top of page
Search

Why Sarasota’s commercial real estate market is catching serious investor attention

Updated: Oct 23

Angelia Young, Sarasota real estate broker at St. Armands Circle.

By Angelia Young, Commercial Real Estate Broker, GRI, CPMS | A. Young Realty Group


The Sarasota area is changing fast. What used to be thought of mainly as a retirement destination and beach town has grown into a thriving commercial hub. As someone who works in this market every day, I can tell you that investors are paying attention to the Gulf Coast like never before.


If you are considering investing in commercial real estate, especially here in Sarasota, now is the time to really understand what drives this market and why so many people see long-term opportunity.


Why Sarasota commercial real estate is attracting more investors


Sarasota has something special. Population growth remains steady, supported by a strong job market, excellent healthcare systems, and an ongoing wave of new residents relocating from across the country.


Infrastructure is expanding. Our airport continues to grow. New roadways and development projects are making it easier to move people and products. Tourism is as strong as ever, which supports local businesses and attracts new ones.


All of that creates demand for commercial spaces. Well-placed properties in Sarasota are not sitting empty. Investors are looking at locations that can serve both year-round residents and seasonal visitors, which gives them multiple paths to profitability.



What investors are looking for


There is a lot of talk about commercial real estate, but not all properties are equal. Right now, I see three types of opportunities getting the most attention here:


  • Mixed-use developments Projects that combine retail, office, and residential space are popular because they offer more than one way to generate income. Fruitville and Lakewood Ranch are two areas where this kind of investment has taken off.

  • Medical and professional office space Sarasota has a strong healthcare presence, and with Florida’s aging population, demand for this type of space continues to grow.

  • Industrial and flex space The rise of e-commerce has created steady demand for smaller warehouses and distribution centers, especially near I-75.



What the numbers are telling us


By late 2025, Sarasota County vacancy rates remain lower than the national average in both retail and office categories. Cap rates are holding steady, which is drawing interest from investors who want growth without paying Miami or Tampa prices.


Lending conditions have shifted in the last couple of years, but deals are still getting done. Many investors are using creative financing, partnerships, or 1031 exchanges to make their numbers work.


Zoning and opportunity zones are also shaping where investment happens next. A smart investor pays close attention to what is planned for a neighborhood, not just what exists today.



What to consider before you buy


Commercial real estate can create meaningful long-term returns, but it works best when you do your homework. Here are a few factors I always talk through with clients before they invest:


  • Location and visibility are everything. Easy access and strong traffic counts matter more than most people realize.

  • Tenant quality can make or break a property. Diversified leases or strong anchor tenants create stability.

  • Zoning and permitting should be understood upfront. A great property can turn into a long approval process if you are not prepared.

  • Coastal Florida comes with special considerations. Insurance costs, hurricane resilience, and building standards all affect your bottom line.

  • Financing flexibility is key. Understanding your options can open the door to better deals.



Why local expertise matters


I work with commercial investors every day, and one thing is clear. The most successful buyers and developers are the ones who know Sarasota’s neighborhoods, corridors, and business climate in detail.


Many of the best opportunities never make it to the public market. They are shared through relationships and trusted networks. Having a local expert on your side is not just helpful, it is often the difference between hearing about a property and actually acquiring it.



Looking ahead


Sarasota is not just experiencing a moment. We are watching long-term growth unfold. With a growing population, strong tourism, and a supportive business climate, commercial real estate here offers a foundation for meaningful investment.


If you are ready to explore the market or want to better understand your options, I am here to help you build a strategy that fits your goals.


Angliea Young, Sarasota

Angelia Young is a Commercial Real Estate Broker, GRI, CPMS, and founder of A. Young Realty Group in Sarasota, Florida. She helps investors and businesses make smart, strategic moves in one of the fastest-growing markets in the state. She has a deep love for Sarasota's historic architecture. Read more here: https://www.angeliayoung.com/about-angelia-young


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page