3 Things: Boom Times

The year 1926 was the peak of Sarasota’s first real-estate boom, and homes from that era still dot the town’s older neighborhoods. Today they’re highly prized for their charm and character, not to mention their enviable locations. Old-home aficionados have lavished time and imagination on their renovation, with results that can be extremely impressive. Here’s a trio of beauties from the ’20s, brought back to life and currently on the market.

1. Classic Craftsman
1715 Prospect St.
This 1926 oversized bungalow near Southside Village has a colorful history. Like many homes back in those days, it was brought in by barge and rolled logs to its present location several blocks from the bay. For decades, it was home to a long-time teacher at Sarasota High School. Then, in 2001, it was renovated and expanded to its present size of 3,585 square feet, with four bedrooms and four baths. Among its old-fashioned features: heart of pine floors, plaster walls, chair and picture railings, built-in bookcases, even cut glass doorknobs. But the modern improvements are top-notch, too. There’s an elaborate state-of-the-art kitchen, a marble master bath and a freeform pool complete with a waterfall fountain, all surrounded by privacy fencing and mature landscaping.

Priced at $1,199,000. For more information, contact Carolyn Collins or Robert Tengerdy at 941-320-0722.

2. In the Spanish Style
1731 Bay St.
Particularly sought after are 1920s homes in the Spanish style. Their Mediterranean look goes perfectly with the Florida sunshine. This prime example is tucked away near Hudson Bayou, on the southern edge of downtown. A recently added master suite, complete with walk-in closet, makes it a three-bedroom, two-bath home of almost 1,800 square feet. You’ll find a wood-burning fireplace, French doors, plaster moldings, beveled glass windows and a host of other period details. There’s also a modern kitchen and a charming patio courtyard that can be used for al fresco dining. And the location puts you a short stroll from virtually everything downtown has to offer.

Priced at $425,000. For more information, contact David Jennings of Coldwell Banker at 941-650-7354.

3. Not Too Shabby Chic
2610 Ashton Road
If this shabby-chic cottage seems extra special, it is. It’s the home of one of the country’s leading authorities on the style and has been featured in Coastal Living magazine. At just under 1,000 square feet, it still has the intimate scale of a true cottage. The interior is a knockout of detailing — distressed floors and built-in cabinets, white-painted paneling, sloping ceilings and open beams. There’s also a guest house with a full bath and kitchenette that would be perfect for an artist’s studio. It’s located off Swift Road, just north of Clark — a short ride to Siesta Key Beach. This was the famous Maine Colony, an enclave of sportsmen from up North who would winter here back in the old days. Check out the other vintage cottages when you’re in the area.

Priced at $220,000. For more information, contact Cheryl Loeffler of Premier Sotheby’s at 941-302-9674.