Articles Tagged "Selling Your Home"

When you're ready to purchase a home, you might wonder how our real estate agents can make the process as stress-free and simple as possible. Here are a few important ways our team can help you in 2023. 

1. We Can Help You Get the Best Possible Price
   Our real estate agents will discuss your homebuying budget and what traits you want your future home to have. Then, we'll look for Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale that fit your needs and make sure that your offer is reasonable when compared to the home's fair market value. We use data from comparable home sales and current market trends to ensure that you don't overpay for your new home. 

2. We'll Save You Time
   There are a lot of tasks involved with purchasing a home, like looking for potential properties, scheduling open houses, arranging for home inspections, and negotiating with the seller. We can put more hours back into your day by handling or expediting many of these tasks. For example, we can recommend a reputable home inspector so that you don't waste time trying to find someone to inspect your potential home. 

3. We Have Access to Tools to Assist With the Buying Process
   Real estate agents have access to helpful tools, like the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). MLS is a valuable resource with lots of information, like notifications about new listings, open houses, and pricing changes. This makes it easier for you to stay updated about potential properties and uncover info that will impact your decision to make an offer on a home. 

4. We Understand the Local Real Estate Market
   Since we've handled a lot of properties in your real estate market, we understand the nuances of the neighborhood or city where you want to purchase a property. This experience and knowledge assist us with finding a property that suits your needs and making a competitive offer.  

5. We Can Help You Evaluate a Potential Home
   A lot of properties look good on the surface, but when you delve into the details, you might discover that the home isn't right for your lifestyle. We know what characteristics you should consider when deciding if a property is meant to be your next home. 

6. We'll Work to Negotiate a Strong Deal
   When you make an offer on a home, the offer includes several details, like the price, closing period, info about what items come with the property, and clauses that can protect you in case the seller receives a stronger offer or the home fails an inspection. We'll make sure that your offer is competitive while fulfilling your needs. If you're struggling to reach a deal with a home seller, we'll do whatever we can to salvage the deal.

If your plans for 2023 involve buying a home, it's important to have the knowledge and experience of one of our real estate agents. Contact us to learn more. 

Autumn is in full swing, which means the year is drawing to an end. If you're like a lot of homeowners, you started off the year with a long list of home improvement projects, and you didn't complete as many as planned. But have no fear — there's still time to turn things around. Our real estate agents are excited to share some quick home improvement projects you can still complete by the end of the year.

• Paint a Room
  Is there a room in your home that just looks a bit drab and outdated? Change things up with a fresh coat of paint.
  
  To get professional results, make sure you use a good-quality primer and let it dry completely before applying the paint. Start by "cutting in" around the edges with a paintbrush, then use a roller to paint the flats of the walls.
  
  
• Power Wash Your Walkways
  Concrete and stone walking paths tend to become caked with algae and grime. Use a power washer to blast this all away. Start with a good concrete cleaner applied with the low-pressure setting. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then rinse it away with the high-pressure setting.
  
  
• Update Cabinet Hardware
  Replacing your cabinet hardware is a fun, quick way to give your kitchen a facelift. Replace older, dated hardware with new, nickel, or brushed bronze hardware. All you need is a screwdriver and some patience. 
  
  
• Replace Your Switchplate Covers
  If you have boring, white, or beige switchplate covers, consider replacing them with more interesting, decorative ones. You can pick a different switchplate cover to suit the theme of each room. For instance, you may want a train-themed one in your child's bedroom and one with sunflowers on it for your sunroom. 
  
  
• Create a Chalkboard Wall
  This project works well in a home office or even in a child's playroom. Purchase a bucket of chalkboard paint, and use it to paint one wall. You will probably have to use two coats, so plan for several hours of drying time between coats. Use a roller so the paint goes on as smoothly as possible. You or your kids can then write or draw on this wall with dust-free chalk. 
  
  
• Paint Your Front Door
  If your home's facade could use a makeover, start by simply painting the front door. Choose a different color — one that coordinates with the rest of your home exterior but still stands out. Bright, stand-out front doors are trendy right now, and if you decide you want a different color, later on, you can always re-paint it. Just make sure you use high-quality exterior paint.
  
  
• Replace Your Light Fixtures
  New light fixtures can transform your room! Shop for fixtures that represent your current sense of style, and install them throughout your home. Whether you like hanging light fixtures or flush ones, there are some beautiful options on the market these days.

There's still time to update your new home with some quick projects this year. If you're still searching for the perfect home, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll help you find Bradenton homes for sale and Sarasota homes for sale in time for the new year.

Changing up your backsplash is a quick but powerful way to update the look of your kitchen. While there are certainly premium materials available, there are also many inexpensive ways to transform your backsplash. Here are a few simple methods our real estate agents recommend for updating your backsplash.

• Paint Your Backsplash
  Don't have the money for new materials for your backsplash? A can of paint may be your answer. You can paint over the existing backsplash, or if you're particularly crafty, use a stencil and paint to update the tile with a patterned appearance.
  
  
• Use Peel-and-Stick Tile
  If you want the look of tile but don't have the money or the skill set to install tile and grout, you can more easily get the look you want with peel-and-stick tile. It goes on over your existing backsplash, is easy for anyone to install, and can be removed easily, too, if you decide to change your kitchen's look again later on down the road.
  
  
• Achieve a Classic Look with Beadboard
  Beadboard is a fairly inexpensive material that is easy to install yourself and lends itself well to the country kitchen look that is popular in Sarasota homes for sale. Keep it white for a traditional look, or paint it a coordinating color to make it blend in with the rest of your kitchen. You can also vary your look by deciding whether to install it with the grooves vertical, as it is traditionally installed, or horizontal for a more modern look.
  
  
• Use Wooden Boards or Paneling
  If you like the traditional kitchen look that is trending now but don't like the look of beadboard, you can achieve a similar mood with painted wooden paneling. Wooden plank backsplashes have become popular and can even be achieved by mounting vinyl hardwood-look flooring to the wall for an easy-to-clean backsplash.
  
  
• Install Pressed Tin Tiles
  Another popular look in Bradenton homes for sale lately is pressed tin tile backsplashes. You can get real tin ceiling tiles, or there are also stick-on vinyl alternatives that are easier to cut and install. The metallic designs of these tiles make beautiful and interesting backsplashes and a modern twist on a traditional look.
  
  
• Mount Faux Brick
  Exposed brick is always a popular look, and you can achieve the look with the help of faux brick. A faux brick backsplash is trendy and classy, but if you're mounting it in areas that will be prone to grease splatters, look for a surface finish that will be easy to clean.

If you want a new look for your kitchen, your backsplash is a great place to start. It's especially good if you're updating your home to sell it, as the backsplash is an overall small square footage and will give you plenty of bang for your buck. For more suggestions of easy ways to get your home ready to sell, contact us today.

First impressions are everything. This is as true in the world of real estate as in any other. When a potential buyer first walks into a home, the first things they see (and smell) play a huge role in determining their interest. If your home makes a great first impression, you'll have an easier time making a sale — and you'll probably get higher offers, too. After years of experience, our real estate agents know this to be true!

