Category: Florida and Sarasota Page 1 of 2

News, rankings, statistics and other information highlighting Florida and Sarasota, including the economy, housing market, growth, education, healthcare and quality of life.

Golf Course Communities in Sarasota: Is Golf Membership Mandatory?

By Info

On October 22, 2026

In Golf, Sarasota

If you’re considering buying a home in Sarasota, Florida, you may be drawn to the beautiful golf course communities throughout the area. They offer a variety of homes, attractive surroundings, and the opportunity to enjoy a golf-oriented lifestyle.

But there’s something every buyer should understand before choosing a golf course community: Golf membership is mandatory in some communities, while others allow you to live there without joining the golf club.

Understanding the difference can help you find a home and community that fit your lifestyle and budget.

1. Golf Communities Where Membership Is Mandatory

In some golf course communities, homeowners are required to maintain a golf club membership as a condition of ownership. This means that even if you don’t play golf, membership may still be required.

Depending on the community, buyers may be responsible for initiation fees, annual dues, food and beverage minimums, or other club-related charges. The specific requirements vary by community and membership category.

For buyers who enjoy golf and plan to take advantage of the club’s facilities, this arrangement may be an excellent fit. However, those who don’t play golf should carefully consider the additional costs before making a purchase.

Before buying: Ask about mandatory membership requirements, initiation fees, annual dues, assessments, and any other applicable charges.

2. Golf Communities Where Membership Is Optional

Other golf course communities allow homeowners to enjoy living in a golf course setting without requiring them to join the club.

You might enjoy views of the fairways, landscaped surroundings, and the atmosphere of a golf community without taking on the expense of a golf membership.

For buyers who don’t play golf, this can be an appealing option. And if you enjoy golfing, an optional membership may allow you to join the club if you choose, subject to its membership policies and availability.

Keep in mind that optional golf membership doesn’t necessarily mean that all club facilities are available to every resident. Access to golf, dining, tennis, pickleball, fitness facilities, and other amenities depends on the community’s rules and membership arrangements.

Before buying: Confirm which amenities are included with homeownership, which require a separate membership, and whether any other club or community fees apply.

Which Type of Golf Community Is Right for You?

The best choice depends on how you want to live.

If golf is an important part of your lifestyle and you plan to use the club regularly, a community with mandatory membership may be worth considering.

If you love the setting but don’t necessarily want to play golf, a community without mandatory golf membership may offer more flexibility.

Either way, it’s important to understand the full cost of ownership, including homeowners association fees, condominium fees where applicable, club dues, and any mandatory assessments.

Let’s Find Your Sarasota-Area Home

Sarasota and the surrounding area offer a variety of golf course communities, each with its own features, amenities, and membership requirements.

As you explore your options, make sure you understand the membership rules before committing to a purchase. The right information can help you find a home that fits both your lifestyle and your budget.

As a REMAX Golf Lifestyles certified agent, I can help you explore Sarasota-area golf communities and understand the differences in membership requirements, amenities, and costs. Whether you’re looking for a home with mandatory golf membership or prefer a community where membership is optional, I’m here to help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.

Larry Brzostek, CRS, CLHMS, ABR, RGL
RE/MAX Alliance Group, Sarasota, FL

Florida Ranks Among Top 10 States to Live In

By Info

On September 10, 2026

In Florida and Sarasota

Florida continues to receive national recognition as a desirable place to live. According to WalletHub’s latest analysis, Florida ranked No. 10 among all 50 states in its list of the best states to live in.

The ranking looked at 51 different measures across five major categories, including affordability, economy, education and health, quality of life, and safety.

Florida’s Strongest Rankings

Florida’s strongest showing was in quality of life, where it ranked No. 3 nationally. The state also ranked well for safety and its economy.

