Articles Tagged "Parrish, FL"

One of the great things about living in Florida is that fresh fruit and vegetables are never really out of season. Local farms around Sarasota and Bradenton cultivate corps that change with the calendar.

Even so, spring is almost certainly the best season when it comes to u-pick produce. These are some of our real estate agents' favorite pick-your-own fruit and veggie farms in the Sarasota and Bradenton area!

• Albritton Fruit Farms - 9600 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241
  A beautiful farm in the rolling countryside just outside Sarasota, Albritton Fruit Farms offers u-pick blueberries and sunflowers throughout the spring harvest season. This family-owned and operated farm is just minutes from these Sarasota homes for sale and includes 60,000 blueberry plants of four distinct varieties. The u-pick season usually runs from mid-March through late May, and specific dates are frequently updated on their website. 
  
  
• Hunsader Farms - 5500 Co Rd 675, Bradenton, FL 34211
  Bradenton's Hunsader Farms is one of the best places around to get fresh produce. In addition to u-pick offerings that change with the seasons, they offer a fully stocked farm stand where you can shop an amazing variety of fruits and vegetables. U-pick offerings throughout April and May include eggplant, green beans, black-eyed peas, purple hull peas, and okra, and many more options are available pre-picked at the farm stand. There's also an on-site petting zoo and playground, and the farm is only a short drive from many Bradenton homes for sale.
  
  
• Brown's Grove - 16015 Winburn Dr, Sarasota, FL 34240
  One of the leading citrus growers in the Sarasota area, Brown's Grove produces a wide range of fruit in their large, picturesque farm. Brown's Grove has been owned and operated by the Brown family since 1915, and their offerings include red and yellow naval oranges, Meyer lemons, red and white grapefruits, and Tango tangerines. The u-pick citrus season runs from December through February, but Brown's Grove also sets up a fruit stand at Phillippi Farmhouse Market in Sarasota.
  
  
• Honeyside Farms - 24105 FL-62, Parrish, FL 34219
  An organic vegetable farm spanning 12 beautiful acres, Honeyside Farms is the pride and joy of Tiffany Bailey, a 4th-generation farmer who started growing her own produce just outside Bradenton in 2008. Today, the farm grows dozens of different crops a stone's throw from these Parrish homes for sale and offers weekly organic veggie box subscriptions. U-pick is offered on select days that are announced in advance via their social media pages. Honeyside Farms also sells produce at the Lakewood Ranch Farmers Market during the growing season from November to May.
  
  
• Fruitville Grove - 7410 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota, FL 34240
  Fruitville Grove is a working farm as well as a farm market, and they offer a huge variety of local homemade goods year-round, as well as fresh produce in season. You'll always find fresh baked goods, jams and preserves, honey, and dairy products at the market. December through March is the peak season for most of their organic fruits and vegetables, but many crops are available well into spring. Fruitville Grove is perhaps best known for its annual Pumpkin Fest, which includes u-pick pumpkins and a wide range of food, games, and entertainment every October. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in Florida! Fresh local produce year-round is just one of many things that make this part of the world special, and our real estate agents can't wait to help you find your dream home in Sarasota, Bradenton, and the surrounding areas. 

Your dream house has a beautiful yard with grass, trees, shrubs, even a flower garden. There are plenty of Sarasota homes for sale that fit the bill. Our real estate agents can help you find the one that meets your needs. Caring for your new lawn, though, is up to you.

One of the most important aspects of lawn care is water - giving the area just enough water, just often enough, without doing it too much or too frequently. To do that, you'll need a sprinkler system that's designed just for your lawn's needs. You can have it professionally installed, but as long as you're reasonably handy, you might prefer to go the DIY route instead and install it yourself. Here are some tips for installing your sprinkler system.