One of the ways you can improve your home's first impression is by steam cleaning the carpets prior to your first showing or open house. Why is steam cleaning so important? Take a look.

• Steam Cleaning Removes Trapped Odors
  Your home doesn't smell, right? We'll let you in on a little secret: you wouldn't necessarily know if it did. Homeowners become nose-blind to odors over time, but newcomers definitely notice those smells. When buyers look at Sarasota homes for sale, they want them to smell nice.
  
  Carpets have a bad habit of holding onto smells, and simple vacuuming doesn't do much to remove them. Steam cleaning, on the other hand, will remove trapped odors, including any you've become nose-blind to. Potential buyers will then be greeted by a fresh scent.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning Removes Evidence of Pets
  Even if potential buyers own pets themselves, they don't want to see evidence of pets in a home they're thinking of buying. Buyers looking at Bradenton homes for sale want those spaces to look fresh and new. Even a little pet hair or one tiny stain can turn a buyer off. Steam cleaning removes evidence of pets from your carpet, reassuring buyers that your place is clean and well cared for.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning is More Affordable Than Replacing the Carpet
  If your carpet looks a little discolored and dull, you may be thinking of replacing it before you sell. Sometimes, this might be a good idea. However, since carpet replacement can be costly, it's often wise to try steam cleaning first. 
  
  Steam cleaning costs a small fraction of what you'd pay to replace the existing carpet. In many cases, it will make your carpet look as good as new.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning Ensures a Good-Looking Backdrop
  When you're preparing to sell your home, you can cover up minor faults like a divot in the wall or some scratches on the baseboard. But the carpet is a big element. It serves as the backdrop of your room, in a way. If the carpet does not look clean, that's something that buyers will notice.
  
  Steam cleaning ensures this major element of your decor looks its best. When the carpet is clean, buyers generally assume the rest of the home is clean, too.
  
  
• Steam Cleaning Removes Allergens
  The last thing you'd want is for a buyer to walk into your home and start sneezing. While vacuuming does pick up some allergens, it also tends to disperse those allergens into the air. Steam cleaning does a more thorough job of removing pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and other allergens from the carpet. A home with carpets that have recently been steam cleaned is less likely to cause symptoms for allergy sufferers.

Preparing your home for a showing can go a long way toward helping you find the perfect buyer. If you're thinking about selling and are looking for an agent to represent you, feel free to contact us. Our experienced real estate agents can guide you through both the buying and the selling processes and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Living in Southwest Florida means warm sunshine, cool evening breezes, and lots of fresh air. If you're looking for Sarasota homes for sale or Bradenton homes for sale, you hope to find a home with large windows, sliding glass doors, and great outdoor features so you can enjoy everything a Florida lifestyle has to offer.

When warm sunshine starts filtering through your windows, it's time to shake off the winter dust and tackle some deep cleaning chores in your home, including all those dirty windows that you've ignored during the winter. Before spring arrives, our real estate agents recommend some deep cleaning tips for your windows, so you can open them up, let in the breeze, and enjoy the view.

Take a Look at Your Windows

Before you begin, walk around your home and assess your cleaning tasks. You may have hard-to-reach windows that require a ladder or special equipment to get onto the roof. Don't attempt to clean windows, doors, or skylights that may result in a dangerous fall. For hard-to-reach windows, it's best to call a professional window washer who has the right equipment for the job.

If your home has a second story or multiple levels, start cleaning on the highest level and work your way down. This way, you can make sure that all windows get cleaned in an organized manner, and you won't have to backtrack to check for windows you missed.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Whether you have stationary windows or windows that open, you'll need some basic cleaning supplies and a container to carry them around. Look for a plastic tote or sturdy basket with handles that can hold your essential supplies:

• A spray glass cleaner, a mixture of mild soapy water, and a mixture of water and white vinegar

• A squeegee

• A duster and a hand-held vacuum

• A synthetic brush or broom

• Microfiber or lint-free soft cloths

• Paper towels

Stationary Windows

For stationary windows, start by wiping loose dirt from the glass with a soft, dry cloth or duster. Next, use your synthetic brush or hand-held vacuum to remove dirt and debris from the window frame, sills, and tracks. Apply your cleaning solution to the glass, then remove the solution with a squeegee or clean, lint-free cloth. If you use a squeegee, make sure to wipe the squeegee clean with a cloth or paper towel after each swipe on the glass.

Single or Double Hung Windows

Many replacement windows available in today's market come with a convenient tilt-wash or tilt-sash feature that allows you to easily clean the inside and the outside of the window from inside your home. You don't need to go outside and climb a ladder to clean exterior glass. If your single-hung or double-hung windows have a tilt-sash feature, simply unlock the window, release the tilt-sash mechanisms on the top of the window frame, and tilt your window towards you to clean the glass.

Sliding Glass Doors

If you have interior or exterior doors with window panes or sliding glass doors, you can clean the glass with non-abrasive glass cleaners or mild soapy water. You can use a soft cloth on the interior glass, but it's best to clean the exterior glass with paper towels. Exterior glass can get extremely dirty since it's exposed to the elements. You don't want to ruin your cleaning clothes or transfer bacteria from your exterior glass to other indoor surfaces.

If you're thinking about buying a home in Southwest Florida, contact us to view available properties in desired areas that match your lifestyle and financial needs.

Get your home sold quickly--without giving up profits--using these tips from the pros!

Selling your home is nerve-wracking--even under the best of circumstances.  However, add into the mix a short timeline and things become a bit more interesting.
There is good news: Buyers are snapping up homes across the US at warp speed.  So, if you're considering selling your home, now might be a great time to list it on your local real estate market.
Using these seven tips along with the right real estate agent can help speed up the sale of your home and still provide top dollar.

1. The Price is Right
   Getting your listing price right from the beginning is so important to selling your home quickly and for a realistic price.  If you start with a price that is too high, your house can sit unsold, and you'll lose money in the long run.  Your real estate agent should provide you with a comparative market analysis (CMA) to set a competitive price based on recent sales in your area.
   
   
2. Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal
   There's nothing like creating a great first impression—especially when you're selling a home.  Curb appeal is essential to drawing people to your home, so make sure yours shines. Add flowers that bring color to the space, paint the front door and clean up the lawn. Make the home as attractive as possible for those who drive by because this will cause them to stop and schedule a showing. If a potential buyer does a drive by and is not impressed with what he sees, he's not going to take the home seriously when considering his prospects.
   
   
3. Give Your Home a Fresh Face
   Make your home appear more up-to-date and on trend with current home styles.  Paint walls, add new fixtures and plant fresh landscaping.  These are all low cost items, but can help fetch a higher price in the long run.
   
   
4. Clear the Clutter
   Make your home appear larger and more inviting to home buyers by removing excess knickknacks and excess furniture. You are going to be moving soon anyway, so take the time now to remove the clutter and pack it away for now. This will make your home look larger and more inviting, and it will also make it easier to keep it clean.
   
   
5. Don't Make It Personal
   Your home may be your castle, but when you are selling your home it needs to be as neutral as possible. Take down the kid's art, family photos and collections that are important to you, but not to anyone else. The goal is for the house to look like a model home, so buyers can imagine their life in your home.
   
