Date Archives: July 2019

Living in the Sunshine State gives you plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. For many Florida residents, staying active and eating well are important priorities. Lately, people across the state are embracing the idea of "clean eating."

While this might sound like just another fad diet, it's actually a way of life that's incredibly effective for maintaining your health. In its simplest form, clean eating involves avoiding processed foods, eating balanced meals prepared in healthy ways, and ramping up your intake of plant-based foods. 

Luckily, you don't have to slave away in the kitchen to enjoy eating clean. Our real estate agents have found some great clean eating restaurants throughout the Sarasota-Manatee areas! Check out this list of some of our local favorites. 

1. Lemon Tree Kitchen - 1289 N Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
   With an array of healthy menu items designed to appeal to the everyday diner, Lemon Tree Kitchen is the perfect choice for a casual bite in a relaxed atmosphere. All of their dishes are made from scratch daily and feature clean, wholesome ingredients that are locally-sourced whenever possible.  After you're done with your meal, we recommend taking a drive around so you can see some of the great Sarasota homes for sale in the downtown area. 
   
   
2. The Sage Biscuit Cafe in Downtown Bradenton - 1401 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
   The Sage Biscuit Cafe brings homemade, quality dishes to their clientele that include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The Sage Biscuit Cafe is a family-owned business dedicated to serving their customers the freshest and tastiest food in Bradenton. After your meal, take a drive to view some of the best Bradenton homes for sale in the area.
   
   
3. Veg - 2164 Gulf Gate Dr., Sarasota, FL 34232
   Veg offers high-quality vegetarian, vegan, and seafood dishes served in a cozy bistro setting. They're open for both lunch and dinner and can accommodate gluten-free and lactose-intolerant diners. They serve excellent homemade sangria, and the veggie burgers are out-of-this-world. 
   
   
4. Fresh Kitchen - 8491 Cooper Creek Blvd #101, Bradenton, FL 34201
   Fresh Kitchen serves customers chef-inspired meals made from fresh high-quality ingredients to nourish and energize the body. At Fresh Kitchen, you can build your own bowls with hormone and antibiotic-free grilled meats and roasted vegetables. Your meal at Fresh Kitchen is 100% gluten-free.
   
   
5. Ionie Retreat and Organic Raw Food Cafe - 1241 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, FL 34236
   Part spa retreat and part vegan raw food restaurant, Ionie Retreat and Organic Raw Food Cafe is the ideal place to relax and unwind while giving your body the nourishment it craves. Grab a spot at one of the cute outdoor tables and enjoy a healthy smoothie, juice, elixir, or wheatgrass shot. Want something more substantial? They also serve pizzas, entrees, and desserts.
   
   
6. Bowled Life Cafe  - 929 10th St E., Palmetto, FL 34221
   Bowled Life Cafe was opened in Manatee County in October 2018 and has been showing Bradenton locals the way to delicious, healthy eating ever since.  The restaurant specializes in acai bowls, smoothies, salad bowls, and avocado toast. David and Bettina Wheeler, Bowled Life Cafe owners, described their fare as vegan-friendly and "on the healthy side--no sugar is added and nothing is fried. Bowled Life Cafe, located just minutes from homes for sale in Palmetto.
   
   
7. Green Zebra Cafe - 476 John Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34236
   Located in beautiful St. Armands Circle, family-owned Green Zebra Cafe is another local favorite. Their menu includes raw entrees and desserts, pressed juices and elixirs, smoothies, sandwiches, salads, and more. Best of all, everything is made from the best possible local and organic ingredients. 
   
   
8. Lila - 1576 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
   For creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, you can't go wrong with lunch or dinner at Lila. This downtown hot spot prides itself on using organic and locally-sourced ingredients and preparing their dishes in a way that keeps all vegetarian and vegan dishes free of animal contaminants. Both vegans and meat-eaters love these fresh and delicious vegetable-centric meals!

There's so much to love about living in Sarasota and Manatee! From seemingly limitless dining and entertainment options to great weather and gorgeous houses, this city has it all. If you're ready to learn more about the area and start exploring some of our homes for sale throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties, contact us today to get started.

