Posted by Chieko Horras on Monday, May 21, 2018 at 10:00 AMBy Chieko Horras / May 21, 2018Comment
Let's talk about Verandas!
One of my favorite home styles in River Strand are the Verandas. This unique floor plan combines the feel of a condo (also referred to as a Terrace in River Strand) with more of the features contained in the Coach Homes. Like the Coach homes, the Veranda buildings are 2 story buildings, as opposed to the 4 stories of the Terrace buildings. The Verandas are larger in square footage than the condos and contain 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms AND a Den. The added bonus of these Verandas are that they come with an extended single car garage and a screened-in veranda area at the entrance of the home.
Posted by Robert Casella on Thursday, May 17, 2018 at 6:50 PMBy Robert Casella / May 17, 2018Comment
Lakewood National Real Estate: Amenities Update
Looks like Lakewood National Real Estate got a whole lot more interesting. It appears as though a considerable chunk of the amenities will be up in time for season. In fact, they are anticipating a September finish for all of the amenities that are under construction, as detailed in this video. The main clubhouse will still be a little further down the road--and so will the final 18 holes--but these amenities will give homeowners something to sink their teeth into as the community starts to take shape. Just beyond the amenities, the closest condos for sale in Lakewood National are the verandas. Just a hop, skip and a jump and you are relaxing poolside. Pretty cool stuff!
Lakewood National Real Estate continues to be one of the most sought after bundled golf communities in Southwest Florida. Call the Lakewood National Expert today at 941.961.4037 for more information!
Posted by Robert Casella on Wednesday, May 16, 2018 at 9:27 PMBy Robert Casella / May 16, 2018Comment
6819 Grand Estuary Trail, #105: Sold in 1 Day, Closed in 2 Weeks
HOW WOULD YOU like to enjoy a 1) Dazzling former VERANDA MODEL that is 2) Turnkey Furnished 3) and has a "NO ROOFTOP" Rear View? The best views are usually reserved for Model Homes, and this residence, with its intimate lake setting & flagpin w/ green in the near distance, is no exception. Professionally Decorated, the Stylish Finishes & coordinated furniture arrangements Blend Beautifully, and create an ambiance that is cozy and comfortable all at once. This split bedroom concept features a Large Great Room & a Roomy Kitchen w/ granite, S/S appliances, 42 inch cabinets, & breakfast nook.
The owner's retreat, which has THREE windows that shift your gaze to that Amazing View every morning, has two walk in closets & en-suite bath. The versatile den, which can double as a 3rd bedroom, offers terrific flex appeal. Crown molding & tile on the diagonal in the main areas add a touch of elegance too. However, the best feature could be the Irresistible Cross Breeze generated by opening the rear & front sliders! NOW is the time to act on this amazing MAINTENANCE FREE residence! Condos for sale in River Strand have never looked so good--this is a must see!
Entertain in Grand Style with this Professionally Decorated & Maintenance Provided FORMER MODEL HOME! Built in 2017, the "Napoli" embodies a Masterful Design & Modern Luxury that exudes comfort & convenience. The Substantial Pyramidal Chandelier, which casts soft ambient light throughout the great room, illuminates some prominent design features. Some highlights include tray ceilings w/ cross beams w/ decorative wood paneling, a custom crafted multi-mirrored feature wall, tailor fitted drapes, 20" inch Porcelain Tile & Crown Molding. Homes for sale in River Strand rarely reach the quality and craftsmanship this model offers!
The large triple glass sliders offer a glimpse of the expanded lanai & Outdoor Kitchen w/ Decorative Stonework, which segways into a large Salt Water Pool & Spa area & Terrific Lake View. The Kitchen Amazes, and includes Staggered 42 inch Painted Hazlenut Cabinetry w/ Crown, Upgraded S/S Appliances, Premium countertops, & an adjoining Breakfast Nook. Design highlights synchronously extend to the den and Owner's Retreat too, where cross beams, wood paneling, custom trim work, and fitted drapes steal the show.
As one of only a LIMITED number of homes in River Strand w/ a Side Load Garage, this home's Unique Value Proposition is clear. The question is--will it be yours? Ownership...
