sherri_mills

How to Sell Your Own Home - 4 Tips You NEED To Know!

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 19:40:21 GMT

How to Sell Your Own Home!

Are you thinking of selling your house and want to try to do it on your own? In this episode of Live2Give, I’m going to show you four things to consider when selling property on your own. While shows on HGTV make real estate look fun and easy, this is the information you need to know before you list your home.

Tip #1: Seller’s Property Disclosure

Like many of you, HGTV is one of my favorite channels. They make real estate look fun and easy. Since we’re in a strong seller's market, more people than ever are considering putting their property on the market solo. But before you do, these tips will help.

The first thing you need to do is fill out a seller's property disclosure. I know it's a pain in the neck to fill out this seven-page document, but it protects you from lawsuits and decreases the likelihood that a transaction will fall apart after the inspections are done. Florida law also says that buyers have a right to receive one.

Tip #2: Marketing

The second thing you need to do is think about your marketing. Most for sale by owners take pictures of their home with their cell phones. Don't do that. Invest in a professional photoshoot because everything marketing starts with amazing photography. This is what gets buyers interested.

Additionally, most for sale by owners put their property on Zillow, and some pay a flat fee to also get it on the MLS. While this is a good start, did you know that there are over 2,000 highly visible, reputable websites scattered throughout the world? Do some research and see if you can get on some of those.

You should also consider having a lifestyle video using Alexa to sell your home, have a floor plan created, a 3D dollhouse plan created, have aerials taken, and create a buyer resource guide with a detailed feature list so buyers can remember what makes your house so special. You’ll also want to do print ads, online ads, and direct mail pieces. There are only two reasons any property in any condition in any market sells: it’s priced properly and has extensive exposure.

Tip #3: Negotiations

Once you have an interested buyer as a for sale by owner, you're going to be negotiating directly. Be as objective and data-focused as you can be. The moment you listed your property and put it on the market, it became an asset to liquidate. Detach from it emotionally, or you're going to make mistakes.

Tip #4: Lending

Before you sign off on any contract, make sure that the buyer has submitted a pre-approval letter or proof of funds. As agents, we're allowed to call the buyer's lender to check in on details. Ask the buyer if you can do the same, and then continually check in with the lender and the closing agent until closing.

Between repair negotiations and closing is where a lot of transactions fall apart. So, keep your eye on the ball.

I hope you found these four tips helpful. If you have any questions about the selling process, don't hesitate to give me a call. You can also subscribe to my channel so you never miss an episode of Live2Give. Stay tuned for more real estate tips!

Experience The Tranquil, Low Key Lifestyle Of Longboat Key

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 19:26:00 GMT

Are you looking for privacy, tranquility, and a low key lifestyle? In this episode of Live2Give, we’re going to explore our last and final Island off the coast of Sarasota: Longboat Key. We’ll also look at the similarities and differences of Longboat Key to Siesta and Lido Key so you can choose the best area for you.

Similarities And Differences Of The Keys

There are a few differences when comparing Longboat Key to the others. The first is that the beach is more narrow, and there's no large public beach. They do, however, have 11 beach access points with limited parking and no public facilities. For this reason, crowds are never as large as they are on Siesta or Lido Key. There's only one man main road on Longboat Key called Gulf of Mexico Drive. It splits this 11 mile Island in half, the west side of Gulf of Mexico Drive properties lying on the Gulf of Mexico. On the other side is Sarasota Bay. That means there are tons of waterfront properties on Longboat Key. Siesta, Lido, and Longboat do have some things in common. They have jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring sunsets and good shelling in the early morning after a storm or high tide and during a full moon phase. For those of you who like to swim in the water, grab a snorkel and mask and see if you can find some sand dollars on a sandbar. Happy hunting!

The Uniqueness Of Longboat Key

Longboat Key was first developed from the north down to the south. Michael Saunders' families were some of the first settlers here in the late 1880s. It has a ton of old Florida charm, with homes dating back to the forties and peacocks that roam its streets. You might be wondering how peacocks got on a barrier island off the coast of Florida. Well, in the 1950s, a couple either purchased or were gifted a peacock and a peahen. They got free, and the rest is history. By 2015, there were 80 to 100 peacocks that roamed the streets within the village. Since then, the town of Longboat has removed all but 12 males.
The southern half of Longboat Key was a master plan community developed in the 1980s. For that reason, it's highly manicured, has gated communities, and high rise condominiums. Of the three islands we’ve looked at, it's the only one with a four-star resort called the Longboat Key Club. In addition to this resort, soon there will be a five-star St. Regis Hotel and condo project, which will be the first five-star resort on all of Florida's Gulf coast.

Is Longboat Key Right For You?

If you're looking for tranquility, privacy, and a low key lifestyle, Longboat Key is the island for you. These are the exact reasons why national politicians, celebrities, and Fortune 500 CEOs call Longboat Key home. I bet you didn't know that islands have personalities, but you do now. Each one is unique and different in its own way.
My job is to help you find a good fit for the lifestyle of your dreams. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me and I’d be happy to connect. Make sure to stay tuned to the next episode of Live2Give and remember, as Winston Churchill once said, "You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give."

Enjoy Lido Key's Active, Outdoor Lifestyle

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 19:03:00 GMT

Are you looking to live an outdoor, active lifestyle in a relaxing, island setting? In this episode of Live2Give, we’re going to explore another island off the coast of Sarasota called Lido Key. With two ways to enjoy the beach and plenty of activities to take advantage of, Lido Key is one island you have to check out.

Living The Good Life In Lido Key

Lido Key is located smack dab in the middle between Siesta Key to the south and Longboat Key to the north. People love Lido Key because you can walk or bike ride to St. Alban's Circle. Additionally, downtown Sarasota is just 10 minutes away and it has a myriad of outdoor activities. While it’s the smallest of the three barrier islands we're going to cover, there are two ways to enjoy the beach here. The first is Lido Beach and the second is Ted Sperling State Park, located on the south end of Lido Key.

Lido Beach

Lido Beach has about 400 parking spots in its parking lot and about 200 more along the street. It also has a concession stand, a picnic area, and a pavilion. What makes it really special is that it has an Olympic-size swimming pool. How many public beaches do you know that of that have the same?
Lido Beach Pavilion was designed in 1960 by Tim Siebert, a famed mid-century architect and leader of the Sarasota School of Architecture. Lido Key, just like Siesta Key, allows food and alcoholic beverages on its beaches. It also has two lifeguard stations to keep beachgoers safe.

