Category: Sarasota Real Estate

Information about the Sarasota-area real estate market, including local market trends, home sales, neighborhoods, condos, homes and other real estate topics.

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

Stage Your Home to Sell

By Info

On November 25, 2021

In Information, Sarasota Real Estate

Stage Your Home to Sell

To earn top dollar and sell your home more quickly, you need to make it stand out from the competition. And one of the best ways to do that is through staging.

4 Reasons to stage
1. Your home will shine online. Buyers first found 92% of the homes they visited on the internet. Good staging can make your home stand out before buyers even visit.
2. It shows off the potential. 77% of agents say staging makes it easier for buyers to visualize a property as their future home.
3. It spurs walk-throughs. Clients are more willing to walk through a home that has been staged, according to 40% of agents.
4. Your home will sell faster. Nearly two-thirds of agents say staging decreases the amount of time a home spends on the market.

6 most important rooms to stage
1. Living Room
2. Master bedroom
3. Kitchen
4. Outdoor space
5. Dining room
6. Bathroom

“Staging is preparing a home for sale so the buyer can mentally move in.”
Barb Schwarz, California Realtor and chairwoman of the International Association of Home Staging Professionals.

Simple fixes agents recommend
Declutter – 93% (“Clutter eats equity.” says Barb Schwarz.)
Full home cleaning – 89%
Carpet cleaning – 81%
Remove pets before showings – 80%
Make minor repairs – 75%
Depersonalize the home – 72%
Paint walls – 68%

Cost of professional staging
Most stagers charge $300 to $600 for an initial consultation, then $500 to $600 per room per month.

Sources: NAR 2017 Profile of Home Staging, Househunt.com, realtor.com, Barb Schwarz

I hope this information keeps you informed and I thank Florida Realtors for allowing us to share this.

Have a Great Day!

As always, for all your Real Estate needs in the Sarasota Area
Call or Text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

Home Selling Process – Explained

By Larry Brzostek

On October 21, 2021

In Sarasota Real Estate, Seller Tips

The Home Selling Process – Explained

Right now, there are not enough houses for sale, with many buyers looking at a small inventory.
So, if you’re thinking about selling your home, now is the ideal time to put your house on the market. Many houses are selling above their asking price, which means more money in your pocket.

But how do you sell your home?

First you meet with a real estate professional.
There is no commitment required on your part for an initial meeting. It will be educational and help you identify your next steps.

I’m Larry Brzostek a Broker/Associate with Re/MAX Alliance Group and I will guide you through the process.

Establish a Price
As your agent I will provide a market analysis, which will help you set an asking price.

Tips on Strategic Pricing
It’s important to review the market analysis and consider your home price objectively.

Prepare Your Home
View your home through the eyes of the buyer and ask yourself what you’d expect. I will offer some useful suggestions.

List It For Sale
When everything is in place, I will put your home in the Multiple Listing System. It’s critical for potential buyers to view your home.

I will also create a virtual tour of your home along with a youtube video.
Social media is another important tool and your home will be posted regularly.

Getting your home the most exposure:

I use Adwerx a web company that places your home on Facebook as well as throughout the web on both desktop and mobile devices.

Open Houses are scheduled at your convenience (usually on weekends) but are not always necessary to sell you home.

Tips on Showings
I like to give my seller’s at least 24 hours notice for a showing

However, Potential buyers may ask to see your home on short notice.
It’s best if you can accommodate these requests. You never want to miss a potential sale.

Offers and Negotiation
If everything goes well, a buyer (and most often the agent who represents them) will present me, your agent, with an offer.

I will present the benefits and risks of each offer. You will have the opportunity to either accept or counter any offer based on its merits.

Under Contract
At this point, you and the buyer have agreed to all of the terms and conditions of the offer and both parties have signed the agreements.

Final Details
While under contract the buyer will work with their mortgage provider to finalize the loan and perform other due diligence.

Inspection Tips
The buyer will usually perform a physical inspection of the home. They may even ask you to make certain repairs. I will explain all your options regarding the inspection.

Closing
This is the transfer of funds and ownership. Depending on when the buyer moves into the home, you will need to be all packed up and ready to move.

CONGRATUALTIONS!
You’ve successfully sold your home.

