Sarasota is known throughout the country as an idyllic destination to live for those who want to enjoy the sun, white sand beaches, and beautiful waves of the Gulf Coast. The area is home to rich arts and culture, decadent dining, great schools, and the friendly faces that Florida is so well known for having.

According to Zillow’s Home Value Index, the average value of a house in Sarasota is $262,600. However, the median price of homes that are currently on the market is $356,450. Zillow projects the average home value to see a 2.7% increase over the next year. This growth is on top of a 1.8% growth in home value over the past year.

If you're thinking of relocating to Sarasota, here are five top neighborhoods in the area that a top-selling realtor® will help you consider calling home.

Siesta Key

If beach living is your priority, start your home search in Siesta Key. It has one of the top, most pristine beaches in the country, and waterfront restaurants, and water recreation opportunities abound.

The average home value is around $659,000, so if you're looking in Siesta Key, utilize Effective Agents to choose a realtor who has worked in the Key for years and knows the unique ins and outs of buying on a Florida Key.

Laurel Park

This neighborhood is cozily nestled in downtown Sarasota and was given historical status in 2008. From bungalows to exquisite buildings built in the Colonial Revival and Mission revival styles, the neighborhood is truly timeless thanks to its absolutely stunning architecture.

The best realtors® in Sarasota bring clients to Laurel Park who are looking for walkability, and the brick-lined streets and winding alleys with that unique Florida charm often leave visitors comparing it to Florida’s crown jewel: Key West.

Lakewood Ranch

This is the perfect neighborhood for people who are looking to live in a planned community. With over 17,500 acres, the neighborhood is full of open spaces and even has a polo club, golf course, walking trails, parks, and biking trails. If green space is high on your list, ask your real estate agent to show you homes in Lakewood Ranch.

Indian Beach Sapphire Shores

If you’re looking for an upscale neighborhood, start your search here. Homes range from pretty generic single-family homes to some of the swankiest mansions you’ve ever seen. It's home to the Ringling College of Art and Design, giving the neighborhood a very collaborative mix of families, college students, and million/billionaires.

Related content: Off-Campus Housing for Ringling College

Gillespie Park

This neighborhood is currently labeled by most of Sarasota’s best realtors as “up-and-coming.” The average list price is around 397,000, over 30% higher than the average list price one year ago.

The neighborhood’s centerpiece is Gillespie Park, which houses a stunning pond, tennis courts, playgrounds, and a dog park, and it's one of the biggest parks in the country.

Homes in Gillespie Park are typically historic, dating from the ‘20s and ‘30s. Many realtors in this area choose to make this their niche, so if you're looking in Gillespie Park, utilize Effective Agents' services to find the perfect agent who is well-connected and knowledgeable of this unique neighborhood.

If you're in the process of buying or selling a home in Sarasota or surrounding areas, utilize Effective Agents and the platform’s proven algorithm to find the perfect realtor® for your needs.

Find more news on housing in Sarasota by registering on 941area, your free guide to the Sarasota and Bradenton area.

Cover photo courtesy of Pixabay