Ted Sterling Park

Ted Sterling Park is surrounded by four different bodies of water. Brushy Bayou and Sarasota Bay have views of downtown Sarasota and homes on Bird Key. We also have big paths that separate Siesta key from Lido Key, feeding into the Gulf of Mexico. You can bring one of your own kayaks, paddleboards, or canoes or rent one from one of the vendors on-site. Either way, you're going to see mangrove tunnels all through Brushy Bayou. Don't be surprised if a manatee comes up to say hello!
Mangroves are critical to Florida's ecosystems. They have oysters, crabs, shrimp, and little fish that live within their roots. Mangroves are also rookeries for many species of birds. When you're on one of these kayak tours—like the one offered by Sarasota Paddleboard Company—you'll see manatees, dolphins, and an amazing amount of wildlife. One thing you won't see, however, is alligators. The park also has a picnic area, playground, and restaurant facilities all under majestic Australian Pines, planted by John Ringling in the 1920s. It gives wonderful protection from the sun and is a great place to relax. Besides the kayak launch—which is one of the best in the entire state of Florida—Ted Sterling State Park also has a one-mile hiking trail.

Enjoy An Outdoor Lifestyle

If you're looking for an outdoor, active lifestyle with a relaxed casual vibe and outdoor nightlife, then Lido Key is for you. Be sure to stay tuned to our next episode of Live2Give to explore the last of our 3 islands so you know which one is right for you!

Experience Island Living In Siesta Key

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Tue, 24 Nov 2020 21:42:00 GMT

Did you know that islands have personalities? In this episode of Live2Give, we're going to explore Siesta Key to see why it's been rated the #1 beach in America time and time again. If you’re thinking of moving to the Sarasota area and are wondering which island is right for you, this 3-part series will explore the three Barrier Islands—starting with Siesta Key.

Island Living In Siesta Key

Back in the day, people believed that Siesta Key’s quartz sand had healing properties. People would walk here and bury themselves in the sand in hopes of relieving their aches and pains. Back in the 40s and 50s, many artists lived on Siesta Key—which makes sense because it has a really bohemian, relaxed vibe to it. On any given Sunday night you'll find a drum circle, and on most mornings you’ll see yoga on the beach.
In addition to the amazing beaches, Siesta Key Village is where things are happening, with its variety of boutiques and restaurants. People also come here to rent go-karts and bikes. If you like action, you're going to want to come to Siesta Key Village. With 976 parking spots in this parking lot and a completely renovated pavilion, picnic area, playground, restaurant, and tennis court, this is a great jumping-off point to explore the island.

Sunny Skies And Sandy Beaches

If you don't like crowds, you could always park in one of the 13 smaller beach access points. Make sure you go early, though, because those spots are few and far between and fill up fast. Siesta Key allows food and alcohol on its beaches and is also fully equipped with lifeguards. As if that wasn’t enough, the beaches also have volleyball nets, and you can typically find someone to play with.
If you're looking for a festive, fun atmosphere, a bohemian culture, or a great spot for a family vacation, then Siesta Key is the place for you. If you have any questions about this island, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to connect. Make sure you also stay tuned for the next two islands we’ll feature—Lido and Longboat Key—to find out which one is right for you.

The Best Granola In Florida: Nutty Girl By Molly

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 21:17:00 GMT

Did you know that you can enjoy a tasty, healthy treat while giving back to girls in communities all over the world? In this episode of Live2Give, I’m going to introduce you to Nutty Girl, a local Florida company that creates delicious gluten-free, soy-free, vegan granola and bars. We’ll chat with owner and founder Molly Moore to learn all about how she started this company as well as her mission to give back.

Nutty Girl By Molly

I have to be honest; granola has always made me gag. Eating it made me feel like something was stuck in my throat. When a friend sent me some granola from Nutty Girl, though, everything changed. This ‘Girlnola’ is moist, sweet, and absolutely delicious. When I found out that the owner and founder, Molly, gives back, I knew I had to share her story with you.
Molly Moore made a huge leap into entrepreneurship with her company. She was a restaurant manager at the time of Nutty Girl’s founding, which developed out of a non-stop yearning and entrepreneurial spirit to start something of her own. While living in a refurbished garage, Molly bought a food processor and made some raw, nutty energy bites. Everything started evolving from there, and she started making everything out of nuts. Molly, self-described as a little nutty herself with a love of the color pink, came up with Nutty Girl one day as she was thinking in her car. Thus the company was born.

Healthy Foods With Flavor

Molly’s product line includes delicious ‘Girlnola,’ made of natural and healthy ingredients including gluten-free oats, pecans, apple-juice infused cranberries, and pure maple syrup. More products are coming soon, including a line of granola bars that are currently waiting for brand new packaging. The bars are available in both Chocolate Chip and Apple-Juice Infused Cranberry flavors, both of which are delicious. Molly is planning granola bread and four crazy nut butter flavors to add to her product line.
While I always thought you just ate granola dry or with some milk, there's a whole host of ways to eat granola that Molly shared with me. One of the first ways you can enjoy it is by making a parfait with yogurt, raspberries, blueberries, and of course: nutty granola. Another way to do it is to use it instead of croutons on your salad. You could also spread some almond butter on top of apples, bananas, or even roasted sweet potatoes with a little dash of honey and sprinkle it with Molly’s granola. Trust me: it's to die for! There are so many ways to enjoy this product. I encourage you to explore and find which one is your favorite.

Giving Back To The Girls

Molly not only has the best granola on the market, but she also gives back. When Nutty Girl was created, she thought that there was no better time than now to start helping girls. After researching many organizations, Molly found a New York City-based nonprofit called She's The First.
She's The First help girls in 11 different countries get educated by providing transportation, school supplies, mentorship, and friendship. While Nutty Girl contributes financially on a small scale right now, Molly’s goal is to be able to say on the back of the package one day: this is how much you're making an impact with this organization. Molly also likes to help girls in the community through mentorship and friendship, encouraging them and helping with their self-esteem to get back into school.

Where To Find Nutty Girl

New Paragraph

The 3 Stages Of The Home Selling Process

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 21:45:00 GMT

Have you decided to sell your house but are wondering what comes next? In this video, I'm going to explain the three stages of the home selling process so you know exactly what to expect. By understanding the timeline of selling your home, you can relieve some stress and be better prepared for each stage.

