Sarasota’s moniker is Paradise! That pretty much sums up it up. It literally is a city of paradise proportions. It is a place like nowhere else. You won’t see scenery like this unless you go to an exotic foreign land … or Hawaii. Its pristine sandy white beaches, the crystal aqua marine of Sarasota Bay, its keys that branch out connecting the Bay with the Gulf all make this serene area one of the most beautiful on the planet.

Incorporated in 1902, Sarasota is the seat of Sarasota County with a population of about 52,715. One of the most important people who changed the course of Sarasota’s history and helped shape it into what it is today is Bertha Palmer. In the early 1900s, Bertha owned more than 90,000 acres in the area, some of which she turned into a tourist destination and winter resort for wealthy families. She effectively marketed the area as an alternative to locations in war-torn Europe, touting the resort as an equal to the Bay of Naples.

Bertha also introduced revolutionary methods that enabled large-scale cattle farming, agriculture and dairy production in the state of Florida. She was a pioneer of her time. Her greatest legacy is the amazing Myakka State Park that she previously operated as a ranch, which her sons donated to the state.

In 2006, the National Coalition for the Homeless caused the city to make national news. It named Sarasota as the country’s meanest city due to its ordinance prohibiting anyone from sleeping outside without permission on public or private property. Many citizens responded with gratitude over the ordinance and mentioned that their complaints had to do with the frustration over the relentless begging for money and litter left by the homeless. The Salvation Army defended the city citing all the services they provide to the homeless.

There’s always something to do in Sarasota – indoors and out. For year-round outdoor activity, go camping, biking, hiking or horseback riding in the Myakka State Park. The wildlife there is spectacular. Bird watching is also a favorite pastime due to the presence of some very rare birds seen in no other state but Florida, like the rosy-pink Roseate Spoonbill. Putt on over to any of the number of golf courses that litter the area. Bountiful botanical gardens are beautiful additions to your outdoor viewing pleasure.

For indoor activity, get tickets to go to a performance at one of the two symphonies, the ballet company, opera house, performing arts that rivals Broadway, museums and circuses and botanical gardens

Education is just as important as quality of life to the citizens here in Sarasota. In 2007, the U.S. News and World Report ranked Pine View School for the Gifted 6th in the U.S. on their list of “Gold Medal Schools.” According to the report, the students at this school score 99.3% on college readiness tests.

Real estate offers a stellar view no matter where you purchase it here in Sarasota, and you can find it at a great low price. You’ll also find a variety of purchasing solutions to fit your real estate needs. A cozy hotel/condo unit without a kitchen sells for $4,000 with 360 sq. ft. and access to the on-site marina, swimming pool and restaurants. Furnished time shares are also available starting at around $30,000 for beachfront condos. A three-bedroom, two-bathroom with 1481 sq. ft. on a nice lot goes for around $59,000. Beachfront property on the keys starts at $50,000.

Sarasota is a place you’ll want to buy property, whether is for vacationing or to live. Click Sarasota, FL Homes for Sale to find that perfect Sarasota home!