A local Realtor’s guide on where to stay when making a BIG MOVE.

Thinking of relocating to a life with sandy beaches, boating, and golfing year round? A place where you can snorkel in the morning and finish the day on the course before the sun goes down? I’d love to tell you about my favorite place in the world – Sarasota! I think you’ll love it here!

My name is Fondren Watts and I am a Realtor with Michael Saunders & Company and a Sarasota native. I was literally born and raised here. I hate to use the word “expert’ but you’d be hard pressed to find someone else who has more history and local knowledge of this community besides a true local like myself.

I love working with people who are new to the area! Ask any one of my friends or former clients – I find so much joy helping others explore our community while sharing my favorites places and local tips. That is exactly why I created this blog post!

Why not come test the waters for a weekend or perhaps stay a whole week! I want you to experience living locally for yourself and show you what Sarasota hospitality is all about! We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite vacation locations for you to consider as Step 1 of “Operation Relocation.”

**Comment below with your email address to receive an exclusive promo code for 2 of our suggested hotels listed below.**

The Ritz-Carlton ( 5 Star | $$$$) 

Touting world-wide brand recognition like The Ritz-Carlton, you know you’re in good hands. This 5 star luxury hotel recently underwent a full renovation that boasts a coastal-elegant flair and is the perfect location to get you down to the beaches or out to Lakewood Ranch for a day of looking at your future dream home. 

The Longboat Key Club (5 Star |$$$$)

Over 410 acres of lush tropical paradise, this 5 star resort offers it all. A full renovation, scheduled in 2020 will elevate this gulf front landmark from its current iconic state to another level of elegance and luxury. The Longboat Key Club is perfect for families, snowbirds, and retirement, this resort offers everything a guest could ever need after a day of touring the island and looking at waterfront condos and properties.

The Gasparilla Inn (4 Star | $$$-$$$$) 

With its Florida charm and Southern elegance, this local gem is nothing short of paradise. Stay for a night or stay for a month – they’ll treat you like royalty either way! The Gasparilla Inn and Club is a great option whether looking for a second residence or income generating property (check out Boca Grande on VRBO or Air BNB to see the potential). Don’t disregard this beautiful island as a primary residence though –  with a wide selection of restaurants and the Boca Pass Club, a year round members only club, you will have plenty of options if you want to socialize or quietly sink your toes into the sand.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Sarasota Lakewood Ranch (3 Star $$)

This trip means BUSINESS. Sometimes you just don’t have the flexibility to add on the thrills and frills of going to the beach or playing a few rounds of golf. This trip has one purpose and one purpose only – relocation, relocation, relocation. We hear you and have the perfect spot for you to rest your feet after a long day of scoping neighborhoods and options. You want to go somewhere convenient, quiet, clean and affordable. The Homewood Suites by Hilton in Lakewood Ranch is your answer. 

**Offer only available for clients of Fondren Watts at Michael Saunders and Company.