Here’s how Florida ranked in each category:

Quality of Life: No. 3
Safety: No. 11
Economy: No. 17
Education & Health: No. 24
Affordability: No. 32

Affordability remains one of Florida’s challenges. WalletHub ranked Florida fourth-highest nationally for housing costs, behind Nevada, Hawaii and California.

Still, Florida finished in the overall top 10, with its strong quality-of-life and safety scores helping to offset its higher housing costs.

Looking Beyond Housing Costs

When considering a move to Florida, housing costs are certainly an important part of the decision. But they are only one piece of the picture.

WalletHub’s analysis also considered factors such as income growth, job availability, education, hospital quality and safety. Looking at these broader measures can provide a better understanding of what life is like in a state beyond the cost of buying or renting a home.

For anyone considering a move, the right decision ultimately depends on your individual priorities, budget and lifestyle.

And here in Sarasota, the opportunity to live, work and enjoy the Florida lifestyle is an important part of what attracts people to our area.

Thinking about a move to Sarasota or another part of Florida? I’m happy to help you learn more about the communities, housing options and lifestyle that may be a good fit for you.

Source: WalletHub, 2026 Best States to Live In analysis. Information originally reported by Florida Realtors®.

Seller Tip: See Your Home Through the Buyer’s Eyes

By Info

On September 9, 2026

In Sarasota

Selling your home can be an emotional experience. After all, your home is more than walls and rooms—it’s where you’ve made memories. But once you decide to sell, it helps to take a step back and look at your home from a buyer’s perspective.

It’s not always about what you see—it’s about what the buyer sees.

Take an Objective Look

When you’ve lived in a home for several years, it’s easy to stop noticing things that a buyer will see immediately. A fresh set of eyes can help you identify areas that may need some attention before your home goes on the market.

Walk through each room and ask yourself:

Is the space clean and uncluttered?
Are there repairs or maintenance items that should be addressed?
Does the room feel open and inviting?
Are there personal items that could be put away?

Sometimes a simple cleanup or small improvement can make a noticeable difference.

Help Buyers Picture Themselves Living There

When buyers walk through your home, they need to be able to imagine it as their home. Too much personal décor, clutter or furniture can make that more difficult.

You don’t have to completely change your home or spend a lot of money on staging. The goal is to create a comfortable, welcoming space where buyers can focus on the home itself.

Keep Your Focus on the Goal

Your home may hold years of wonderful memories, and those memories are important. But when you’re selling, it helps to separate those emotions from the business decision.

Think of preparing your home for sale as getting it ready for its next chapter.

My Seller Tip

Before putting your home on the market, take a walk through it as if you were seeing it for the first time. Try to see what a buyer will see—not just what you see because you live there.

The goal isn’t to erase what makes your home special. It’s to help buyers see the possibilities and picture themselves living there.

If you’re thinking about selling your Sarasota-area home, I’m happy to help you determine which improvements are worth making—and which ones aren’t necessary.

Sarasota Memorial Hospital Earns 5-Star Medicare Rating for 10 Consecutive Years

By Info

On September 7, 2026

In Sarasota

When people think about what makes Sarasota such a desirable place to live, beautiful beaches, a wonderful climate and an active lifestyle often come to mind. But there are other factors that are just as important—especially when choosing a community for the long term.

One of those factors is access to quality healthcare.

Sarasota Memorial Hospital has earned a 5-Star rating from Medicare for 10 consecutive years, an impressive milestone that highlights the quality of healthcare available right here in Sarasota.

Medicare’s hospital rating system evaluates hospitals using a variety of measures related to areas such as patient safety, quality of care and patient experience. Receiving a 5-Star rating reflects strong performance across these important measures.

Why Healthcare Matters When Choosing a Community

For anyone considering a move to Sarasota, access to quality medical care can be an important part of the decision. This is particularly true for retirees and those planning for their long-term future, but it matters to families and individuals of every age.

Having a highly rated hospital in the community provides an added level of confidence for residents. While none of us wants to think about needing hospital care, knowing that quality healthcare is close to home is an important part of a community’s overall appeal.

