Don't forget about your stocking stuffers as you shop for your holiday gifts. Homemade stocking stuffers are a fun, thoughtful way to show your loved ones that you're thinking about them. Our real estate agents suggest checking out these DIY stocking stuffer ideas.
Wish that your home had more space for holiday festivities and craft sessions? Contact us to search for your next home!
The holidays mark a time of wonder and excitement – not just for kids but Floridians of all ages. If you have been looking at Sarasota homes for sale or Bradenton homes for sale, you'll be minutes from the holiday happenings that locals here anticipate all year. Get ready to make some wonderful memories!
Our real estate agents have been making a list and checking it twice, and now we're ready to share with you some popular ideas for family-friendly fun in the local area. There's always something going on here in Florida's famous sister cities.
Let's take a look at some top picks for holiday fun in Bradenton and Sarasota:
Ready to find a home near all your favorite local events?
Contact us for more insights on the best local real estate opportunities.
Whether you're throwing a holiday party or preparing for a relaxing evening at home, a holiday charcuterie board is a delicious addition to your festivities. Our real estate agents suggest following this guide to help you create a tasty holiday charcuterie board.
A charcuterie board is a fast, versatile option for a holiday meal or snack. Interested in purchasing a home with more space for your holiday festivities? Or a new kitchen perfect for creating your holiday dishes? Contact us to get started with your search!
Halloween is just around the corner! This time of year, it's so much fun to carve pumpkins, make costumes, and of course, go trick-or-treating. Don't let the magic of Halloween be overshadowed by an accident or injury. Our real estate agents have some important tips to help keep everyone in your family safe and well this Halloween season.
With the safety tips above, you can have a happy and safe Halloween. If you're still looking for Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale, don't hesitate to contact us. We can guide you through the process of looking for a home for sale and making an offer.
Anna Maria Island, FL, July 5, 2022 –Wagner Realty along with island locals and guests came together on July 4 to celebrate the nation's birthday and Independence Day. Guests arrived early outside the Anna Maria Island office Along with chairs, coolers, and water toys, families were fully attired in decorated in red, white and blue. While waiting for the parade, the Wagner staff handed out water bottles with koozies and cups, beads, candy, glow bracelets, and festive fans to the crowd.
"It was so nice to see the smiling faces of families here in our great community, and especially our young ones" notes Natalie Russell, Wagner Realty's Operations Manager, adding "we want to thank all our guests who sat with us outside our office to enjoy the festivities."
As one of the oldest real estate companies in Manatee County, Wagner Realty began operations in 1939. Wagner Realty is locally owned and operated and is one of the largest real estate companies in the region. Every year, for more than 23 years, Wagner Realty has been voted "Favorite Real Estate Company" by readers of the local newspaper.
Pictured: Lucas and Ralph Martinez, Lucky Schmidt, Vera McGill
Mother's Day is just around the corner, so now is the time to start thinking about how you'll show mom your appreciation this year.
Our real estate agents turn to our local flower shops to find the perfect Mother's Day gifts. A bouquet of flowers is not only a great way to freshen up the house, but it's also a gift associated with love and beauty. Here are some local flower shops that make a great Mother's Day bouquet.
Give mom the gift she deserves this year by visiting one of our area's wonderful local flower shops. For more local recommendations around Sarasota, Bradenton, or Ellenton, contact us today.
Wagner Realty Celebrates Another Successful Year With Holiday Brunch at the Bradenton Country Club
Bradenton, FL December 8, 2021 – Each year as the holidays approach, Wagner Realty invites agents, support staff and affiliate partners to gather for a wonderful brunch at the Bradenton Country Club. This year, the company held its holiday celebration on December 6th with more than 150 in attendance, celebrating their successes and enjoy each other's camaraderie.
"Despite the many challenges, 2021 was a momentous year," notes David Eckel, Wagner Realty's owner and principal broker, adding "we want our agents and staff to know how grateful we are for all of their hard work."
