You probably would not allow your dentist to prepare your taxes, nor would you encourage you CPA to perform a root canal on a sore tooth.

For the full year 2011, property sales of members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors® jumped by 8.2 percent to 8,224, achieving the highest level since 2005. The surge in sales was accompanied by stabilization in the median sale prices, which now stand at $155,925 for single-family homes and $156,800 for condos over the full year, and have not fluctuated much for the past 12 months.

The following homes were under contract or sold on Longboat Key, Lido Key and Bird Key from Jan. 12-18…

Gardens of exotic plantings and 140 acres of wildlife preserve set the stage for this 2,764-square-foot, fully updated 3BD/2.5BA townhome positioned to capture sweeping bay views. New Bamboo wood floors, a two-sided fireplace, and walls of floor to ceiling windows are a few of the exceptional features of this home. An elevator services all three levels including the private master bedroom retreat all on its own on the top floor. Offered for sale $499,900 by Michelle Musto, Coldwell Banker, Longboat Key.

The following homes were under contract or sold on Longboat Key, Lido Key and Bird Key from Jan. 5-12

Downtown Sarasota is a cultural and entertainment hub and is the heart of Sarasota’s rich arts scene. The historic Sarasota Opera House is home to a nationally recognized opera company that attracts talent from around the world and hosts the renowned Sarasota Ballet. Next door is the Golden Apple Dinner Theatre that since 1971 has produced more than 300 plays and musicals. Walk one block and you’ll find the multiple stages of the Florida Studio Theatre, featuring full seasons of beloved classics and edgy new plays, along with improv comedy and live music in their cabaret.

The following homes were under contract or sold on Longboat Key, Lido Key and Bird Key from Dec. 29 to Jan. 4

“Safari Beach House” is the legendary Vanderbuilt/Whitney estate located directly on the Gulf of Mexico. Panoramic views of the gulf create your own private island paradise in this 4,403-square-foot, 3-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence. The cobblestone driveway leads to an open floor plan, spacious kitchen with adjoining butler’s kitchen and the large screened lanai with heated Infinity [...]

The following homes were under contract or sold on Longboat Key, Lido Key and Bird Key from Dec. 22-28

Gracious Florida living abounds in this 9,000-square-foot, Mediterranean-style estate, nestled on a private and lushly planted acre directly overlooking Sarasota Bay. The two-story foyer leads into a grand living room adorned with Italian Renaissance columns. A gourmet kitchen features state-of-the-art appliances and every convenience. Glass walls in the breakfast nook and family room open onto the spacious terrace.