Stage 1: Pre-Listing

The first stage of the home selling process is the pre-listing stage. Before we can begin marketing your house, we need to make it look good. We’ll start preparing your home for sale, as how you live in a home is not how you sell a home. Because 90% of buyers look online before they decide whether they want to see a property in person, this step is crucial. Our first impression and first showing are going to happen online.
During this pre-listing phase, we’ll go through your property together, creating a list of simple things you can do to sell your house faster and for more money. This includes things like making sure all the light bulbs are in place, decluttering, and rearranging closets. Once the house is in show condition, we're ready for the photo shoot. We’ll also create a video, a floor plan, and a feature list for buyers. The pre-listing stage takes about two to three weeks.

Stage 2: On The Market

Once the house is show-ready, it’s time to list it for sale on the market. We're going to do a blitz-like marketing approach that includes the internet, print ads, direct mail pieces, and social media. While I'm working on the marketing aspect, you simply need to make sure your home is always in show condition. While it’s not easy, it's critical to ensure we never lose an opportunity with a prospective buyer.
This active, on-the-market process should take anywhere from 1-30 days. If we're still on the market at 30 days and not under contract, the market's trying to tell us that we're overpriced and we need to do a price reduction. Once you get the right offer, we’ll move on to the next stage.

Stage 3: Under Contract

The final and third phase of the home selling process is the pending stage. When we receive an offer and successfully negotiate the terms and price to your satisfaction, we go under contract—or pending. During this pending phase as we head to closing, many steps have to happen.
First, the buyer submits their first escrow deposit. Second, the buyer schedules a home inspection and a termite inspection. They typically have a 15 day inspection period. If the home inspector finds issues and recommends a secondary inspection—such as an electrician, an A/C company, or a plumber—they have that window of time to schedule them.
After all the inspections are complete, a buyer has five days to submit a repair request to you. We will go over the inspection report, discuss what the buyer is asking, and you’ll then have three choices. You can do exactly what the buyer's requesting; you could say "No thank you" and cancel the contract; or you can say, "I will negotiate with you and split in this manner." It's during this pending phase where I stay in close communication with all the parties of the transaction to ensure that there are no last-minute glitches. I don't know if you're like me, but I do not like last-minute surprises. This pending process takes 30 days or shorter for a cash transaction and 45 days or longer if there's a mortgage involved.

Your Customized Home Selling Plan

I hope this helps take some of the mystery out of the home selling process. Of course, every transaction and every home is very different. If you want a customized plan, please don't hesitate to reach out to me and I'd be happy to guide you along the way.

Double Your Charity Impact | Live2Give Resilient Retreat!

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 19:50:00 GMT

Do You Want to Make a Difference?

Have you heard about the new non-profit in town?

Resilient Retreat is cutting edge, and it's helping individuals overcome the abuse and trauma that they've encountered. Many individuals are struggling at this moment, particularly since COVID has impacted our lives. Domestic violence at home has increased and first responders have been pushed to their limits. Did you realize that you experience second hand trauma like you experienced it yourself? That is the reason Resilient Retreat serves survivors of abuse and trauma, however first responders and helping experts, for example, fire and police officers, medical personnel, crisis line operators, social workers, and nonprofit staff. Current research shows that 90% of individuals have encountered trauma in their life in this way, in the event that it wasn't you, it was somebody you know. Also, locally, about half of our first responders on call and helping professionals are revealing to us that they're experiencing PTSD and burnout.

Services Offered

We're all affected whether it's direct or indirectly, so it comes as no surprise that Resilient Retreat now has a wait list for their free services. However, there is a solution to this problem and this is where Resilient Retreat comes in. They offer a bevy of services for survivors, equine therapy, neurofeedback, foam rolling, journaling, art therapy, support groups, yoga, nutrition, and the list goes on. But the magic comes in in the fact that they gather information to see how effective these services are for their participants. It's uncommon to see a science driven, research based nonprofit and that's what makes Resilient Retreat stand apart. Another reason is that Resilient Retreat is extremely collaborative. They work with other nonprofits to train their staff, to prevent burnout, reduce stress, and improve self care. High staff turnover is expensive and tedious. So now that you know the problem and the solution, this is where you can help.

Where You Come In

Resilient Retreat is asking that you consider making a donation through the Flanzer Trust and in that trust, they will match your donation between $25 and $500 so you can double your money, double your impact. To elaborate; it costs $20 for one person to attend a workshop, $60 for one person to go to equine therapy, $80 for one person to go to neurofeedback and, if you really want to do the whole enchilada, $500 for 25 people to attend a workshop. I mentioned how you could have double the impact, but you actually have triple the impact and I’ll explain how.

How it Works

Firstly, when you make a donation through the Flanzer Trust to Resilient Retreat, your $100 will magically turn into $200. Secondly, Resilient Retreat is collaborative with other nonprofits so your dollars are going to go deeper and further into our community to help other nonprofits prevent staff burnout which negatively impacts their annual budget. Lastly, and most importantly, your money is going to those people who are suffering and in need. As we travel the road of resilience, we ask you to come along for the ride and help people who are merely surviving go to truly thriving.

With your donation we can make this happen. Thank you for taking the time to read and your consideration in donating to Resilient Retreat. I promise it is worth it!

Subscribe to my channel here!

The Top 3 Neighborhoods In Sarasota

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 18:19:00 GMT

Are you looking to move to Sarasota but don't know which neighborhood is right for you? In this episode of Live To Give, we're going to explore the top 3 neighborhoods in Sarasota. Whether you’re looking for a community with great boating options, top-rated schools, or country club amenities, these 3 neighborhoods offer the best of Florida living.

Bird Key

The first Sarasota neighborhood we’ll explore is Bird Key. Bird Key is a barrier island that was developed by John Ringling—a member of the famous 1920s circus family. This community is just five minutes away from the white sands and breathtaking sunsets of Lido Key beaches, as well as a variety of restaurants and boutiques on St. Armon Circle. There are also plenty of cultural amenities in downtown Sarasota for all to enjoy. Additionally, residents can take advantage of a private yacht club. With over 500 homes—and most of those on deepwater canals—Bird Key is definitely a boater’s paradise.
Another cool thing about Bird Key is that all the streets are named after local birds like the flamingo, morning dove, robin, and of course: the seagull. You can find a collection of single-family homes that are not only elegant but completely custom built. Because of this, you'll see properties that are non-waterfront priced at just under $1 million. If you want a bayfront home, those properties will be in the $6 to $7 million range.

West Of Trail

West of Trail simply refers to an area from Tamiami Trail West to the Sarasota Bay. It's one of the oldest and most prestigious neighborhoods in Sarasota. Because it was developed in the 1920s, it has a ton of classic Florida charm—like moss-draped oak trees, winding streets, and parks nestled throughout the community. There are over a dozen neighborhoods that comprise the West of Trail area. Many families and professionals choose to live in West of Trail because of high-quality schools and its proximity to downtown and the hospital. In addition to these important features, a variety of amenities attracts new residents. For example, there's an area called South Side Village within West of Trail. Here you’ll find a bevy of restaurants, boutiques, and even a gourmet market. Single-family homes in West of Trail start in the $500,000s and go up to $5 million. If the home is on the direct bayfront, they'll cost even more.

