Sarasota, FL Homes

Sarasota is home to some of the best luxury home communities in Florida. There are gated communities, an exclusive Sarasota golf community, and plenty of beachfront homes on the keys. Many people are moving to Sarasota because you can find quality lifestyle for a lower price and less traffic than other parts of Florida.
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Area Insights

Pros

Sarasota is considered in the top 10 rated small cities in the US with a vibrant community of arts & culture. The Sarasota area is positioned conveniently between Tampa Bay and Fort Myers, so you will have nearby options for flights and other amenities that big cities offer.

Area Type

Beach - There are many options for beaches, including Siesta Key Beach, which was rated #1 beach in the US. Whether you are looking for adventure or a slower pace of life, Sarasota has the perfect Florida lifestyle.

Considerations

The area has grown very fast in the recent years, so there can be a lot of traffic on the roads, especially during the winter when the "snow birds" are around. The other consideration is tropical storms, which happen periodically in the Caribbean climate.

Entertainment & Amenities

Sarasota has award-winning restaurants and theaters which are great for social nights out. You can take walks by the waterfront piers and go shopping in the world-renowned Saint Armand Circle, where boutique shops and street music make it a nice place for dinner and a stroll.

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School Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sarasota known for?

Sarasota is a city located on the southwestern coast of Florida, United States, known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Here are some of the things that Sarasota is famous for:

  • Siesta Key Beach: This beach is one of the most beautiful and popular in the world, with its white sand and crystal clear waters.
  • Mote Marine Laboratory: This research institution is dedicated to the study of marine life and is a popular destination for tourists.
  • St. Armands Circle: This is a popular shopping and dining district in Sarasota, known for its upscale boutiques and restaurants.
  • Sarasota Opera: This opera company is renowned for its high-quality productions of both classic and contemporary operas.
  • The Ringling: This is a museum complex that features a wide range of art, including the works of the famous artist and circus magnate John Ringling.
  • Marie Selby Botanical Gardens: This garden is home to a wide variety of plants, including orchids and bromeliads.
  • Circus Sarasota: This circus troupe is dedicated to keeping the tradition of the circus alive and is a popular attraction for visitors to Sarasota.

Overall, Sarasota is a city that has something to offer for everyone, from beautiful beaches to cultural attractions and outdoor activities.

Is there a property tax discount for primary residents in Florida?

Yes, in Florida there is a property tax discount available for primary residents, known as the homestead exemption. The homestead exemption is a tax break that can help reduce the property taxes owed on a primary residence in Florida.

To qualify for the homestead exemption, the property must be the primary residence of the owner, and the owner must have owned the property as of January 1st of the tax year in question. The exemption provides a reduction of up to $50,000 in the assessed value of the property for tax purposes, which can result in a significant reduction in property taxes owed.

It’s important to note that the homestead exemption is not automatic and must be applied for through the local county property appraiser’s office. There are also other eligibility requirements that must be met, such as being a permanent resident of Florida and having a valid Florida driver’s license.

What are the advantages of living in Sarasota?

There are many pros to living in Sarasota, Florida! Here are some of them:

  • Beautiful beaches: Sarasota is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Siesta Key Beach, which has been ranked as one of the top beaches in the United States.
  • Warm weather: Sarasota enjoys warm weather throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. This allows residents to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and biking year-round.
  • Cultural attractions: Sarasota is home to several cultural attractions, including the Ringling Museum of Art, the Sarasota Opera, and the Sarasota Ballet. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Sarasota Film Festival and the Sarasota Music Festival.
  • Golf courses: Sarasota has numerous golf courses, both public and private, which offer a variety of challenges for golfers of all skill levels.
  • Great dining options: Sarasota has a vibrant dining scene, with a wide variety of restaurants offering everything from casual seafood to upscale dining experiences.
  • Outdoor recreation: In addition to the beaches, Sarasota is home to several parks and nature preserves that offer opportunities for hiking, biking, and bird watching.
  • Retirement destination: Sarasota is a popular retirement destination, with many active adult communities and senior-friendly amenities.
  • Healthcare: Sarasota is home to several top-ranked hospitals and healthcare facilities, making it an attractive destination for retirees and families alike.

What are the disadvantages of living in Sarasota?

Like any city, there are some potential cons to living in Sarasota that should be taken into consideration. Here are a few:

  • High cost of living: Sarasota can be expensive, with a cost of living higher than the national average. Housing costs are particularly high, and there are limited affordable housing options.
  • Tourist crowds: Sarasota is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the winter months. This can mean more traffic and crowded beaches, restaurants, and other attractions.
  • Hurricanes: As a coastal city, Sarasota is vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms during hurricane season (June-November). While the area has not experienced a major hurricane in several years, it’s important to be prepared and have a plan in place.
  • Lack of public transportation: Sarasota does not have a robust public transportation system, which can make it difficult for those without a car to get around.
  • Summer heat and humidity: While many people enjoy the warm weather in Sarasota, summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s Fahrenheit.
  • Limited job opportunities: While Sarasota has a strong tourism industry, job opportunities in other industries may be limited. Those seeking employment in fields such as technology or finance may need to look outside the area.