Articles Tagged "Siesta Key"

Centrally located with easy access to the Gulf, Sarasota Bay, and a wide variety of local waterways, Siesta Key is a sailor's dream. Whether you're new to sailing with a desire to learn the ropes or you've been spending time on the water for decades, you'll feel right at home with the sailing community in Southwest Florida. Ready to set sail into a new year? Our real estate agents have the details on all that you can look forward to when sailing near Siesta Key in 2022.

If you love spending time around the water, then the beaches and waterways near Siesta Key homes for sale offer endless opportunities for your outdoor excursions. As a barrier island, Siesta Key offers easy access to the water, along with a collection of outstanding marinas where you can ensure that your sailboat is always ready for your next adventure.

• Learning to Sail
  New to sailing and excited about living in a community where you can pursue a new passion for spending time on the water? Many of the marinas and sailing charter companies around Siesta Key offer excellent educational programs that can teach you everything you need to know to enjoy life on the water. Build your skills with classes for all experience levels, learn the specifics of navigating local waterways, and get certified to pilot a wide variety of watercraft.
  
  
• Local Marinas
  Siesta Key is also a welcoming place for anyone who already owns a watercraft or is shopping for a new one. There are countless local marinas that help you keep your craft in top shape and provide a place to set sail whenever you please. And it's not just about maintenance or convenience. Many local marinas are home to vibrant communities that make it easy to connect with other sailing enthusiasts.
  
  
• Easy Access to the Water on Bayou Louise
  Marinas are great, but what about when you want to set sail from a dock in your backyard? Bayou Louise, which runs through the northern edge of Siesta Key, is a protected waterway that provides easy access to Sarasota Bay and tons of other local waterways. If you're shopping for a home that makes it easy to spend time on the water, the area around Bayou Louise is the perfect place to start.
  
  
• Tons of Nearby Waterways to Explore
  One of the great things about living in Siesta Key is that it's centrally located near so many other great coastal communities and waterways. You're likely to spend plenty of time on nearby Sarasota Bay as you pass by Sarasota homes for sale. Then there's the scenic Manatee River, which runs past Bradenton homes for sale and provides access to tons of smaller waterways along the coast. There are multiple smaller bays to explore before you reach Tampa Bay, and of course, the Gulf of Mexico is always waiting for you.
  
  
• Beaches, Fresh Seafood, and So Much More
  There's plenty to enjoy when you're on solid ground around Siesta Key as well, with all of the attractions that you'd expect from a coastal Florida community and so much more. Needless to say, the beaches are pristine, the local, waterfront seafood restaurants are second to none, and the sunsets are so spectacular that you'll want to watch them every single evening.

Searching for a home that makes it easy to enjoy time on the water around Siesta Key? Our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Siesta Key, FL area.

People are flocking to the Sarasota area! Statistics recently released by the U.S. Census Bureau show that between 2010 and 2020, Sarasota's growth rate was nearly double that of the nation as a whole. While the growth rate of the U.S. population over the 10-year period was 7.4%, Sarasota grew at 14.4%, and nearby Manatee County grew at a shocking 23.8%.

Every day, our real estate agents work with buyers who are competing for the best Sarasota homes for sale. What is it about this area that's so attractive? From gorgeous weather to award-winning beaches, there's so much to love about living in the Sarasota area. Here's a closer look at some of the most important benefits. 

• No State Income Tax
  The lack of a state income tax is one of the biggest benefits of living in Florida. Since so many visitors come to Florida each year, they pay the taxes for us! Tourists pay a 7% sales tax on the state level. On the county level, hotel stays and short-term property rentals are also subject to a 5% tourism tax. While this may seem annoying when you're visiting, once you become a resident, you'll love being able to hold onto your hard-earned dollars. 

• Strong Job and Employment Market
  If you're still working, you'll be glad to know that the Sarasota area has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. Some of the top industries in the area include healthcare, hospitality, education, professional services, retail, and trades. 

• Culture and Performing Arts
  From the Ringling Museum and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to the Sarasota Ballet and the Van Wezel Performing Art Center, there are many diverse cultural and performing arts attractions in the area. In fact, Sarasota has been named Florida's "Cultural City," thanks to its active theatrical and performing arts scene. 