And healthcare is just one piece of the Sarasota lifestyle.

Residents enjoy access to beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, outdoor recreation, restaurants, arts and culture, shopping and a wide variety of neighborhoods and communities. From Sarasota and Siesta Key to Palmer Ranch, Osprey, Lakewood Ranch and surrounding areas, there are many different lifestyles to choose from.

Another Reason People Choose Sarasota

Sarasota’s combination of lifestyle, amenities and quality services continues to make the area attractive to people relocating from throughout Florida and across the country.

The 10 consecutive years of a 5-Star Medicare rating for Sarasota Memorial Hospital is another positive part of the story—and another reason Sarasota continues to be a community worth considering.

Thinking about making a move to Sarasota? Whether you’re looking for a home near the beach, a maintenance-free community, a golf community or simply the right neighborhood for your lifestyle, I’d be happy to help you explore your options.

Source: Medicare hospital ratings / Sarasota Memorial Hospital

Florida’s Growing Economy: What It Means for Sarasota

By Info

On September 4, 2026

In Florida and Sarasota, Sarasota

Florida continues to make headlines on the global economic stage. According to the Florida Chamber Foundation, Florida’s economy has grown to approximately $1.8 trillion, making it the 14th largest economy in the world—moving ahead of both Australia and Mexico.

Florida’s economy grew 6.3% over the past year, moving the state up from No. 15 and closer to an ambitious goal outlined in the Florida 2030 Blueprint: becoming one of the 10 largest economies in the world by 2030.

At its current size, Florida would need approximately 2% additional growth to surpass South Korea and move into the No. 13 position. Reaching the top 10 would require roughly 21% additional growth, with Canada currently holding the No. 10 spot.

For those considering Florida as a place to live, work, retire, or invest, the state’s economic strength is another important part of the bigger Florida story. From a growing economy and expanding communities to our exceptional quality of life, Florida continues to attract people from across the country and around the world.

And here in Sarasota, we are part of that larger Florida story—offering a unique combination of coastal living, cultural amenities, outdoor recreation, and a thriving community.

Thinking about making a move to the Sarasota area? I’d be happy to help you explore the area and find the community that best fits your goals.

Is Your Florida Home Hurricane Ready?

By Info

On September 2, 2026

In Florida and Sarasota, Sarasota

Hurricane season is a good reminder that a little preparation can go a long way. While we all hope Sarasota and Southwest Florida avoid a direct hit, taking a few simple steps before a storm approaches can help protect your home, your belongings, and your family.

Before the Storm: A Simple Hurricane Preparation Checklist

Outside Your Home

A few minutes of preparation outdoors can help reduce potential damage when strong winds and heavy rain arrive:

Install storm shutters or make sure your hurricane protection is ready to use.
Fill your vehicle’s gas tank before a storm is approaching.
Move vehicles to a safe location, preferably somewhere protected from flooding and falling debris.
Turn off propane tanks and secure them properly.
Bring in or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, plants, grills, and other loose items that could become dangerous in high winds.

Inside Your Home

Once the outside is secured, make sure your household is prepared:

Review your emergency plan and make sure everyone knows what to do.
Stock up on essentials, including food, water, medications, batteries, and personal supplies.
Charge your phones and backup power banks before the storm arrives.
Test flashlights and weather radios and make sure you have extra batteries.
Keep important documents, insurance information, and other valuables in a safe, waterproof location.

Peace of Mind Starts With Preparation

You can’t control the weather, but you can control how prepared you are. A few simple steps today can make a big difference when a storm is on the way.

For Florida homeowners, hurricane preparation isn’t just about getting through the storm—it’s about protecting your home and being ready for whatever comes next.

Source: WESH.com / Florida Realtors

18 Years as a FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL

By Info

On September 1, 2026

In Sarasota, Sarasota Real Estate

18 Years as a FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL

Recognition like this is especially meaningful because it represents something that has always been important to me—providing my clients with knowledgeable, professional, and dependable service.