This is the perfect time of year to gather in your kitchen and bake some cookies. Not only are the winter holidays quickly approaching, but December 18th is Bake Cookies Day! So, pull out that mixer, stock up on flour, and check out some of these cookie recipes our real estate agents recommend.
Make sure you set aside time to celebrate Bake Cookies Day this year! It's the perfect reason to use your kitchen this holiday season. If you're new to the area and still looking for a place to do all your holiday baking, contact us to learn more about our real estate services.
After looking at various Sarasota homes for sale, are you finally settled into your new house? As much as you love your new place, it may not quite feel like home yet. You may still be unpacking, decorating, and making the space your own. How, then, does celebrating the holidays fit into this equation? Better than you think! Here are seven ways to make the most of the holidays in a new home.
These ideas are sure to make your holidays brighter! If you're still looking for Bradenton homes for sale, please feel free to contact us. We'll put you in touch with our real estate agents, who can simplify the home buying process for you.
Shopping local is the perfect way to support small businesses during the holiday season. This year, our real estate agents suggest that you leave Black Friday to the crowd-followers. On November 27, be a trend-setter and support Small Business Saturday by patronizing these amazing shops around Bradenton and Sarasota.
Wagner Realty is proud to be part of the vibrant business community around Bradenton and Sarasota. Contact us for help with all your real estate needs.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends and enjoy a delicious meal together. If you're watching your weight, you'll be glad to know that you don't necessarily have to load up on unhealthy foods.
Many of our real estate agents love to cook. When they weren't busy showing buyers all the great Sarasota homes for sale, they spent some time looking for delicious healthy recipes you can prepare this Thanksgiving. Take a look at some of the ideas below. By lightening up the menu, you can make sure that this year the only thing that will be stuffed on Thanksgiving Day is the turkey!
If you're looking for the perfect Florida home this Thanksgiving season, the agents at Wagner Realty are here to help. We have the inside scoop on all the best Sarasota and Bradenton homes for sale, so don't delay. Contact us today to discuss your goals and get started!
Nothing warms the heart like a home that's decorated for the holidays. Decorating your home doesn't have to mean spending a fortune on impersonal, store-bought decorations. Even the most quintessential holiday decoration, a wreath, can be made at home with a little time and creativity.
Our real estate agents have noticed that a little bit of tasteful holiday decoration goes a long way when it comes to making a good impression with potential homebuyers. Whether you're selling or looking for a way to personalize your own home, break out the crafting supplies, and add some holiday cheer with these tips.
Find the Right Form
At the core of most wreaths is a form to give it shape. What you use depends on what your wreath is made of. For instance, many wreaths have a metal form that's useful for wiring greenery to. You can also find styrofoam wreath forms that can be spray painted or have decorations, such as jewels, glued to them. Even a cardboard cutout can provide the foundation for a wreath, with the right three-dimensional ornaments affixed to it.
Use Nature's Own Supplies
You can't go wrong with a traditional evergreen wreath, and you'll find many Bradenton homes for sale with these types of decorations hung on their doors. Finding materials for such a wreath could be as simple (and as cheap) as taking a walk. Collect small, thin evergreen branches that can be easily affixed to your wreath, as well as other potential decor, such as pine cones. Do make sure you have permission before you go stripping branches off someone else's trees, though, and try not to take too many from one tree.
Repurpose Like a Pro
If a more traditional wreath doesn't appeal to you, you can make a free or inexpensive holiday wreath by repurposing everyday items. For instance, holiday fabric (perhaps from those holiday pajamas you never liked?) can be used to cover a styrofoam wreath form, or other holiday items such as ornaments or holiday cookie cutters can be grouped to form a wreath shape. Don't forget to finish it off with some pretty ribbon!
Tie It All Together
Once you have an idea for your wreath, the real trick is to put it into action. Choosing a sturdy way of putting everything together will ensure your wreath lasts the season, especially if it's expected to get knocked around a bit. Sarasota homes for sale get a lot of showings, so make your wreath strong if it'll hang on the door of your home while it's on the market! When well done, a wreath that is wired together can easily stand the test of time. While it's quick and easy, remember that hot glue is simply melted plastic and won't withstand a lot of rough handling. Other glues tend to weaken over time and may not be ideal for wreaths you want to reuse in future years.