What You'll Need

Before you begin the installation, you need to make sure you have all your tools and materials ready. Here's a list of what you'll need:

• PVC Pipes and Fittings. PVC pipe is sturdy and durable but easier to work with than metal, so you can cut it down to lengths of whatever size you need. The fittings let you put the pipe segments together in different formations, as needed: elbow fittings, for joining two lengths together around a curve, and T-fittings, for joining three.
• Sprinkler Heads. The most important part of your sprinkler system. You can choose the direction of the spray, as well as how much and in what pattern. You'll also need risers to connect the heads to the PVC pipe.
• Timer. Allows you to set when and how often your lawn gets watered. A smart timer can automatically adjust to weather conditions so it doesn't go off when it's raining.
• Valves. The valves allow you to control how much water flows through your sprinklers. They're accessed through a valve box and connected to the system with wiring.
• Drains. These remove the excess water from the pipes when the sprinklers aren't on. It can be done either manually or automatically.
• Backflow Prevention. Sometimes, water from the soil can flow back into your water supply, contaminating it with dirt and bacteria. A backflow prevention valve keeps this from happening.

What to Do

The first step is to find the pipe that you'll be using as the water source for your sprinkler system. Water will flow from that pipe through all of your PVC pipes and be distributed to your lawn. Check the pressure of that pipe to make sure it's up to the job.

Next, dig trenches around your yard in the pattern in which you want to place your sprinklers. Also, dig one from the water main to where you want to place your valve box, and dig a hole for the valve box. Dig the trenches between four and twelve inches deep. You'll want to rent a trenching machine to help you get them the right width and depth. Then, lay the PVC pipes in the trenches.

This is just the basics. There's a lot more to know about sprinkler installation. Don't attempt to install your own sprinklers unless you know what you're doing or have an expert on hand to help you. If you're unsure, call a professional.

If you're looking for Bradenton homes for sale with great lawns that are perfect for DIY gardening projects like this, contact us! We'll help you find the home of your dreams!

Gated communities offer various advantages that many residents find appealing, but the gated community lifestyle isn't necessarily a perfect fit for every buyer. If you've been shopping for homes and thinking about purchasing a home in a gated community, then it's important to understand exactly what to expect from your neighborhood. Our real estate agents are here to help you make an informed decision, with our guide to terms you need to know when considering a gated community.

1. Homeowner's Association (HOA)
   When you live in a gated community, the homeowner's association (HOA) is the organization that makes rules, enforces them, and ensures that the community is properly maintained. Each HOA is typically made up of members of the community, including an elected board of governors who are responsible for enforcing HOA regulations. Often, in addition, there may be a Management Company to oversee properties. The rules created by an HOA can be restrictive in terms of the architecture of homes, home maintenance, and the ways in which you're allowed to modify your property. However, those rules also play an important role in keeping the neighborhood looking great, keeping home values high, and making sure that everything from streets to landscaping are well-maintained.
   
   
2. HOA Fees
   When you purchase a home in a gated community, you will be required to join that community's HOA. Joining an HOA means paying HOA fees, which can be paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. While the details vary depending on the community, HOA fees typically cover a wide range of service related to security, as well as maintaining your property and the community as a whole. In addition to maintenance, HOA fees often cover community amenities like pools, recreation areas, parking, and landscaping that help keep the community beautiful. If you're considering a home in a gated community, make sure you research exactly how much HOA fees will cost and what those fees will cover, and when they are paid.
   
   
3. CDD Fees
   An alternative to HOAs, some communities have Community Development District (CDD) fees. These fees go toward paying for infrastructure and amenities within the community. Unlike HOA fees, CDD fees are paid as part of your local property tax, and CDD payments are tax-deductible. The cost of community improvements are put into a bond, and part of CDD payments go toward paying that bond off over time. Communities with CDD fees may have HOA's and HOA fees.
   
   
4. Condominium Fees
   If you choose to live in a condominium community, then you can expect to pay condo fees. Just like with the other types of fees we have mentioned, condo fees go toward maintaining the condominium complex and covering the cost of any amenities offered by the complex. These fees can vary significantly based on the community and the size of your condo, so be sure to research them carefully. Some condominiums also have HOA and/or CDD fees.
   
   
5. Recreation Fees
   Recreation fees can cover a wide range of amenities, activities, and services, with the exact details depending on the rules of each community. All members of the community pay the recreation fee, whether they use a specific amenity or not. The good news is that if your community requires recreation fees, then you may in most cases be able to use all of those amenities without any additional charge beyond the fee.

Whether you're shopping for Bradenton homes for sale in a gated community or a more traditional neighborhood, our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout Southwest Florida communities.