The Meadows

The Meadows is known as a resort-style community that's immaculately maintained and environmentally rich. It's located on 1,650 acres, as large as the island of Gibraltar off the coast of Spain or the size of 24,600 tennis courts put back to back. In short, it's a big area.
It's not just the large land area that makes The Meadows special—it’s what’s in the land. This community is home to over 3,400 residents living in condos, villas, and single-family homes. Locals take advantage of plenty of amenities here, including 80 stocked lakes, pristine waterways, nature parks, 17 miles of roads, 14 miles of sidewalks and bike paths, and a 2-mile fitness trail. Additionally, The Meadows also has its own country club with three 18-hole golf courses, tennis, pickleball, a fitness facility, a restaurant, and many social activities. A condo will run you just under $200,000, a villa just under $300,000, and a three-bedroom, two-bath home between the mid $200,000s on up through the mid $600,000s.

Enjoy Florida Living In Sarasota

I hope this gives you some insight into the lifestyle that Sarasota has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to Bird Key, West of Trail, or The Meadows, each community will provide you with the type of lifestyle you’re looking for. Matching my clients to the right location is what I do, enabling them to live out their dreams. So if you have any questions about living in Sarasota, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to help! Also, be sure to stay tuned to the next episode of Live To Give to learn more about Florida living.

Liked the content? Subscribe here!

Sarasota vs Lakewood Ranch

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 17:27:00 GMT

Are you considering moving to Sarasota but are pulling out your hair because you don't know where to live? On this episode of Live to Give, we're going to help you out by comparing two great communities: Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. From location, lifestyle, and a variety of homes, you’ll have all the information you need to know to make the best decision possible.

Lifestyle

The first area we’ll compare is lifestyle. Because Sarasota was built in the 1920s east of the Gulf of Mexico, it's closer to the beaches. If you're a beach lover, this city may just be your place. No matter where you are in the city, it’s about a 10 to 15-minute drive to get to ocean waves and sandy beaches. Living in Lakewood Ranch is a bit different. Getting to the beach will take you about 30 to 45 minutes. Despite the little bit of distance from the ocean, Lakewood Ranch is very close to a major artery, which is perfect for frequent travelers. Whether you need to go north or south, Lakewood Ranch will get you there fast.

Home Styles And Schools

Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch both have excellent schools, though 83% of homes in Lakewood Ranch have school-aged children in them versus 49% in Sarasota. Lakewood Ranch is a master-planned community with 10,000 homes, which began construction in the 1990s. In recent years, an additional 10,000 homes have been permitted to be built—with that construction happening right now. The average lot size of Lakewood Ranch homes is slightly smaller than Sarasota at 7,500 sq. ft., with a more homogenous architecture. If you like new construction, however, this would be the place for you.

Different Yet Similar

While they have a variety of differences, Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch do have a few things in common. In both Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch, single-family homes with three bedrooms and two baths will run in the mid-$300,000s, with rents for both areas at approximately $1,200 per month. If you're looking for a short term furnished rental, the closer you get to the Gulf of Mexico the more likely you'll find what you're looking for. Another similarity is that both are affluent areas, with the median age of citizens around 48-49 years old—which is fairly young for Floridian demographics. Whether Sarasota or Lakewood Ranch appeals more to you, I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about either community. Please feel free to reach out and I’ll be happy to help!
If you’re interested in learning more about Sarasota living, make sure to subscribe to my videos and emails to get the latest information. Stay tuned to the next episode of Live To Give to see which Sarasota area we feature next! And remember, as Winston Churchill once said, "You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give."

The Pros And Cons Of Living In Sarasota, Florida

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 18:22:00 GMT

Did you know that Sarasota, Florida gets an average of 251 days of sunshine every year? I’ve had a 30-year love affair with this city and that love just continues to deepen! On this episode of Live To Give, I’m going to give you all the pros and cons of living here in Sarasota. If you're thinking about moving here but want to know more about it, than this video will help you decide if it’s right for you.

The Pros And Cons Of Living In Sarasota, Florida

Sunny Skies And Sandy Beaches

Let’s first talk about the pros of living in Sarasota. As we mentioned, first and foremost is the great Florida weather you’ll have to enjoy year-round. With an annual average of 251 days of sun, you’ll enjoy plenty of vitamin D about 70% of the time—plenty to keep your spirits up. We also have about 106 days of precipitation—or less than 1/3 of the time—which mostly falls in summer. This is great because it helps keep the temperatures down, as summer highs can reach the low 90s. In the winter, temperatures rarely dip below the 50s, and the best part? No snow! Another pro to living in Sarasota is access to all the top-ranked beaches in the United States. With powdered quartz crystal sand that feels and looks like sugar, relaxing in Sarasota’s beaches is a true treat. There are no tolls on any bridges to access the beach, with plenty of public points of access.New Paragraph

Culture And Learning

You’ll also be able to find a variety of cultural amenities that you’d normally only see in big cities. This includes the theater and opera, a ballet, orchestra, symphony, museum, and a live music scene that's very active. Additionally, something near and dear to my heart is that Sarasota is a community of givers. Per capita, across the nation, we're one of the most giving communities.
The schools in Sarasota are another pro of living here. As a former special ed teacher at Sarasota Middle—and having raised both my children here in Sarasota—I can tell you that our school system is top-notch. Florida has 62 school districts, and Sarasota County has always ranked number one or two, year in and year out. Sarasota also has a school called Pine View School of the Gifted, currently ranked as the number one best school in the entire United States.
Additionally, Sarasota has two colleges here. The first is New College, a liberal arts college just ranked by US News and Report as the number six best school in the nation. There is also the Ringling College of Art and Design. Alumni from this school have gone on to receive Oscars, ADDYs, and Emmy's. Clearly, our colleges are top-notch.

An Active Life And Affordably Priced

Sarasota is set apart from other areas of Florida in that the community is very active. This is not your stereotypical retirement community. We’re very health-conscious, and you’ll find everything from organic markets and restaurants to a variety of ways to exercise. Sarasota residents are true foodies. There are very few franchises and chains here, with most of our restaurants locally-owned and operated serving up delicious food.
As far as the cost of living, the numbers are pretty good here in Sarasota. One of the best things about living here is that there's no income state tax in Florida, with Sarasota tax at only 7%. The average rent for an apartment is about $1100 and the average price for a home here is $280,000. Overall, our cost of living is pretty darn good, especially for a resort beach town that's a destination place for many people. New Paragraph

The Cons Of Living In Sarasota, Florida

Of course, no town is perfect, so let's talk about the cons of living in Sarasota.