• Incredible Dining Options
  There are almost countless dining venues and drinking establishments in the Sarasota area. From incredible fine dining and casual cafes to upscale wine bars to local breweries, there's something here for everyone. Some of the most popular entertainment destinations in the area include Siesta Key, Downtown Sarasota, St. Armand's Circle, and Lakewood Ranch. 

• Award-Winning Beaches
  Sarasota's beaches receive recognition nationwide. Siesta Key Beach has been named the number one beach in America multiple times thanks to its powdery, sugar-like sand. Other beaches throughout the county are also some of the most popular in the state of Florida.  

• A Year-Round Playground
  Sarasota has an average of 251 sunny days each year and an average year-round temperature of 73 degrees. It's the perfect location for anyone who enjoys being out on the water boating, kayaking, or swimming. The city of Sarasota was also named the #1 Best Place to Retire nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. 

• Affordable Real Estate
  Despite all of these incredible benefits, real estate in Sarasota and Bradenton is still relatively affordable. In fact, many residents find that owning a home here is often less expensive than renting. At the beginning of 2021, the average home price here was $319,793, and the median rent was $1,995 per month.

Finding your dream home in Florida can be a challenge, but it's much easier when you work with a great agent. The experts at Wagner Realty have access to all the best Sarasota and Bradenton homes for sale, and we want to help you! Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started. 

Sarasota and Manatee Counties feature many fun places to dine, many of which offer fresh local seafood and fabulous water views. Some will also let you bring your dog with you as you enjoy their restaurant.

Our real estate agents suggest taking your pooch to the following dog-friendly restaurants in the Sarasota and Manatee area:

1. Sun Garden Cafe - 210 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key, FL 34242
   Sun Garden Cafe, which serves lunch and dinner, offers locally caught fish, locally grown produce, farm-fresh eggs, and artisan foods from around the world. Feel free to wear your flip-flops and dine inside or outside. Well-behaved dogs are always welcome, so if you buy one of our Siesta Keys homes for sale, you can bring your pooch with you.
   
   
2. Owens Fish Camp - 516 Burns Ct #7030, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Located near Sarasota homes for sale, Owens Fish Camp brings in local fish from the Bay every day. The atmosphere is casual old Florida, where you can try a craft beer with your seafood and eat at one of the front porch tables with your dog. A huge Banyan tree out front and a tire swing out back add to the laid-back, comfortable vibe.
   
   
3. Turtle Beach Grill - 8865 Midnight Pass Road, Sarasota, FL 34242
   Located across from Turtle Beach near Sarasota homes for sale, the Turtle Beach Grill has dog-friendly dining on their outside patio deck. You'll be able to enjoy live entertainment on the deck Thursdays-Sundays from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Visit the Turtle Beach Grill for lunch, dinner, or drinks, and you can even arrive by boat and dock at Bayfront Yachtworks.
   
   
4. Gulf Drive Cafe - 900 Gulf Drive North, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
   The Gulf Drive Cafe has been a popular fixture in Bradenton Beach since 1981, and it's easy to see why. The dog-friendly restaurant offers amazing views since it sits on 2 acres of waterfront on the Gulf of Mexico near Bradenton Beach homes for sale. Fresh seafood is a mainstay of the lunch and dinner menus, and while you're enjoying your meal, you can also have a cold cocktail and listen to live entertainment. And if you time it right, you can catch a multi-colored sunset from your restaurant view.
   
   
5. The Waterfront Restaurant & Craft Bar - 111 South Bay Blvd., Anna Maria, FL 34216
   Whether you have a picky or an adventurous palate, you'll find something to love at The Waterfront Restaurant & Craft Bar, located near Anna Maria homes for sale. Utilizing fresh, natural flavors, the restaurant serves recognizable favorites as well as rare seasonal items. Try a selection from the micro-brew and wine bar and sit at the open-air patio that has views of Tampa Bay.

Even pets love calling the Sunshine State home! Contact us today to learn more about what homeowners enjoy about living in the Sarasota and Manatee area. 

Spring is in the air, and that can only mean one thing... farm-fresh produce isn't far behind! It's something we look forward to every year. 