Florida is home to so much natural beauty and wonderful outdoor activities! Celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd with our REALTORS® at these special activities in the great outdoors around Manatee and Sarasota Counties.

1. Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures - 190 Taft Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236
   No time for a vacation? Kayaking is a wonderful way to relax and clear your mind. With Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures, all you need is a couple of hours just minutes from Longboat Key homes for sale. Enjoy leisurely tours of mangrove tunnels and marine preserves with possible sightings of birds, manatees, and bottlenose dolphins. Choose a stand-up paddleboard if you prefer a more vigorous workout. 
   
   
2. Rye Preserve - 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL 34219
   Step back into Manatee County's history with a visit to Rye Preserve. The 145-acre grounds, encompass four different ecosystems. Walk the trails leading through sand pine scrub, oak hammocks, and xeric oak scrub while the kids try to spot a rare gopher tortoise or other wildlife. Pet-friendly Rye Preserve is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. Consider stopping by after looking at Parrish homes for sale.
   
   
3. Sarasota Farmers Market - 1 N. Lemon Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
   The farm-to-table movement honors the rich variety of nutritious food that comes directly from Mother Nature. Healthy eating around Sarasota homes for sale is easy when you shop the fruits, vegetables, and artisan products at Sarasota Farmers Market. There's always great live music to enjoy while you shop. Leashed dogs are welcome at the market, which is open each Saturday from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m., year-round.
   
   
4. Palma Sola Botanical Park - 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
   Nature's glorious colors are on full display at Palma Sola Botanical Park. Stroll along with the stunning gardens and around the three onsite lakes or sit in the gazebos, swing, or screened pavilion and take in the beauty around you. Yoga classes are held in the park multiple times a week, offering residents a relaxing way to connect with nature. Stop in after touring Bradenton homes for sale and pick up some flowers and plants at the Hidden Garden Nursery. 
   
   
5. Oscar Scherer State Park - 1843 S. Tamiami Trail, Osprey, FL 34229
   When you visit Oscar Scherer State Park, you'll quickly forget how close you are to Osprey homes for sale. This pet-friendly secluded gem has 15 miles of nature trails and a three-acre freshwater lake with opportunities for paddling, swimming, camping, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. Admission is $5 per vehicle, and hours are 8 a.m. - sundown year-round.

It's only natural to put down roots around Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Contact us to get started finding your dream home in the area.

If you're new to Florida, you might be surprised to learn that yes, we do get the occasional frost here in Sarasota and Manatee Counties in the late winter and early spring. This is just one of the things you need to know as you embark on gardening in your new home, acquired either from Bradenton homes for sale or Sarasota homes for sale. Fortunately, frost is rare and not much of an impediment to producing fabulous flowers, fruits, and vegetables in Florida.

While we suggest Floridians start planting long before National Plant a Flower Day, which is March 12, this national celebration, which promotes looking forward to spring by encouraging flower planting, is a great reason to jump right in.

And the good news is, after mid-February, the chances of a frost damaging seedlings or other plants are very low. So feel free to head to your local garden center and acquire some fabulous flowers to celebrate March 12 with a burst of color in your yard.

But before you start, a little planning is in order. What can you plant in our region of Florida? So many things, from tropicals to perennials, lush annuals, flowering shrubs, and glorious flowering trees. The key is making sure whatever you choose can tolerate our heat and humidity. 

What to Plant

The flowering plant palette for Florida is extensive. Among the most common flowering plants, you'll note are these.