Traffic And Diversity

The first con of living in Sarasota is the traffic. During what we locals refer to as the “high season,” or January through March, we have a lot of traffic. This happens because people from the midwest and northeast flock here during the winter months to escape the cold weather farther north. Additionally, Sarasota is not very economically, racially, or age-diverse. Despite this, we're making strides in those areas to better diversify our community.

The Weather

While the weather is one of Sarasota Living’s pros, there are also two cons to consider. The first con is that August and September are flat out hot and humid. Because Florida is a peninsula, we do get a lot of sea breezes—and they say that humidity is great for the wrinkles. However, some people might not be used to hot and humid temperatures.
The second con is that we don't have traditional, four-season kind of weather. In winter, you'll see flora and fauna just like you would in summer. Our trees don't lose their leaves and they don't remain barren through the winter. So if you’re used to enjoying the change between seasons, you won’t really get a lot of that here in Sarasota.

The Pros Outweigh The Cons

I hope you can see why I've had a 30-year love affair with Sarasota. Despite the cons, the pros outweigh any inconveniences of living in this amazing city. Between having sunshine most days, award-winning beaches, quality schools, a ton of arts and culture, being health-oriented, and having a community of givers, I can't imagine living anywhere else.
So if you have any additional questions about Sarasota, don't hesitate to reach out to me. You can also subscribe to my videos, where you can learn all about Sarasota living and what this place can offer you. Make sure to stay tuned to the next episode of Live To Give to see what I feature next!

8 Reasons You Should Work with a Real Estate Agent

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 06 Aug 2020 22:41:00 GMT

Are you thinking about selling your house but don't know what route to use to sell it? Is it even worth using a realtor or can you sell it on your own? We’re about to find out!

Hi, I'm Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders & Co. and today, I’m going to walk you through the process of selling a home so that you can decide if hiring a real estate agent is right for you.

HAT 1- An Educator

As a former educator, I am just the person to help you understand market conditions, how your home compares to others on the market and keep you informed through every step of the selling process.

Hat 2- Home Designer

Once we come up with a plan of action that fits your specific situation, I’ll get to work. First, we need to begin preparing the property for the market so we need to become your home designer. Next, I’ll help you determine what in your home needs to be addressed and what doesn’t and I’ll be there to schedule any vendors we may need to bring in to ensure your home is ready to show in its best light. Getting top dollar only happens if we do this step right!

Hat 3- Marketing Guru

Eventually you’ll get your property ready to list and then we become your marketing guru. Selling a house takes a lot more than just putting a sign in the yard and listing it on the MLS, you need to position and market it correctly. You can find me shouting from the rooftops to let everyone know that your property is for sale.

Hat 4- Ambassador

And it’s during the time that your house is being actively marketed, I become your ambassador. It’s not only my job to sell your house, but I need to make people fall in love with it. This includes finding information about the schools, shopping, and even commute times.

Hat 5- Negotiator

And once we do get an offer on your property, I become your negotiator. This is where the magic happens. You see you don't want some push over type of agent, you want someone who is going to fight for every penny. But, it doesn’t have to be like WWIII during this period! I use my soft skills too to get you exactly what you want!

Hat 6- Therapist

Once we are under contract, I’ll become your therapist... because you’re going to need it. Especially if you are buying and selling at the same time or doing so long distance. My job is to worry about the details so you don’t have to.

Hat 7- Firefighter

Things will happen and when they do it’s my job to put that fire out… so we can get you the house you deserve!

Hat 8- Closer

My last job is that of The Closer! I coordinate all the professionals such as the appraiser, inspector, closing agent, buying agent, etc. to make sure we get you to closing day! Not to mention, mounds of paperwork!

Selling real estate doesn't have to be stressful but selling your home is a big deal and shouldnt be taken lightly. You want to make sure that who you hire to sell your home can wear these hats seamlessly. Thanks for watching another episode of Live2Give and if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out!

My Overall Marketing Plan For Your Home

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 22:31:00 GMT

Hi, I’m Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders & Co. and today we are going to go step by step through a marketing plan so that you know exactly what you can expect from your agent!

Preparation: Staging and decluttering

You know how they say, “You never look as good as you did on your wedding day”? Well selling your house is no different! There is a lot of preparation that goes into making your house show-ready.

The first thing we will do is take a tour throughout your home and create a punch list and each tackle all the tasks we can. If there are certain tasks we don’t want to do, we’ll hire a vendor to do them for us! You’ve got to make your home look as good as you looked on your wedding day!

This is a crucial step to handle BEFORE you take the pictures and video as the way it shows online will be EVERYTHING. Your first showing will take place online, so it’s essential to make a good first impression with potential buyers so they are more motivated to schedule a showing.

Get Amazing Pictures & Videos

Once the house is ready to be shown, it’s time to get it professionally show with pictures and videos . Your home’s first showing is taking place online. Did you know? Properties with HD enhanced images sell for 45% faster, and they also sell 75% closer to the listing price.

Taking pictures with a cell phone is a big no-no. Great pictures and videos are important when it comes to triggering the emotions of your potential buyer! You might as well use this polaroid camera and send them the photos in the mail. You must hire a professional to handle this for you! The statistics on professional photography speaks for itself.

The video will showcase a live walkthrough of the house and, more importantly, showcase the flow of the house. The video is not going to sell the house, but it will increase showings. It allows your listing to stand out in a herd of homes for sale!

Video gives you an extra edge in marketing your home to the masses that properties without video cannot do.

This stage will also include a 3D rendering of the floor plan that a buyer can literally walkthrough online. All three of the aspects combined are what get people into your home for showings. It is very important that you find a realtor who can do all of this on your behalf.

Showcase Your Home Online

Once we have the photos and videos ready to go, it’s time to start getting ready to list your home and features it online. Your home will be posted online on the 4 largest home search sites.

The top four real estate websites are (Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Homes.com) have close to 100 million visits per month. In addition to that, your property is featured on the Michael Saunders website as well as 2,000 other sites.

During the first two weeks of your home being listed is when you’ll receive the most attention and eyeballs. We’ve got to strategically market your home’s listing so we will use a professional copywriter to write the remarks and make sure that all the details about the property are easily accessible for any buyer. The goal is to translate online views into showings!