Of course, here in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, the growing season never really ends. But the arrival of spring still has our real estate agents excited to hit these local farmers markets in search of the freshest crops of spring. For fresh produce this season, be sure to stop by these local markets. 

1. Oneco Farmers Market - 5108 15th St E Unit 501, Bradenton, FL 34203
   The Oneco Farmers Market is one of those places where you truly never know what you might find. Sure there are the staples, like fresh fruits and vegetables from some of Florida's finest growers. But this market also hosts vendors of all kinds, offering an astonishing variety of handmade crafts and unique foods. Located in a former big-box store just minutes from these Bradenton homes for sale, the Oneco Farmers Market is a true gem in Manatee County. 
   
   
2. Sarasota Farmers Market - 1517 State St Suite 103, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Established in 1979, the Sarasota Farmers Market is one of the oldest markets in the area and one of the most reliable. They're open every Saturday, rain or shine, from 7 am to 1 pm. The market also features a dizzying array of vendors, offering everything from farm-fresh produce and house plants to artisan baked goods and organic skincare products. It's truly an incredible place to find just about anything, and it's mere footsteps from many Sarasota homes for sale.
   
   
3. Detwiler's Farmer's Market - 2881 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34231
   Fresh, healthy food is never hard to come by at Detwiler's Farmer's Market. Not only do they have prime fruits and vegetables of every kind imaginable, but also a full-service butcher shop and seafood shop, an Amish-style deli, natural groceries, a wellness department, and a farmhouse bakery. There's even an old-fashioned ice cream shop that serves amazing local ice cream. Or stop by their other locations, including one near Palmetto homes for sale. 
   
   
4. Siesta Key Farmers Market - 5104 Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, FL 34242
   Open in Siesta Village every Sunday from 8 am until 12 pm, the Siesta Key Farmers Market is always a fun place to browse in search of something special. You'll find homemade candles, local honey, specialty teas and coffees, paintings and crafts from local artists, handmade jewelry, and artisan soaps. And of course, you can always count on local farmers to bring in their latest crops. The offerings here often change with the seasons, so you'll want to visit Siesta Key Farmers Market again and again. 
   
   
5. Bradenton Farmers Market - 400 12th St W, Bradenton, FL 34205
   The Downtown Bradenton Farmers Market is a favorite destination for Bradenton locals. Open every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm on Old Main Street, it's more than just a place to buy fresh fruits and veggies. It's a social event, a central gathering place, and a crucial part of the community. The market offers live entertainment, games and activities, amazing food, and of course, an astonishing array of vendors selling everything under the sun. 

We just love springtime in Florida! Contact us to learn more about life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties, and be sure to ask our team about finding your Florida dream home today.

The Internet has made planning vacations a breeze. But along with the ease of booking travel and accommodation on the web, we've also seen a rise in the incidence of vacation scams. 

It's all too easy to be fooled into thinking that a great bargain for a beautiful vacation property you're trying to rent is for real, when in fact, you've been had by scammers who have taken your money and run with it.

Here are 6 tips that can help you avoid vacation rental scams while you're booking your dream vacation.

Avoiding Vacation Rental Scams

1. Too Good to be True?
   You know the old truism: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Scammers try to reel you in with deeply discounted vacation rentals. All too often, these properties do not exist, or if they do, they belong to someone else. Be sure to check pricing on similar rental properties in the same location to see if the price is realistic.
   
   
2. Does the Property Really Exist?
   As mentioned earlier, it's possible the property doesn't even exist. The scammer may have grabbed a picture from another website or is using an address from another property. You can try to verify that the property exists with a couple of Google searches.
   
   
3. Research the Owner
   Research the owner's name, address of the property, and images. Check out the owner of the rental website, as well as the individual who pays property taxes. Beware if you are asked to pay rent in full by wire transfer.
   
   
4. Pay Attention to the URL
   Scammers want you to move from the vacation rental website's communication system to a fake website. Check the URL. 
   
   
5. Use a Credit Card
   Scammers commonly ask for payment by Western Union, cash, check, or wire transfer before arrival. This is a great way to lose your money, without the possibility of recovery. A wire transfer allows the scammer to move funds to another bank account, close the first one, and take your money and run.
   