• Pentas. Also known as Egyptian Star Cluster, Pentas are evergreen perennials and come in pink, magenta, lilac, and white. They prefer full sun and are seasonal bloomers. An added bonus is they attract butterflies.
• Coreopsis. You can't not plant Florida's state flower, the Coreopsis. It's a member of the aster family and has bright golden disk and ray flowers. It's a brilliant addition to any garden. 
• Blue Salvia. Although native to the Southwest, Salvia farinacea does well in South Florida and can flourish in a hot, dry location. Low-maintenance Blue Salvia (also known as Mealycup sage) is an annual further north but blooms like a perennial in our climate. Pollinators love it.
• Mexican Heather. A low-growing ground cover, Mexican Heather or Cuphea loves full sun, although partial will do. Plant it in a well-drained location. It produces lavender-pink to white flowers almost all year long.
• Bougainvillea. One of our most spectacular bloomers, Bougainvillea's showy display isn't actually flowers at all, but rather colorful leaf bracts. It needs six hours of sun a day, and for that, you get an explosion of color most of the year.
• Lantana. Another pollinator attractor (including hummingbirds), Lantana is available in pink and yellow or bright orange and yellow, and more. Deadhead flowers to keep the plant producing most of the year. Be sure to water Lantana when the weather is dry; mulch and fertilizer help promote abundant flowering.
• Periwinkles. Also known as Creeping Vinca, Periwinkle is a creeping vine with pretty blue flowers, often used as a ground cover, and which can choke out weeds. Best blooming will occur if it's planted in partial shade.
• Plumbago. This sprawling shrub is grown for its clusters of blue, phlox-like flowers. Plant Plumbago over a stone or wood retaining wall for a beautiful effect. It prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade.

Our real estate agents have more tips for how you can improve your property, indoors and out. Contact us today.

Everyone spends a great deal of time at home, so why not make your space as happy as possible? It's easy to get used to the way your home looks, even it's less than ideal. Instead, look at it with fresh eyes and plan some ways to make your home calmer and more relaxing. That way, you'll enjoy your home even more.
  
Our real estate agents suggest the following 5 ways to make your home a happier space:  

1. Get rid of clutter.   
   Clutter creates the opposite of a relaxing, happy space. Having piles of disorganized papers and other items is mentally distracting and causes you to spend time stressfully looking for misplaced objects. You'll feel much less tension at home if you go through your unused possessions and donate what can still be used. This needs to be done regularly to keep clutter at a minimum. Finally, invest in some attractive organizational tools like woven baskets to neatly store what you've decided to keep, and you'll have a happier, neater home.
     
2. Use color to transform your mood.
   Color can transform your mood! Add a splash of color to your home by painting a wall or buying a colorful statement piece. You may want to use calm, relaxing colors like blues, greens, or greys in your bedroom but try more vibrant colors such as yellow in your family room. Accents like throw pillows and rugs can also easily add some more color – and happiness – to your home.
     
3. Let the sunshine in.   
   Natural sunlight is a proven mood-lifter, so instead of creating a cave-like atmosphere by closing your blinds or draperies, keep them pulled up or off to the sides. Even if it's not a particularly sunny day, you'll still be getting a boost from the daylight. If you don't have many windows in your home – or for areas that don't face the sun – use large mirrors on the wall to reflect light from the outdoors. And when the sun goes down, rely on adequate artificial lighting in each of your rooms to help create a brighter atmosphere.
     
4. Make every space count.
   Most homes have one or more areas that are drab or tend to be ignored. In your home, it might be a laundry room or a spare bedroom. Don't ignore these spaces when you're decluttering or refreshing your home since they can have a positive or negative impact on your mood.
     
5. Go for greenery.   
   Plants and flowers add color and vibrancy to your home and bring about a sense of calm and happiness. Plants also eliminate toxins from indoor spaces, making the air you breathe in at home healthier. Buy a bouquet to brighten up your kitchen table every week and invest in some plants to place throughout your home. Even if you don't have a green thumb, varieties like the snake plant thrive with little maintenance.

Contact us to find out about Sarasota homes for sale and Bradenton homes for sale. Our agents would be happy to help you find the home of your dreams! 

If you want the option to select the finishes in your home or if you prefer a brand-new space, our real estate agents know a new construction home is an excellent option. When purchasing a new construction home, you may be tempted to forgo using a REALTOR®. Here are a few reasons to use a REALTOR® when purchasing a new construction home. 

1. A REALTOR®Has Your Interests in Mind
   When purchasing a new construction property, you'll encounter individuals who represent other parties (like a builder rep) who will offer to handle the details of the sale for you. While these individuals are capable, you should remember that they are already obligated to represent the best interests of someone else. A REALTOR® will focus only on your best interests. 

2. Your REALTOR® Will Help You During the Negotiation Process
   Like any home purchase, you want to procure the best terms when you're purchasing new construction. Even though the builder might act like the terms are final, there are likely some details that are up for negotiation. Your REALTOR® will recognize these details and help you procure the best terms possible. Maybe the builder is firm on their price; your REALTOR® might suggest negotiating for upgraded finishes or adding extra items (such as appliances or blinds).

