able downtown area, great cultural activities and superb restaurants.

If I were looking for an agent to help me buy a home, I would want an agent that I have a good rapport with and that has great communication skills. Whether they are buyer's agents or not should not be your primary concern. I would look for a reputable agent, a company that provides their agents with suburb training, a person who you can trust and one that can guide you throughout the entire process of home buying. You will need an agent with experience in today's market and one that will look out for your best interest. Work with someone who is knowledgeable in all aspects of real estate - not just buying and selling, but also with current market trends and conditions - these are very unusual times. You, of course, want to be upfront with your realtor, and provide them all the information on you, your family and your wants and needs. Working with the right agent is important because you are putting a lot of trust and faith in this person - the one who will ultimately help you find that special home that is just what you are looking for. After you have selected a few agents to interview, and before you decide to hire any of them, check with their past clients. A good recommendation will add credence to your decision. (Some agents put on a good show, but a client who has worked with them over the course of several weeks or months and can give you insight as to how they handle a variety of situations.)

In any event, pick one that suits your needs and that you feel comfortable with. The agent also has to have a good feeling about working with you; after all you are entering into a long-term relationship.

Best of luck to you and your family in your upcoming move to Sarasota! - Sat Sep 20 2008, 11:34

Hi Patella, Your choice of Sarasota is right on a great choice as we have a very vibrant city with lots of cultural activities, wonderful beaches, fabulous dining, a very walkable downtown area with shops and galleries and lots of things to do. Three areas stand out in my mind that would be excellent areas...Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch and also around the University Park area. Lee Wetherington is an excellent builder and he has built homes that meet your needs in these areas. Also, these areas would hold their values and are good for resale, as they are in good school districts. - Wed Sep 3 2008, 12:25