Bradenton Florida Real Estate

Bradenton is located in Florida's beautiful sub-tropical Gulf Coast area, about 40 miles south of Tampa, and is the largest city in Manatee County, with a population nearing 55,000, and while still growing, has managed to maintain its small-town charm.

Living in Bradenton means the beautiful beaches and warm clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico are close by, no matter where in town you reside.And with so many sunny days to enjoy, boating, fishing,swimming, and a myriad of outdoor activities can be participated in year-round.

Bradenton has long been known as headquarters of the fruit juice giant Tropicana, but many other companies are establishing a location here at a rapidly accelerating rate, which bodes well for the town's employment opportunities and overall economic health.

The Manatee School District oversees the Bradenton area elementary, middle and high schools, many of which are highly rated. The Gene Witt, Gilbert W. McNeil, Braden River Elementary Schools, and the Braden River High School, as well as the Carlos E. Haile Middle School have received high rankings on a comparison basis with all other schools in the U.S.

As we enter the summer months of 2006, the Bradenton real estate picture has begun to reflect what is happening in the market as the Fed puts upward pressures on the cost of borrowing. Sales of new and pre-owned properties have slowed and available inventory is on the rise However prices have been decreasing gradually, so it seems that fears of a bursting real estate bubble has not materialized. Buyers are confronted with a myriad of choices, but are simultaneously concerned with the increasing rise in interest rates. In this scenario, buyers who have managed to lock in rates and are pre-qualified, (not pre-approved), bring a powerful negotiating advantage to the bargaining table.

An example of MLS listings in Bradenton:

• Downstairs Condo – 2 bedroom – 2 bath – combined living/dining rooms – screened lanai – carpeting and new ceramic tile flooring – carport – heated community pool – spa/hot tub – tennis courts – asking $175,000
• Condo – 2 bedroom – 2 bath – partially furnished – kitchen/breakfast nook – new carpeting – glass-enclosed lanai – carport – asking $198,000
• 2 Level Townhome – 2 bedrooms – 2.5 baths – 1,080 sq. ft. – new carpeting – ceramic tile – community pool – bbq area – playground – tennis courts – asking $205,000
• Single Family Home – 3 bedrooms – 2 baths – 2,010 sq. ft. (living area) – family room – fireplace – tile and carpeting – patio – irrigation system – 2 car garage – enclosed lanai – asking $289,900
• Single Family Home – 4 bedroom – 2 bath – 2,000 sq. ft. (living area) – eat-in kitchen – tile/carpeting – formal dining room – family room – irrigation system – oversized 2 car garage – asking $320,000
• Single Family Home – 3 bedroom – 2 bath - 2,012 sq. ft. (living area) – eat-in remodeled kitchen – ceiling fans in bedrooms - fenced – irrigation system – fruit trees – carpeting/tile – 2 car garage – asking $299,900

Bradenton's emergence from small town to vibrant city is underway, and there are opportunities awaiting job seekers and homebuyers. Bradenton is a wonderful place for young families, so come on down and see for yourself.