3. A REALTOR® Knows What Builders are Reputable
   Most people only buy a few homes during their lifetimes. A REALTOR® handles thousands of real estate transactions. As you browse Bradenton homes for sale, your REALTOR® will advise you as to which home builders are known for doing quality work. 

4. Your REALTOR® Can Provide Helpful Recommendations 
   Throughout the homebuying process, you'll find yourself searching for professionals to assist with your purchase. Before you start looking at Sarasota homes for sale, you'll want to get preapproved for a mortgage so that you know what you can afford to borrow. While your builder may suggest a mortgage, your REALTOR® can suggest lenders that they know are buyer-friendly. Once you're ready to commit to a new construction, you'll want to ensure that the finished product is sound. Your REALTOR® can recommend a home inspector to make sure your new home is ready for you to occupy. You'll appreciate having a knowledgeable resource throughout the process.

5. A REALTOR® is Familiar with the Neighborhood
   When buying a home, it's important to find a property in a neighborhood that's right for your lifestyle. It's hard to get an accurate feel for a neighborhood during a short visit. A REALTOR® is a valuable source of information for the neighborhood's true environment. They know which neighborhoods are good for families and which areas are better for individuals who value their privacy. 

Ready to start exploring new construction? Contact us to get started!

If your kitchen is beginning to look a bit outdated or things just aren't working as well as they used to, you might be wondering if it's time to upgrade your appliances. Our real estate agents usually recommend replacing your appliances before they break, as replacing items one by one can result in mismatched appliances. The last thing you want is a set of appliances that differ by color, age, or style appliances especially if you're planning to sell your home. Mismatched appliances can really give your kitchen a cluttered look.

Figuring out the best time to replace your kitchen appliances is the key to maximizing the longevity of your products and also maintaining your home's aesthetic value. Below are some tips to help you determine the best time to upgrade your kitchen appliances.

1. They're Simply Aging
   Every appliance has a lifespan, so knowing the age of each kitchen appliance can help you predict when they might be on their last legs. Refrigerators generally last 13 to 15 years, while dishwashers usually last about 8 or 9 years. Of course, the exact lifespan will depend on the product and brand. If your appliances are getting up there in age, then it's probably time to start thinking about replacements.
2. Your Kitchen is Out of Style
   If your appliances are wood-paneled, bright green, or look like they're from the 1960s, then they might be a little outdated. While your outdated appliances may work well or have sentimental value, installing modern-looking appliances may be helpful when it comes time to sell your home. Some of these Sarasota homes for sale have classic stainless steel appliances, which really creates a timeless look.
3. The Noise is Becoming an Issue
   If your dishwasher sounds like a semi-truck or your refrigerator is buzzing, it might be time to start thinking about new appliances. You may have even become used to the sound by now, but you'll notice such a big difference when you upgrade. In fact, some of these Bradenton homes for sale have the quietest kitchen appliances on the market today.
4. Your Utility Bills Are Too High
   Some old appliances can actually be really expensive to keep around because they're not very energy efficient. Modern refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines consume a fraction of the energy compared to older models from ten or twenty years ago. Upgrading to new appliances may be expensive in the short term, but you may actually see some cost savings down the road.
5. They Don't Work Like They Used To
   All appliances tend to lose performance over time, so if yours aren't working as well as they used to, then it's probably time to start saving-up for replacements. If it's taking longer for your oven to heat up or your dishes aren't coming out as clean as they used to, it might be time to start shopping.

There are no hard-and-fast rules for determining the best time to replace your appliances, but age, style, and condition are often the best indicators. For guidance on the best ways to upgrade your kitchen, contact us today!

Who doesn't love a little free fun in the sun? With year-round warm weather, there are unlimited opportunities for you to enjoy time out and about in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. If you're looking for fun yet free activities to do around Sarasota and Bradenton, our real estate agents encourage you to check out these five outdoor spaces.