The holidays are exciting, and nothing gets you in the mood to celebrate quite like decorating. Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of selling your home during the busy holiday season? Contact us today, and one of our agents can take some of that weight off your shoulders.
The holidays are a season of giving, and our real estate agents are always on the lookout for new ways to give back to our local community. This year, with so many families in the Sarasota and Bradenton areas suffering from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for help is greater than ever.
Whether you're a long-time resident of the area or are looking at Sarasota homes for sale and Bradenton homes for sale, we're excited to share ways to help. Please consider some of these opportunities to give back this holiday season!
Contact us today to learn more about life in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. If you're looking for your dream home, our team is here to help every step of the way. We're also thrilled to offer some unique ways to give back to the community we love.
'Tis the season for giving, and our real estate agents invite you to join our shop small initiative. Our local businesses support our communities economically and socially. Without them, Sarasota and Manatee Counties just wouldn't feel like home. Let's support our friends, family members, and neighbors by purchasing gifts from these local shops.
Gifts for the Outdoor Enthusiast…
Living in Florida means living outside for most of the year. If you have someone on your gift list that loves the outdoors, you can't go wrong with a gift card to Surfer Bus. Located around the block from Anna Maria homes for sale, this kayak rental service makes it effortless to get out onto the open water. For those who prefer to stay on land, Zegway by the Bay is a better bet. This unique company offers Segway tours around local towns near our Holmes Beach homes for sale. If you're looking to hit the town in style, consider a gift certificate to Longboat Limousine. Cruising from our Longboat Key homes for sale throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties, you can simply enjoy a luxurious ride with million-dollar views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Gifts for the Foodie…
Who doesn't love good food? Gift the foodie in your life a gift certificate to Jennings Downtown Provisions. A favorite destination of those who moved into Bradenton homes for sale, Jennings is a restaurant and bar specializing in great eats like tacos and flatbread. The Bradenton Farmer's Market is another fantastic place where a single gift card will fill them with the best local flavors.
Gifts for Lovers of All Things Local…
The Original Sand Dollar and Sun & Surf Beach Shop have various gifts that fit perfectly under the tree. If you're seeking something unique, you'll find several one-of-a-kind, locally-owned, giftshops near our Sarasota homes for sale, like Artisans' World Marketplace, Maker's Market, and The Bazaar on Apricot & Lime. Or you can think outside the box and pair a foodie gift card from above with a trip to the theatre.
Gifts that Celebrate the Arts and Nature…
While some nonprofit shops may not have gift certificates for purchase, you can gift tickets or memberships to some of our local museums like The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Selby Gardens, and Sarasota Art Museum.
Gifts to Benefit A Favorite Cause...
It's a time of increased need throughout our community, which makes it a great time to give the gift of support. We also encourage you to consider gifts that help nonprofits in the Sarasota and Manatee Counties. If you aren't sure which non-profit you would like to support, visit The Giving Partner website. The Giving Partner, presented by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, helps local nonprofits tell their story and enables you to explore how each nonprofit is making a difference in our neighbors' lives. The Giving Partner database contains over 700 profiles of 501(c)(3) charitable organizations serving Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties.
If you're interested in buying or selling homes in Manatee or Sarasota Counties this holiday season, feel free to contact us. For more gift giving inspiration, be sure to check out our collection of short videos.
Love is in the air as Valentine's Day approaches — make sure this lovely occasion smells just as sweet by gifting the special someone in your life a beautiful bouquet. Sarasota and Manatee counties are blooming with flower shops offering a variety of dazzling daisies, perfect poinsettias, and amazing asters to show your partner how much they mean to you. Let these florist shops around town help make your Valentine's Day truly memorable.
Looking to share a home with the person you love? Contact us, and our REALTORS® will help you find a loving home.