   
6. Rent a Property with a Traceable History
   Best bet: rent from someone you know, or go by recommendation from a trusted source. Renting from professional management companies that specialize in vacation apartments and/or cottages is another good bet. Looking for a short-term rental on Florida's Gulf Coast? That's our specialty! We believe planning a vacation should be a breeze, that's why our team is here to help you find a short-term or long-term rental perfect for your family! We've been a top choice for Gulf Coast house and condo rentals for years.

Our experienced team is here to help with your vacation planning! With 8 offices, our team has plenty of Florida properties to choose from for your vacation. Plus, our Anna Maria Island office has been open for over 80 years! 

• Anna Maria Island
• Lakewood Ranch
• SR 64 East
• Corporate
• Longboat Key
• Sarasota (First Street)
• El Conquistador Parkway
• Manatee Avenue West

Or if you're looking to move here permanently, our team can show you Bradenton and Sarasota homes for sale. Contact us today to book your trip in the Florida sunshine.

Renovations are a great way to keep your home up to date, to add value, and to compete with other Bradenton homes for sale when it comes time. Unfortunately, many homeowners put off updating their homes because of how complicated it is to get work done when you have pets. Here are a few suggestions for keeping your pets safe and minimizing stress so that you can do the work when it's needed.

1. Find a safe place.
   Workers tend to leave doors and gates open, and honestly, it's not their job to watch out for your pets. The best thing for everyone is for you to find a safe place to keep your pet while workers are in the house. This might be a back bedroom, or it might be a crate. Try to include some things to keep your pet comfortable, like their favorite bed, blanket, or toys, plus necessities like food, water, and a litter box.
   
   
2. Make sure everyone knows.
   Definitely let contractors know where you'll be keeping your pet, so they make sure not to let them out. As a precaution, if you're keeping your pet loose in a closed-off room, post a sign on the door reminding everyone to be careful opening the door.
   
   
3. Do a safety check at the end of the day.
   Once the workers leave for the day, you'll likely be in a hurry to let your pet out so they can enjoy some freedom for the evening. But wait! Before opening that door or crate, do a walk-through of all the areas where the contractors have been throughout the day. Make sure doors, windows, and gates are all closed, and be sure there are no safety hazards such as sharp objects or loose wires.
   
   
4. Know the schedule.
   It's also important to know where the contractors will be and what they'll be working on each day if only to make sure that you don't inadvertently put your pet in a room they need access to. Check-in regularly and make sure you know if there are any delays or changes in the schedule. In fact, it's probably in your best interest for a lot of reasons to know these things, and not only for the safety of your pet.
   
   
5. Consider getting your pet out of the house.
   In some ways, having renovations done is a little like showing your home while it's on the market. Some homeowners leave their pets locked up in a room, but our real estate agents always appreciate it when pets are removed from the home. That way no one has to watch out for your pet, and it may minimize your pet's stress, too. Consider boarding your pets, or asking a friend or relative to keep them at their place during the day when the workers are there. Dogs could also be dropped off at doggy daycare, or if you have a job that allows it, brought to work with you.

Keeping your home up-to-date compared to other Sarasota homes for sale is an important part of owning property. If you're ready to list your home for sale, or even if you just have questions about what renovations you'll need to do before selling, contact us today, and one of our agents will help guide you through the process.

If your kitchen is beginning to look a bit outdated or things just aren't working as well as they used to, you might be wondering if it's time to upgrade your appliances. Our real estate agents usually recommend replacing your appliances before they break, as replacing items one by one can result in mismatched appliances. The last thing you want is a set of appliances that differ by color, age, or style appliances especially if you're planning to sell your home. Mismatched appliances can really give your kitchen a cluttered look.

Figuring out the best time to replace your kitchen appliances is the key to maximizing the longevity of your products and also maintaining your home's aesthetic value. Below are some tips to help you determine the best time to upgrade your kitchen appliances.