Horsing Around in Southwest Florida

When you think about moving to Florida, sun, sand, and surf most likely top your list of reasons to relocate here. But did you know Florida's call extends to horse farms, rodeos, polo fields, and thoroughbred horse racing tracks too?

Yes, "horsing around" can be added to your bucket list of things to do when you come to Southwest Florida. Moving to one of our nearby communities means you'll have the unique opportunity to enjoy equine events in cities like Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Parrish, Bradenton, and Venice.

Our real estate agents are here with some of the best places to enjoy horseback riding throughout Sarasota and Manatee Counties:

1. Epic Equine Experiences - 8272 Whiskey Pond Lane, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
   If you want your time viewing Lakewood Ranch homes for sale to be truly epic, Epic Equine Experiences has you covered. Half-day trail riding on beautiful horses will bring you up close and personal with some of Florida's ecological wonders. Plus, delicious meals and lavish drinks are provided. Epic will even coordinate kayaking and swamp buggy adventures for you if you wish.
   
   
2. Rosaire's Riding Academy & Pony Rides – 901 East Road, Sarasota, FL 34240
   Just a short ride from Sarasota homes for sale, you'll discover Rosaire's Riding Academy & Pony Rides. Rosaire's Riding Academy teaches riders of all ages how to handle, love, respect and enjoy horses. And if riding a horse just isn't for you, Rosaire's offers ground handling and grooming sessions. The academy hosts riding camps, individualized riding lessons, parties, and even a petting zoo. Your family can meet sheep, goats, and local poultry. You can even rent donkeys and camels.
   
   
3. Born to Ride – 17960 Florida 62, Parrish, FL 34219
   Parrish homes for sale leave you in just the right area to canter on down to Born to Ride, one of the state's most unusual trail riding experiences. With help from riding experts, you'll explore Florida's gorgeous state parks. Everything you need is provided, and first-time riders are welcome. 
   
   
4. BeachHorses – 8400 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34209
   Bradenton homes for sale aren't far from the beach, and BeachHorses combines two of the things residents love most about Florida. A service of Great World Adventures, BeachHorses has been a popular attraction since 2007. The first half of your journey is on the water and the second half is right on the beach. You'll even learn cool tricks – prepare yourself for horse surfing!
   
   
5. Windsong Farm – 238 Lee Road, Venice, FL 34292
   Venice homes for sale may not have homemade pasta and singing gondoliers like their Italian cousin, but thanks to Windsong Farm, they do have plenty of horses to ride! Windsong Farms is one of the best bets if you want to introduce a child to the wonders of horseback riding. It operates a week-long summer camp with plenty to see and do for kids aged seven years to 16. Giddy-up!

Does buying a home in Florida have to be complicated? We say neigh! Wagner Realty will ride to the rescue with advice and customer care you can count on. You'll be galloping toward closing today in no time with us. Contact us today to find out more.

July 15 - National Give Something Away Day

Our real estate agents are looking forward to making a difference on National Give Something Away Day. Happening on July 15, this is a wonderful opportunity to give to charity and brighten someone's day. It also means you'll have less to lug around if you're about to move!

Lately, many people have gotten excited about the potential of the clutter-free life. One of the biggest challenges in de-cluttering is having one place where every item should always go. Sometimes, getting rid of an item simply makes more sense than keeping it.

Luckily, there are many organizations all over Sarasota-Manatee that will be more than happy to accept your donation. In most cases, all you need to do is visit and drop off your item. While each collection site has its own rules, they all help people in need.

Let's look at five of the top donation centers in the area:

1. HOPE Chest Thrift Store - 1215 8th Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
   A short distance from Bradenton homes for sale is HOPE Chest Thrift Store. Hope Chest Thrift Store accepts donations of clothing, household items, furniture, and electronics during business hours. The store is open to the public and all proceeds benefit the clients of HOPE Family Services. Operating Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-4pm. Please call for more information (941)745-2034.
   