Social Media, Social Media, Social Media!

The next step in the process is social media. Posting your property on sites such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and key to generating initial interest.

Plus using social media to advertise your property for sale gives us a way to reach thousands of eyeballs through ads. Over the last few years this become one of the reasons to our success.

Open Houses

I’m going to let you in on a little industry secret that I think you should know. Did you know that only 3-5% of buyers found their home by attending an open house? That’s it! Believe it or not, it is a pretty ineffective way to sell listings. The upside to open houses for real estate agents is that they expose them to a lot of potential clients!

I really hope this video showed you a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes. Of course, there are many details here we have not covered the specifics, but I can answer any further questions you may have.

I really appreciate you watching this, thanks for watching I’m Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders & Company and thank you for watching another episode of Live2Give.

New Paragraph

Why Every Listing Needs Photo & Video

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 19:17:00 GMT

It’s not 1990 anymore—and that means your first showing is going to take place online. If you want your house to sell fast and for the most amount of money, you need to make sure it looks as good as possible online. To do that, it’s critical that your listing includes professional pictures and videos.

Hi, I’m Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders & Company and on this episode of Live2Give and I’m going to walk you through exactly why you need the BEST photos and videos in order to sell your home. People don’t really need to sell their homes with a traditional real estate agent anymore. While there are a variety of options on how to sell a house—whether for sale by the owner, with a flat-fee brokerage or with an awesome real estate agent like me—presenting a property in the best light possible is non-negotiable in today’s market.

Why Professional Photos Matter

The way people shop for real estate has also changed: over 90% of searches for a new home start online. The majority of this initial interest won’t involve you (or your realtor) at all. A prospective buyer will find a property they like on a real estate search engine and may do a drive-by to see what it looks like in person. Pictures are what draw a buyer in to actually schedule a showing to see it in person!

The best way to present a property in a way that attracts the most buyers is through professional, high-quality photographs. And let’s be clear: “professional pictures” mean professional pictures, not simple cell phone snaps (no matter how expensive or fancy your phone is). What we’re talking about are high-quality, HD images taken with a professional camera and by a skilled photographer.

The statistics on professional photography speak for themselves: properties with enhanced HD images sell 45% faster and 75% closer to the listing price than those without. Your listing photos should also showcase the main selling features of the house, especially rooms that trigger an emotional reaction. Kitchen details, your view, and bathrooms are just some of the spots in your home that prospective buyers will emotionally connect with. You’ll thus want to make sure to take pictures of these rooms in the best lighting possible.

Clients looking for specific features of a home might overlook listings that don’t include these pictures, so make sure to highlight all the pertinent aspects of your property. It may not be a selling point to you, but it just might be for the potential buyer.

Some examples of features to highlight in photographs include:

● Your surrounding neighborhood

● Common areas

● Views (in multiple directions)

● Skylights

● Great local schools

● Large closets

● Multiple shots and angles of the outdoor space

● Storage

● Inside of garage

● Multiple shots of the kitchen from various angles

Use Property Videos To Increase Showings

People are less likely to schedule a showing of a house that looks crappy online; your property video will do the opposite. While video won’t sell a house the way pictures do, it will increase showings by giving potential buyers a better idea of the layout and flow of the property. Professional-grade property videos will make your home stand out among a sea of other listings and will catch more attention.

Besides adding value to your online listing, videos provide you with increased abilities to market your home. Your goal is to increase the number of eyes on your video, which can be achieved through YouTube rankings and social media sharing. Videos pull more engagement on social networks than any other type of content, so the effectiveness of sharing them to Instagram and Facebook should not be underestimated.

Your video can also be targeted to a specific audience: your ideal buyer. Facebook Ads allow you to get your content seen to a specific set of demographics, helping you find the best fit for your home’s next owner.

The Bottom Line

It’s clear that adding professional, high-quality videos and pictures to your listing will ensure you get the most money for your property. If you choose to hire a real estate agent, you should be looking for more than just someone who will stick a sign in front of your home and list your property on the MLS. Today’s realtors need to function as marketers and should have a real, online marketing plan for your property. This includes professional pictures and video for your listing.

If you need help navigating this process, make sure to reach out to us and we’ll be happy to point you in the right direction!

Do You Really Know Your Closing Costs?

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 19:09:00 GMT

Congratulations on deciding to sell your home! But do you know how much it is really going to cost you? Moving can be really stressful between the pre-listing stage, open houses, packing, and physically moving. Do you know what is even more stressful? Not knowing how much it is going to cost you!

Hi, I’m Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders Company and on today’s episode of Live2Give, we are going to talk about how much it is going to cost to sell your house today!

When you know what your seller closing costs upfront, you’ll have the upper hand in negotiating because you will know the exact number that you’re going to be walking away with.Remember: the most important thing is not what your house sells for but what number you walk away with. Now, let me walk you through the specific fees you will run into when selling your home.

Title Fees- Every transaction will have title fees but here in Sarasota, it is typical that the buyer pays these fees. This is important for a seller to know during the negotiation phase that these fees are the buyer’s responsibility. Usually, these fees can run anywhere from $1,200 all the way up to $5,000 so it is important to negotiate this fee upfront.

Survey fee- A survey is a legal drawing of the land, property, and description of exactly what you are buying Typically in Sarasota, the buyer will also pay for this fee as well. This can usually run $400 to $500.

Real Estate Tax Prorations- We pay taxes in arrears in Sarasota. This means that we are always paying our property taxes one year behind. Plan on crediting the buyer with about a full year’s worth of real estate taxes. This is not really a cost since it’s a bill that you owe since you occupied the property during the time the bill was due, but it will deduct from your bottom line. When you purchased the property you should have also received a tax credit from the seller for the prior years the unpaid share of taxes.

Real Estate Doc Stamps/Taxes- This will vary based on county and city. In the city of Sarasota, the seller is responsible for part of the city tax which is 70 cents per thousand dollars spent! For a $1,000,000 home, this tax will be about $7,000.

The payoff of Mortgage- This is when your mortgage will be paid off before it is transferred to the buyer. This amount will be deducted from the net.

Realtor’s Commission – Commissions should vary on your agent so make sure to talk to them prior to committing to someone as your realtor. This will be split between the seller and buyer agents as well as their brokerage firms.

These are the majority of expenses involved when selling your house. There will be are some miscellaneous fees, but the major closing costs are covered here. When you eventually get an offer for your property this is a very important number to know. If you would like a more precise closing cost estimate on your home please feel free to reach out to me!

Who Doesn't Want To Sell Their Home For Top Dollar?

