If you are looking for real estate in Southwest Florida, be sure to make the City of Sarasota and its downtown district your starting point. Sarasota’s motto explains it all: “Where urban amenities meet small-town living.

House hunters must keep in mind that Sarasota was specifically chosen by American circus magnate John Ringling for the purpose of bringing European Renaissance sensibilities to the Sunshine State. With just one look at the downtown district and its surrounding neighborhoods, it is easy to see that John Ringling’s vision lives on.

Downtown Sarasota offers many housing opportunities, which range from historic single-family residences and townhouses to modern gated communities and condominium towers. Years of careful urban planning and development have transformed the city center into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly and highly aesthetic community. Parks, museums, cultural centers, entertainment venues, and shopping districts are just some of the factors that a little over 50,000 residents enjoy.

The housing market in Downtown Sarasota is always very active due to its range of options and reasonable pricing. Cottages and Florida ranch-style homes in historic subdivisions can be found under $200K. Condominium units can also be very affordable. Home shoppers looking for more upscale housing will likely be interested in the imposing waterfront estates located close to prestigious landmarks such as museums and performance centers.

The high quality of life in Sarasota invites diversity. Families are attracted by the numerous public schools and private academies that are within walking or biking distance. The downtown area has many sidewalk cafes and public parks that provide year-round enjoyment thanks to the great weather of the Southwest Florida region. Young professionals, artists, retirees, and seasonal residents are also attracted to this friendly city.

Easy access to gorgeous beaches, golf courses, country clubs, and nature preserves are amenities that Downtown Sarasota residents take for granted. A popular activity involves taking a bicycle ride over the John Ringling Causeway down to the chic shops, pubs and bistros at St. Armands Circle and further to Siesta Key, which boasts the proud title of being home to the whitest sandy beaches in the world. Downtown Sarasota has a special way of keeping residents and visitors happy. Owning property in Sarasota is a matter of pride. This is a housing market that simply begs to be explored.