There are a ton of fun New Year's events to enjoy in the Manatee and Sarasota areas this year. Whether you're looking for family fun, a formal event, live music, or just one big, local party with all of your friends, there's a New Year's Eve event with your name on it. Our REALTORS® are ready to welcome 2020! Learn about some of the local events with our guide to just some of the great New Year's Eve events in the Manatee and Sarasota area.
2020 EPIC New Year Party - Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Ring in the new decade with 22N, an awesome high energy band that will have everyone on the dancing floor. When the band takes a break, DJ EMP will be spinning Top 40 hits to keep the party going. You'll love the huge dance floor! Party tickets for 2020 EPIC New Year Party include valet to the red carpet, paparazzi, bottomless bubbly all night, full open top-shelf bar, catered appetizers by Acropolis Greek Taverna and Star Thai & Sushi & Desserts, midnight celebration and much more. Plus, you can save $10 with the following case sensitive promo code: wagner.
Sarasota New Year's Eve Pineapple Drop – Main Street, Downtown Sarasota, FL 34236
Participate in one of the most time-honored New Year's traditions, the Sarasota New Year's Eve Pineapple Drop, with a special Florida twist. Enjoy a carnival atmosphere perfect for families, along with local food, drink, a full bar, live music, and a spectacular fireworks display to close out the evening. Many Sarasota homes for sale are right around the corner from the festivities.
New Year's Eve at Selby Gardens – 900 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
Enjoy an elegant, black-tie New Year's Eve experience with New Year's Eve at Selby Gardens, and ring in the new year in style. This event features a little bit of everything, with unique tropical light displays, a delicious four-course, sit-down dinner, and live entertainment throughout the evening. When the clock strikes midnight, you can cap off your evening with a fantastic view of the fireworks over Sarasota Bay.
Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert – 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236
Head for the Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert for music, dance, and so much more. With a full symphony orchestra and tons of talented dancers, the Salute to Vienna has been a local New Year's Eve staple for more than 20 years. Make this Sarasota tradition a part of your celebrations!
New Year's Eve Docksider – 509 N. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285
Searching for New Year's excitement and waterfront fun close to Venice homes for sale? Visit the New Year's Eve Docksider and celebrate your favorite holiday as only Florida knows how. Settle in for a relaxing, laid-back New Year's celebration on the docks, with fantastic food and live local music.
Decades Rewind – 1 Indian Ave., Venice, FL 34285
Celebrate past decades as you ring in a new one at Decades Rewind, a music-filled New Year's Eve party that's sure to have you on the dance floor. The fun starts early in the afternoon, with music from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. As the evening progresses and midnight draws closer, you'll enjoy music from the 80s and 90s. If you're looking for an all-day party to celebrate New Year's, this is the place to be.
The Waterfront at Caddy's - 801 Riverside Dr. E, Bradenton, FL 34208
Ring in the New Year on the waterfront at Caddy's with Irish bagpipers at 7 pm, DJ Pezz at 8 pm and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight! Pull up your boat and enjoy a one of a kind waterfront dining experience and an incredible view near Bradenton homes for sale.
Roaring 2020 New Year's Eve Party – Grove, Main Street, Lakewood Ranch
Welcome the year in style and dress in your best 20's attire when you attend the Roaring 2020 New Year's Eve Party at GROVE! The perfect place to celebrate the New Year close to Lakewood Ranch homes for sale. Enjoy hors d'oeuvre's, carving station and a premium open bar all included with the price of your ticket. The cost per person is $119.95 plus applicable tax and gratuity.
Is finding a new home at the top of your New Year's resolution list this year? We can help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Manatee and Sarasota areas.
Not in the mood for baking this holiday season? No problem! The Sarasota and Manatee areas are loaded with great, local bakeries, perfect for picking up pies for all of your big holiday events. There's a local bakery for every taste, with specialties ranging from legendary key lime pies to a huge selection of gluten-free baked goods. Our REALTORS® are here to help you ring in the season in style, with our guide to the best Manatee and Sarasota bakeries for your holiday seasonal treats.