Thinking of Selling?
I can help! Contact me and let’s talk!
Call or Text me @ 941.993.3125

Have a Great Day!
Larry

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

7 Tips for a Smooth Move

By Info

On July 5, 2021

In Buyer Tips, Information, Sarasota Real Estate

Memorial Day to Labor Day is peak moving season with more than 65% of relocations happening during the summer months. Take the stress out of your move with these tips from the Professional Movers Association of Florida.

Seven tips for a Smooth Move — 7 Tips for a Smooth Move

Plan your move in advance so you have time to evaluate your options, and make a decision based on overall value (quality low stress move, insurance/valuation to protect your move).
Confirm that each mover considered carries commercial general liability insurance, automobile liability, cargo liability and workers’ compensation. This can be verified by a certificate of insurance.
Check if the moving company is licensed by Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by visiting floridaconsumerhelp.com.
Get a written estimate from several movers and compare them. The estimate should be based on an actual in-person or virtual inspection of your household goods. Estimates and Contract for Services must include:
– Name, telephone number, physical address and state registration number of the mover.
– Date the contract or estimate was prepared and proposed date of the actual move.
– Appropriate pickup and delivery address, name and telephone numbers of the shipper.
– Name, telephone number and physical address where the goods will be held, if necessary.
– Itemized breakdown, description and total of all costs and services provided.
– Acceptable forms of payment available.
Determine if the company is a moving broker or moving company. A broker arranges for the transport of your household goods for a fee and sells your move to a moving company – which significantly reduces a consumer’s available funds for the actual cost of the relocation services. Often, the consumer is not aware their move is being sold to another company.
Check your homeowners or rental insurance policies for moving coverage.
Accidents happen, even with the best movers. Discuss valuation with your mover; know the difference between released value at 60 cents per pound and full value protection.

Source: Florida Realtor magazine

Have a Great Day!
Larry and Ann

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

Home Buying – Secrets for a Stress Free Transaction

By Info

On June 23, 2021

In Buyer Tips, Sarasota Real Estate

Source: Courtesy of Breakthrough Broker

Home Buying - Secrets for a Stress Free Transaction — Home Buying – Secrets for a Stress Free Transaction

Lay Groundwork
Discuss the type of home you are looking for including style, price and location.

Work with an Agent
I will guide you through the process every step of the way. The Seller usually pays the real estate commission for their agent and the buyer’s agent. I will be there to help you succeed.

Communicate
Ask questions if something is confusing ask about it before you sign.
Be direct with your team and speak up if you don’t like something.

Be Flexible
Circumstances always change. Besides your financial capabilities almost everything else is beyond your control.
Any Questions? Call or Text me @ 941.993.3125

Have a Great Day!
Larry

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

Home Buying – 6 Reasons to Own a Home

By Info

On June 4, 2021

In Buyer Tips, Sarasota Real Estate

6 Reasons to Own a Home

Source: Courtesy of Breakthrough Broker

Happiness
Owning your own home is great!
Fix it up, get a dog or cat, plant a tree…
Make it your own!

Tax Savings
Get excellent tax benefits and deduct the interest paid on your mortgage and other home-related expenses.

Appreciation
Home values usually go up over time which becomes equity when you sell.

Equity
Part of your monthly payment goes toward the principal balance of your loan, which builds equity.

Roots
Homeowners stay in their homes four times longer than renters, helping them build ties in their community.

Education
Homeowners’ students earn higher test scores and graduate at a higher percentage than those of renters.

Thinking of Buying a home?
Contact me and let’s talk!
Call or Text me @ 941.993.3125

Have a Great Day!
Larry

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

The Home Buying Process – Explained

By Info

On June 2, 2021

In Buyer Tips, Sarasota Real Estate

The Home Buying Process – Explained

Meet with me, I am a professional Realtor, Broker Associate, (CRS) Certified Residental Specialist, (CLHMS) Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist
Discuss the type of home you are looking for, including style, price and location.

Get Pre-Approved
You will need pay stubs, W2’s and bank statements.
Knowing what you can afford is critical to a successful experience.

Search for Homes
The fun part!
I will schedule showings and help you find the perfect home.

Make an Offer!
I will prepare your offer based on the price and terms you choose.

Negotiation and Contract
It may take a few tries to get there, but hang in there.
You’re on your way!

Under Contract
You and the seller have agreed to the price and terms.

Final Details and Closing
Order the appraisal, have an inspection and review terms with the lender.
Now you are ready to close.

