One of the first questions homeowners ask me is:"What should I do before putting my home on the market?"It's a great question, and the answer often surprises people.After helping buyers and sellers throughout Venice, Englewood, North Port, Nokomis, Wellen Park, and surrounding Southwest Florida communities for more than 22 years, I've learned that preparing your home for sale isn't about spending the most money. It's about making smart improvements that help buyers see the value in your home from the moment they walk through the door.The goal isn't perfection. The goal is creating a home that buyers can easily picture themselves living in.First Impressions MatterWhether buyers first see your home online or pull into the driveway for a showing, first impressions are everything.Simple imp... 07/25/2026

When people see a "Sold" sign in front of a home, it looks like the journey is complete.What most people don't see is everything that happened behind the scenes to make that closing possible.As a REALTOR® serving Venice, Englewood, North Port, and Southwest Florida for more than 22 years, I know that some of the most important work happens after a property goes under contract. The sale of 55 N Starboard Drive in Venice, Florida was a perfect example.Like many real estate transactions, this one had its share of unexpected challenges.The home inspection revealed concerns that required careful negotiation between the buyer and seller. We worked through inspection findings, repair estimates, and multiple rounds of negotiations until both parties reached an agreement that allowed the transac... 07/25/2026

One of the first questions homeowners ask when they start thinking about selling is:"How much is my home really worth?"It's a simple question, but the answer is often more complicated than people realize.Many homeowners turn to Zillow or other online valuation tools for a quick estimate. While those tools can provide a starting point, they don't always tell the whole story, especially in markets like Venice, Englewood, North Port, and surrounding Suncoast communities.What Sellers Really Want to KnowWhen homeowners ask me what their home is worth, they're usually asking one of three questions:What can I realistically sell for?There is a big difference between what a home is listed for and what it actually sells for.A home's true market value is determined by what a willing buyer is willi... 06/11/2026

Colonial Acres Englewood Homes for Sale: Your Complete Local Neighborhood GuideFinding the perfect balance between coastal serenity and modern convenience is the ultimate goal for most Florida homebuyers. If you are currently browsing Colonial Acres Englewood homes for sale, you have likely realized that this neighborhood is one of Englewood’s best-kept secrets. As a local realtor who has spent years navigating the Sarasota and Charlotte County markets, I have seen firsthand how Colonial Acres offers a unique residential experience that stands out from the more crowded tourist hubs nearby.Englewood is a community that prides itself on its "old Florida" charm. While many parts of the Gulf Coast have been overtaken by high-rise developments and heavy traffic, Colonial Acres maintains a pe... 04/25/2026

Sarasota’s Luxury Real Estate Market in 2026 (So Far)Sarasota’s luxury real estate market is starting 2026 with strong demand, a more balanced pace, and a clear shift toward lifestyle‑driven, experience‑rich properties. High‑net‑worth buyers are still arriving from high‑tax and cold‑weather states, but they are taking more time and expecting more value and amenities for their money.Where the Luxury Market Stands After 2025Sarasota ended 2025 with robust luxury activity and a solid foundation for 2026. Closed single‑family sales county‑wide climbed to 8,183 in 2025 (up about 9 percent year over year), with roughly 41 percent of those sales paid in cash, underscoring the strength of affluent and investor demand. Inventory for single‑family homes tightened to about 3,211 listings (around 4... 01/26/2026

Aqua Lagoon Property Pending Sale Congrats to our Sellers on their Aqua Lagoon property going to contract after just nine days! Listed by the Naples Golf Guy Team, this stunning home is in a prime location in Bradenton, Florida. 5943 Cat Claw Ln. Bradenton, FL 34210 – $1,799,900 Just Listed: Luxurious 2024-Built Courtyard Pool Home in Aqua Lagoon Gated Community Discover your dream home in Aqua Lagoon, an exclusive gated community in Sarasota, FL. This newly constructed 2024 courtyard pool home offers over 4,000 square feet of elegant living space, featuring 4 spacious bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, a versatile den, and a loft. Designed for comfort and style, this luxurious residence epitomizes the best of Florida’s indoor-outdoor living. Florida Living at Its Finest: Courtyard Pool & Open Floo... 11/13/2024