Ginnie's and Jane E's – 9807 Gulf Dr., Anna Maria, FL 34216
Searching for something sweet close to Anna Maria homes for sale? Stop by Ginnie's and Jane E's cafe to shop for holiday pies and so much more. The bakery at this local gem stocks a wide variety of pies, with vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options available. There's also a cafe and antique shop connected to the bakery.
Carribean Pie Co. – 2245 Bee Bridge Rd., Sarasota, FL 34239
If you're looking for an authentic, amazing key lime pie close to Sarasota homes for sale, then the Carribean Pie Co. is more than worth a trip. Try the award-winning key lime pie or sample one of many other pies with tropical themes. With over 25 years of experience creating delicious treats, you can always expect quality desserts.
Island Gluten Free Bakery – 1880 Stickney Point Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231
When Island Gluten Free Bakery got its start in 2006, it was one of just a handful of gluten-free bakeries in the country. Even though there's a lot more competition today, this bakery still ranks as one of the country's best. There are also extensive vegan options, all made fresh with local ingredients.
Yoder's Amish Village – 3434 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34239
You can't go wrong with a pie from Yoder's Amish Village. This Sarasota staple has been serving up mouthwatering slices of pie since 1975. All of these Amish pies are completely made-from-scratch every morning. There are plenty of options to take home with you during the holidays, including cherry, pumpkin, southern pecan, double-crust apple, and more!
Der Dutchman – 3713 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, FL 34232
Enjoy a homemade Amish pie during the holidays when you pick up pies from Der Dutchman. Conveniently located on Bahia Vista St, this Amish store is perfect for holiday desserts or even picking up last-minute gifts. Pie options include black raspberry, custard, pumpkin, and blueberry.
Morton's Gourmet Market – 1924 S. Osprey Ave., Sarasota, Florida 34239
Morton's Gourmet Market has upheld a tradition of tasty food for over 40 years. You'll impress at the holiday party when you bring a treat from Morton's Gourmet Market's talented pastry chefs. Some of their holiday dessert specialties for 2019 include pumpkin pie, old fashioned apple pie, and Jim Beam pecan pie. Be sure to place your holiday orders before December 20th.
Still searching for the perfect local home where you can create your own holiday memories? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Manatee and Sarasota areas.
We may have sand instead of snow, but Manatee and Sarasota Counties still transform into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Our REALTORS® have put together this holiday event guide to make sure your family enjoys a season filled with cheer!
For more help finding the perfect Sarasota or Manatee County home to spend your next holiday, contact us!
December is a delightful time of the year, and nothing makes the holiday season brighter than the vibrant holiday celebrations taking place throughout our region. Our REALTORS® encourage you to gather your family and explore our local holiday events.
Are you hoping to light up your own home in Sarasota or Manatee County this holiday season? Contact us today, and we'll help you with your search!
Scheduling your plans for Labor Day weekend along Florida's Gulf Coast? Our communities throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties are jam-packed with weekend activities and celebrations. Whether you're a long-time resident, newcomer, or visitor, our REALTORS® are here with favorite Labor Day events sure to pique the interest of every member of your family.
2019 Summer of Rum Festival - Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, 1001 N Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33606
Take a little road trip from Bradenton up to DowntownTampa this Labor Day weekend for The Summer of Rum Festival on Saturday, August 31, 2019, from noon to 11:00 P.M. Try out a variety of cocktails from Pina Coladas, rum runners, Cuba Libres, frozen daiquiris and more. The Caribbean Food Market will showcase a variety of local vendors. Try out 40+ rums during the Island Tasting Party, and the celebration ends with an amazing fireworks show.
Are you ready to buy a home in Sarasota or Manatee County before? Contact us today and our team will help you find the home of your dreams!
New Year's Eve is right around the corner, and the Sarasota area is a great place to celebrate. Whether you prefer a family-friendly event or an epic street party, we've got you covered. Our real estate agents have gathered a list of the very best ways to ring in the New Year in and around the city of Sarasota.
Are you ready to plan an evening you'll never forget? Let's start exploring your options!
