Business Observer 11.19.09

+ Neal launches new River Sound models
Neal Communities last week introduced three new models in its River Sound community, located just west of I-75 between State Road 64 and State Road 70 on Morgan Johnson Road.

The Cruise Series, including the “Spirit,” “Valor,” “Freedom,” “Liberty,” “Glory,” and “Splendor” models, features homes from 1,028 square feet to 1,936 square feet. The base prices range from $129,900 to $180,400.

Neal Communities also announced a program which both prospective buyers and Realtors can register for a chance to win a $750 voucher toward a three-day cruise.

River Sound is a gated neighborhood of single family homes which include beautiful parks, gathering areas and a trailway with boardwalk. There is also a community pool and spa with sun deck and outdoor barbecue area, children’s playground, two dog parks and a dock on the Braden River.

For more information, visit nealcommunities.com.

+ Village Bikes moving to Main
Lakewood Ranch Commercial Realty last week announced Village Bikes will be moving to a storefront on Lakewood Ranch Main Street.

The bicycle shop will open its doors Dec. 1 in space J108-J109.

“It came down to visibility that the special events draw,” owner Ed Levins said, noting Main Street events such as the farmer’s market. “We are excited (about the move.)”

Levin said the new location will be open on Sundays but will not include the coffee bar it has currently.

The store offers bicycles of all types, associated equipment and accessories and cycling clothing. It also hosts local group bike rides from both its Lakewood Ranch and Sarasota locations.

The Lakewood Ranch store has been located in Lake Osprey Plaza for the last five years.

+ University Title earns area award
Lakewood Ranch’s University Title is Chicago Title’s top agent in the Sarasota/Manatee region, estimating close to 65 closings for November. 

University Title has maintained the top position in 2006, 2007, 2008 and year- to-date in 2009.  This month, the title company is seeing a 100% increase in closings from this time last year.

“The last few months we have seen the market kind of bouncing around at the bottom, and now we believe to finally be well up from the bottom,” said William Partlow, Chicago Title’s district manager. “In the last 60-90 days, we have seen a real paradigm shift where people are now willing to buy new.”

Partlow gives all the credit to University Title Vice President Cassandra Grassman, a 29-year title veteran. 
Grassman started University Title Company, and Schroeder Manatee Ranch bought it in 2005. 

University Title Services is a licensed agent for Chicago Title, the nation’s largest title underwriter. 

For more information, call 373-6604.