The Ringlings established a cultural cachet that continues to influence the community. As part of the generous gift, the couple included their own extraordinary mansion and an impressive collection of object d'arts and circus memorabilia. From this nucleus the city and county built an arts infrastructure that has attracted artists and art lovers. It's said that Sarasota is home to nearly four times as many performing artists as any other part of the state. Interest rates are holding steady.
People can afford to buy homes.
Condominiums represent about 30 percent of residential sales. For people moving to the area, access to water often takes on emotional importance. Some have always imagined a waterfront home in Florida. Humidity averages from 58 to 88 percent. Summer is the rainy season, so most of the county's annual rainfall of about 57 inches arrives during the warmest months and often in the late afternoon, when a cooling shower is most appreciated.