In the last few years, the housing market in Sarasota has received accolades for its resilience and wide appeal. It was not too long ago that Forbes magazine presented the city as one of the recession-proof in terms of real estate activity and economic prospects. These days, Sarasota is considered one of the most promising destinations for families who are looking for a place to grow and prosper.

Sarasota owes a lot of its appeal to its enviable location in the Sunshine State. This is the anchor city in the greater metropolitan area that includes Bradenton, Venice and North Port. Residents of Sarasota know that they have it good; after all, they live in a city that has managed to achieve significant growth and development while keeping its small town, Old Florida charm.

It is estimated that about 40 percent of real estate purchases in Sarasota are made by families who are relocating here after they learn about the employment prospects, business climate and quality of life. This is a city that offers a lot: Great weather, championship golf courses, elegant country clubs, nature preserves, award-winning schools, a burgeoning arts scene, and lots more.

Being strategically close to the Tampa Bay area, Orlando and Miami has had a positive impact in terms of making Sarasota a small cosmopolitan city. Many real estate investors come from other states or even from abroad to look at affordable second homes or vacation properties. This is a city that welcomes retirees and seasonal residents with resort-style communities and neighborhoods that promote active lifestyles.

In terms of real estate, Sarasota offers everything from historic neighborhoods to exclusive gated communities and from master-planned developments to condominium towers. In the last few decades, residential developers have focused on building Sarasota neighborhoods that have character. To this end, golf and tennis communities can be found down the road from waterfront condominiums and historic cottages compete with Mediterranean-style residences for attention.

In Sarasota, house hunters can choose to live close to the beach or inside a nature preserve. There are also opportunities to live in a cozy golf villa or in a family-friendly neighborhood close to parks and suburban commercial districts. Perhaps the most attractive aspect of the local housing market is that it has managed to stay among the most affordable in the Sunshine State. In essence, home shoppers who are looking for affordability, prosperity and true quality of life should not overlook Sarasota.