Newsletter August 2025

August 27, 2025

newsletter

Dear Friends, Neighbors, and Clients~

As summer winds down and we look ahead to a beautiful fall season on the Gulf Coast, I’m here to keep you informed and prepared. Whether you're navigating the current real estate market, reviewing your TRIM notice, or just getting your home ready for cooler days, I've got you covered. Here’s what you need to know this month!

📈 Market Snapshot – August 2025

As we move toward the end of summer, the real estate market across Sarasota and the barrier islands remains active. Inventory is gradually increasing, offering more opportunities for buyers, while sellers continue to benefit from solid pricing due to sustained demand in this coastal paradise. If you’re considering buying or selling, now is a smart time to have a conversation about your goals before the seasonal rush begins.

🍁 Fall is Around the Corner

With fall approaching, it’s the perfect time to prepare your property for the season ahead. Cooler weather often brings more serious buyers to the market, especially from out of state. Whether you're planning to list your home or simply want to enhance curb appeal, small updates like landscaping refreshes or a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference.

📬 TRIM Notices – What You Should Know

If you’re a property owner in Florida, your TRIM (Truth in Millage) notice should have arrived this month. This document outlines your property’s assessed value and proposed taxes. It’s important to review it carefully, as you have a limited window to appeal if something doesn’t look right. Need help understanding your notice? I’m happy to guide you through it or connect you with a trusted property tax expert. The petitions must be filed on or before September 9, 2025. You may get a Petition form online at www.SC-PA.com or give us a call and we will email the form to you.

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. It’s a joy to serve this exceptional community, and I’m here whenever you need market insights, property advice, or simply a local connection.

Sunny Greetings from Paradise,

Judy Kepecz-Hays & Team

Featured Properties:

History meets Modern Luxury on St. Armands

✨ 139 S Washington Drive

✨ 5 Beds | 6.5 Baths | 7,817 sq. ft.

✨ Offered for $17,500,000

✨ CasaDelCarnevale.com

Experience Resort‑Style Beachfront Bliss

✨ 2165 Gulf of Mexico Drive #114

✨ 3 Beds|3 Baths|2,448 sq. ft.

✨ Offered for $2,250,000

✨ VillaDiLancia114.com

Ultimate Views & Finishes at L'Ambiance on LBK

✨ 415 L'Ambiance Drive #A801

✨ 3 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 3,380 sq. ft.

✨ Offered for $7,500,000

✨ LAmbianceA801.com

Click Here for ALL Featured Properties

Community Spotlight: L'Ambiance

French for “atmosphere,” the brand that the developer of L’Ambiance picked for this condominium aptly captures the endearing character of Longboat Key as an island resort town. The condominium started creating its footprint on the Sarasota real estate market in 1990 as part of the developments within the secured gates of The Resort at Longboat Key Club. Read more here.

Farewell to a Lido Landmark

An era is ending on Lido Key as the iconic Sandcastle Resort, a beloved beachfront fixture for decades, is being torn down. Known for its mid-century charm and unmatched Gulf views, the property holds special memories for locals and visitors alike. While it's always bittersweet to say goodbye to such a recognizable piece of our community, this transition makes way for new development and continued investment in the beauty and appeal of Lido Key.

Florida Home Prices Easing—More New Homes Means More Opportunity

Big news from the Florida housing market that could mean big opportunity for you. According to the latest data from Florida Realtors, while home prices are still rising nationally, Florida is seeing a pause—or even slight leveling off—in price growth. Why? Because more new homes are being built across the state, easing inventory pressure and creating more choice for buyers.

Curious what this means for your property or search in Sarasota? Send us a message or give us a call at 941.587.1700. Let’s talk strategy and how to make this evolving market work for you! Read more here.

Selby Gardens’ Phase Two Gets the Green Light From City Planning Board

Phase Two of Selby Gardens’ Master Plan for its downtown Sarasota property was unanimously approved by the eligible members of the City of Sarasota’s Planning Board last week. It will bring a new state-of-the-art conservatory complex and learning pavilion to the downtown campus. Read more here.