Real Estate Deal of the Week: Lincoln Park

He says, "What do you know about Lincoln Park?"

She says, "Well, it's a sanctuary of eight homes in an incredible location---just a few blocks from the heart of downtown and a long block to one of my favorite places, Selby Gardens. Another short block after that and you hit one of the best walks in Sarasota: along the downtown bayfront. Lincoln Park is right on Hudson Bayou, and has easy access to the open bay. Developed by the Maddox Group, as I recall."

He says, "Let's take a look at 1795 Lincoln Park Circle."

For this Deal of the Week we chose a waterfront home west of the Trail and very close to downtown. Built on a cul-de-sac, Lincoln Park is a charming waterfront community, an enclave of only eight residences. The architecture can be best described as a blend of the Cape Cod and Key West styles. All of the homes appear to be two-story with open porches and big windows; and all of them have terrific curb appeal and loads of charm. A sidewalk runs the interior circle and connects to Osprey Avenue, so the location is fabulous.

Why do we love this property? Again, let us count the ways.

She says, "This is like taking a page out of Home & Garden Magazine. I love the mature  landscaping and the cozy feel of this neighborhood. It feels like a Norman Rockwell painting and is the kind of place where you know all your neighbors and wouldn’t feel the least bit shy to borrow a cup of sugar!"

This home is one of only three situated directly on the water, located on the corner with nice long views across Hudson Bayou. On this visit, we didn't see any manatees lolling in the water, but we’re told they often frequent that particular spot.Built in 2002, the home exhibits exceptional taste and style. An appealing foyer immediately sets a friendly, welcoming tone. The first floor includes a formal living room, featuring a massive two-story window that floods the space with natural light. To the right is a home office/art studio---but it could just as easily be used as a bedroom---and a full bath. Next to that is a cozy den with a gas fireplace and lots of custom built-in cabinetry. All the rooms throughout the house have beautiful windows that fill them with sunlight. The opposite side of the home has a state-of-the-art kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances and gorgeous finishes. It is guaranteed to please even the most finicky of chefs, and offers a formal dining room to show off their culinary creations. Upstairs you'll find the master with great views of the Bayou, two spacious custom closets and a bath finished in Carrara marble. Two more guest bedrooms and a bath complete the floor plan.Still feeling like we were in a Rockwell painting, we headed out back and were greeted by a delightfully tranquil setting. The rear deck features a heated 40' x 8' pool---no doubt a perfect place to relax or get in some serious laps. This home has great storage space as well: there are four storage areas downstairs for kayaks, bikes and all your boating and fishing gear with with not a snow blower in sight! The icing on the cake is community’s boat dock. Beyond the back yard is a "community pier" with eight individual boat slips---one for each home owner. All this and your boat in the backyard too!He says, "Okay so we didn't meet Mr. Rockwell, but I think he would find tremendous inspiration here. What do you think?"

She says, "It's a great buy! You get the best of everything: a lovely neighborhood, an incredible house on the water, easy boat access to the bay; and it's close to all the cultural, dining and retail pleasures of downtown Sarasota. What more could you ask for?

He says, "Okay, my turn to divulge the price. 1795 Lincoln Park Circle is listed at $1,349,000. An amazing value, considering its location and all the amenities that come with the property.

- The Real Estate Deal of the Week is brought to you by Donald Geikie and Dana Westmark, REALTORS® with the fabulous Main Street office of Michael Saunders & Company.  Spark your own conversation with Donald and Dana by calling (941) 951-6660.