Michael Saunders & Company recently closed a significant sale of the Villa Cedro estate on Hidden Forest Drive in the North Sarasota neighborhood of Hidden Forest for just under $1.5 million. The award-winning and unique property, represented and marketed by Realtor Elizabeth Van Riper of the company’s Main Street Sarasota office, sold in less than six months, thanks to a clever combination of traditional and creative marketing methods.
Van Riper used the home’s iconic architectural significance as a primary selling point, and she expanded her marketing efforts into the national arts and architecture community. Villa Cedro, a 6,000 square-foot inland residence on two acres, was designed by internationally-renowned architect Carl Abbott. Crafted of Western Red Cedar and expansive glass, the property exemplifies the unique design elements that are hallmarks of the Sarasota School of Architecture/Sarasota Modern movement. In summary, this movement is defined by design that is “informed by the land,” according to Carl Abbott. Sunlight, airflow, views of nature and position of the home on the land are all considered in this school of design’s architecture, balanced with geometric designs and building materials innovative for the time.
“I knew this home would have special appeal to those with appreciation for the iconic value of this Sarasota Modern-style and its Eden-like landscape, and I was able to tap into that particular segment of buyers,” said Van Riper, the listing agent. “While it often takes time to find a buyer for a unique home such as this one that is priced above the typical value for its neighborhood, we found a buyer in just over four months. Our expanded marketing definitely made a difference.”
To reach buyers who would potentially be attracted by Villa Cedro’s artistic and architectural significance, Van Riper hosted an Architectural Foundation event at the property, created an eight-page brochure, marketed promotional materials at the Archifest event in downtown Sarasota, and utilized targeted media in the arts and architecture community nationally.
“Michael Saunders & Company agents are known far and wide for their ability to strategically market distinctive properties such as Villa Cedro. This latest architecturally-significant sale is a testament to creativity, experience and the powerful company resources that make a difference for our buyers and sellers,” said Michael Saunders, Founder and CEO of Michael Saunders & Company.
According to figures by Trendgraphix, luxury sales of properties over $1 million in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties are up 13 percent from this time last year. For 2017, Michael Saunders & Company commands more than 27 percent of the regional market for homes of more than $1 million. In addition to the sale in Hidden Forest, Michael Saunders & Company agents have had record-setting closings in The Lake Club, Lakewood Ranch, and on Bird Key, Longboat Key and Siesta Key.
To learn more about Michael Saunders & Company, call (888) 552-5228 or visit www.michaelsaunders.com.