HERALD-TRIBUNE: “RECESSION OVER IN SARASOTA”
According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, 2011 was the year Sarasota climbed out of the recession. The 2011 holiday shopping season was the best in four years for Sarasota and Manatee retailers. Residents and businesses spent 7.7% more this past December over the year before. Overall Sales in Sarasota and Manatee counties rose 7.5% above their 2010 level, and automobile sales at Sarasota and Manatee dealerships were up 10% in 2011.
In real estate, upbeat news arrived this January with the mention of new and pending home sales, new construction starts, and increased construction spending. The combination of affordable home prices and record-low mortgage rates seems to be creating more buyers and competition in our area. While real estate sales dropped in most markets in 2011, Sarasota real estate sales for 2011 were up 8.2% over 2010.
Sarasota has perfect year-round weather, beautiful beaches and a thriving local economy. It’s one of America’s leading cultural communities; the shopping, dining, recreational, and entertainment choices are unparalleled. With good properties available in nearly every price range, and mortgage rates at record lows, there’s no time like the present to purchase a property in beautiful Sarasota.