Posted by Robert Casella on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 9:43 AMBy Robert Casella / May 4, 2018Comment
6819 Grand Estuary Trail, #105: Condos for Sale in River Strand
HOW WOULD YOU like to enjoy a 1) Dazzling former VERANDA MODEL that is 2) Turnkey Furnished 3) and has a "NO ROOFTOP" Rear View? The best views are usually reserved for Model Homes, and this residence, with its intimate lake setting & flagpin w/ green in the near distance, is no exception. Professionally Decorated, the Stylish Finishes & coordinated furniture arrangements Blend Beautifully, and create an ambiance that is cozy and comfortable all at once. This split bedroom concept features a Large Great Room & a Roomy Kitchen w/ granite, S/S appliances, 42 inch cabinets, & breakfast nook.
The owner's retreat, which has THREE windows that shift your gaze to that Amazing View every morning, has two walk in closets & en-suite bath. The versatile den, which can double as a 3rd bedroom, offers terrific flex appeal. Crown molding & tile on the diagonal in the main areas add a touch of elegance too. However, the best feature could be the Irresistible Cross Breeze generated by opening the rear & front sliders! NOW is the time to act on this amazing MAINTENANCE FREE residence! ...
Posted by Robert Casella on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 at 4:58 PMBy Robert Casella / April 25, 2018Comment
8317 Heritage Grand Place: Homes for Sale in River Strand
This BEAUTIFULLY IMAGINED Luxury Home is nestled on 1) a nearly ½ Acre Pie Shaped Homesite 2) at the end of a Private Cul-De-Sac 3) on the community’s most Prominent Street. One of River Strand’s Finest homes, this “Crown Jewel” delivers a One of a Kind Living Experience w/ Custom Finishes rarely attainable at the prescribed offer price, especially when juxtaposed to similar homes in comparable communities. Homes for sale in River Strand rarely rise to the high standard this home represents--it should not be missed!
The Voluminous Homesite, which expands as it deepens, envelops a lanai that nearly runs the rear expanse of the entire home! The lanai features Premium Travertine, Up-Lighting for Evening Ambience, Mature Privacy Landscaping, & a Superior Outdoor Kitchen that would entice any Grill Master.With plenty of Conversational Sitting Areas, the lanai is the perfect place to capture the expansive lake, golf, and preserves of the 4th hole on the Tributary. As far as homes for sale in River Strand go, the view on this home could rank up there with the very best that is offered in the community.
Posted by Robert Casella on Thursday, December 7, 2017 at 1:01 PMBy Robert Casella / December 7, 2017Comment
6406 Grand Estuary Trail, #103: Coach Homes in River Strand: SOLD!
How cool is it that my recent clients, Nancy and Roberto Mendizabal, shared this photo of the sun setting in River Strand at their coach home? The first thing Roberto said to me was, "Robert, you missed the boat on the marketing--did you see how the sun sets at this location?" When he showed me this picture, I understood he was right.
The warm afterglow of the sun setting in the back of his home, a view that they have a perfect vantage point from on their lanai, was terrific. He actually took a couple of pictures--and one with the sun setting just above the horizon--but this is the picture that says it all because the warmth of the sun is hovering just beneath the surface and lights up the converging nighttime sky. So cool. Thanks for sharing...and THANK YOU Steve and Lynn Bucknam for introducing me to Roberto and Nancy. Great couple.
This was one of the last new coach homes for sale in River Strand to close...but the chapter doesn't end here...rather, it begins. River Strand is a terrific community located in an unbeatable location with a fabulous golf course and amenities. There is something for everyone...even a sunset!
Posted by Carol Marra on Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at 9:39 AMBy Carol Marra / December 5, 2017Comment
Looking for a fun event to take your family to?
Here it is...
The Farmers Market at Lakewood Ranch Polo Grounds!!
Making it's debut on December 6, this fun-filled community event is happening each week at the Sarasota Polo Club. This farmers market will feature quality vendors like Maggie's Seafood, Grove Ladder Farm, Sunshine Canning, along with many more. With wine tastings, fitness demos, culinary demos, kids activities and live music. Another fun event in our area!
