Best area for single artsy woman relocating (Sarasota, Bradenton: rentals, house)

[dreamumbria]

After a year or so of research to which area in Florida to move to , I have narrowed the search to the Sarasota/Venice areas,and receiving a job offer kind, of cemented my decision.and can start towards the end of summer. I am a young 50 something,and like the vibe of Venice,for its walkability,riding a bike and seems dog friendly.I am open to any other areas that might have a small town feel.Along with interior design,I would like to know the best route to go in the area for a estate care taking position, for the last 6 years I have been taking care of a home on 30 acres at my current location,and have a cottage on the property.All and any info is most appreciated.

[SoFLGal]

I have a current client who was looking for the exact same thing as you. She decided to start out renting for a few months and I think we've finally found her a place. When she first started out she loved the vibe of Nokomis. The drum circle, laid back lifestyle, Evergreen Vegan Cafe, etc Baypoint Park in Nokomis was her top pick. It's got a pretty funky vibe and its within biking distance to the beach. I would suggest you check out this area.

After exploring from Sarasota down to Punta Gorda she then switched to Little Gasparila Island as a top choice. It's only assessable by boat but it absolutly gorgeous. Kind of reminds me of Costa Rica. It's very, very laid back, most homes are a five min walk to the beach (if that) and the prices are suprisingly affordable. She's been contiplating making an offer on a home out there and ultimately decided that the hassle of taking a boat to and from the mainland would just be too inconvenient.

She has also been exploring the Englewood area. She loves the small, quaint, artsy downtown area. She loves the farmers market. She loves the small town feel. We are going to view a home she likes for a second time tomorrow and she's leaning towards making an offer. It's not as busy as the Venice or Nokokis areas. It's not as remote and inconvenient as Little Gasparilla Island. I guess you could say it's just perfect for my new artsy friend

Good luck with your search

[dreamumbria]

Thanks so much,I am staying in Nokomis, finishing a design job for people up north so I have been at their house for a week at the Inlets,not my style at all, and I would like to rent or care take a property, have excellent references.I am leaving tomorrow, on my trip I did go to Englewood, did not make it to Little Gasparilla.I will be working in the Sarasota area southside.Please any and all suggestions welcomed.I thought to move in the summer time for I have obligations till then,also any recommendations for finding house care taking position

[Frida7]

My kids and I lived in Englewood in the early 2000s, and that's when I started painting. The whole area is great for artists. Its one of the many reasons that I love living here! There's the Village of the arts in Bradenton, an artist community where artists live and work which holds monthly art walks for the public. The Sarasota youth opera holds an annual charity event in which artists donate some work to be sold. There are so many galleries and artsy/fine arts fairs. You're going to love it here, wherever you decide on.

[dreamumbria]

Thanks for reply.How are people going about finding year round rentals.I understand and have lived in seasonal places(Cape Cod),how does the average working person in this area find year round rentals.Being from out of state,I thought to start the search process in June for a move come August,thinking perhaps good time of year before the onset of seasonal renters,any thoughts....
also I would be open to any realtors for some input on estates looking for experienced caretaker