Venice, FL 34292Wholesale Price: $395,9902 Beds / 2 Baths / 2 Garage1,898sf Living Area (per tax records) 6,773sf Lot Size2006 Year BuildCall/Text Mike @754-204-0069 07/09/2024

OPEN HOUSE Come & see this beautiful home located in the beautiful community of “Cypress Falls” in North Port. Saturday 4/20 and Sunday 4/21 from 12-4pm Hope to see you there! ! Call the Rhonda Gustitus Team with any questions! 941-426-4394 #openhouse #RGTeam #kellerwilliams #homesforsale 04/19/2024

OPEN HOUSE Come & see this beautiful villa located in North Venice. You’ll absolutely love this 55+ community “Curry Cove” Saturday 4/20 from 12-2pm Hope to see you there! ! Call the Rhonda Gustitus Team with any questions! 941-426-4394 #openhouse #RGTeam #kellerwilliams #homesforsale   04/19/2024

Welcome to your new slice of paradise in the exclusive 55+ Strathmore Riverside Villa community! Tucked away along the tranquil Deepwater Canal, this 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom "CANAL FRONT VILLA" is a true gem, promising an unparalleled lifestyle filled with luxury amenities and captivating views that will steal your heart from the moment you step inside.As you enter this meticulously designed villa, prepare to be enchanted by the serene ambiance and impeccable attention to detail, complete with a brand new roof! Upon crossing the threshold, breathtaking views of the glistening blue canal greet you, setting the stage for the luxurious lifestyle that awaits.Spanning nearly 1500 sq. ft., this home boasts an expansive "OPEN CONCEPT" great room floorplan that seamlessly blends style and comfort... 04/12/2024

OPEN HOUSE Come & see this beautiful home located in North Port . Saturday 4/13 from 12-2pm Hope to see you there! ! Call the Rhonda Gustitus Team with any questions! 941-426-4394 #openhouse #RGTeam #kellerwilliams #homesforsale 04/11/2024

Beautiful Curry Cove Villa, located in an exclusive 55+ gated community that offers not just a home, but a lifestyle filled with opportunity and tranquility!Nestled within this tranquil enclave, discover a meticulously upgraded 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom villa boasting a spacious 2-car screened garage, your haven of comfort and convenience!Prepare to be dazzled by the gourmet kitchen, where sleek granite countertops, pristine white wood cabinetry, and stainless-steel appliances create an ambiance of culinary delight. A new stainless faucet and microwave add a touch of contemporary elegance, while the updated electric panel box and plumbing overhead ensure seamless functionality.The expansive great room is adorned with soaring cathedral ceilings that exude a sense of grandeur. Entertain with ... 04/09/2024

Welcome to the epitome of lakeside luxury living! Nestled within the prestigious Gran Paradiso complex, this exquisite 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom gem is a true testament to elegance and comfort.Greeted by a meticulously crafted tile roof and adorned with decorative brick pavers, the curb appeal of this residence is nothing short of captivating. Towering palm trees, graceful oak trees, and an array of lush plants and shrubs paint a picturesque scene that sets the tone for what lies beyond.Step through the front door into a realm of sophistication. The heart of this home is a chef's dream, boasting 42-inch wood kitchen cabinets crowned with exquisite molding. Granite countertops elegantly complement the woodwork, creating a culinary space that seamlessly blends style and functionality. Stain... 03/22/2024

Introducing your new slice of paradise in the coveted "Renaissance at Wellen Park" community - welcome to your dream home in the heart of Wellen Park! This meticulously designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-car garage residence is a masterpiece of modern living, boasting every imaginable upgrade and nestled within a vibrant and meticulously manicured neighborhood.Inside, the home is a showcase of sophistication and style. Impeccably decorated, you'll find upgrades throughout, including wall paper accents, porcelain plank tile flooring, plantation shutters, and Monte Carlo ceiling fans that seamlessly blend form and function.The heart of the home is the gourmet kitchen, where rustic coastal light fixtures illuminate quartz countertops and upgraded stainless-steel appliances, including a stat... 03/21/2024