1. They're Simply Aging
   Every appliance has a lifespan, so knowing the age of each kitchen appliance can help you predict when they might be on their last legs. Refrigerators generally last 13 to 15 years, while dishwashers usually last about 8 or 9 years. Of course, the exact lifespan will depend on the product and brand. If your appliances are getting up there in age, then it's probably time to start thinking about replacements.
2. Your Kitchen is Out of Style
   If your appliances are wood-paneled, bright green, or look like they're from the 1960s, then they might be a little outdated. While your outdated appliances may work well or have sentimental value, installing modern-looking appliances may be helpful when it comes time to sell your home. Some of these Sarasota homes for sale have classic stainless steel appliances, which really creates a timeless look.
3. The Noise is Becoming an Issue
   If your dishwasher sounds like a semi-truck or your refrigerator is buzzing, it might be time to start thinking about new appliances. You may have even become used to the sound by now, but you'll notice such a big difference when you upgrade. In fact, some of these Bradenton homes for sale have the quietest kitchen appliances on the market today.
4. Your Utility Bills Are Too High
   Some old appliances can actually be really expensive to keep around because they're not very energy efficient. Modern refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines consume a fraction of the energy compared to older models from ten or twenty years ago. Upgrading to new appliances may be expensive in the short term, but you may actually see some cost savings down the road.
5. They Don't Work Like They Used To
   All appliances tend to lose performance over time, so if yours aren't working as well as they used to, then it's probably time to start saving-up for replacements. If it's taking longer for your oven to heat up or your dishes aren't coming out as clean as they used to, it might be time to start shopping.

There are no hard-and-fast rules for determining the best time to replace your appliances, but age, style, and condition are often the best indicators. For guidance on the best ways to upgrade your kitchen, contact us today!

If you have been considering selling your current home before purchasing the home where you'll retire, this year presents an excellent opportunity to take the next step. Single-family homes are in high demand, making it easy to find a buyer, and interest rates are low if you're planning to finance your next home. Our real estate agents have more details on why this is a great time to shop and how to find the right home for your retirement years.

1. Not Quite Ready to Retire? It's Still Smart to Be Prepared
   Even if you don't plan to retire for a few more years, it's wise to plan. If you need financing, it may be easier to secure a mortgage while you're still working. Shopping for your retirement home now also gives you more time to prepare, visit communities, and ensure that you choose a home that you'll love.

2. Consider the Amenities and Necessities You'll Need Now and in the Future
   Choosing the perfect home to enjoy your retirement depends on your needs now, as well as what you'll need in the future. Ensure that any neighborhood and home you choose has the accessibility necessary for you to enjoy your retirement and that the services you may need in the future will be close to home.

3. Visit Communities You Might Like to Call Home
   If you're planning to purchase a home in a community you've traveled to in the past, be sure to schedule a visit to help decide if you would like to live there long-term. Spending some time around the sun and sand near Sarasota homes for sale and Bradenton homes for sale makes for a fun vacation while also allowing you to learn more about a community you might choose to call home. Plus, our inventory of rentals are excellent options for you to learn what area you like best! Choose between annual options or 6-month rentals. 

4. Make a List of Priorities to Help You Shop
   For many people, moving to live closer to family members and friends is a strong motivator when shopping for a home for retirement. Understanding what's most important to you will help you narrow your options. Make a list of your priorities, starting with the most important factors, and use it to aid your home search.

5. Work Out Your Retirement Budget to Understand Your Purchasing Power
   Remember that your budget is likely to be different in retirement than it was while working, and plan for the future accordingly. If you haven't done so yet, lay out your budget for retirement so that you know exactly how much home you can afford while still leaving the funds you need to enjoy your retirement years.

6. Take Advantage of an Appealing Real Estate Market
   If you've been waiting for an advantageous real estate market to sell your current home before buying your retirement home, now is an excellent time to strike while the iron is hot. The high demand for single-family homes means that you may be able to sell at a premium, which will leave you with more money to pursue your perfect home for your retirement years.

7. Get a Knowledgeable Agent 
   Getting help from a knowledgeable real estate agent is always recommended and can truly give you peace of mind as you prepare for retirement.

Searching for a home near the sand and sun where you can enjoy retirement to the fullest? Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout Florida's Manatee and Sarasota Counties.