All photos courtesy of the Sarasota Alliance for Historic Preservation.

One of the great things about homes in Sarasota is their diversity seen through our local architectural heritage. Since William Whitaker built the first cabin in 1863, to the development of the Sarasota School a hundred years later, Sarasota boasts an incredible stylistic array of vintage homes. Some of these historic properties didn't age gracefully and have been removed to make room for more modern residences; but for those who wish to honor Sarasota history in restoring an older home, there are a few things you should consider as you prepare for your project.

Figure out what has to stay. When you take your first tour of your vintage home, there are going to be little things

If you are shopping for a home in the Sarasota area from out of state (or country), you may have run into some terms referring to house styles or property attributes that can be a little confusing. Many common terms have Florida-specific meanings or refer to the vintage construction and architectural styles found in Sarasota's many historic neighborhoods. The following definitions should help to clear up some of this confusion and will hopefully be a good aid in your search. 

Bungalow – a small, usually one-story house. Generally interchangeable with cottage. 

Cabana – although this more correctly refers to a small structure used as a bathhouse or for recreational activities, it is often used to refer to a cottage or bungalow.  

Canal home – a

Our little city on the bay is showing off its economic resurgence through the development of six new condominium projects that are helping to reshape downtown Sarasota. With the impact that the recession had on the area, these 501 new residential units, ranging in price from $300,000 to $4.5 million, are a grand opportunity for people who want to participate in Sarasota's renaissance and enjoy the process of its revitalization. As plans for redevelopment are underway on the bayfront, and new retail spaces and hotel rooms are being developed along with these new residential spaces, it is a great time to start planning for a move downtown.

- VUE Sarasota Bay
The Kolter Group's 141-unit high-rise is currently under construction at the corner of Gulfstream

I’m very excited about how this year is shaping up so far, and wanted to share some of the homes I’ve matched with happy new homeowners. Starting the year with two great sales is a wonderful way to ring in the new year! 

One of the first homes sold in the new year was a John Cannon home on Sweetmeadow Circle. This beautiful five-bedroom home is located in the Turtle Rock Community in Palmer Ranch. With a view of the greenbelt and 3,885 square feet of living space, this lakefront view didn’t stay on the market for long.

The gorgeous interior is laid with wood and tile floors throughout. Two of the five bedrooms are master suites, and the large family room includes a gas fireplace. The kitchen has all new wood cabinets and granite countertops,