   
6. Make it Sparkle
   Deep clean your home from top to bottom when you're listing it for sale.  If you have the budget for a cleaning service, that might be a wise investment, but do everything in your power to keep the home clean at all times.
   
   
7. Hire a Professional Photographer
   Consider hiring a professional real estate photographer to take the images for your online listings. Most people are going to "tour" a home online before they schedule an in-person tour, so make sure your home looks its best. High-quality images may be an investment, but they will pay big dividends when you sell your home quickly and for a good price.

Selling your home isn't always easy, but it doesn't have to be time consuming either. With the right steps, you can sell your home quickly and avoid the drama of endless days on market.

Want to sell a spare TV or some old clothes? Just take a picture or two, post them on eBay or Craigslist and wait for the calls to come in. But Bradenton homes for sale require a little more TLC to move quickly and command top price.

If you're a Bradenton homeowner planning to put your house on the market, use these smart tips from our real estate agents to develop a winning game plan.

1. Do Your Homework
   Before you commit, research the local market to make sure it's a good time to sell. Look for data like average sale price and current inventory levels that indicate whether it's a buyers or seller's market. Seasonality is also a factor, so consider which time of year is optimal.
   
   
2. Hire a Real Estate Agent
   No matter how many times you've sold a home, each situation is different. An experienced real estate agent helps you successfully navigate the ins and outs of the home selling process every step of the way.
   
   
3. Ditch the Clutter
   What feels cozy and lived-in to you says messy and careless to buyers. Packed counters, cabinets and closets make a house look smaller and raise questions about ample storage space. Just can't let go? Check out Netflix sensation Marie Kondo and her hugely popular "tidying" method.
   
   
4. De-Personalize 
   When a home is full of family photos and personal items, it's hard for a buyer to shake the feeling of being a visitor. Give them space to envision putting their own stamp on their beautiful new home.
   
   
5. Give Rooms a Face Lift
   Are the walls looking a little shabby? Maybe you fell in love with colors that were trendy in the 90s but they're tired today. Repaint where needed with neutral colors to accommodate the vision of any buyer. If the current paint still looks good, make sure you remove any scuff marks and clean baseboards.
   
   
6. Clear Up the Fix-It List
   Now is the time to take care of loose cabinet knobs, dripping faucets and other minor fix-it jobs that have been piling up. Never assume "no one will notice." While you're at it, why not go the extra mile and freshen up the look with new bathroom, kitchen, door and window hardware?
   
   
7. Add Lighting
   The phrase "too much light" doesn't exist for home buyers. Make sure any burned-out light bulbs are replaced and change any dated-looking lamps or lighting fixtures. Before a showing, open all curtains and blinds and leave a light on in each room.
   
   
8. Take the Smell Test
   Funky odors can detract from the most impeccably maintained home. You may have gone "nose-blind" to pet odors and other smells, so enlist the help of a friend. Don't overlook the tried-and-true effectiveness of baking bread or cookies for an irresistible aroma.
   
   
9. Clean, Clean Some More and Clean Again
   It may seem obvious, but the importance of an immaculate home can't be stressed too much. If your schedule is too tight, it's worth the expense to hire a cleaning service.
   
   
10. Look from the Outside In
    Renovation expert Bob Vila estimates that curb appeal can add as much as 20 percent to your home's value. Can you afford to pass up that kind of return? Be sure the outside of your home makes buyers eager to see what's inside.

Our real estate agents are ready, willing and able to make selling your home as painless and profitable as possible. Contact Wagner Realty to learn more. 

The holidays are filled with fun and excitement, and home buyers are eager to add to that excitement by finding their favorite new home. With the help from one of our real estate agents and these tips, your home selling experience can be a great one.

1. Start Your Marketing Efforts Before Thanksgiving
   If you need a buyer before the end of the year, there's a more limited time frame involved. Extend that timeframe by starting before Thanksgiving. That means more time to coordinate showings, and you can get the attention of buyers before they decide to take a break for the holidays.
   
   
2. Price It Right
   With fewer buyers who are usually more serious, it's even more important to price it right the first time.
   
   
3. You Still Need Curb Appeal
   With sparser foliage, buyers are more likely to notice the need for repairs. Make sure the paint is touched up, bricks are power washed, gutters are clean, and the yard is cleaned up before your home goes up for sale. Always pay attention to safety issues. And if your house looks beautiful when the landscaping is all green and in bloom, leave a strategically placed photo for buyers to see.
    
4. Make Your Home Cozy and Inviting
   A comfortable temperature, a stylized dining room table, and a living room with comfortable looking furniture are all examples of ways your home can look welcoming to a buyer. If it looks inviting, they'll stay a little longer, and it can help them form the emotional connection and positive feelings they'll need to move from looking to buying.
   
   
5. Use Holiday Décor, but Don't Overdo It
   It can make your home look festive and inviting and can help with curb appeal too. But keep it to a minimum. Visitors still need to move around the house so décor shouldn't be in the way or so overdone that it's a turnoff. Avoid anything specifically religious since not everyone celebrates the same holidays.
   
   
6. Use a Video Tour to Attract Buyers
   With busy schedules and inclement weather, shopping plans can change. A video can help connect you with the right buyer under any circumstances. Your home will be the first one they come to when they do go back out.
   
   
7. Be as Flexible as Possible With Showings
   With everyone's extra busy schedules, it's important to be available and flexible when it comes to showings. Good communication with your agent can really help here.
   
   
8. Highlight Winter-Friendly Amenities
   A working fireplace, new roof, updated heating, or attached garage are all features that are greatly appreciated during the winter. If your home has any of these options, make sure to mention them. Also highlight the entertainment areas where future owners can imagine their own holiday gatherings.
   
   
9. Pay Special Attention to Lighting
   With less available natural light and shorter daylight hours, there's a higher chance buyers may be touring your home under less than optimal conditions. Use the brightest light bulbs that are safe for your fixtures and add a lamp or other lighting where necessary.
   
   
10. Keep the Weather-Related Mess to a Minimum
    Buyers expect a clean home, so don't let the weather make it difficult. Provide a place to hang coats, a couple of umbrellas for outdoors and shoe covers or a doormat to help keep the carpet clean.

Selling your home during the holidays isn't impossible and having the right real estate agent can really make the process easier. Contact Wagner Realty today and let us help get your home sold!

Nothing spruces up a home like a kitchen renovation. It improves how you make use of your home and can deliver a return on investment when it comes time to sell your home.  

The biggest challenge with a kitchen reno is knowing where to start.  Our REALTORS® have helped clients make the right decisions when renovating their kitchens prior to listing. Take advantage of these tips to make your kitchen reno project a huge success for your home.

1. Full Remodel Versus Upgrade
   The first step is to determine just how big of an effort you want or need to put into your kitchen. Some homes may require a complete overhaul while other kitchen spaces may require some well-placed updates and upgrades. Consider all of your options before you get out that sledgehammer.
   
   
2. Identify Likes and Dislikes
   Every space in your home has aspects that you like and those that you dislike. When planning your renovation, be sure to keep and enhance the parts that you like rather than just getting rid of what you dislike. This process allows you to allocate money from your budget to get more out of what you already enjoy. It might also mean you have to spend less to handle your dislikes.
   