Posted by Robert Casella on Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 3:21 PMBy Robert Casella / December 2, 2017Comment
SOLD! Coach Home for Sale in Lakewood National: 5827 Wake Forest Run, #103
Lakewood National is off and running...these new coach homes in Lakewood Ranch have gorgeous front elevations, light and bright interiors, and sprawling golf course and water views. As you make your approach to Lakewood National, the meandering road ascends up a little hill to the guard gate, which allows entry to the neighborhood. From the top of the hill, you will quickly see what this community is becoming, and what it will be in the future.
Moving straight ahead, the coach homes will appear on the right, and you will eventually make your way to Wake Forest Run, where this gorgeous coach home location awaits. As you make your way through this home and make your way out to the lanai, you will notice the trifecta of panoramic views, which includes a preserve to the right, and a long lake and golf course view to the left. The natural preserves provides terrific privacy, while the lake view adds some tranquility. These new coach homes for sale in Lakewood National depart from the traditional interiors that Lennar has offered in the past, especially the lighter and brighter paint permeating throughout the entire home. The kitchen also impresses, and the white cabinets significantly brighten this area of the home. Of course, the owner's retreat has always impressed in these upstairs coach homes--the size of the space adds both versatility and comfort.
What a TERRIFIC VALUE for this Maintenance Provided & TURNKEY FURNISHED Pool & Spa home in the Sanctuary at River Strand! This cleverly imagined Trevi model, an open floorplan known for its versatility & comfort, is tastefully furnished w/ after-market enhancements that impresses immediately. Upon entry, you will notice a transom window allowing light to illuminate the foyer area, which showcases the volume ceiling, decorative wood paneling & moldings. These finishes extend to the great room, which features a built-in cabinet area w/ granite counters for the TV area.
Posted by Carol Marra on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at 10:01 AMBy Carol Marra / November 15, 2017Comment
Housing boom is officially back
The following article is the reason home prices will not crash in the near future and why the crash happened about 10 years ago.
CHICAGO – Nov. 14, 2017 – Housing prices have returned to the "boom levels" of a decade ago, but this time around, the fast appreciation is being fueled by strong supply-and-demand dynamics this time – not 2006's predatory lending practices, investor speculation and too much construction, according to new realtor.com data released Monday.
"As we compare today's market dynamics to those of a decade ago, it's important to remember rising prices didn't cause the housing crash," says realtor.com Chief Economist Danielle Hale. "It was rising prices stoked by subprime and low-documentation mortgages, as well as people looking for short-term gains – versus today's truer market vitality – that created the environment for the crash."
The national median price for a home in 2016 was $236,000 – 2 percent higher than in pre-recession 2006 – according to realtor.com. Out of the country's 50 largest housing markets, 31 have returned to their levels during the last housing bubble (62 percent).
Realtor.com researchers finger Austin, Texas, as the city that has posted the largest increases in home prices – 63 percent – over the past 10 years. Denver and Dallas have also seen some of the biggest gains, at 54 percent and 52 percent, respectively. On the other hand, three markets remained more than 20 percent below their 2006 highs: Las Vegas (25 percent below); Tucson, Ariz. (22 percent); and Riverside, Calif. (22 percent).
Posted by Robert Casella on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at 7:38 PMBy Robert Casella / November 12, 2017Comment
Good Eats for Lakewood National! Part 3: Tampa
Throughout this series, I have broken down some of the best places to eat right outside our door. The unique location of homes and condos for sale in Lakewood National is the prime position that allows us branch out to neighboring cities with little to no trouble. The largest and most well-known of these cities is Tampa.
Tampa is a well renowned for several reasons, including their world class amusement parks and sports teams. This kind of notoriety has given Tampa the opportunity to bring in many of the best restaurants from around the world. The restaurants I’m going to share my experiences on are AJ’s Press, Ulele, and Columbia Restaurant. All three of these local eats are special in their own way and provide a wide variety of culinary flavors and styles.