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 18:54:00 GMT

Everyone wants to sell their property for top dollar, right? It may come as a surprise but you don’t do that by pricing your home high; you do it by limiting the number of days your home is on the market.

Hi, I’m Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders and welcome to another episode of Live 2 Give. Today, I’m going to show you how to price your property at top dollar.

You will receive the most amount of traffic and showings for your house in the first two weeks that your home is listed. It’s very likely your highest offer will come within the first 30 days. The first few weeks of market time is crucial because that’s when everyone takes notice of the new listing on the block.

After 30 days on the market, buyers are less likely to be interested in your listing because they are wondering, “what is wrong with this property that it is still on the market??”

The key is to price your home smartly right from the getgo.

The buzz of a new listing happens because of a certain mindset. Selling a house is all about perception and positioning. When something new comes on the market, everyone will flock to it since it is the “new, hot” property. It’s the perception that “someone else may buy it” that has potential buyers creating their own sense of urgency on making an offer. This gives sellers the upper hand in negotiations for possible offers. Buyers and realtors know that newly listed properties get a lot of showings and price is not as negotiable.

People will pay more for something today that they fear may be taken away from them tomorrow.

One of the first questions buyers ask is about the market time. They want to know how long it’s been listed. If it’s been listed for a while, they are more likely to think it’s overpriced.

Let’s take this example. There are two houses for sale on the market. Let’s assume the houses are identical. If one has been on the market for 120 days and the other one has been on the market for 2 weeks, you’re probably going to offer more money for the house that has only been on the market for 2 weeks. Its just human nature!

For this reason, you don’t want to overprice your house and “test” the market because the days on market are going to end up hurting you. Even if you do a price reduction down the road, you’re not going to have as many eyeballs on your listing as you do from the start.

Have you ever seen a property online that sold for more than the asking price?? If you have, they probably used this strategy! First, you determine your market value with your real estate agent, then you price it at or slightly below market value, and in those two magical first weeks, people get excited and you start getting offers! This will most likely be a multiple offer situation.

I hope this video was helpful to you in understanding the importance of market time when it comes to selling your home. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out! I am Sherri Mills with Michael Saunders and thank you for watching another episode of Live 2 Give.

Get Outside and Connect with Nature at Beautiful Selby Gardens

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 17:21:00 GMT

Get Outside and Connect with Nature at the Beautiful Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

This video was taped pre-pandemic thus why there are no face masks. I thought long & hard about when and if I should share it now when there is so much going on in our world. I decided to do so because Selby Gardens has re-opened and is exactly the kind of place we need right now…a place to experience nature and serenity.

Selby Gardens is right on the shores of beautiful Sarasota Bay and is a tropical urban oasis with something for everyone of all ages and interests. The purpose of Selby Gardens is to provide bayfront sanctuaries, connect people with air plants of the world, native nature, our regional history, and most importantly educate the people. There is an endless amount of knowledge to be learned here at the gardens and with the rotating displays, I learn something new every time I go. It is my happy-go-to place relaxed and unwind.

The gardens consist of a conservatory, an epiphyte garden, a fern garden, bamboo garden, a banyan grove, a children’s rainforest garden, bromeliad garden, and a butterfly garden to name a few. They even have a wedding pavilion to share your special day in one of the most beautiful and serene places in Florida! Everything is arranged in a spectacular collage of color and design making every step an adventure. The plants feature marvelous adaptations like insect-catching pitchers and spiny trunks that can keep anyone interested for hours.

My favorite part about the Selby Gardens is, of course, how the Selby’s gave back to the community and their legacy continues to do so through the Selby Foundation . The William G. and Marie Selby Foundation has made a significant impact on the lives of thousands of young people and on the operation of hundreds of charitable organizations since 1955. Two significant contributions to the Foundation, one in 1955 and one in 1972, totaling $19,500,000 have made possible financial assistance to individuals and organizations in excess of $120,000,000. At the same time, the corpus of the Foundation has been preserved and today has a market value of over $72,000,000. This insures a continuing contribution of nearly $3,000,000 a year for scholarships and grants to benefit the local community. In addition, Selby Gardens is dedicated to innovating a greener more sustainable future as it continues to improve & expand while educating its visitors on how to be good stewards of the environment.

They are open daily from 10:00AM – 5:00PM and tickets range from $10-$15, but are free for members. Member’s guests even get a discount on tickets! Located at 900 S. Palm Avenue, it is definitely worth a visit and there is no better time than now to do it. For more information on events or general information, please visit their website at https://selby.org/. Stay safe.

Do Yoga, Feel Zen 🧘 at the Best Yoga Studio in Sarasota FL

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 17:13:00 GMT

Are you looking for a way to relax your mind, body, and soul all at the same time? Well then, I’ve got just the thing for you...YOGA! Yoga eases the tension in your body and promotes health and well being. If you practice it regularly, it has been shown to improve your breathing as well as your outlook on life. There’s no better feeling, or benefit for your body than a relaxing and strengthening stretch. My go to yoga spot is Feel Good Yoga & Massage at 6350 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, Florida. And not just because Debby McClung is a Master at what she does, but she gives back to the community as well.

Debby has always yearned to connect with herself and to do that she began her journey with yoga. She says her experience with yoga “immediately softened me, nurtured me, and allowed me for the first time to actually experience “stillness.” After 40 years in the wellness industry and being involved in competitive sports her body began to hurt. Now she chooses yoga & massage to maintain and enhance her lifestyle.

Yoga has numerous benefits some of which include not only improving your body, but your mindfulness through meditation. When you make time for yoga in your life you are doing amazing things for yourself. You are allowing yourself to take a break from daily life so that you are able to focus on yourself, get clarity, and relax. At Feel Good Yoga, they want to help you accomplish all of those things so that you can feel good. They are dedicated to assisting you on your journey to finding the alignment that makes your body feel best no matter what age or shape you are in.

Debby gives back by providing free yoga classes to First Responders in coordination with the nonprofit Resilient Retreat. Did you know the #1 reason First Responders die is not on the line of duty but by suicide? Yoga can help with stress levels and overcoming the PSTD that many of our First Responders experience due to the trauma they witness daily. Debby has found that many of her First Responder students have never experienced yoga before and are reporting that they find it really helpful in managing their stress.

Due to the coronavirus, the studio is obviously closed, but in an effort to stay connected they are hosting classes online . You can practice or workout in the comfort of your own home! For more information, please check out their website at https://feelgoodyogalongboatkey.com/ .

The Best Air Conditioning Company in Sarasota Florida!

