OCTOBER 9, 2019

3 Fla. Cities in Top 10 ‘Best Places to Retire’ list

U.S. News & World Report: Out of 125 cities ranked, 10 Fla. cities are in the top 50. In top 10: 1) Fort Myers, 2) Sarasota, 5) Port St. Lucie and 6) Jacksonville.

WASHINGTON – U.S. News & World Report released its 2020 Best Places to Retire in the United States list, and all Florida cities were in the top third, with three metros in the top 10.

The magazine says its rankings “offer a comprehensive evaluation of the country’s 125 largest metropolitan areas – up from 100 last year – based on how well they meet Americans’ expectations for retirement, with measures including housing affordability, desirability, health care and overall happiness.”

The report lists four Florida metro areas in its top 10.

Up from No. 2 last year, Fort Myers tops the list at No. 1 due to increases in desirability, health care quality, job market strength and happiness. Sarasota jumps from No. 3 to No. 2 due to increases in desirability, health care and job market scores, despite falling in the areas of happiness and housing affordability.

In addition, two metro areas not previously ranked broke into the top five, including Port St. Lucie, at No. 5 thanks to ranking high due to desirability, happiness scores and retiree tax policy.

At No. 6, Jacksonville was still in the report’s top 10.

2020 U.S. News best places to retire rankings – top 10
1. Fort Myers

2. Sarasota

3. Lancaster, Pa.

4. Asheville, N.C.

5. Port St. Lucie

6. Jacksonville

7. Winston-Salem, N.C.

8. Nashville, Tenn.

9. Grand Rapids, Mich.

10. Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas

Florida city rankings in U.S. News 2020 report
1. Fort Myers

2. Sarasota

5. Port St. Lucie

6. Jacksonville

14. Miami

15. Lakeland

17. Tampa

19. Melbourne

22. Orlando

33. Pensacola

54. Daytona Beach

“Deciding where to retire is an important part of your life plan,” says Emily Brandon, senior editor for Retirement at U.S. News. “When considering potential retirement spots, you should look for an affordable cost of living, proximity to health care services and a strong economy, especially if you plan to work part-time.”

The 2020 Best Places to Retire were determined based on a methodology that factored in happiness, housing affordability, health care quality, desirability, retiree taxes and job market ratings. These measures were weighted based on a public survey of individuals across the U.S who are nearing retirement age (ages 45-59) and those who are of retirement age (60 or older) to find out what matters most when considering where to retire. Survey respondents said happiness and housing affordability were their most important criteria when selecting a retirement spot. Data sources include the U.S. Census Bureau and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as well as U.S. News rankings of the Best Hospitals.

Of the 10 least desirable retirement cities ranked by U.S. News & World Report, five are in California, including the four at the bottom of the list. Of the rest, two are in Louisiana, and one each in Alabama, Oklahoma and Tennessee.

source: © 2019 Florida Realtors®

Can’t Afford to Buy a Home? Have You Considered Down Payment Assistance?

What’s the number one hurdle for renters making the leap to homeownership? That pesky down payment. Even with an FHA loan that only requires a minimum of 3.5% down, the thought of setting aside several thousand dollars is daunting (and for some, darn near impossible).

A survey from Apartment List highlights the struggle for millennial renters, with 62% citing a lack of down payment savings as their reason for delaying homeownership. 48% have zero down payment savings, and just 11% have saved $10,000 or more.

Fortunately, there are programs out there to help, they’re just not always well publicized. Here are some tips for finding Down Payment Assistance:

1. Do a national search.
You’ll be surprised how many programs you can find. “Do you even know that down payment assistance (DPA) programs exist? You’re in good company if you don’t,” says The Mortgage Reports. “These programs help homebuyers with loans or grants that reduce the amount they need to save for a down payment. And there are more than 2,000 of them nationwide.”

2. Check out statewide programs.
From the HUD site, you can search by every state plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands to see which programs are available for you.

3. Now take it local.
Don’t forget to check for programs in your city. The City of Los Angeles Housing + Community Investment Department offers up to $90,000 in financial assistance for first-time, low income homebuyers. In Memphis, there is a zero-interest deferred loan that provides funding for first-time homebuyers’ down payment and closing costs for eligible homebuyers through its Division of Housing and Community Development. In Sarasota contact: Sarasota Housing Authority.

