Date Archives: July 2022

Fun in the sun also means knowing how to cool off – and our real estate agents have some ideas.

Crunching on ice is a classic way to stay cool and hydrated in the heat of a Florida summer, but it's not very fun. What if you could have all the important benefits and enjoy a refreshing dessert at the same time. The secret is shaved ice, one of the most beloved sweet treats anywhere in the Sunshine State.

Whether you're interested in Bradenton homes for sale or prefer Sarasota homes for sale, you'll find plenty of places for shaved ice in these twin cities. And you don't have to wait for the ice cream truck! Instead, there are lots of frozen dessert parlors, bakeries, and more all waiting to serve you.

Let's take a peek at some of the places to find shaved ice in and around these sister cities:

• Coco Joe's Italian Ice – 5120 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34209
  Coco Joe's Italian Ice is one of the original names in Italian ice here in Manatee County. Around the area since 1995, it is built around a family recipe that founder Joe brought from Philadelphia. When you visit the shop, you'll be treated to a wonderland of Italian ice, gelato, custard, root beer floats, sundaes, and "The Big Nanner," a frozen and chocolate-dipped banana. Coco Joe's even offers catering.
  
  
• Kona Ice of Manatee County – See Website for Location Details
  Kona Ice of Manatee County is a sweet treat shop on wheels you can distinguish by its iconic tropical music. With more than 50 flavors, there's something for everyone. You can even choose a sugar-free or 100% dye-free option. In a hurry? A visit to Kona Ice might take only a few seconds since the top ten most popular flavors are all set up for self-service. Kona Ice frequently holds special events, too.
  
  
• Vampire Penguin Shaved Snow & Desserts – 4976 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
  Vampire Penguin Shaved Snow & Desserts specializes in light, fluffy, and creamy desserts you'll develop a craving for. Open every day to 8 p.m. or 9 p.m., you're welcome to pop in any time or issue your order through the website. Snazzy specials such as the strawberry cheesecake delight new and return visitors alike, and there are plenty of options for add-ons and mix-ins no matter what you decide to get.
  
  
• Pelican's Snoballs – 806 6th Street West, Palmetto, FL 34221
  If you are searching for shaved ice near Palmetto homes for sale, you need to look no further than Pelican's Snoballs. Now open every day from 12 noon to 9 p.m., thanks to increased demand, the quintessential "snoball" experience can be invited to your own party or other events. Signature Snoballs include nine perennial favorites, with the pink cotton candy "Unicorn" being the #1 most requested pick.
  
  
• Green Zebra Cafe – 1377 Main Street, Sarasota, FL 34236
  With two locations in Sarasota, including one on Main Street and another not far from the world-famous Ringling Museum, Green Zebra Cafe has a wide-ranging menu that's more than just shaved ice. Open for brunch and dinner, it has won "Best Breakfast" and "Best Lunch" awards from local Sarasota magazines. Its desserts are also acclaimed and are as tasty as they are beautifully plated.
  
  
• Jeremiah's of Bradenton – 2525 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205
  A popular chain offering fantastic shaved ice has found a new home in Bradenton. Recently opened, Jeremiah's of Bradenton is already a hit among locals. While the list of flavors is constantly being updated, you can head to this shop knowing you'll find a treat perfect for helping you cool off. Current flavors include blueberry, mango, cotton candy, and peach.

Contact us to find out more about Florida real estate.

Over the last couple of years, we've seen record low inventory, significant demand, and low-interest rates, which have created an unprecedented seller's market. While rising rates are expected to cool things off a bit, sellers are still very much in the driver's seat.

However, our real estate agents say buying a home in this market isn't impossible. Buyers just have to adjust their approach. It's also never been more important to have an experienced real estate agent in your corner. An agent is critical for navigating the complexities of today's market and avoiding costly pitfalls. Here's why:

1. See Listings As Soon As They Hit The Market
   Properties aren't sitting on the market very long these days, which is why you'll want to get in to see them as soon as possible. Your agent can let you know the minute a property hits the market. The multiple listing service (MLS) website, which is only available to real estate agents, can be configured to send you an email the moment a listing matches your criteria. Speed is essential when it comes to booking home tours, and you can rely on your real estate agent to battle for an appointment time. Your agent may even be in the loop on new properties before they hit the market and can get you in ahead of the competition. For example, if you'd like to schedule a tour of one of these Bradenton homes for sale, a good agent can get you in to see one today.
   
   
2. Help You Spot Potential Pitfalls
   It's hard to spot potential problems during a 15-minute home tour. As a buyer, you'll likely spend the time trying to envision yourself living in the space. Therefore, you can rely on your agent to be an experienced second set of eyes that can help you spot problems, costly pitfalls, or other elements of the home that you may overlook.
   
   
3. Draft A Competitive Offer
   To win a bidding war these days, buyers often have to get creative. Your agent can help you draw up an offer that stands out from the competition. Whether it's waiving inspections, increasing earnest deposit, or determining the right offer price, an experienced agent likely has a good sense of what it'll take to "win" the home.
   
   
4. Administrative Tasks
   There is a lot of documentation involved in the home closing process. It's important that you have an experienced real estate professional in your corner to help you wade through the paperwork. Your agent can take the time to walk you through the various documents, so you know exactly what you're signing.
   
   
5. Coordinate Inspections
   Your real estate agent has a wide network of industry contacts, so they can refer you to reputable inspectors, contractors, and other service providers who can help support the transaction. They'll also work to schedule these appointments on your behalf.
   
   
6. Negotiate On Your Behalf
   Most real estate transactions involve some negotiating. Whether it's contingencies, repairs, or the final sale price, negotiating terms takes time and energy. If you're in the market for one of these Sarasota homes for sale, you want someone in your corner who knows what they're doing.