CONGRATUALATIONS!
You are now a homeowner!

Thinking of Buying a home?
Contact me and let’s talk!
Call or Text me @ 941.993.3125

Source: Breakthrough Broker

Have a Great Day!
Larry

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

The Difference Between Home Warranty and Home Insurance

By Info

On March 10, 2021

In Buyer Tips, Information, Sarasota Real Estate

The Difference Between Home Warranty and Home Insurance

Decorative Image — The Difference Between Home Warranty and Home Insurance

When purchasing a new home, it’s important to do in-depth research on all facets of the homebuying process. One thing you’ll need to understand is how to best protect yourself and your investment if anything were to go wrong. Check out the information on home insurance versus home warranty below to educate yourself on your options.

Home Insurance
Homeowners insurance pays for any accidental damages and loss that are caused by fire, lightning strikes, windstorms, and hail, however, damage from earthquakes and floods is typically not covered. It also covers the replacement of personal property in case of theft or damage and liability if a person were to get injured in your home or on your property. According to American Home Shield, the average annual cost of a homeowner’s insurance policy ranges between $300 and $1,000, and the bank usually asks you to obtain a policy before the mortgage is issued. Make sure to keep in mind that each type of coverage in the policy is subject to a limit and, in most cases, you will have to pay a deductible.

Home Warranty
A home warranty is designed to cover the cost of repairs and replacements of larger appliances and crucial systems in your home that may fail or break due to age and wear and tear. This includes but isn’t limited to HVAC, electrical, or plumbing components, kitchen appliances, and your washer and dryer. With a home warranty, you are required to pay premiums year-round, even if you do not use it, and it won’t cover damages if appliances were not maintained properly or if the damage is from a fire or other disaster.

Have a Great Day!
Larry and Ann

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
or
Go to Larry’s RE/MAX Site and search all you like LarrySellsSarasota.com

What to Repair Before You List Your Home

By Info

On November 2, 2020

In Sarasota Real Estate, Seller Tips

What to Repair Before You List Your Home

When you’re getting ready to list your home, it’s of the upmost importance to ensure you are showing it in the best light. Taking time to highlight its strengths and fix up some of its possible weaknesses can make a big difference in how fast it sells. Here are our top four recommended repairs to make before selling your home.

Repaint walls:
Giving your home a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to spruce it up, and generally, it can be a do-it-yourself project. Make sure cover any walls with scratches and chips and consider updating any accent walls with a more neutral coat.

Repair floors:
Hardwood floors are a very desirable feature in a home, so you want to ensure they look their best by fixing scratches or dull areas. If your carpet is worn or stained, consider replacing them. And don’t forget the tile in your kitchen or bathrooms. Re-grouting can go a long way in making dingy tile work look brand new!

Refresh the landscaping:
Show buyers your home is the full package by dressing up the outside as well as the in. Clean walkways and driveways, plant seasonal flowers and plants, trim hedges and trees, install outdoor décor pieces and fill in mulch and gravel.

Have a Great Day
Larry and Ann

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text 941-993-3125.
Larry’s RE/MAX Site:
(link opens in a new window) LarrySellsSarasota.com

Home Remodeling Projects

By Info

On October 27, 2020

In Sarasota Real Estate

Home Remodeling Projects with the Greatest Return

If you are thinking about doing some remodeling in your home, it’s best to do the things that will give you the highest return on resale first.

Kitchen and Bathroom remodels will bring you a high return and as well as a more modern look to your home.

Roof replacement is important because few buyers want to take on putting a new roof right after they buy their new home.

Curb Appeal:
If your entry door or garage door is in need of replacement, well they are the first things potential buyers will see.

Have a Great Day!
Larry and Ann

As always, for all your Real Estate needs, call or text Larry @ 941-993-3125
Larry’s RE/MAX Site: (Link opens in new window) LarrySellsSarasota.com

Sarasota Florida, Beaches, Parks, Points of Interest and Yes, Real Estate Info too

Category: Sarasota Real Estate

18 Years as a FIVE STAR PROFESSIONAL

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Stage Your Home to Sell

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Home Buying – Secrets for a Stress Free Transaction

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Home Buying – 6 Reasons to Own a Home

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The Home Buying Process – Explained

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Home Remodeling Projects

Home Remodeling Projects with the Greatest Return

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