1. Palma Sola Botanical Park – 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
   Palma Sola Botanical Park is where Florida's beauty remains timeless. This 10-acre oasis is a hidden gem located in the Old Palma Sola section nearby many northwest Bradenton homes for sale. Interestingly, this space has a unique microclimate that allows the park to house rare flora and fauna. As the site of many public and private events, a visit to Palma Sola Botanical Park always offers a serene experience.
   
   
2. Red Bug Slough Preserve – 5200 Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231
   Get lost in relaxation within the 72-acres of Red Bug Slough Preserve. Located surprisingly close to our Sarasota homes for sale listings, this preserve is a fantastic weekend destination. Several miles of trails offering endless hiking opportunities while other amenities provide options for picnicking and fishing. With a park for pets and a playground for children, Red Bug Slough Preserve will make you feel a million miles away from the city while remaining just a few blocks from your front door.
   
   
3. Turtle Beach – 8918 Midnight Pass Rd., Sarasota, FL 34242
   If you're looking for the best Siesta Key homes for sale, we'll let you in on a little secret: locals make a bee-line to the less-crowded Turtle Beach when they desire plenty of room to have fun in the sun. Located on the south end of Siesta Key, Turtle Beach is an active nesting area for sea turtles. It's quite unspoiled, especially during the off-season when only a handful of locals lounge on the sandy shores. With a campground next door, Turtle Beach is a wonderful place for a weekend getaway.
   
   
4. Rye Preserve – 905 Rye Wilderness Trail, Parrish, FL 34219
   Find a slice of Old Florida paradise at Rye Preserve. Not far from cozy Parrish homes for sale, Rye Preserve is a 145-acre natural space that features four distinct ecosystems. With an extensive trail system that offers an opportunity to spot diverse wildlife like gopher tortoise and scrub-jays, the Rye Preserve is a great place to hike, fish, bike, canoe, kayak, horseback ride, and walk your four-legged friend.
   
   
5. Pinebrook Park – 1251 Pinebrook Rd., Venice, FL 34285
   If you're planning on scouting Venice homes for sale, you'll discover that Pinebrook Park is a perfect space for exercise and relaxation. Fifteen-acres feature various amenities, including basketball courts, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and outdoor fitness equipment. There's also an unpaved fitness trail that winds through the park, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing.
   
   
6. Robinson Preserve – 1704 99th St NW, Bradenton, FL 34209
   Just over the bridge from Anna Maria Island homes for sale is a salt marsh waiting for you to explore. There are so many activities you and your family can enjoy when visiting the over 600-acre preserve. Hiking, kayaking, picnicking, and canoeing are just some of the activities you can enjoy during your visit to Robinson Preserve. Be sure to check out their website for kayak and paddleboard reservation information.

Would you love to live close to the best free attractions in Sarasota and Manatee Counties? We can help! Contact us today to browse the best homes for sale in Sarasota and Bradenton.

The Parrish, FL area has seen significant growth in recent years, and that's no surprise. With plenty to do close to home and an easy commute to nearby communities like Tampa, Bradenton, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, the community has something to offer for everyone. Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors in the sun, catching up on culture, watching live sports, or shopping until you drop, it's easy to find fun around Parrish. Our real estate agents are here to help you get to know the community, with our guide to living in the Parrish area.

• Parrish Has Homes to Suit Every Buyer
  A central location, strong job market, and diverse local attractions are just a few of the factors that have caused the recent growth of Parrish. That growth has lead to ample new construction in the area, and the average home in Parrish is just six years old. Parrish homes for sale feature something to fit every budget, from perfect starter homes for families to attractive, new luxury listings. 

• Outdoor Fun from Golf to the Gulf
  Love spending time by the water? Parrish offers easy access to the area's best beaches, fishing spots, and marinas. Enjoy time by the Gulf on the beaches of Bradenton, St. Petersburg, and Sarasota, along with fresh seafood at beachfront dining spots. Of course, living in Parrish also makes it easy to experience the legendary local golf scene, including the scenic, challenging layout at River Wilderness Golf & Country Club.

• Easy Access to the Best of Southwest Florida
  You'll find plenty to do close to home in Parrish, and even more when you visit the other dynamic, local Florida communities within short driving distance. Communities like Bradenton, Sarasota, Tampa, and St. Petersburg are all close by. Enjoy access to a diverse collection of job markets with a short daily commute, and find fun for every member of the family with nearby attractions for all ages. When you live in Parrish, the best of Southwest Florida is always waiting just outside your front door.