   
3. Keep the Current Layout
   If at all possible, try to keep the current layout of your kitchen intact. Most home renovation experts estimate a $5,000 price tag every time a homeowner decides to move the location of appliances or plumbing. This will help keep your expenses down and allow you to allocate precious budget dollars where you need it.
   
   
4. Cabinets are Key
   Your cabinets are usually the first thing that you notice and the most used part of your kitchen. They also tend to make up about 30% of an overall kitchen renovation budget. With this in mind, take the time to find the best deals and the best use of space. Consider using innovative design ideas like the half moon lazy susan or double sliding shelves to make the best use of those blind corners.
   
   
5. Make a Dramatic Impact
   If you are trying to spice things up in your kitchen, then consider some options that can have a dramatic visual impact on your new space. One investment is in your backsplash. Experts suggest taking your backsplash all the way to the ceiling. Not only does it protect your walls but it also adds a fantastic focal point to your kitchen.
   
   In addition to the backsplash idea, you should strongly consider using contrasting colors. Many Bradenton homes for sale have added value and style by integrating these color schemes in their kitchen spaces. You can use this technique to draw the eyes of your visitors to the parts of your kitchen that you wish to showcase.
   
   
6. The Right Lighting
   One final consideration is the lighting in your kitchen. Too much light can be just as bad as too little lighting. Take the time to plan out the right amount of lighting to brighten your space without drowning out all your renovations.
   
   Take advantage of subtle lighting changes such as under the counter lighting. You can also upgrade the current fixtures to improve the overall lighting in your kitchen. Another simple change is adding green energy bulbs to lighten up the room and your monthly electric bill.

Our REALTORS® can answer your real estate questions whether you're buying or selling a home in Bradenton.  Contact Wagner Realty today to get started.

Once you've decided to sell your home, the next step is to find the right real estate agent to help you get the job done efficiently and to your satisfaction. The trick to finding an agent that has your best interests is to do some research ahead of time and to be open and honest during your initial meeting with them. Our REALTORS® are always on top of the housing market and have built a strong reputation with clients who are buying or selling Florida real estate. Before you select your agent, prepare some questions to ask up front and know what characteristics you should be looking for during your first meeting. 

Experience Matters
Just as in any field, skill and knowledge are gained over time in the real estate industry. One of the first questions you might want to ask a prospective agent is about their experience. Aside from inquiring about the number of years an agent has working in the field and with their firm, it's important to ask about their recent performance. A good agent should be proud to share their track record with you when you ask about the number of sales during the past year and the percentage of listings that have sold.

Understand the Plan
Asking an agent to explain their specific plan to market your home is not only recommended, but it's also smart. It's much better to understand how your agent will work to get your home the best exposure and the most offers than to automatically assume their plan will work for you. Discuss their marketing strategies including online visibility, signage, and local advertisements. Inquire about how the lockbox will be handled, home showings, and an estimated time frame.

Negotiation and Communication
Get a feel for the agent's communication style while you're discussing the home selling process, but don't be afraid to ask them directly about their negotiation skills. After all, your agent will be the one acting on your behalf during this time period. You'll want to know that they have excellent negotiation tactics and that they're willing to put them to use for you. Communication is crucial in working with an agent, and it's best to understand how and when they'll be communicating with you about offers, updates, and changing market trends.

Dollars and Cents
Have the agent explain how their commission works during your initial meeting. You might think that an agent requiring less commission is a wise choice, but a well-paid, experienced agent has most likely earned a reputation for excellence. It's important to consider a combination of factors when selecting an agent.

Pitch Perfect
Finally, you might ask the agent why they believe they would be the best choice for selling your home. This question gives the agent an opportunity to pitch their qualifications to you, and you'll be able to see how effective their selling skills are right away.

Choosing the right agent to market your home is a huge decision that will affect the entire process, hopefully in a positive way. When you're ready to list your home for sale, contact our team at Wagner Realty to understand what it's like to work with the best in the business.  Our 200+ Associates are licensed REALTORS® and belong to the local, state and National Associations of REALTORS®.

Selling your home is a big undertaking, and although tackling the job yourself may initially seem like a good idea, many for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) listings fall short of ideal and at times wind up costing the seller money. Our REALTORS® in Sarasota are experts in the housing market, and we understand just how much work it takes to make a home sale successful. If you are considering selling your home, here are some of the benefits of hiring a real estate agent to sell your house.

• Higher Exposure
  When you list your home as "For Sale By Owner," you'll likely get some bites with the exposure you gain via online advertising or through local media. What some sellers may forget to consider is that professional real estate agents have a vast network of marketing resources and are knowledgeable about what works best in each market. Choosing an expert to steer the selling process ensures you much higher visibility through professional online marketing and local advertisements.
  
  
• More Accuracy in Pricing
  There's always the risk of asking too much or too little for your home, but that risk is much greater if you don't have the help of a real estate agent to advise you. Our REALTORS® stay on top of real estate trends and are available to make suggestions as you decide on your listing price using tools such as a comparative market analysis. We'll work towards pricing your home at just the right spot to garner the most interest from prospective buyers and, in turn, more serious offers to purchase.
  
  
• Avoid the Paperwork Nightmare
  Selling a home involves a sizeable commitment of time and work, and one of the most frustrating aspects for FSBO seller is dealing with all the necessary paperwork. When you partner with a real estate agent, the paperwork is under control and in good hands, and you have the assurance that nothing is overlooked. A simple mistake on a disclosure or contract could wind up costing you profit or even the sale.
  
  
• Insight Into Visual Appeal
  Do you know where to start when you need to make your home ready for an open house or private viewing? A real estate agent can make things much easier with advice on needed repairs and how best to present your home to potential buyers. Furthermore, when you work with a real estate professional, they take care of showing the house for you which is often preferred by the buyer. All you'll have to do is make sure everything is tidy, and let your real estate agent present your home in its best light.

Sarasota Real Estate Experts

Our Wagner Realty sales team is ready to make your home sale a success, and we're excited to speak with you. Save yourself time, frustration, and potentially money by allowing us to present your home to many potential buyers who are currently touring Sarasota homes for sale. Contact Wagner Realty when you're ready to list your home for sale.

Accentuate the Positive and Eliminate the Negative with These 5 Home Staging Tips

If you're planning your first open house, you've no doubt completed a long list of fixes and upgrades. You're probably depending on the attraction of the seaside ambiance, lush tropical climate, and other natural highlights that make Bradenton homes so engaging. These features will attract buyers to your open house, but you'll need great staging to keep them interested.

Our real estate agents understand how the idea of staging can seem vague. But it's critical to selling your home. When it's done right, great staging gives potential buyers the room to imagine their family in your space.

Staging is a step-by-step process that assumes you've already done the heavy repairs and fix-ups.

1.  Declutter

Your home probably contains too much stuff. That happens when you live in one place for a long time and you keep bringing things in but don't take any out. Clutter makes your rooms look small and crowded. That's a problem because buyers want spacious floor plans.

If you can't bear to donate your stuff or throw it away, hide it in a rented storage unit. The biggest offenders?