Welcome to paradise! Nestled in the heart of North Port, Florida, this fully furnished, three-bedroom, two-bath Windermere heated pool and spa home is a dream come true. From the moment you step inside this spacious 1810 square foot haven, you'll be enveloped in an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility.The journey begins in the inviting living room, where elegant plant shelves, crown molding, and vinyl plank flooring set the stage for comfort and style. With sliding doors leading out to the pool patio, indoor and outdoor living seamlessly merge, allowing you to bask in Florida's sunshine all year round.Prepare to unleash your culinary creativity in the well-appointed kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances and a generous breakfast bar perfect for whipping up delicious meals... 03/14/2024

Nestled within the welcoming community of Cedar Grove at the Woodlands lies a breathtaking two-story mini-estate, boasting five bedrooms plus a den, three and a half baths, and a three-car garage. With over 3,200 square feet of living space, this home offers an abundance of room for the entire family to spread out and enjoy.Upon stepping inside, prepare to be captivated by the tranquil ambiance and stunning views of the serene lake that greet you. From almost every room, you'll be treated to the picturesque sight of the shimmering waters, instantly instilling a sense of peace and relaxation.The great room is a space of elegance, featuring nine-foot ceilings, recessed lighting, and ample windows that flood the room with natural light. Rounded corners on all interior walls add a touch of ... 03/14/2024

Magnificent custom built WARM MINERAL SPRINGS 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage Pool & Spa home with almost 2300 sq. ft. of luxury living including an impressive Tile roof, 2 beautifully landscaped lots, all located on a peaceful quiet fresh water canal where the Manatees stop to bask in the warm waters! Just sit, relax and breathe in the peace & tranquility in your own peace of paradise. This home is built to last with impact windows & doors throughout! The home has mature green hedges that have grown over 10 feet tall, perfectly manicured, bordering the entire property along with wrought iron fencing. As you drive up to this mini estate home you’ll enjoy the double wide brick paver driveway & walkway leading you to the pillared front entry. Inside you will see soaring cathedral ceilings... 02/28/2024

Welcome to this BRAND NEW “2024” DUPLEX COMPLETELY FINISHED & MOVE-IN READY! These brand-new units are not just a home; it's a wise investment opportunity waiting! Crafted with precision and an eye for detail, each unit promises a lifestyle of comfort and style. As you approach this duplex, the first thing you'll notice is the meticulously paved driveway, a taste of the excellence that awaits inside. Step inside, and you'll find a haven of contemporary design and functionality. Each unit boasts 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, offering the perfect blend of space and intimacy. The kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring sleek granite countertops, pristine white cabinets, stainless steel appliances and a large breakfast bar, the ideal spot for morning conversations or casual meals. Adjacent to th... 02/19/2024

With almost 1600 sq, ft. of luxury living, this beautiful home offers a spacious living space with tall volume ceilings!The bright cheery kitchen offers raised panel cabinetry with crown molding, new microwave (2yr), plenty of counter space and vinyl plank tile flooring.Directly off the dining area is the covered Florida room with NEW vinyl insulated windows, doors and in addition, an outside raised patio deck overlooking the serene blue Lake & lighted spray fountain!Bring your pets! 2 pets of any size are allowed! Fees only $300. A quarter! Enjoy the heated community pool & clubhouse!The location is just 20 minutes to the gulf beaches and a short ride to Boca Grande! Also right next door is one of the most beautiful Golf Courses in Charlotte County which includes 99 holes! Shopping & r... 02/08/2024

OPEN HOUSE   Saturday, Feb. 10th from 11am-2pm (3759 Santana St. NP) Sunday, Feb. 11th from 1-3pm (2761 Rhumba Ter. NP)   Call the Rhonda Gustitus Team with any questions! 941-426-4394 #openhouse #RGTeam #kellerwilliams #homesforsale 02/08/2024