For many years, Dolphin Tower in Sarasota stood as one of the few high-rise condominium towers in the Downtown area; by 2006, it was clear that the building had not aged gracefully, especially at a time when boutique condo towers were being developed in various districts across the city. Extensive renovations of Dolphin Tower started in 2010, and they were completed in 2016. Since then, many homeowners have been remodeling their units and placing them on the market, thus presenting home buyers with an excellent opportunity of bayfront living.

Dolphin Tower is located on South Gulfstream Boulevard, just a block away from the legendary Marina Jack seafood restaurant. Officially, this condo is part of the Bayfront district, but it is closer to Burns Square. The convenience you get from this location is undeniable: You can walk to Whole Foods Market and dine at landmark eateries such as Caragiulo’s and Boca Sarasota. Even the Opera House is within walking distance, and you can reasonably ride your bike to St. Armands Circle. Driving to Siesta Key Beach will take about 15 minutes, but you may find Longboat Key to be closer and less crowded.

In early 2020, you can find a one-bedroom unit at Dolphin Tower priced at less than $400K. The most valuable units are on the west side and higher than the ninth floor because they offer sweeping views of the Sarasota Bay. For $500K, you can move into a 15th floor unit with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and more than 1,200 square feet of living space, but you will have to make an offer soon. More units will come on the market soon, but they are expected to be lavishly remodeled, which means that they will be listed at higher sales prices.

Keep in mind that the community features of Dolphin Tower have been remodeled, so you will find that the lobby area, hallways, swimming pool, clubhouse, gym, and parking garage in this condominium look like new.