Videos

How Much Should You Put Down When Buying a Home in Sarasota ?

Wondering how much down payment you need to buy a home in Sarasota, Florida? Whether you're a first-time buyer or relocating, the right down payment depends on your loan type, budget, and long-term goals. 📊 Many buyers here put down 5%–10% 🏦 FHA loans allow as little as 3% 🇺🇸 VA loans offer 0% down for eligible veterans 💡 20% down helps avoid PMI but isn't always necessary! In this video, I break down how different down payment options affect your monthly costs, loan approval, and offer strength. Plus, I’ll share strategies using Florida Hometown Heroes and lender-paid PMI to keep more cash in your pocket 💸. Whether you're eyeing homes in Gulf Gate, Palmer Ranch, or Downtown Sarasota, I’ll help you choose the best path to homeownership! 👇 Drop your questions in the comments & subscribe for more Florida real estate tips!

Can You Buy a Home in Sarasota Without a Realtor?

🤔 Here’s What You NEED to Know! Technically, yes. You can buy a home in Sarasota without a realtor. But should you? That’s a different story. In this video, I break down why going it alone can lead to major risks: 🚫 Overpaying in today’s shifting market 🚫 Missing inspection or flood zone red flags 🚫 Agreeing to seller-friendly terms that hurt you later I guide buyers through local challenges like flood insurance, HOA rules, and contract details that can make or break your deal. And in most cases, my fee is paid by the seller, not you, through the listing agreement 📝 💡 Even if you're planning to fly solo, I offer one-time consultations and deal reviews to protect your investment and give you peace of mind. Buying in Sarasota isn’t just about picking a home; it’s about protecting your future. Let’s make sure you do it right. 👇 Like, comment, and subscribe for more local tips on buying smart in Florida!

Is It Better to Buy a Home or Rent in Sarasota, Florida

Is it better to buy or rent in Sarasota, Florida? The answer depends on your goals, timeline, and finances. If you’re planning to stay for 3+ years, buying might make more sense, especially with Sarasota home values up 48% in the past 5 years. But renting offers flexibility and lower upfront costs, perfect if you’re just getting to know the area. In this video, I break down real monthly costs (renting a 3BR: $2,800–$3,800 vs. owning: $2,900–$3,600), equity potential, and lifestyle fit in top neighborhoods like Palmer Ranch and Gulf Gate. Whether you're relocating, investing, or just exploring options, I’ll help you run the numbers and make the right move for YOU.

What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Home in Sarasota, Florida?

What You NEED to Know Before Buying a Home in Sarasota, Florida 🏡 | Michael Graf Explains Thinking about buying a home in Sarasota? Don’t make the mistake of focusing on price alone. In this video, I break down what most first-time (and even repeat) buyers overlook, factors that can affect your loan approval, monthly costs, and long-term satisfaction. ✅ Flood zones and FEMA map checks ✅ Insurance limitations (some areas have flood premiums over $3,000!) ✅ HOA fees and restrictions ✅ Roof age and how it impacts insurability ✅ Why full inspections matter even on new construction ✅ Choosing the right Sarasota neighborhood: Siesta Key, Palmer Ranch, Lakewood Ranch & more With Florida’s unique risks and regulations, having a local expert by your side can save you from major surprises and costly mistakes. 📲 Ready to buy smart in Sarasota? Let’s connect! Call/Text Michael Graf | The Graf Group of Coldwell Banker Sarasota

🌴 Siesta Isles Waterfront Home Tour | 951 Contento Street | Siesta Key, FL Real Estate