The first restaurant we are going to dive into, happens to be a personal favorite of mine. This is AJ’s Press. AJ’s Press is a local family-owned restaurant specializing in fresh ingredients and slow roasted meats. The restaurant is located in what appears to be a small colorful house. This laid back, genuine environment makes this restaurant feel like a home. Not only does AJ’s use fresh ingredients such as their fresh baked Bolillo and Telera breads, they also make their name with their brilliant flavor combinations. My "go-to" sandwich has to be the Crunchy Chicken. This sandwich has AJ’s own signature crunchy chicken with a sweet and tangy Chili sauce, Jack...
Posted by Robert Casella on Sunday, November 5, 2017 at 7:41 AMBy Robert Casella / November 5, 2017Comment
Good Eats for Lakewood National! Part 2: Sarasota
There’s nothing like a meal that just hits the spot. In this series, I’m going to breakdown the best places to eat in the areas surrounding Lakewood National. Homes and condos for sale in Lakewood National give us the chance to have a central location in one of the most up and coming areas in the country. A big part of this rise to the top is thanks to Sarasota.
Sarasota has always been a cultural hub in south Florida, but one thing that often goes unnoticed is the plethora of dining options that are available to those in the area. In my quest to find the best, I found some great restaurants to please any palette. After eating my way through the town, I decided to focus on Brick’s Smoked Meats, Antoine’s Restaurant, and Andrea’s Restaurant. These are my favorite restaurants in the area for good reason. Each of them offers their own unique specialty that truly sets them apart from other establishments in the area.
Posted by Carol Marra on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 at 8:58 AMBy Carol Marra / October 25, 2017Comment
Bubble? Nowhere in sight for U.S. housing market
Oct. 24, 2017 – U.S. housing markets are expected to remain healthy through at least the end of 2018, with no housing bubble in sight and no projection of home prices falling, according to the Fall 2017 edition of The Housing and Mortgage Market Review (HaMMR), released by Arch Mortgage Insurance Company.
The HaMMR features the Arch MI Risk Index, a statistical model based on recent housing market indicators. The index suggests that over the next two years, the probability of home price declines in America's 401 largest cities averages just 4 percent – an unusually low number.
"People waiting for home prices to fall before buying may want to change their strategy, as the overall housing market is expected to stay strong for the foreseeable future," says Dr. Ralph G. DeFranco, Global Chief Economist, Mortgage Services of Arch Capital Services Inc. "Our research shows no housing bubble is forming in the United States, with prices overall near historic norms compared to incomes."
The HaMMR also finds that some recent concern about U.S. home prices hitting all-time highs is overblown because, after adjusting for inflation, national home prices are still 10 percent below their prior peak.
What a TERRIFIC VALUE for this Maintenance Provided & TURNKEY FURNISHED Pool & Spa home in the Sanctuary at River Strand! This cleverly imagined Trevi model, an open floorplan known for its versatility & comfort, is tastefully furnished w/ after-market enhancements that impresses immediately.
Upon entry, you will notice a transom window allowing light to illuminate the foyer area, which showcases the volume ceiling, decorative wood paneling & moldings. These finishes extend to the great room, which features a built-in cabinet area w/ granite counters for the TV area. The large kitchen adds a cozy conversational feel, which includes a breakfast bar, S/S appliances & plenty of cabinets.
The owner's retreat is roomy, and boasts 2 walk in closets, en-suite bath w/ dual sinks, separate shower, & garden tub. One of the 2nd bedrooms even has a dedicated en-suite bath--a coveted feature for today's modern home. Finally, what residence is complete without a den/extra bedroom with built in desk space & cabinetry?
Living is EASY, SECURE, and CONVENIENT in River Strand....
Posted by Robert Casella on Monday, October 16, 2017 at 9:36 AMBy Robert Casella / October 16, 2017Comment
510 Winding Brook Lane #101 : Condos for Sale in River Strand
This fabulous GOLF-INCLUDED coach home in River Strand Golf & Country Club is a TERRIFIC VALUE with a TREMENDOUS view! The massive lanai is a perfect spot to capture the amazingly long and deep view of the 9th fairway, with its twin lakes, preserves, and Clubhouse in the far distance. Even better, this home also offers a preserve view at the front entry for more privacy—an uncommon benefit that should not be overlooked.