4. Search by your profession.
You’ve probably heard about VA loans for military members and veterans, but there are other professions that are eligible for down-payment assistance. The Neighbor Next Door Program is a program for law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and teachers that requires only a $100 down payment for eligible homebuyers. Because the program is tied to the idea of revitalization, homes in these communities are offered to eligible buyers at a 50% discount.

5. Check with your real estate agent or lender.
Doing your own research is key, but it’s always smart to consult a professional who is familiar with your specific situation.

PROPERTY SHARING: YOURS, MINE AND OURS

Many times property ends up having some form of shared ownership. Sometimes it is simply in the form of joint tenants or tenants in common, but sometimes more complex forms are involved such as life estates, ownership through entities or even by agreement (such as a co-habitation agreement).

Over the years, statutes and common law have often resulted in certain rules for dealing with common co-ownership and sharing issues. But those rules may not be the best for a particular situation, and may not address all issues that needed to be resolved.

As a result, various agreements between parties are created to deal with what is mine, what is yours and what is ours to document the respective bundle of property rights that each party may have.

Here are some important issues that should be defined between co-owners of property, no matter the style or form of the shared ownership:

Define the type of sharing or ownership. Is it a partnership, a current co-ownership or sharing, or a split ownership where perhaps one party is entitled to future rights but not current ownership rights.

Responsibility for capital contributions. When funds are needed for the property, does each party have an obligation to contribute equally or in different percentages, and what happens when one party refuses to make their contribution.

Maintenance and improvements. If a repair is needed, a yard needs to be mowed, something needs to be repainted, who is responsible for paying for and coordinating such work? And what happens if that is not done?

Transferring the ownership interest. Does a co-owner have the right to sell or transfer his or her ownership interest? Must that be offered to the other co-owner? And what happens at the death of a co-owner? Is that ownership interest transferred by a survivorship right, or is it conveyed through probate?

Rights of occupancy and use. Do the sharing parties have equal rights of occupancy and use and how is that coordinated? In situations where one party is entitled to sole occupancy, a written agreement should make it clear the extent to which they are also obligated to pay all expenses of the property. If there is going to be shared use, sometimes formulas and priorities are developed to determine the rights of the parties to use at various times of the year.

Authority to make decisions. Is one of the co-owners in “control” of the property and entitled to make sole decisions? Are there certain situations where all parties have a voice in decision-making?

Participation in revenue. If the revenue is not going to be split in accordance with the ownership interests, how are those rights defined? Is one of the owners entitled to a larger distribution or a fee for management?

Rights and authority to convey the property. Must a property interest be offered to a party before it can be sold? Must a co-owner approve of a sale or transfer by another co-owner? A situation that always creates difficulty is when there are parties that have some form of co-ownership right (for example, the right to inherit homestead), and their approval and consent may be required by a title underwriter before marketable title can be conveyed.

While some of these issues are addressed to some extent by presumptions imposed in the law, a written agreement which defines the rights of co-owners and/or sharers must be entered into so that there are no misunderstandings or disputes between them. It is important that an experienced real estate attorney be consulted to document the complete agreement and understanding between all of the parties that may have an interest.

Sincerely,
Berlin Patten Ebling, PLLC
Article Authored by Christopher Caswell, Esq., ccaswell@berlinpatten.com

This communication is not intended to establish an attorney client relationship, and to the extent anything contained herein could be construed as legal advice or guidance, you are strongly encouraged to consult with your own attorney before relying upon any information contained herein.

All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.

www.berlinpatten.com

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VENICE
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LAKEWOOD RANCH
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Business Development Coordinator

mryan@berlinpatten.com

NAR Survey: Home Improvement Projects Worth Cost and Time

Remodeling isn’t always more money at resale, though that’s important. NAR’s “Joy Score” analyzes the level of current owner satisfaction with remodeling projects.
WASHINGTON – Homeowners who undergo a home improvement project, whether it be interior or exterior modifications, often find that the task was worth the investment and time, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) that relied on insights from the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI).

The 2019 Remodeling Impact Report, an examination of 20 projects, surveyed Realtors, consumers who have completed home renovation projects and members of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

The report examined a variety of remodeling projects and used responses to rank the appeal of a given project, the value of the project in terms of resale and its overall functionality. The study also looked into the reasons for remodeling, the success of taking on the various projects and the increased happiness reported in the home upon completion of the job.