Do your 2019 goals include finding a new home in the Sarasota area? There are plenty of gorgeous homes for sale, and our real estate agents are happy to help you find the perfect one. Don't put your dreams on hold, contact Wagner Realty today to get started!
Our real estate agents know about all the things that make Sarasota such a great community to live in. And one of the best things is the people. Many people in our city like to volunteer during the holiday season, and Sarasota has no shortage of opportunities to help make our community a better place. The holidays often bring an increased need for community services and the groups that provide those services have an increased need for volunteers. So during this season of giving, consider giving some of your time to help one of the many organizations that make Sarasota a better place. Whatever your skill set, you can find meaningful work that supports the community. Not sure where to start? We have a few suggestions to help.
Making a real difference in someone's life this holiday season can be a rewarding experience that makes your community a better place. When shopping for a home, deciding where you want to live is an important part of the decision. Sarasota homes for sale offer everything you want in a home and a community. Contact Wagner Realty today and get started finding the right home for you.
So you have decided it's time for a new home, and are eagerly counting the days until spring to begin the search. But should you really wait that long to get started? While spring is one of the most popular times for buying a house, there are some advantages to making your purchase in the off-season, particularly around the holidays. So, perhaps it is time to talk to our real estate agents about finding your new home. After all, there's no place like a new home for the holidays.
Here are some advantages of making your home purchase over the holiday season:
These are just a few of the potential advantages that can be gained by buying your new home during the holiday season. To hear more about how you can benefit from buying a home in the off-season, please contact Wagner Realty. We're always ready to help you make your best deal on a new home – no matter what time of year you choose to buy.
Decking the halls in your new home for the first time is a cause for celebration. If you've got a first-time home buyer on your holiday gift-giving list, you'll want to spend some extra time choosing the perfect item. Whether you decide to take the sentimental route or opt for something more practical, you'll want to give a memorable gift that they will love for years to come.
Our real estate agents spend plenty of time with first-time home buyers, so we have some insight into the things they need. Here are eight of the best ways for you to help your loved ones turn their new house into a home.
If a new home is on your holiday wish list, you're in luck. Now is the perfect time to start checking out some of the beautiful Sarasota homes for sale. Don't let the hustle and bustle of the holidays get in the way of making your dream a reality. Contact Wagner Realty today to learn how we can help.
Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, Christmas wouldn't be the same without a glimpse of Jolly Old Saint Nick. Luckily, Santa loves soaking up the sun in Sarasota before he gets too busy preparing for his big night.
Our real estate agents have the inside scoop on his favorite spots to hang out while he's here, and we're ready to let you in on the secret. Here are six of the best places to see Santa in and around Sarasota.
If your holiday wish this year involves buying or selling a home in Sarasota, we can help! Contact Wagner Realty today to discuss your real estate goals.
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.
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!
2018 is almost here, and our REALTORS® in Sarasota know just how to celebrate. If you're still free on New Year's Eve, it's time to make plans for an unforgettable evening.
Here are five of our favorite ways to ring in 2018 right here in Sarasota:
After you experience our night life, don't forget to check out all our beautiful Sarasota homes for sale. Our agents are always ready to help you find the listing of your dreams. Contact Wagner Realty today to get started on your search for a new home in the new year.
Our team of Lakewood Ranch REALTORS® loves a good Christmas party as much as anyone, and we wanted to give you a heads up on some of the fun holiday happenings around Lakewood Ranch this season! You can expect a packed schedule of events on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch this month, including some that you definitely don't want to miss. So gather up your holiday cheer, and join us for Christmas on Main!
No matter the season, there's always something going on at Lakewood Ranch! Contact Wagner Realty today to learn more about life in this vibrant community. Our team is committed to helping you find the perfect Lakewood Ranch homes.
The holidays are not only a time of good cheer but a great time to sell your home too. If you're planning to relocate, putting your home on the market during the holidays can be less of a hassle and more lucrative than you think.
This could be the right time to sell your home. CONTACT US to learn more about selling your home.