• Too much furniture: Keep only what's necessary.
• Toys everywhere: Place some in a toy chest. Store the rest.
• Kitchen counters: Display only a few high-end appliances.
• Cabinets, closets, storage areas: Remove and store all but the basics. (Potential buyers will open closed doors.)
• Over, under, on-top-of: Remove accumulated clutter on refrigerators, under beds, inside bathroom vanities, etc.
• Outside: Implement the same ruthless decluttering strategy in your yard, garage, and outdoor storage areas.

2.  Depersonalize

Buyers want to see themselves in your home. That means you must remove all kid-created art, vacation photos, and vintage pics of sweet Auntie Sally at age 4. You must remove any items that tag your home as... your home.

• Culturally specific art
• Most books
• Portraits and framed photos
• Souvenirs and mementos
• Anything that tugs at your heart

3.  Make Each Room a Blank Canvas

Walls painted in neutral colors are a great way to freshen up a room and start over from scratch. Of course, you should know that today's "neutral" doesn't have to be eggshell or beige. Consider these alternative blank-slate colors.

• Create a soothing bedroom with gray-blue, pale gray, or cerulean blue.
• Brighten your bathroom with Light blue.
• Use beige or taupe to enhance your living room. 
• Light blue and gray-blue will brighten your kitchen. 
• Paint adjoining rooms the same color to enhance spaciousness.  

4.  Brighten and Lighten

Home buyers are attracted to bright open spaces. Painting is the first step. Here are a few other things you can do.

• Remove heavy drapes.
• Consider blinds only or light airy window treatments.
• Turn your lights on during your open house.
• Open curtains and drapes to let the sunshine in.
• Upgrade your lighting with new fixtures, freestanding lamps, and increased bulb wattage.  

5.  Rework Your Spaces

If your newly decluttered rooms seem devoid of character, that's not such a bad thing. Transform these nearly-empty rooms into attractive minimalist arrangements.

• Place your remaining furniture into comfortable groupings with space to navigate.
• Add attractive object arrangements (candles, statuary, vases) to a table, sideboard or buffet.
• Add natural floral accents.
• Hang interesting 2D art or 3D wall sculptures.

Your Bradenton Real Estate Professionals

You have a lot to do when you're preparing to sell your home. Our professionals have the experience to advise you every step of the way. Contact Wagner Realty when you're ready to buy or sell a home or if you simply want information on activities, businesses, and events in Bradenton.

If you list your home during a seller's market, there's a good chance you'll get the offer you want without a lot of back-and-forth negotiation. But some buyers and sellers like the back-and-forth. They expect it. And if you don't negotiate, one of you might have second thoughts about the deal.

Our real estate agents work with home sellers throughout the marketing process. We understand that sellers want the best price and buyers want the best deal. Negotiation is inevitable if you hope to move beyond these mismatched goals. Here are a few rules to help your deal go smoothly.

Negotiate confidently
As with so many aspects of selling your home, confidence is important. Negotiation confidence comes from believing that the price is a right and knowing that your home is worth it. With these facts in mind, you can stick with your asking price or back off a bit for the sake of the deal. You can feel safe rejecting a low offer and waiting for a better one to come along.

Don't play games
Negotiating a home sale is a serious financial event for everyone involved. It's a time for honesty, integrity, and trust, not gamesmanship. Some buyers love to negotiate, but if you play games, you may turn off every buyer that comes along.

• Be clear about what you want.
• When a seller gives you what you ask for, don't push for more.
• Don't pit buyers against one another.
• Never threaten to renege on a deal or pull your home off the market.
• Don't use fixtures and appliances as negotiation hostages.
• Don't haggle for the sake of haggling.

Don't reject an offer because it came too soon
Don't feel compelled to reject a good offer simply because it came sooner than you expected. Houses do sell quickly. Isn't that the goal? If the first offer makes you happy, you can hope the next one will be better. But what if it isn't? Sometimes it's prudent to take the "bird in the hand."

Get it in writing
Even if you enjoy negotiation just for the thrill of it, you must get the details in writing. Each bid, counter-offer, or pre-sale promise could be an element of your final sales agreement. You won't know until you make a deal. It's important to eliminate potential discrepancies by documenting the details in writing.

Read before you sign
Read any agreement carefully before you sign, especially if it's prepared by a buyer's agent or attorney. A buyer's representative has a duty to protect the buyer's interests, not yours. Any document they prepare could bind you to contingency provisions and conditions you didn't intend to meet. It could commit you to the deal but give the buyer an easy out.

Minimize post-inspection negotiations
To prevent post-inspection repair issues from sabotaging your sale, get your home into great shape before you list it. When you declutter, clean, and repair everything inside and out, you'll have fewer inspection concerns. If you do receive a post-inspection to-do list, handle it reasonably. Until you sign the final paperwork, you're still negotiating the sale.

Be flexible about closing dates
If the buyer wants to negotiate a quick closing, make it happen. Once you've made your deal, you wouldn't want a scheduling conflict to become a last-minute deal breaker.

Let Us Help

Home negotiations can be challenging unless you have a real estate professional making the deal on your behalf. Contact Wagner Realty when you're buying or selling a home. We'll guide you through the marketing process from pre-listing to closing and we'll handle your negotiation challenges.

Adding curb appeal increases the value of your home and makes it more appealing to house hunters. Landscaping projects can be a quick and fairly inexpensive way to make your homes stand out from the other homes for sale in Sarasota. Our REALTORS® know what it takes to sell homes in our community.  Here are a few ways to boost your curb appeal and give potential buyers a great first impression of your home from the minute they pull up to the curb. 

Paint a Picture of the Salt Life

Buyers are looking for a Sarasota home that embraces the delight of living in paradise. Paint a picture with a few flowering bushes in lovely stone planters. Power wash your driveway, stone paths, and lanai to make everything sparkle. Most home improvement stores rent power washers, making this an inexpensive improvement that magnifies the appeal of your home. If you have a pool, make certain that the water is crystal clear and brightly clean. These little things add up to make your home even more attractive.

Add a Hummingbird Garden

A hummingbird garden is a lovely asset to any home. It's small, colorful and requires minimal maintenance. Hummingbirds are tiny, so you don't have to worry about the car damage some larger birds cause. Hummingbird-friendly landscaping also attracts butterflies, so you get two benefits from a single weekend project. Look for plants with vibrant colors (especially red). Flowers that flourish in Sarasota include:

• Red Bleeding Hearts
• Calice Bush
• Trumpet Honeysuckle

Each of these plants is low-maintenance. By planting several varieties, you can have butterflies and hummingbirds from May through August.

Consider a Lawn Upgrade

A beautiful yard provides a place for outside activities, prevents erosion, and releases sweet-smelling oxygen before a rainfall. A lawn with a dependable drainage system is extremely attractive to buyers. Low or easy maintenance is another benefit that home buyers are looking for in a new home. Before you make a major investment in upgrades, stop by one of our offices. Our real estate agents will be happy to share what types of lawns appeal to buyers in Southwest Florida. As a seller, you want to balance any investment you make with the benefits that it will provide.