After completing a remodeling project:

74% of owners have a greater desire to be in their home
65% experience increased enjoyment
77% feel a major sense of accomplishment
58% report a feeling of happiness seeing completed projects
38% say they have a feeling of satisfaction
“Realtors and homeowners alike recognize the value of taking on a major home remodeling project,” says NAR President John Smaby. “While these tasks can be time-consuming and costly, the projects are well worth the temporary inconveniences, as this report shows, and the final products ultimately reward us, with feelings of accomplishment, satisfaction and higher home values.”

NAR calculated a “Joy Score” for each project. The score is based on the happiness homeowners reported with their renovations – the more pleased with a given project, the better the Joy Score, with the highest possible score being 10.

Interior projects that received some of the higher Joy Scores are complete kitchen renovations, closet renovations, full interior and individual room paint jobs, kitchen upgrades and basement conversions to living areas. Exterior jobs with the highest Joy Scores were new fiberglass or steel front doors, new vinyl and wood windows and new roofing.

“The NAR report shows us that people often remodel for resale purposes, but it also reminds us that homeowners remodel, too, with the desire to make a home their own,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist.

Kitchen renovation

A complete kitchen renovation received a top Joy Score of 10. Ninety-three percent of those polled said they have a greater desire to be at home since the completion of their kitchen, and 95% said they have an increased sense of enjoyment when at home.

“The kitchen is a space homeowners frequent regularly throughout the course of the day,” Yun says. “So when that area is remodeled to owners’ exact preferences – as they enter and exit the room – they continually experience the satisfaction of a job well done.”

The most important result of a kitchen renovation is improved functionality and livability, according to 46% of those polled. As to the reasons why they decided to take on the project, 24% say they wanted to upgrade worn-out surfaces and materials. Another 20% report they had recently moved into their home and had a desire to customize the kitchen to their particular tastes.

“Kitchens serve as the “heart of the home” for many, and whether you like to entertain or cook, updating a kitchen ensures greater access and use as homeowners age, especially when the upgrades take accessibility into account,” said NARI 2019-2020 President of the Board, Robert Kirsic, (CKBR) certified kitchen and bath remodeler. “No matter the size of the kitchen, a certified professional can guide the design and build process in a way that will yield joy and happiness for the homeowner.”

Closet renovation

Upgrading home closets was another task that received a 10 Joy Score. This is due in part to the inconvenience of a disorganized closet, which is something a homeowner encounters daily, often at the start of their day. When a closet renovation is finished, the sense of achievement is immediate. Thusly, 68% of those surveyed say they feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think about the completed project. Nearly three-quarters, 72%, report having a greater desire to be at home since finishing the job.

With a closet redesign, 56% say the most important result is better functionality and livability. Fifty-four percent say the top reason for doing the job was the need to improve organization and storage. Fifteen percent answered that it was time for a change.

Full interior paint job

Completing a full interior paint job in the home scored a 9.8 Joy Score. A finished paint job is usually visible in every room in a home, which speaks to how important a task this is to respondents.

A vast majority, 88%, say they have a greater desire to be home since having their home freshly painted. Eighty-six percent report feeling a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project.

New fiberglass front door

The installation of fiberglass front doors is a highly rated exterior project, receiving a Joy Score of 9.7. Seventy-nine percent of polled homeowners say they have had a greater desire to be at home upon completion of the job. Sixty-seven percent say they have an increased sense of enjoyment when they are at home, and another 69% state that they feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the completed project.

New vinyl windows

New vinyl windows also received a very high Joy Score, 9.6, while 42% of those surveyed say the most important result is improved functionality and livability. As for the top reasons for doing the job, 47% say they had a desire to improve their home’s energy efficiency and 23% say they wanted to upgrade worn-out surfaces, finishes and materials.

Cost recovered

Remodelers often take on projects with resale in mind, rather than their own home preferences. The report found the top projects for recovering cost are new roofing, hardwood floor refinishing and new hardwood floor installation. NARI Remodelers estimate that new roofing costs $7,500, and Realtors estimate that new roofing helps sellers recover $8,000, on average. That equates to 107% of value recovered from the project.

Lastly, NARI Remodelers estimate that new wood flooring costs $4,700, with Realtors estimating the project helps sellers recover $5,000, or a 106% value recovery. NARI Remodelers estimate that hardwood floor refinishing costs $2,600, and Realtors estimate that the hardwood floor refinishing would help sellers recover $2,600.