Buying a home is challenging in today's market, but a good agent can help you find success. Contact us today to start exploring local listings.

Our real estate agents find that Florida's incredible natural beauty is even more special when they share it with their best four-legged friend. Head out for a great day with your pet at one of these dog-friendly beaches near Sarasota.

• Brohard Paw Park - 1850 Harbor Dr. S., Venice, FL 34285
  Brohard Paw Park, located just minutes from Venice homes for sale, is the Riviera Coast of dog-friendly beaches. After romping in the leash-free fenced-in park, Fido can head to the adjacent beach for a refreshing dip. There are drinking fountains, trash receptacles, and showers, along with an accessible boardwalk and plenty of benches and picnic tables where humans can have lunch or just relax as their pets have fun. Park hours are 7 a.m. - dusk daily.
  
  
• De Soto National Memorial Beach - 8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy., Bradenton, FL 34209
  Bring your leashed pet along to explore De Soto National Memorial Beach, not far from Bradenton homes for sale. The stunning hiking path meanders around a number of different ecosystems, such as a mangrove forest, just like the ones the first visitors found. Afterward, the two of you can cool off wading in the waters of Tampa Bay. Park grounds are open from dawn to dusk, but note that the parking lot gates close at 5 p.m. Admission is free for all guests.
  
  
• Palma Sola Causeway Park - 9000 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
  Once you and your precious pooch visit delightful Palma Sola Causeway Park, you may never want to leave. Dogs and horses alike can be found, along with their humans, traversing the sandy stretches of this waterfront area. Visitors give the park high marks for the clean, well-maintained grounds and peaceful ambiance. Grills are available, so pack a picnic lunch with plenty of doggie treats. Palma Sola is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.
  
  
• Indian Beach Park - 2703 Bay Shore Rd., Sarasota, FL 34234
  Tucked right in the center of the magnificent Sarasota Bayfront, Indian Beach Park packs a lot of activity into its single acre of land. The prime location makes it a popular spot for launching kayaks and canoes, while many others come to try their hand at fishing. Wind down after a long day by taking in some amazing sunset views with Fido at your side. Hours are 5 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
  
  
• Bayfront Park - 5 Bayfront Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Are you into multitasking? Culture, education, and entertainment meet head-on at Bayfront Park. One of the prominent features is the recently installed bioswale, designed to capture and treat stormwater runoff from surrounding surfaces. See if you can identify cabbage palm, mangrove spider lily, and other native plants inside the bioswale. Take a stroll with Fido to see the charming art installations, including Olympic Wannabees, Dolphin Fountain, and Ominous Ikon 69. Bayfront Park also offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Plans are underway to design and rebuild an upgrade to the kids' fountain on-site. Park hours are 5 a.m. - 11 p.m., seven days a week.

Contact us at Wagner Realty for cheerful and experienced assistance with all your real estate needs.

Nestled at the mouth of the Peace River, Charlotte Harbor is a captivating mix of old and new. When our real estate agents have out-of-town guests or just want to get away, they head for these wonderful attractions around Charlotte Harbor.

1. Fishermen's Village - 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
   Whether you're a tourist or a resident near Punta Gorda homes for sale, you'll always have fun spending a day at Fishermen's Village. Book a sightseeing harbor cruise, head out on a fishing boat or explore on your own with a kayak or paddleboard. Landlubbers can do a different type of exploring through more than 30 boutique stores or rent a four-person surrey bicycle to pedal around the village. Make it a staycation at the all-suite resort with luxury amenities and spectacular views. 
   
   
2. Peace River Wildlife Center - 3400 Ponce de Leon Pkwy., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
   Get an up-close look at some fascinating creatures at Peace River Wildlife Center. Founded in 1985, the center takes in orphaned and injured animals and birds for rehabilitation. Wildlife that cannot be returned to their natural habitat are cared for at the center. Current residents include bald eagles, owls, turtles, opossums, and rabbits. Visitor hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
   
   
3. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park - 2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Rd., Ponce de Leon, FL 32455
   Ponce de Leon Springs State Park is well worth the trip. The namesake spring, created from a convergence of two underground water flows, maintains a constant temperature of 68°F year-round. Hardy souls dive right in, while others are content just to dip their toes. Two hiking trails pass through hardwood forests, home to a number of native plants and animals. Other activities in the pet-friendly park include fishing, geocaching, and picnicking. Hours are 8 a.m. - sunset, seven days a week. Admission is $4 per vehicle.
   
   
4. Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum - 880 Belcher Rd., Boca Grande, FL 33921
   Back at the turn of the 20th century, the steady glow of a lighthouse guided sailors into Charlotte Harbor. Today, the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum showcases life in those earlier days. The museum is just minutes from Boca Grande homes for sale, but you'll feel worlds away as you view the hands-on collection of fossils and shells. Other exhibits focus on Spanish and Calusa culture, tarpon fishing, and the local phosphate industry. Museum hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Admission is included with the $3 per vehicle fee to enter Gasparilla Island State Park.
   
   
5. Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens - 5827 Riverside Dr., Punta Gorda, FL 33982
   Mother Nature's creations and manmade artwork combine for an unforgettable display at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens. The 30-acre waterfront property encompasses five different ecosystems, including marshlands, mangroves, and a tidal basin. "The Thinker," one of the delightful sculptures, is a whimsical take on Rodin's original, with the subject wearing jeans and running shoes. "Next Summer," which floats in the lower pond, features a bathing beauty perched on an inner tube. The gardens are open 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $18 for adults and $9 for students.

Charlotte County is a great place to call home. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Wagner Realty for cheerful and qualified assistance with all your needs.