Wagner Realty for Sarasota Real Estate Services

A few simple updates can make a major impact on the road-side appeal of your home. Look for ideas online or at one of our many nurseries in the area. One of the best resources for advice about lawn care and landscaping in Sarasota is free. The UF Agricultural Extension Department is available year-round with demonstrations and Q&A sessions at library branches in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Contact Wagner Realty to start the process of selling your home.

Use These Questions to Find the Right Agent to List Your Home

If you're ready to sell your home, you will need to find the right real estate agent to list it.  As a savvy homeowner, you should find an agent that not only has the credentials to sell your home but one that you're comfortable and confident working with.  Our real estate agents have been asked a lot of questions during their careers.  Here are some of the best questions to ask while interviewing a real estate agent:

1. How long have you been in the business? 
   Experience counts. While new agents can be hungry and may bring energy and enthusiasm to the job, it's important that you know up front how much experience your agent has. Ask the question, and make sure you are comfortable with the answer.
   
   
2. How many listings do you currently have?
   Agents who are successful get more listings, but unless they have a strong team, multiple listings could take time away from working for you. There's no perfect answer, but you want an agent with enough time to focus on selling your home.
   
   
3. How do you come up with a listing price?
   The best agents will have a process they can easily share that will likely include analyzing recent sales of homes in your neighborhood and the current comparable listings on the market. The best agents also will need to see your home to know how to adjust for condition and special features.
   
   
4. Will I be working directly with you?
   There's certainly nothing wrong with working with a listing agent who has built a strong team, but you need to know up front if you will be working directly with the agent or his/her associates.
   
   
5. Have you sold any homes in this neighborhood?
   Location counts when you are selling your home, and if the agent you select is familiar with your neighborhood and has sold homes there before, he or she may already know buyers who are looking to purchase in your area.
   
   
6. Can I get a detailed marketing plan and what will it entail?
   Selling a home requires marketing, and you deserve to have a real estate agent who will provide a comprehensive marketing program. A good marketing strategy will include professional photos and website presence, a brochure or flyer, advertising in local newspapers and magazines, and direct marketing that may include postcards or social media.
   
   
7. Can you offer suggestions for updates or staging to help sell my home?
   You want an agent who is honest and open with you; someone who can be objective about your home. The way your agent answers this question will tell you a lot about how well you will work together.
   
   
8. How much is it going to cost me to sell my home?
   In addition to paying commissions for two agents (yours and the buyer's), you will have additional closing costs, as well as real estate taxes and other fees. Make sure the agent you choose can detail these costs for you.
   
   
9. How long will take to sell this home?
   No one has a crystal ball, but a good agent will be able to tell you what the average time on the market for homes like yours has been in recent months.
   
   
10. Can you provide me with references?
    Get a list of references and call a few. There is no better source of information about the quality of a real estate agent than clients who have worked with him or her before.

Now that you know what questions to ask, contact Wagner Realty. We have the best agents in the area, and you are certain to find someone that is just right for you.

Selling your home can be a profitable venture, particularly if you invested a large down payment, have built up equity, updated the home as needed, and have benefited from rising market values here in Florida. But it isn't as simple as getting a check from the buyer, paying off what you owe and pocketing the rest. There are costs associated with selling, and it's important to familiarize yourself with them so that there are no surprises at the closing table. 

Most of a seller's closing costs are based on the sales price of the home, and some costs may vary depending on where you live. Our REALTORS® can help you estimate costs based on an expected sales price. Doing those calculations at the start of your sales process will help you evaluate offers with complete information. Here's a list of typical closing costs for sellers:

• Your Mortgage
  Typically the biggest expense at closing is paying off your mortgage. Call your mortgage company and ask for a pay-off balance. Your monthly statements likely include the current loan balance, but the amount you actually pay will vary slightly since interest accrues daily. You'll also need to pay off any second mortgages or home equity loans at the time of the sale.
  
  
• Real Estate Commissions
  The agent who listed and tirelessly marketed your home, made beautiful flyers and web listings, set appointments, held open houses, managed negotiations and all of the paperwork to get you to the closing table gets paid by you at closing. The standard commission nationwide is 6 percent, which is shared with the buyer's agent. On a $300,000 home, that's $18,000. The commission is deducted from the seller's proceeds.
  
  
• Transfer Tax
  The seller typically pays the cost of transferring the title to the new owner's name. The cost for this in Florida is $77 per $1,000, so with our $300,000 home example, you would pay roughly $2,300 for this line item.
  
  
• Title Insurance
  Title insurance protects the buyer from any unforeseen problems, like unpaid contractor's liens or problems with prior document filings. In Florida, the cost on our $300,000 example would be $5 per $1,000 or $1,500. Some Florida counties make this the buyer's responsibility, so you'll want to ask your agent to help clarify this based on where the home you are selling is located.
  
  
• Other Costs
  Since property taxes are typically due at the end of the year, you'll need to pay your pro-rated property taxes from January 1 to the closing date. This amount goes to the buyer as a credit at closing, reducing what they pay, however they will be responsible for the entire year's property taxes when they come due. The same goes for any Home Owner's Association fees that are paid in arrears. Note that if you pay into escrow for your property taxes and your mortgage company takes responsibility for them, you will receive a refund for the taxes from your mortgage company about 30 days after you pay off your loan.
  
  
• Agreed Upon Improvements or Credits
  If during the contract negotiations you agreed to purchase a home warranty for the buyer, offered to pay a portion of their closing costs, or agreed to a carpet allowance or other credit, this payment will also occur at closing.

Now that you have a clearer picture of what expenses you can expect to pay to sell your home, it's time to hire a great agent and get started. Contact Wagner Realty, one of the most respected real estate companies in Manatee and Sarasota Counties, to get an expert agent working for you.

Landscaping can be an easy and fairly inexpensive way to increase the value of your home and add some much-needed curb appeal. When our REALTORS® are showing you Sarasota homes for sale, you'll certainly notice landscaping features you simply adore. Landscaping is often one of the first things you notice about a property, so keeping yours in top shape can really pay off.

• Add or update some basic features. After a while, just about anything can look a little outdated. Clothes, décor and yes, even landscaping. Don't be afraid to change things up a bit. Change the type or color of stone on a walkway. Swap out the plants in outdoor planters or pots for something a different shape, size or color. Add flowering shrubs or a tree. Add a fresh layer of mulch. Is your landscape missing some of these basic features? Feel free to add them to give your yard an updated look. If you're starting from scratch, you may want to invest in some mature plants to make the landscape look more established. Make sure any updates match the style of the home for a more cohesive look.
  
  
• Pay attention to design. The best landscape design will make your yard look interesting no matter what time of year. Go for a variety of plants, colors, and textures but not so much that things look chaotic or haphazardly thrown together. Using native plants is always an excellent idea. They are adapted to local conditions so they cost less to maintain, which means they'll thrive with little effort. A few well-placed trees can be a very desirable feature. They offer shade for lounging and according to the U.S. Department of Energy, they can even make your home more energy efficient. They're an eco-friendly feature, which is important to some buyers.
  
  
• Clean it up. Hardscape features such as decorative or retaining walls, walkways, decks, and patios should be repaired if necessary and power washed. Get rid of algae, leaves, and debris in water features and change the filters. Prune any shrubs or trees that need it.
  