“Using a trusted, professional remodeler paves the way for a successful project outcome,” says NARI CEO David R. Pekel. “NARI members adhere to our code of ethics, and work to design the best solution for homeowners to deliver satisfaction.”

Source: © 2019 Florida Realtors®

OCTOBER 2, 2019
Study: Florida No. 1 in Welcoming New Residents

Lendingtree.com: In 2016, new residents brought $30.2 billion into Fla., with about 72% of that increased income coming from new residents age 55 and over.

NEW YORK – Using IRS data from 2016, LendingTree found Florida the most popular place to move. New residents that year bought in a combined adjusted gross income of $30.2 billion.

According to the study, the age 55 and up demographic accounted for about 72% of incoming adjusted gross income to the state. In a look at household income, people who earned more than $100,000 annually accounted for 85% of the state’s income growth in 2016.

“We are seeing first-hand the highest percentage of affluent buyers go to Florida. Several factors have come together between lifestyle, great value (and) quality of living combined with the boost from tax reform,” says Shahab Karmely, CEO of New York-based KAR Properties, who has developed two ultra-luxury condo projects in Miami. “Buyers have huge purchasing power and pay fewer taxes for the rest of their lives, so they think, why not move there?”

“I’m seeing more people moving here from California,” says Noam Ziv of the ELAD Group, developer of the luxury ALINA Residences in Boca Raton. “It’s definitely become an emerging market for us. Since the taxes are extremely high there, Florida is perfect if you like the casual beach lifestyle.”

Ziv says the “schools in Boca are top-rated. You can actually move your family here and work remotely from your company headquarters in New York, which we are also seeing more of.”

“Over the last few months, we have noticed a significant increase in buyers from the Northeast and Midwest,” says Jay Parker, CEO of Douglas Elliman Florida. “While historically, many purchases in South Florida were vacation homes or investment properties, now more than ever we are seeing buyers relocate to become full-time South Florida residents. Similarly, many of the buyers are relocating their businesses as part of the relocation.”

“A year or two ago, New York buyers were coming here to avoid state income tax,” says Chuck Luciano, principal and founding agent of Compass Boca Raton. “Now we see them coming for the truly good value they get when they trade New York for South Florida.”

Source: Forbes (09/30/19) Paris, Ellen

https://www2.floridarealtors.org/news-media/news-articles/2019/10/study-florida-no-1-welcoming-new-residents

© Copyright 2019 INFORMATION INC., Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688

What’s it like to live in Sarasota, FL?

https://realestate.usnews.com/places/florida/sarasota
Profile written by: Vanessa Caceres.

Warm temperatures year-round, award-winning beaches and a thriving arts and cultural scene have made Sarasota a go-to place for retirees and families, not to mention a handful of celebrities (including Stephen King and Rosie O’Donnell). This southwest Florida region, which is about an hour from Tampa and two hours from Orlando, continues to attract new residents with great restaurants and plenty of shopping options.

Living in Sarasota has elements of what many consider paradise, mixed with some hints of reality. As the population grows, the area struggles to keep up with infrastructure needs. Traffic congestion is becoming more common. Those who live, work or visit downtown Sarasota will see their share of construction cranes as the region copes with an influx of residents and a record-breaking number of tourists.

However, as the Sarasota community flourishes, so does its economy. Sarasota offers a sizeable job market for those working in health care, small business and tourism. 
 
** U.S. News analyzed 125 metro areas in the United States to find the best places to live based on quality of life and the job market in each metro area, as well as the value of living there and people’s desire to live there.

Sarasota, Florida is ranked:

#18 in Best Places to Live

#3 in Best Places to Retire
7.0Overall
SCORECARD
Best Places to Live
Desirability
7.4
Value
5.7
Job Market
6.4
Quality of Life
7.4
Net Migration
10.0

What’s the cost of living in Sarasota, FL?
Sarasota is relatively affordable compared to larger Florida regions like Miami, though young families are finding it increasingly harder to buy a home at a reasonable cost. The continuing influx of wealthy residents has affected the cost of housing, as there has been more of a focus on upscale living. Sarasota offers a lower value than similarly sized metro areas when you compare housing costs to median household income.Housing Costs 2016-06
Sarasota
$237,260
USA
$226,500
Housing Costs Over Time

Life Served to Perfection

source: https://www.theresidencessarasota.com/press/life-served-to-perfection/?referer=MSC%20Email%20Database
For generations, an incomparable array of world-class culture and beaches has made Sarasota the crown jewel of Florida’s Gulf Coast. At the pinnacle of this sophisticated seaside mecca comes the new Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota.