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Wed, 29 Apr 2020 23:31:00 GMT

The Best Air Conditioning Company in Sarasota Florida

Living in Florida, having air conditioning is a MUST! Having a good air conditioning company to call when any issues arise is even more important. I don’t know about you, but when I am trying to choose which company to hire, I will always choose the one that gives back. And that is exactly what Veteran Air does, gives back to the community.

Veteran Air provides Air Conditioning & Heating services for both residential and commercial customers in Sarasota and Manatee counties. They also provide service and repair with fair and affordable prices. They believe in service with integrity, respect, and honor. Veteran Air’s philanthropic focus is on veterans and children’s causes such as the Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County, Veteran Support, Child Protection Center, and Homes for Our Troops.

The name of their company has a special and significant meaning behind it. The values of respect, politeness, and general human decency were instilled in the owner, Kevin Henault, from his family that is the foundation for his personal and business life. Continuing his family's legacy, he joined the U.S Army and served in the 11th Armored Cavalry, Medical Troop, Fulda, Germany as a combat medic. His son, Joseph, followed in his father's footsteps serving our country with the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles at Ft. Campbell, Kentucky. He has now completed two tours in Afghanistan.

If you are interested in learning more about Veteran Air or their philanthropic endeavors check out to their website: www.veteranair.com or give them a call at 941-404-1788.

Rotary Club

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 21:13:00 GMT

News Break: 3 Wonder Women Spotted!

I have always loved volunteering and getting involved, but felt as if I wasn’t making the impact I wanted when I was volunteering alone. Then, I joined Rotary. Rotary is more than just a club, it is a place where neighbors and friends join forces to share ideas, solve problems, and take action to create long lasting change all over the world, in local communities, and in ourselves.

With over 1.2 million members and 16 million volunteer hours a year, we have taken action locally and globally and persevered until we delivered real solutions. The causes we focus on include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies. Our passionate members use their integrity and intelligence to produce solutions. For example, because of Rotary, 2.5 BILLION children have been immunized against polio.

As a member of Rotary, you’re not just changing the world, you are also changing yourself. The world is getting better and so are you! With all of the club activities, social events, and of course, the volunteer projects that we have offer you a chance to meet and network with like minded people. This also assists in creating personal and professional connections that can be local or extend by visiting other clubs around the globe.

They have a wide variety of different programs for people of all ages. Some of these include youth programs, peace fellowships, community corps, and youth exchanges where students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. These programs are designed to help the next generation of leaders to develop by providing funding to make the world a better place and to instill values of peace as a top priority.

Their mission is to “provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through our fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.” If this sounds like something you would be interested in, become one of Rotary’s people of action. Whatever your age or interest is, Rotary will have an opportunity for you. Connect with a local Rotary club to find out how you can get involved or head over to their website rotary.org!

A Place For Serenity For Healing

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 21:16:00 GMT

A Place For Serenity And Healing

All over the world people suffer from abuse. The trauma this causes is prevalent and can have a devastating impact on the community. Did you know that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men in Florida have experienced sexual violence in their lifetime? That 38% of women and 29% of men in Florida have experienced domestic violence in their lifetime? And that 30% of first responders develop behavioral health illnesses, such as PTSD? There are a variety of amazing resources that victims have to help them solve the issue such as legal services and help getting out of the relationship or environment that is abusive, but there are not many programs to help after that. That is where Resilient Retreat comes in.

Resilient Retreat is a Florida non-profit dedicated to empowering those who have experienced abuse and professionals who have witnessed trauma in the workplace. Their mission is to offer interdisciplinary programs in a peaceful 3-5 day retreat that will help them heal from their trauma. These science based programs will give the participants coping mechanisms to help them thrive. The activities will focus on healing the mind, body and spirit.

To heal the mind, there will be journaling, support groups, equine therapy, mindfulness exercise, facility therapy dog, neurofeedback, and self-care classes. To heal the body, nutrition, massage, foam rolling, exercise classes, good sleep habits, sports, and cooking classes will be provided. Lastly, to heal the spirit, yoga, meditation, gardening, art, music, faith, nature experiences will be practiced and experienced.

The unique retreat experience will take place on 84 acres of conservation land in Sarasota, Florida. Survivors of abuse (e.g., adult survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse) and first responders (e.g., police, nurses, advocates, etc.) will be hosted for a free 3-5 day customized retreat. What’s unique about this retreat is that each individual attending will be able to choose from a multitude of self-care programs that they offer that are proven to help. They can choose how they want to heal.

This program is going to be amazing and beneficial to not only the victims of abuse and trauma, but for the communities as well. If you would like to learn more, or find out how you can help, head on over to the Resilient Retreat website: https://www.resilientretreat.org/ .

Safe Place And Crisis Center

cmo@adamwills.marketing (Adam Wills) — Wed, 05 Feb 2020 20:34:00 GMT

Domestic physical and sexual abuse is a prominent issue that many people face. Although we wish it wasn’t a need for programs to support this, we are glad that programs like SPARCC exist. SPARCC stands for Safe Place and Rape Crisis Center. Their mission is to provide help, hope and healing with empowerment-based services and programs. I first found out about SPARCC at a luncheon and hearing the stories of survivors who have received help from SPARCC. After that first luncheon, I knew I needed to learn and do more.

Not only do they wish to be there and support anyone undergoing this trauma, but they want to prevent it and educate people on it as well. In addition to serving survivors of domestic and sexual violence, SPARCC is actively engaged in promoting social change through community awareness and education in an effort to prevent violence in the future.

They are most known for their 24-hour crisis helpline but also offer a wide array of services such as counseling, hospital and courthouse accompaniment, legal services, support groups, empowerment programs and community education all of which are free of charge to the victims. Another special aspect of this organization is that everything is confidential. The victim does not need to get legal parties involved and can get the help that best suits them & that they are the most comfortable with.

SPARCC’s website contains a lot of educational information that everyone should view. It contains readings that deal with understanding domestic violence, understanding sexual violence, teen dating violence, and also extremely important warning signs to be on the lookout for. Our friends or family could be going through this right now and need our help. By being informed on the warning signs and reading up on how to help them, you can potentially assist them in getting out of their harmful situation. All of these things can be found at https://www.sparcc.net/get-involved/learn-the-facts/.

If you are like me and wondering how you can help, there are plenty of ways to do so. The most common way being a monetary donation to the organization. Other ways of helping include volunteering, donating clothes to their Treasure Chest thrift store, or donating a variety of items that are on their wish list featured on their website. With everyone's help, we can make a huge difference in supporting survivors and putting an end to domestic abuse entirely. It’s a big goal, but it is the only way. Thank you for tuning in!