2. Goodwill Manasota Donation Center – 3614 East Bay Drive, Holmes Beach, FL 34217
   Holmes Beach homes for sale benefit from proximity to many nonprofits. One of these is Goodwill, which operates several drop-off points in and around Sarasota and Manatee. While Goodwill is mainly funded by its network of retail thrift stores, it also accepts donations directly from the public. 
3. Salvation Army Family Store & Donation Center – 2280 17th Street, Sarasota, FL 34234
   The Salvation Army has a number of easy ways to donate items from Sarasota homes for sale. In addition to visiting the donation center on 17th Street, you also have the option of scheduling a free pickup at your home or place of business. The Salvation Army also accepts donations of private vehicles.
4. Turning Points – 701 17th Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205
   Turning Points is a Florida nonprofit that provides assistance to people who are struggling with homelessness or domestic violence. Single mothers, the elderly, the disabled, and youth leaving the foster care system are just some of the many beneficiaries. Donations are gratefully accepted from throughout the region including Ellenton homes for sale. Bring canned foods, clothing, and toys.
5. Englewood Helping Hand – 700 East Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL 34223
   The efforts of Englewood Helping Hand go to help the one in five Sarasota and Charlotte County youths who are food insecure. If you're looking at Englewood homes for sale, you're more than welcome to stop by and drop off food donations. The organization is in the middle of a major funds drive with the goal of moving to a bigger location, too!

Our real estate agents are always ready to give YOU a "helping hand" with all of your real estate needs. We bring you courteous customer service and insightful advice you can really rely on.

It's about time you discovered your Florida dream home. Contact us today to find out more.

Our real estate agents are gearing up for another beautiful 4th of July weekend here in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. After a busy summer connecting clients with some of the best homes for sale in Sarasota and Bradenton, our team takes the time to salute our country with friends and family.

Throughout the region, you'll find people getting ready to show just how much America means to them. There'll be fireworks, barbecue, concerts, sports, and much more. No matter what suits your style, you'll find it around Sarasota, Bradenton, and beyond.

Let's look at some of the top 4th of July events in our area in 2019:

1. 4th of July Concert: Sounds of Independence – 61 North Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Some of the best local choral artists will take the stage during the Sounds of Independence concert at the Sarasota Opera House this July 4th. The show begins at 4 p.m. with a wide range of traditional patriotic classics and selections that highlight the founding of America. The Sarasota Concert Band will be a part of the performance. And the best part is, the celebration is only minutes from Sarasota homes for sale.
   
   
2. Anna Maria Island Privateers, Inc. -PO Box 1238, Holmes Beach, Fl 34218
   The Anna Maria Privateers invite you to join their community's 4^th of July parade and celebration. Anna Maria homes for sale are near to where all the fun will be happening.  The parade starts at 10 a.m. from Coquina Beach and travels north on Gulf Drive to City Pier Park. Come dressed in your best red, white and blue! After the parade, the City of Anna Maria invites all to City Pier Park from noon to 1:30 p.m. to celebrate our independence with free hot dogs, chips and patriotic music
   
   
3. Siesta Key 4th of July Fireworks – Siesta Key Beach, 948 Beach Road, Siesta Key, FL 34242
   Siesta Key homes for sale are some of the most desirable around the Bay Area, thanks to the gorgeous white sand beaches and the soothing sea breezes. Now, you can add one more perk to the list: One of the most enjoyable Independence Day celebrations. Siesta Key 4th of July will light up the night between 9:15 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. on the Siesta Key Public Beach.
   
   
4. Blues and Banjos at Snook Haven – 351 Nassau Street South, Venice, FL 34292
   Located at the historic Triangle Inn, Snook Haven is known for downhome Florida cuisines like fried gator bites, Mahi, catfish, and the shrimp po' boy. If you're looking for something a little offbeat this 4th of July, Snook Haven has you covered with an evening of smoking hot music right on the river. Enjoy a slew of live performances and a welcoming crowd blocks from Venice homes for sale.
   
   
5. Florida Fire Frogs at Bradenton Marauders – 1611 9th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205
   Settle in for a fast-paced game of Minor League Baseball at famous LECOM Park when the Florida Fire Frogs square off against the Bradenton Marauders starting 10:30 a.m. on July 4th. A day of fun and excitement await you with Florida's answer to Fenway Park. Expect a hard-fought game, tasty concessions, and a memorable national anthem on this special day.

You'll feel like celebrating when you choose Wagner Realty for your Florida home search. Our team combines expert insight into the local area with reliable customer care.

We'll support you every step of the way so you can make informed decisions as you buy a house. Contact us today to find out more. We look forward to meeting you.