Nestled in one of Siesta Key’s best-kept secrets, The Coastal Haven is tucked away in the peaceful privacy of a relaxing cul-de-sac—away from the hustle and bustle, offering you an unmatched retreat. This stunning property boasts 100 feet of prime waterfrontage along the Grand Canal, where you have deep-water access for multiple boats, kayaks, or jet skis, with the Gulf of Mexico just one high bridge away. Properties like this are a rare find don't miss your chance to live the life you’ve always dreamed of. Currently undergoing a complete renovation, The Coastal Haven will soon be a brand-new, move-in-ready sanctuary. The pool (18 x 34) and in-ground spa (8 x 8) are being fully restored to their resort-style magnificence, ensuring endless relaxation by your private oasis. Picture yourself sipping cocktails poolside or watching the sunset while soaking in the spa, all within the comfort of your own backyard. Additionally, the dock was rebuilt in 2024, providing easy access for all your aquatic adventures. Step inside, and you’ll find a seamless blend of style and function in every corner. With luxurious updates throughout, this home promises both comfort and sophistication: Ceiling and Framing Updates: The entire property has been updated with new drywall, plaster coating, and texture-matched ceilings, bringing a fresh and inviting atmosphere. High-Efficiency Insulation: Feel the difference with moisture-resistant framing and premium insulation, keeping you comfortable year-round while optimizing energy efficiency. French Doors: New French doors in the master suite open up to sweeping views of the canal, allowing natural light to flood the room and bringing the outdoors in. Gourmet Kitchen: A chef’s dream kitchen, featuring shaker-style cabinetry, quartz countertops, and brand-new appliances. This is a space designed for culinary creativity and entertaining guests. Luxurious Bathrooms: Updated with shaker-style vanities, quartz countertops, sleek fixtures, and a rejuvenated whirlpool tub in the master ensuite, ready for you to unwind after a long day. Exquisite Finishes: From the meticulous interior painting with premium Sherwin Williams products to the detailed baseboards and casings, every inch has been carefully updated to provide a timeless and elegant appeal. Located in the coveted Siesta Isles community, this home is a short 16-minute walk or 4-minute bike ride from Siesta Key Beach, the #1 beach in the USA. It's close to Siesta Key Village, offering a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Nearby, enjoy Crescent Beach, Turtle Beach, Lido Key, and cultural spots like The Ringling Museum of Art and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Don't settle for outdated—embrace a practically brand-new Coastal Haven in a top Florida location. Fully updated, this home features modern amenities and coastal charm. Enjoy relaxing in your restored pool and spa, hosting on your rebuilt dock, and taking in peaceful waterside views daily. With owner financing available, this rare opportunity is ready for you to claim. Properties like this don’t come around often, especially in such a coveted neighborhood. Act now before someone else claims this dream home as their own. Schedule your private viewing today, and step into the Sarasota lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. Don’t let this opportunity slip away.

Your Grand Palm Retreat – Modern Comfort in Venice, FL | Sarasota Real Estate Tour

Welcome to just under 3,000 sq. ft. of refined living in this 4-bedroom plus flex room with a game room overlooking the pool and 3 full-bathroom home, oversized lot, built in 2023 and enhanced with upgrades for today’s lifestyle. Set within Grand Palm, recognized as one of the Top 10 Best Master-Planned Communities in the U.S., this residence perfectly balances style, function, and peace of mind. The open design is filled with natural light and elevated by crown molding, upgraded lighting, and statement chandeliers. The kitchen is equipped with all GE Smart appliances, including a GE Smart dishwasher, and a serving window for effortless entertaining. Hurricane-rated windows, electric shades, and Guardian protection with life alert add both comfort and security. Step outdoors to your private retreat: a spacious lanai with southern exposure, an 18’ x 34’ saltwater pool, and an 8’ x 8’ spa, all operated remotely through iAqua. There is also a direct entrance to the pool from the bonus room, adding convenience and flow for indoor-outdoor living. Exceptional landscaping, a large lot, and unobstructed views provide privacy and serenity. Additional highlights include a $20,000 Generac whole-house generator (natural gas), water filtration system, and a second gated entrance for exclusivity. As a Grand Palm resident, you’ll enjoy resort-style pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, Adventure Lake with kayak launch, 28 miles of trails, pickleball, tennis, bocce, basketball, volleyball, multiple dog parks, playgrounds, and expansive green spaces. Homes with this combination of large lot, saltwater pool, spa, southern exposure, and extensive upgrades are rarely available. This is more than a home, it’s a lifestyle and a lasting investment in one of not just Sarasota County’s but the U.S.'s most desirable communities. Schedule your private showing today and step into the life you’ve been waiting for.

What Rising Inventory Means for Buyers and Sellers

Welcome to our latest Sarasota Real Estate Market update for this vibrant spring season! In this video, Michael Graf of The Graf Group VIP delves into the recent statistics that reveal a 14% year-over-year increase in new listings—the highest mid-March inventory levels since 2020. This surge in available homes, which are up 29% from last year with 34% of active listings experiencing price reductions, presents new opportunities and challenges for both buyers and sellers.