• Enjoy Live Sports and Entertainment Close to Home
  If you love live sports, the Parrish area has action during every season. Catch your favorite MLB team tuning up for the season each spring, with the Yankees in Tampa, the Pirates in Bradenton, the Orioles in Sarasota, and the Phillies in Clearwater. Tampa is also home to the Lightning of the NHL, the Buccaneers of the NFL, and the Rays of MLB.

  There's plenty of culture in the area, too, with the Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Symphony, and Sarasota Ballet just a short drive from home. The many performance venues around Tampa also attract world-class performers, including some of the biggest names in music.

• Local History and So Much More Near Parrish
  Art, science, history... the museums around Parrish offer something for every interest. The Florida Railroad Museum, located within Parrish, offers a trip back to the 1940s and 1950s when railroads were one of the most popular ways to travel. In nearby Sarasota, you'll find the historic Ringling Museum of Art, Selby Botanical Gardens, and Mote Marine Aquarium. Just over the Sunshine Skyway, in St. Petersburg you'll find The Dali Museum and in Tampa, The Florida Aquarium. There's so much to discover when you call Parrish home!

Ready to enjoy all the perks of living in Parrish? Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Parrish, FL area.

Horsing Around in Southwest Florida

When you think about moving to Florida, sun, sand, and surf most likely top your list of reasons to relocate here. But did you know Florida's call extends to horse farms, rodeos, polo fields, and thoroughbred horse racing tracks too?

Yes, "horsing around" can be added to your bucket list of things to do when you come to Southwest Florida. Moving to one of our nearby communities means you'll have the unique opportunity to enjoy equine events in cities like Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Parrish, Bradenton, and Venice.

Our real estate agents are here with some of the best places to enjoy horseback riding throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties:

1. Epic Equine Experiences - 8272 Whiskey Pond Lane, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
   If you want your time viewing Lakewood Ranch homes for sale to be truly epic, Epic Equine Experiences has you covered. Half-day trail riding on beautiful horses will bring you up close and personal with some of Florida's ecological wonders. Plus, delicious meals and lavish drinks are provided. Epic will even coordinate kayaking and swamp buggy adventures for you if you wish.
   
   
2. Rosaire's Riding Academy & Pony Rides – 901 East Road, Sarasota, FL 34240
   Just a short ride from Sarasota homes for sale, you'll discover Rosaire's Riding Academy & Pony Rides. Rosaire's Riding Academy teaches riders of all ages how to handle, love, respect and enjoy horses. And if riding a horse just isn't for you, Rosaire's offers ground handling and grooming sessions. The academy hosts riding camps, individualized riding lessons, parties, and even a petting zoo. Your family can meet sheep, goats, and local poultry. You can even rent donkeys and camels.
   
   
3. Born to Ride – 17960 Florida 62, Parrish, FL 34219
   Parrish homes for sale leave you in just the right area to canter on down to Born to Ride, one of the state's most unusual trail riding experiences. With help from riding experts, you'll explore Florida's gorgeous state parks. Everything you need is provided, and first-time riders are welcome. 
   
   
4. BeachHorses – 8400 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34209
   Bradenton homes for sale aren't far from the beach, and BeachHorses combines two of the things residents love most about Florida. A service of Great World Adventures, BeachHorses has been a popular attraction since 2007. The first half of your journey is on the water and the second half is right on the beach. You'll even learn cool tricks – prepare yourself for horse surfing!
   
   
5. Windsong Farm – 238 Lee Road, Venice, FL 34292
   Venice homes for sale may not have homemade pasta and singing gondoliers like their Italian cousin, but thanks to Windsong Farm, they do have plenty of horses to ride! Windsong Farms is one of the best bets if you want to introduce a child to the wonders of horseback riding. It operates a week-long summer camp with plenty to see and do for kids aged seven years to 16. Giddy-up!

Does buying a home in Florida have to be complicated? We say neigh! Wagner Realty will ride to the rescue with advice and customer care you can count on. You'll be galloping toward closing today in no time with us. Contact us today to find out more.