These 73 Grand Tower Residences, priced from $2.4 million, are nestled within a pristine locale right beside the highly anticipated Quay Sarasota on the last premier waterfront site in downtown Sarasota. Residents will enjoy panoramic views of Sarasota Bay along with unparalleled private amenities, endless resort pleasures, and legendary Ritz-Carlton service.

With project development led by The Kolter Group LLC, the all new residential tower raises expectations as a heralded new standard for modern Ritz-Carlton luxury. Distinctive architecture and exquisite finishes are reflective of the highest quality, and this premier seascape location fits flawlessly with the fresh modern attitude of the evolutionary hospitality brand. Poised to become “The Best of Everything” on the west coast of Florida, the new Ritz-Carlton Residences, Sarasota offers the leading edge of effortless convenience and unparalleled pleasures—today’s quintessential address for a life without limits. A majestically landscaped private drive leads residents to a 24-hour valet at the elevated porte-cochère or directly into a secured parking garage with reserved spaces and individual lockable climate-controlled storage units.

“This new tower offers a combination of world-class residential and resort amenities, legendary services, spectacular views, and walkable shopping, dining and recreation not found anywhere else in Florida.”
– Bob Vail, President of Kolter Urban LLC

The moment residents enter the stunning Grand Lobby, with its soaring 14-foot ceilings and adjacent Grand Salon, they will be welcomed into an environment of water vistas and seaside sophistication unmatched on Sarasota’s dazzling downtown Bayfront. Within this private realm, a Residences-dedicated staff and concierge are poised to curate every need in unsurpassed Ritz-Carlton style, from an early morning spa ritual to the finely detailed catering of an intimate evening celebration. Wishes are seamlessly granted and each day is shaped into an indelible experience. The endless array of impeccable personal services includes housekeeping, dry cleaning, car washing and detailing, plant care maintenance, pet care assistance, mail-packing and shipping, travel and vacation itineraries, grocery shop-ping, a personal chef, in-residence catering, and so much more.

AMENITY-RICH LIFESTYLE

Brimming with daily amenities for wellness, recreation and relaxation, residents can choose to be social or serene at the resort-style pool and 70-foot lap pool rimmed with lush tropical foliage. The landscaped oasis features an indoor-outdoor staffed bar and immersive entertainment areas. Inside, residents will find luxurious amenity spaces, which include cozy lounge seating, a custom fireplace, and a demonstration kitchen for catered gatherings and culinary events. The News & Sports café features a daily coffee and beverage station and comfortable seating to catch up on world news or enjoy the game on large-screen TVs. With multiple on-site meeting rooms and a private dog park with pet-washing station, the creators of this all-inclusive private world seem to have thought of everything.

And the irresistible attractions don’t stop there. The exclusive Ritz-Carlton Club membership avails residents of privileges at the day spa and salon, the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club’s* Tom-Fazio-designed championship golf course, Ritz-Carlton Beach Club on Lido Key, and access to a covered walkway for short strolls to the hotel’s renowned Jack Dusty restaurant featuring refined coastal cuisine and handcrafted cocktails.

INSIDE THE RESIDENCES

Designed by award-winning SB Architects, this all-new 18-story residential tower presents the sought-after next generation of modern living. Offering a generous selection of finishes, each of the 73 grand condominiums is fully appointed with ultimate style and energy-efficient features. “The Ritz-Carlton is the epitome of contemporary architectural design, embodying this unique waterfront setting by seamlessly blending clean lines, natural sunlight and a serene aquamarine seascape,” says Stefano Falbo, Vice President, SB Architects.

Designed to engage all the senses, these flow-through floor plans range from 3,100–6,200 square feet with soaring 11- to 12-foot ceilings. Sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows provide dynamic views, while top-of-the-line technology provides ultra-high speed connectivity for easy living. Private elevators open directly into the foyer of every dwelling, each of which sets the stage for the way people live today, complete with expansive great rooms, gracious living areas, and intimate, spa-like master suites. Exquisite details include premium flooring, quartz or natural stone countertops and gourmet kitchens with European cabinetry and large islands for dining or entertaining. Spacious terraces invite owners to celebrate open-air living year-round, with panoramic vistas spanning from east to west to soak in downtown city views, Sarasota Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico and beyond.

OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR

An exciting new energy is beginning to transform into what will be Quay Sarasota and the newly envisioned Bayfront. “There’s never been a better time to enjoy the downtown waterfront lifestyle,” Vail notes. “With the planned expansion of The Bay, it’s destined to be a hub of Sarasota art, culture and historical legacies, as well as serving as a recreational area where families and friends can meet up and celebrate the natural beauty that surrounds them.” This cosmopolitan waterfront address will offer abundant boating opportunities. Quay Sarasota has grand plans for expansion of the existing marina, with available wet slips and dry storage for large boats and yachts.

In addition to the park, plans include the Quay Commons, featuring exciting new destinations for fine and casual dining, boutique shopping, festive public events and water-inspired activities. Just steps beyond, the revitalized Bayfront comes alive with innovative public spaces and vibrant performing arts venues. Currently home to the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall and Sarasota Garden Club, The Bay will soon include expansive piers, gardens, a kayak launch, an outdoor concert venue, and more.

Visit Florida reports record 126.1 million visitors to state in 2018

Source: Marco Santana Contact Reporter Orlando Sentinel
 
Florida drew 126.1 million out-of-state visitors in 2018, setting a tourism record for the eighth consecutive year, Visit Florida said Wednesday.

Overall, the total was a 6.2 percent jump over the previous record set in 2017, the state tourism marketing agency said. 
Orlando’s tourism agency, Visit Orlando, had a big year in 2017, when it set a record for the city with 72 million visitors. The organization will announce its 2018 visitor numbers in May.

Visit Florida President and CEO Dana Young said the flood of new tourists could be credited at least in part to a targeted publicity push by her organization. 
“Visit Florida and the tourism industry have achieved unprecedented success,’’ Young said.

Despite overall growth, overseas visitors to Florida dropped by 1 percent to 10.8 million. The falloff was led by a 6 percent drop in tourists from Great Britain to 1.5 million.

Canadian tourism was up from 3 percent to 3,447,000. The number of visitors from Brazil, meanwhile, grew 8 percent to 1,110,000.

Domestically, the greatest percentage of visitors to Florida came from Georgia (9.6 percent), New York (8.5 percent) and Texas (5.5 percent).

The number of visitors grew as Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld all competed to open more attractions in 2018.

And it won’t stop there. In late 2019, Disney is expected to debut Star Wars Land, which tourism experts are predicting will attract even more massive crowds.

Over the past two years, Visit Florida has been recovering from a volatile period during which its budget requests came under fire from the state Legislature.

Former Gov. Rick Scott in late 2017 had requested $100 million for the organization. Instead, lawmakers approved $76 million.

Earlier this month, Gov. Ron DeSantis requested that same $76 million for Visit Florida in his first budget proposal. The legislative session starts March 5.

100 Best Places to Retire in the USA

To identify the best places to retire, U.S. News analyzed data for the 100 largest metropolitan areas in the USA to assess how well they meet Americans’ retirement needs and expectations. Top criteria include the happiness of local residents, housing affordability, tax rates and healthcare quality.

Source: Conde Nast Magazine

Condé Nast Traveler readers cast hundreds of thousands of votes for the best cities in the U.S. in the 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards survey—in fact, we got so much feedback, we had to divide our list in two. Here we honor the country’s smaller cities, with populations under one million, and its major hubs, with populations over one million. Is your favorite on the list? Counting down…

and at # 5 ………

5. Sarasota, FL
Sarasota is booming, and our readers are noticing. Not only is the Gulf Coast-side city home to attractions like the Sarasota Opera and Ringling Circus Museum; it’s also ushering in exciting new hotels that are far from generic beach resorts. Book a room at the elegant Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, which got upgraded pools this year, or the Art Ovation Hotel, where you should spend at least one afternoon (if not a few) by the rooftop pool overlooking Sarasota Bay. As for the rest of your days, we suggest exploring Sarasota’s ever-growing food scene: We still stand by the aromatic mushroom bisque at Indigenous, the cinnamon roll pancakes at Station 400, and the savory crepes at C’est La Vie. With meals like these, it’s easy to see why so many people decide to spend their golden years in Sarasota.

source: Conde Nast Magazine