  
• Lawn care is essential. A plush, green lawn looks inviting. The good news is that lawn care is fairly simple and budget friendly. Mow, fertilize, rake, aerate, and weed. Keeping the lawn edged makes everything look nice and neat. In addition to making your property look amazing, a well-kept lawn gives your home an easy to maintain vibe, a plus with potential buyers.
  
  
• Add a deck or patio. Decks and patios are among the most popular features potential homeowners look for. They're inviting, relaxing and great for entertaining. If your house doesn't have one, consider adding it. The project cost can often be recouped entirely when it's time to sell. ­

There are plenty of beautifully landscaped and well maintained Sarasota and Bradenton homes for sale. Contact Wagner Realty today to find your new dream home.

No matter where your house is located or when you choose to sell it, there will always be competition from other sellers in your area. The good news is there's plenty you can do to make your home stand out if you're willing to invest some time and a bit of elbow grease. Our REALTORS® know what it takes to sell a home, and we've put together a checklist to help you maximize the value you get for selling your Florida home. 

Tips for Maximizing the Value of Your Florida Home

Whether you're looking to maximize your return on investment, sell your home as quickly as possible, or both, it all starts with having a plan. Your real estate agent should be a huge help throughout the process, which leads us to the first point on our checklist:

1. Find the Right Real Estate Agent
   A knowledgeable, attentive real estate agent will be one of your biggest assets when selling a house, so take the time to find an agent who understands your market and needs. The right agent will have deep knowledge of your local real estate market, a willingness to answer your questions, and an understanding of the modern marketing methods that will help get your home sold.
   
   
2. Pick the Right Price
   Choosing the right price is one of the first things that your real estate agent can help with, and it's a crucial step in finding the right buyer for your home. A market analysis from your real estate agent is a great place to start, and you can also scout local homes for sale to get an idea your competition. Going a bit lower than the competition may help with a quick sale while aiming higher can work if you're willing to wait for the right buyer.
   
   
3. Clean and Clutter-Free
   Once you've got the initial details out of the way, it will be time to show off your home to the world. Make sure that the interior of your home is clean top to bottom, and that you clear out the unnecessary clutter so that buyers can imagine their life in your home. Buyers love to look for the little details, so make sure to clean everywhere.
   
   
4. Consider Curb Appeal
   You want buyers to be impressed from the moment they see your home from the street, so make sure to spend time concentrating on curb appeal. Keep your yard clean, your lawn cut, and your landscaping looking its best. A fresh coat of paint is also a great idea if the area around your front door could use some touching up.
   
   
5. Make Meaningful Fixes
   Most buyers will consider minor maintenance issues as a sign that something more serious could be wrong with the home, so it's important to make any necessary fixes before you start showing your home. A walk-through with your real estate agent is a great way to spot any issues.
   
   
6. Make Your Marketing Count
   Online marketing is an excellent way to attract potential buyers, so make sure that your real estate agent has a plan for marketing your home. Professional photography goes a long way toward making your home look great online, and a listing on your agent's MLS helps ensure that interested buyers will have an easy time finding your home.

Finding the right real estate agent is one of the most important things you can do when selling a house, and our team would love to help you get the results you seek. Contact Wagner Realty to buy and sell homes throughout the Sarasota area.

Living in Lakewood Ranch is a HOWLING Good Time

It's October, and we all know what that means, everywhere you turn ... ghosts and goblins abound.  It's no different in Lakewood Ranch.  Just minutes from Southwest Florida's beach, shopping, dining, and local events, the Lakewood Ranch Community Activities Corporation is busy preparing for the community's annual themed Halloween event, BOOFEST on Main Street.

The mission of Lakewood Ranch Community Activities Corporation is to nurture a sense of community and friendships through memorable events and social clubs within their community. Some of the LWR's  activities are so popular that they have become annual events such as the Eggstravaganaza, Boo Fest, and Holidays Around The Ranch.

Our local REALTORS® know the importance of getting to know your new neighbors when you buy a home in a new community, so we've created this Lakewood Ranch event highlight so you don't miss any of the howling good fun that will be happening at BOOFEST on Main Street.

BOOFEST On Main Street Is A Lakewood Ranch Tradition

Kids of all ages love Halloween. The family-friendly community of Lakewood Ranch has plenty of scary good fun planned for its annual October holiday event. 

Since Halloween falls on a school night, BOOFEST is scheduled for Friday, October 27--the fun starts at 6 PM.

Children will find plenty of thrills and chills at this all-ages Halloween celebration. It includes its own super Spooktacular Maze, crazy balloon art, and themed performances from local dancers.

Young guests are encouraged to dress in costumes to visit neighbors and friends. Exhibitors and sponsors will fill their bags with all sorts of tasty treats. Naturally, there will be a costume contest with plenty of prizes.

A full haunted house is planned – giving all the young ones many chances to enjoy on one of the most exciting nights of the year. It's the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit!

Find Your Lakewood Ranch Home with Us

BOOFEST is your family's opportunity to pack a whole season of Halloween fun into a single night. Plus, if you just can't get enough of this creepy extravaganza, you still have time for a full evening of trick or treating throughout the weekend.

Lakewood Ranch is known for its safe and welcoming neighborhoods, so parents can feel confident as their children participate in the local festivities. And, of course, BOOFEST is just one of several yearly events you'll be able to enjoy if you buy one of the homes for sale in Lakewood Ranch.

People throughout Florida and beyond relocate to Lakewood Ranch for all sorts of reasons including great amenities, mild weather, and a wide range of beautiful homes. Once you visit, you might find that you wouldn't want to live anywhere else.

Our REALTORS® can help you find the perfect home for you and your family.  Contact us to get started.

Bradenton is one of the most desirable communities in all of Florida's picturesque west coast. With seaside charm and sophisticated amenities in a mid-sized city of 54,000, it attracts visitors and new residents alike each year. As the county seat and the core of the Bradenton-Sarasota-Venice area, there is truly something for everyone.

Sure, just about any seaside town in Florida will wow you with its fair share of marvelous attractions, but Bradenton is in a class by itself. Let's take a closer look at seven of the top sights that will make you want to take a selfie:

1. Bradenton Riverwalk
   In 2012, Bradenton launched its 1.5-mile Riverwalk packed with beautiful homes and high-class businesses. It has become one of the city's economic engines, filling the social calendar with events like concerts, festivals, and talks by world-class experts. Plus, it's absolutely gorgeous: Known as a "gallery of outdoor art" it boasts nineteen distinct pieces by local artists.
   
   
2. Village of the Arts
   The Village of the Arts is a small, spirited community where artists from a variety of disciplines live and work. From the first moment you arrive, the colorful buildings, murals, and even cars will take your breath away. From baking to yoga, you'll find anything with a creative spark here. One of the monthly art walks is the best way to take it all in and stage the perfect photo.
   
   
3. Twin Dolphin Marina
   It's not surprising that Bradenton is home to an enthusiastic boating and water sports community. No matter whether you like sailing, jet skis, or anything in between, you'll find what you want at the Twin Dolphin Marina. Amenities include luxury live-aboard facilities, concierge services, and – of course – sunset harbor views that are second to none.
   