Experience You Can Count On

Over the years I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of buyers and sellers throughout Sarasota and Florida’s Gulf Coast. My experience includes residential and vacation homes, investment properties, commercial real estate, vacant land, and relocation.

Real estate transactions are often among the most important financial decisions people make. My goal has always been to make the process easier for my clients by listening to their needs, understanding their goals, providing honest advice, and helping them navigate the market with confidence.

More Than an Award

While I’m certainly proud of receiving the FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL award for 18 consecutive years, I believe the real significance comes from the relationships behind that recognition.

Every client has a different reason for buying or selling. Some are looking for a permanent home, others a vacation property or investment. Some are relocating to Sarasota to enjoy everything our Gulf Coast community has to offer. Whatever the reason, I believe clients deserve personal attention and guidance throughout the process.

I’m grateful to everyone who has trusted me with their real estate needs over the years. Your confidence, referrals, and continued support have helped make this career so rewarding.

18 years is a milestone I’m proud to celebrate—but I’m even more grateful for the opportunity to continue doing what I love: helping people find their place in Sarasota.

If you’re considering buying or selling in Sarasota, Siesta Key, Longboat Key, or the surrounding Gulf Coast communities, I’m always happy to help.

Larry Brzostek, CRS, CLHMS, ABR
Broker Associate
RE/MAX Alliance Group
Call or Text me at 941.993.3125

August Real Estate Update: Siesta Key Condos & Townhouses

By Info

On August 28, 2026

In Sarasota

Welcome to the August Real Estate Update for condos and townhouses on Siesta Key, reflecting market activity from July 2026.

July brought a significant increase in sales activity compared with the same month last year. Closed sales jumped 166.7%, while pending sales were also up more than 27%. At the same time, the number of new listings declined, and active inventory was slightly lower than a year ago.

July Market Snapshot

Active Listings: 196 — down 5.3% year over year
Pending Sales: 28 — up 27.3% year over year
Closed Sales: 24 — up 166.7% year over year
New Listings: 20 — down 16.7% year over year
Average Sale Price: $1,557,229 — up 79.7% year over year
Median Sale Price: $783,000 — down 15.4% year over year

What Do These Numbers Tell Us?

The most notable change in July was the surge in closed sales, with 24 condos and townhouses selling compared with just 9 during the same period last year.

The average sale price also increased substantially. However, the median sale price declined 15.4%, which tells us that the average was likely influenced by a greater number of higher-priced properties selling during the month. In other words, the average price doesn’t necessarily mean that values across the entire market increased by nearly 80%.

With pending sales up 27.3% and active inventory slightly below last year, there continues to be meaningful activity in the Siesta Key condo and townhouse market.

As always, one month’s numbers don’t tell the entire story. I’ll continue tracking these statistics each month to give you a clearer picture of where the Siesta Key real estate market is headed.

Thinking about buying or selling on Siesta Key? Let’s talk about what the current market means for you

August 2026 Real Estate Update: Siesta Key Homes

By Info

On August 27, 2026

In Sarasota

Here’s your August Real Estate Update for homes on Siesta Key, reflecting market activity from July 2026.

The July numbers show some encouraging signs for sellers, with pending sales, closed sales, and new listings all higher than they were a year ago. At the same time, the number of active listings has declined significantly, creating a tighter supply of available homes.

July Market Snapshot

Active Listings: 115 — down 26.3% year over year
Pending Sales: 21 — up 23.5% year over year
Closed Sales: 14 — up 21.4% year over year
New Listings: 17 — up 30.8% year over year
Average Sale Price: $1,501,441 — down 4.1% year over year
Median Sale Price: $1,350,000 — up 5.9% year over year

What Do These Numbers Tell Us?

