According to financial news magazine Forbes, Sarasota is one of the reasons the Southwest Florida region is considered to be a recession-proof housing market. Sarasota County is home to some of the most exciting real estate developments in Florida by virtue of its natural beauty, rich history and careful urban planning, and the City of Sarasota is a favorite among house hunters.

Sarasota is synonymous with year-round sunshine, white-sandy beaches, culture, performance arts, golf, tourism, and quality of life. Sarasota attracts many residents, from families to young professionals and from senior citizens to vacationers. This is a city that enjoys a healthy amount of civic pride thanks to its beauty and prosperity.

The City of Sarasota has enjoyed continuous development since American circus magnates Charles and John Ringling took an interest in the region from the early 20th century to the Great Depression. The residential architecture preferences of the Ringling Brothers shaped the future look of Sarasota. Charles brought the Chicago style to Sarasota; John was responsible for the Venetian and French Riviera styles of Mediterranean revival that are so commonly seen across Southwest Florida these days.

John Ringling’s legacy also includes the cultural flair of Sarasota, which is an important cultural and educational center in the Sunshine State. The entrepreneurial spirit of the Ringling Brother lives on today with a number of industries that employ many residents.

Sarasota is a paradise for house hunters. The housing opportunities include beachfront condominium towers in Lido Key, opulent homes within walking distance of the elegant St. Armands Circle shops and restaurants, the historic Downtown Sarasota bungalows and cottages, the spacious country club estates at Palmer Ranch, and more. Many home buyers who begin their real estate quest looking for an affordable second home end up permanently relocating to Sarasota.

Quality of life is high on the agenda of Sarasota’s public officials. To this end, the city enjoys numerous attractions such as gorgeous beaches, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, the Farmers Market, the Chalk Festival, the Bayfront Park Children’s Fountain, golf courses, tennis complexes, marinas, boat launches, nature preserves, and lots more. Sarasota is a true paradise to live in, and its real estate opportunities are among the best in all of Florida.