   
4. Bean Point
   Bean Point is as far north as you can go on spectacular Anna Maria Island. This seven-mile barrier island is known for the sea turtles that come ashore each year to nest. Bottlenose dolphins cavort and play in nearby waters, and a vast assortment of seabirds can be found through most of the year. Named for its first resident, Bean Point offers some of the best views in the area.
   
   
5. Robinson Preserve
   Robinson Preserve is a 600-acre natural preservation area that offers a true adventure to those willing to explore. It welcomes visitors to a secluded and pristine vision of Old Florida that can be compared only to its "big brother," the historic Everglades. The best way to trek through Robinson Preserve is to plan a day-long kayaking expedition with an experienced guide.
   
   
6. Historic Bradenton Pier
   When walking along Sarasota Bay for sightseeing or a picnic, no journey would be complete without a visit to the Historic Bradenton Beach City Pier. It is home to one of the most popular restaurants in the entire metro area, serving delectable seafood. It's also one of the best places to glimpse a truly unobstructed view of the Bay – and you're welcome to fish all day.
   
   
7. Your New Bradenton Home
   Picture it: A beautiful home that meets all your needs, nestled in the heart of a seaside paradise. Warm sun, sand, and surf all year around, with inviting sea breezes and the gentle whisper of the water lapping not far from your window. All of this and more could be yours when you decide to work with Wagner Realty, the trusted REALTORS® in Bradenton.

Homes in Bradenton appeal to people of varying tastes and lifestyles. You can combine beauty, convenience, and "old Florida" charm with the right home. Contact us today.

As a modern thinker, you probably believe that men and women are pretty much the same under the surface. Unfortunately, that's not true. When you're selling your home, it's important to realize that a few traditional men vs. women differences are alive and well and they can affect the sale of your home. Our REALTORS® view these differences as a challenge. As we market your home, we work with you to prevent them from becoming a roadblock to selling your home.

Man vs. Woman: Together But Different

When significant others search for their dream home, they scan listings, discuss properties and attend open houses together. Only as they examine each property with a critical eye, do their male versus female homeowner value systems clash. Couples often follow a pattern documented by real estate researchers. They arrive together to view your home but they look for different things.

• Women require safety
  When a woman home-buyer searches for a good neighborhood, safety is her primary concern. She wants to feel secure in her home and anxiety-free if she takes an evening stroll through her neighborhood.
  
  A man will choose convenience over safety. An occasional police run in his neighborhood doesn't bother him as long as his favorite eating and drinking spots are within walking distance.
  
  
• Women want friends and family nearby
  Women are friendlier than men. (It's not a stereotype if it's true.) Women want friends and family nearby. They want their homes to be a hub for friendly gatherings and family fun.
  
  Men, don't care whether friends and family live nearby. They just want to live close to their workplace and they want neat and quiet neighbors.
  
  
• Women want demographic sameness
  A woman prefers neighbors whose work and social lives mirror her own. If she has a young family, she wants to live near other young families. If she's a retiree, she wants retiree neighbors.
  
  Men don't care about demographics as long as their neighbors don't cause conflict.
  
  
• Women like white paint and sunlight
  Women home buyers prefer an open floor plan, blank white walls, and rooms bathed in a generous infusion of light.
  
  Men think den. That usually means dark wood, dark fabric, and dark leather.
  
  
• Women want spacious bedrooms
  A woman wants a boudoir, a bedroom with dreamscape potential. She prefers an abundance of space, a luxurious bath, generous closets, and plenty of room for anything else she desires.
  
  Men don't mind a compact bedroom as long as there's space enough to do whatever they want in other areas of the house.
  
  
• Women want space in the kitchen too
  When a woman home-buyer looks at a kitchen, she contemplates cooking and entertaining. She wonders if the layout is big enough and efficient enough for smooth meal preparation.
  
  A man explores a kitchen looking for updated fixtures and high-tech gadget potential: electronic ovens, trendy built-ins appliances, and wireless-connected refrigerators.
  
  
• Women look at the inspection bottom line
  Women review inspection reports for conclusions. They just want to know if everything is okay. They don't need to know the details.
  
  Men prefer to avoid handyman specials. They prevent this by scrutinizing every detail an inspector writes about electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and other critical home systems.

We're Here to Help

When you're struggling with man versus woman home buying difficulties, our real estate agents can help you overcome them by presenting your home in the best possible light. Contact us for more information about the realities of selling your home.

Many people looking at Sarasota homes find themselves drawn to the charm of Siesta Key, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Sarasota proper. Siesta Key, a community of just over 6,000 people, is a barrier island with some of the most beautiful sights in Florida.

If you're searching for the right place to truly enjoy the climate and views only Florida can offer, Siesta Key is perfect. Although it attracts many tourists, there are also plenty of "out of the way" places to enjoy a slower pace.

Spanning just 3.5 square miles, Siesta Key is made up of four main districts:

1. Siesta Beach
   Siesta Beach is consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the world and among the top three in Florida. The Siesta Beach area is home to many eateries showcasing the region's best seafood. As a resident here, you'll live where people come to get married or go on honeymoon.
   
   
2. Crescent Beach
   Crescent Beach sits just south of Stickney Point and has a distinctive crescent shape. This is the place to be if you want true beachfront property situated right next to the water. Crescent Beach is easily accessible for those who want to walk to major amenities instead of driving.
   
   
3. Turtle Beach
   Turtle Beach is home to some of the top resorts and campgrounds in the area. It is a smaller and quieter beach known as the place to go for fishing. It is one of the only beaches around Siesta Key without white sand – the shore is known for a distinctive black coloration instead.
   
   
4. Siesta Key Village
   Siesta Key Village is what most people think of when they think of Siesta Key homes. From shady streets to sunny beaches, Siesta Key has what you need to make everything a Florida holiday. It's especially famous for watersports and parasailing.
   
   No matter where you are, Siesta Key is known for breathtaking sunsets. Blackened gator tail and local fish are some of the dinner favorites, topped off at the end with a slice of authentic key lime pie.

Living in the Land of Sand and Surf at Siesta Key

Thanks to its unique geography, living in Siesta Key feels like being away from it all – but you still have access to all the best amenities of Sarasota, Bradenton, and even the Tampa Bay Area. But how can you know if Siesta Key is right for you?

Locals applaud Siesta Key for its laid back community, great shops, and nightlife. Despite its popularity with out-of-town visitors, it is amazingly intimate and local, with a flavor all its own. It also has a strong arts and culture scene, and there is always something to do. Don't miss the historic Ringling Bros. home.

For its permanent residents, Siesta Key attracts families and established professionals working in the growing technology and healthcare scenes in Sarasota or Bradenton. The area is serviced by the world class Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Sarasota County Schools operates more than 30 public schools in the area, with many elementary schools rated among the Sunshine State's best.

Intrigued? Get Started Today with Wagner Realty

Siesta Key is the place to be, no matter whether you're moving to Florida from outside the state or "trading up" from a hectic urban lifestyle. Truly, the best way to appreciate how Siesta Key can transform your life for the better is to see some of the amazing homes for sale.

Want to find out more? Contact Wagner Realty to get started. Our REALTORS® in Sarasota will be glad to help you find the perfect Siesta Key home for you.