The Siesta Key single-family home market showed increased activity in July, with more homes going under contract and closing compared with the same period last year. New listings were also up, giving buyers more opportunities to choose from.

While the average sale price declined 4.1%, the median sale price increased 5.9%, suggesting that the typical Siesta Key home that sold in July commanded a higher price than it did a year ago.

With active inventory down more than 26% from last year, Siesta Key remains a market worth watching for both buyers and sellers.

I’ll continue to track the numbers each month so you can see how the Siesta Key real estate market is changing.

Thinking about buying or selling on Siesta Key? Let’s talk about what the current market means for you

9 Packing Tips to Boost Your Odds of a Smooth Move

By Info

On September 19, 2023

In Sarasota

By Jonas Bordo, CEO and co-founder of Dwellsy

It’s true that packing for a move usually isn’t a complex process, but if you want your move to go as smoothly as possible (and your belongings to survive intact), there’s a little more to packing than simply loading your stuff
into boxes and hoping for
the best.

Here are some packing best practices:

Declutter. Do this well before the big day! If you have any belongings you don t need or want anymore, now’s the time to set them aside, donate them or dispose of them. This isn’t a task you’ll want to deal with when you’re in the throes of moving.
Assemble your packing materials. You also don’t want to realize you’ve run out of boxes or tape midway through packing up your kitchen. In addition to boxes, make sure you have packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, foam peanuts, newspapers or other materials handy.
Pack one room at a time. Not only is this more time efficient, but it will also make the process of unpacking much easier.
Allow enough time for disassembly. Remember that you’ll have to unhook electrical appliances, take nails out of the walls and remove lightbulbs from lamps. You may also need to disassemble large pieces of furniture, like your bed frame or bookshelves.
Consider leaving clothing in drawers and on hangers. If your dresser drawers are full of non-breakable clothing, why not leave these items where they are? Secure the drawers in place with tape or straps so that they don t slide open or fall out in transit. You can also leave clothing on hangers.
Label everything. Playing the “what’s in which box” game is not how you want to spend your first few days in your new home. Label each box in detail as you pack it. For example, don’t just write “Kitchen.” Write “Kitchen: toaster, tea kettle, spatulas, immersion blender and oven mitts.”
Save the essentials until last. These are items you’ll want to use while moving out and moving in, as well as belongings you don’t want to take any chances with.
Make sure to rent the right size truck. It’s easy to underestimate how much space your belongings will take up, so if you’re renting a truck or trailer, err on the side of “too big.” This is especially important if you’re moving
a long distance.
And don’t forget to include appropriate equipment. Plan to use moving blankets or furniture pads to protect non-boxed items and straps to secure large items so they won’t shift in transit. Don’t forget items like hand trucks, dollies and ramps.

Jonas Bordo is the co-author, along with Hannah Hildebolt, of the book “Everything You Need to Know About Renting But Didn’t Know to Ask: All the Insider Dirt to Help You Get the Best Deal and Avoid Disaster.”

This Article is curtesy of Florida Realtors

Category: Florida and Sarasota Page 1 of 2

1. Golf Communities Where Membership Is Mandatory

2. Golf Communities Where Membership Is Optional

Which Type of Golf Community Is Right for You?

Let’s Find Your Sarasota-Area Home

Like this:

Florida’s Strongest Rankings

Looking Beyond Housing Costs

Like this:

Take an Objective Look

Help Buyers Picture Themselves Living There

Keep Your Focus on the Goal

My Seller Tip

Like this:

Why Healthcare Matters When Choosing a Community

Another Reason People Choose Sarasota

Like this:

Like this:

Before the Storm: A Simple Hurricane Preparation Checklist

Outside Your Home

Inside Your Home

Peace of Mind Starts With Preparation

Like this:

Like this:

July Market Snapshot

What Do These Numbers Tell Us?

Like this:

July Market Snapshot

What Do These Numbers Tell Us?

Like this:

Like this: