Welcome Spring!
As we bid farewell to winter’s chill and embrace the vibrant energy of spring, it’s the perfect time to refresh our homes and immerse ourselves in the lively events Sarasota has to offer. Whether you’re considering selling your home or simply wish to rejuvenate its exterior, enhancing curb appeal can make a significant impact.
Spring into Curb Appeal: Simple Tips to Refresh Your Home
First impressions are crucial, especially in real estate. A well-maintained exterior not only attracts potential buyers but also boosts your home’s perceived value. But even if you’re not planning to sell, refreshing your home’s exterior can give it a much-needed glow-up, making it more inviting and enjoyable for you and your guests. Here are some budget-friendly ways to enhance your home’s curb appeal this spring:
- Refresh Your Front Door – Applying a fresh coat of paint in a bold yet tasteful color can make your entryway stand out. Upgrading hardware like handles and house numbers adds a polished touch.
- Illuminate Your Exterior – Installing or updating exterior lighting enhances both safety and aesthetic appeal. Consider adding pathway lights or accent lighting to highlight landscaping features.
- Revitalize Your Landscaping – Trimming overgrown shrubs, planting seasonal flowers, and maintaining a lush lawn can transform your yard into an inviting space.
- Clean and Tidy – Power washing driveways, and walkways removes dirt and grime, giving your home a fresh look. Don’t forget to clean gutters and windows for added brightness.
According to the National Association of Realtors, 92% of agents recommend improving curb appeal before listing a home, as it significantly attracts buyers and can lead to higher offers.
Celebrate Spring: Upcoming Sarasota Events
Sarasota blossoms in spring with a variety of events that cater to all interests.Here are a few noteworthy happenings in April:
Experience world-class chamber music performances
at the Sarasota Opera House. (More Info)
Celebrating its 27th year, this festival showcases independent films, documentaries,
and shorts from around the globe. (More Info)
Enjoy a family-friendly market featuring local vendors, food stalls, Easter egg hunt, and a special appearance by the Easter Bunny at the Meadows Farmers Market. (More Info)
Celebrate the beauty of spring with vibrant flower fields, live music, food vendors, and
family-friendly activities. Stroll through breathtaking floral displays,
shop from local craft vendors, and enjoy a fun-filled day on the farm. (More Info)

Embrace the season by enhancing your home’s exterior and participating in the vibrant events our community offers. Wishing you a joyful and prosperous spring!
Market Update:
As Sarasota and Manatee Counties approach the end of the peak tourist season, traditionally culminating around Easter, the real estate market is experiencing noticeable shifts that you most likely have seen or heard from local friends and/or the news. Historically, this period sees heightened activity as seasonal residents consider property investments before returning north. However, consistent current trends suggest a move toward a more balanced market, influenced by increased inventory and evolving buyer leverage.
In Sarasota County, the real estate market in February 2025 reflected a modest 2.1% increase in single-family home sales YoY with a total of 589 transactions. While sales activity saw an uptick, the average sale price experienced a slight decline of 1.5%, settling at $499,990. Single-family Inventory levels have grown substantially, with active listings rising by 30.8% to 4,292—equating to a 6.8-month supply. This increase in available inventory is providing buyers with more choices, and the median time to contract has extended to 46 days, signaling a more measured and thoughtful pace in buyer activity. The condominium and townhouse segment, however, experienced a decline in sales activity. Transactions dropped by 12.2% YoY, accompanied by a 12.3% decrease in the median sales price, which now stands at $342,000. The shift can be attributed to an increase in market time, with properties averaging 44 days before going under contract, as well as a notable 35.8% rise in inventory levels. Currently, the condo and townhouse market reflect a 9.1-month supply, indicating a buyer’s market.
Manatee County presents a mixed picture during the same period as single-family home sales declined by 8.6% to 500 homes, with the average sale price decreasing by 4.8% to $475,995. Conversely, townhouse and condo sales surged by 28.1%, totaling 251 units, although the average price fell by 8.4% to $319,990. Inventory for single-family homes increased, providing a 4.9-month supply, while townhouses and condos had an 8.3-month supply, offering buyers a wider selection. The median time to contract for single-family homes decreased to 46 days, suggesting that well-priced properties continue to attract timely offers.
As the season winds down, the market dynamics in both counties reflect a transition toward equilibrium. Rising inventory levels and extended time on the market suggest that buyers have more negotiating power, while sellers may need to adjust pricing strategies to align with current conditions. This evolving landscape offers opportunities for informed participants to navigate the market effectively.
Mortgage Market Update:
Over the last month, the 30-year fixed-rate has settled in, making only slight moves in either direction. This stability is reassuring, and borrowers have responded with purchase application demand rising to the highest growth rate since late last year.
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