Many people harbor delightful visions of life in downtown Sarasota – the allure of proximity to the water, the prospect of strolling to their desired destinations, and even the idea of occasionally ditching the car keys. However, as alluring as these prospects may be, the reality might not always unfold exactly as you envision. This video marks the beginning of our exploration into living in downtown Sarasota, and in Part 1, our focus is on clarifying some of the aspects that often surprise newcomers. Here, we'll delve into three key facets of downtown Sarasota living that will provide you with a well-rounded perspective of this vibrant community.

Living Downtown

Is Living Downtown for You?

 Walkability

Downtown Sarasota is defined by the area west of 301, extending south of Fruitville, north of Mound (which is also part of 41), and bordered by the serene Sarasota Bay to the west. While this downtown district offers a vibrant urban lifestyle, it's important to recognize that it's relatively compact in size. Many individuals who contact me express a desire for a walkable lifestyle, envisioning leisurely strolls to grab coffee, shop at Whole Foods, catch a movie, or enjoy a meal out - all without breaking a sweat. Downtown Sarasota indeed holds the potential to fulfill these dreams, but the key question is, how far are you willing to walk?

In recent years, the addition of more commercial properties has made these daily excursions more accessible. However, it's worth noting that if you reside at the southern end of Palm Ave in a condo, you may find that certain amenities are a bit further away. Walking to and from Whole Foods with a load of purchases, for instance, might not be as effortless as anticipated. It's essential to understand that there are varying degrees of walkability and bikeability within downtown Sarasota. As you embark on your house or condo hunt in this lively area, it's my aim to ensure you're well-informed about the range of walkability options, allowing you to select a location that aligns perfectly with your desired lifestyle.

Beaches

It's a common misconception, but it's worth noting that Sarasota's mainland doesn't offer direct beach access. To sink your toes into the warm sands of our picturesque beaches, you'll need to cross one of our iconic bridges. The Ringling Bridge, situated to the northwest of downtown Sarasota, is a popular route that leads you to the beautiful Lido Beach. Another option is to head down Osprey southward and connect to Siesta Drive, which will take you to the renowned Siesta Beach. While downtown Sarasota boasts proximity to these stunning beaches, it's important to keep in mind that to reach them, you'll either need to hop on a bike or take a short drive.

Types of Properties and Prices

Living in downtown Sarasota presents a myriad of condominium options, catering to various preferences and tastes. Many of these condominiums have been part of the cityscape for quite some time, with construction dating back to the 60s, 70s, and 80s. It's important to note that, in these older units, ceilings are typically lower, and some may require updates to align with modern aesthetics and functionality. Transitioning into the 90s and the early 2000s, you'll find a different architectural era, and the city has witnessed ongoing construction efforts in recent years, contributing to its evolving skyline.

One noteworthy observation is that the older condominium buildings often occupy prime waterfront locations along Palm Ave and Gulfstream, boasting coveted water views of the Bay. While there are some 90s buildings in these sought-after spots as well, the newest developments are generally positioned a bit further east. This isn't to say that some units in newer buildings can't offer lovely views, but securing a direct west-facing view may prove to be a challenge.

An exception to this pattern is Golden Gate Point, a small peninsula located west of the Marina. Surrounded by water, Golden Gate Point offers residents the opportunity to enjoy fantastic views. However, it's essential to consider that this unique location requires a slightly longer walk to reach various amenities.

In addition to the array of condominiums, there are also a handful of charming older homes scattered throughout the downtown area. These homes add character to the cityscape and present a different style of downtown living. Exploring the diverse real estate options in downtown Sarasota allows you to find the perfect residence that aligns with your preferences and lifestyle

 Prices

Living in downtown Sarasota offers a diverse range of real estate options, with prices that span from around $500,000 for more compact condos to multimillion-dollar luxury residences. It's worth noting that some of the older condos, while offering unique character, may come with quirks that influence their pricing. Currently, approximately 25% of the properties on the market fall below the $1 million mark, making homeownership more accessible for a broader audience. For those with a penchant for opulence, the remaining 75% of listings range from $1 million to $4 million, with some exceptional properties commanding prices up to $10 million. It's important to keep in mind that the cost of living in downtown [City Name] extends beyond property prices and often includes additional condo association dues, which can vary. Making the downtown lifestyle your own comes with its own set of considerations, and it's crucial to factor in all aspects of the investment.