Outstanding features include BRAND NEW Carpeting,Tile on the Diagonal w/ SHIMMERING Grout Lines, Extensive Crown Molding, 42" solid wood cabinets, granite counter, S/S appliances, & high impact "hurricane" resistant windows/doors. The large great room, which makes the home feel cozy & comfortable all at once, is a perfect gathering place for family & friends. The spacious owner’s retreat features an en-suite bath with 2 walk-in closets, dual sinks, & separate garden tub & shower.
Located within the gates of River Strand, living in EASY, SECURE, & CONVENIENT. This condo comes w/ a free equity membership to the 27...
It was one of only a LIMITED number of 4th FLOOR residences WITH a terrific view of the MANATEE RIVER and the 8th hole of the Sanctuary, with its expansive lake & preserves. At night, you can even see, on the horizon and in the far distance, illuminated homes across the Manatee River. There is no reason to settle for less on a lower floor—and with no residence directly above you, the home is quiet, comfortable, & cozy all at once. A remarkable location, quiet preserves also face the front of the building.
This condo was exquisitely furnished—so much so, builders will probably draw decoration inspiration from this gorgeous residence! A split bedroom plan for maximum privacy, the owner’s retreat is roomy and has two walk-in closets and en-suite bath. The large kitchen has plenty of cabinets, granite counters, & S/S appliances. Includes storage unit--perfect for golf clubs, bikes, & beach chairs!
Located within the gates of River Strand, living in EASY, SECURE, & CONVENIENT. This condo comes w/ a free equity membership to the 27 hole Arthur Hills championship golf course & Country Club, w/ access to 8 HAR-TRU lighted tennis courts and on-site tennis pro. There are TWO clubhouses, and the main pool has...
Posted by Carol Marra on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 12:48 PMBy Carol Marra / October 12, 2017Comment
Three River Strand villas sold in the month of September 2017- two were listed by our team. Villas are popular properties because they are reasonably priced and have 2 car garages and lanais. The maintenance-free aspect also makes them a wonderful 2nd home or retirement properties. And, of course, River Strand, is a wonderful community with many amentities like golf, tennis, and many community pools. So it is not hard to believe that these properties sold at an average days on market of just 66 days. For many years, our summer market would be slow but in the past 2 years our team has noticed that summer sales have increased. So we no longer tell our sellers to wait for "Season" to list their homes. We believe that when inventory is low, as it is now in River Strand, that it is a good time to sell. Call us for a free assessment of your home value at 941-345-6087.
Posted by Carol Marra on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 12:03 PMBy Carol Marra / October 12, 2017Comment
Lennar's commentary about the housing market following Hurricane Irma: Despite being affected by the recent hurricanes, the United States' second largest homebuilder (Lennar) predicted a brief pause as the nation cleans up from the storms, but Chief Executive Stuart Miller said he expected to see increased demand for new homes going forward. "Results were supported by strong demand for homes, low unemployment, favorable interest rates and increased consumer confidence, which are all signs of a very healthy homebuilding market," the company said. Home orders, a key indicator of future revenue, rose 8.4 percent to 7,610 homes in the third quarter ended Aug. 31, though Lennar said deliveries of about 950 homes would be pushed into fiscal 2018 because of the hurricanes. Still, the Florida-based builder said it sold 7,598 homes in the quarter, compared with 6,779 homes a year earlier. Source: Reuters (10/03/17) Copyright 2017 INFORMATION INC., Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688
Carol's commentary on the local market: The re-sale market is affected by the number of new home choices, in our area. Those sellers that want to sell quickly should realize that the competition to their home might not be the re-sale home down the street, but rather the new construction home, around the corner. So many new home developments in east Bradenton have made a big impact on re-sales and so knowing what is being offered in new construction is crucial. As I list homes, I always keep the competition in mind. I always say every home will sell we just have to market...
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