For many decades, the waterfront development of Sarasota mostly consisted of low-rise condominiums where the best views of the Gulf of Mexico were reserved to the lucky owners of upper level units and penthouses. Things started to change in the 1980s with residential projects such as Bay Plaza in Downtown Sarasota, an imposing high-rise condominium tower that offers breathtaking views of the bay and of the Sarasota Keys.

Located on Gulfstream Avenue and just west of the Laurel Park district, Bay Plaza is known as one of the most prestigious addresses in Downtown Sarasota. If you want to live in the heart of the arts district and still be able to ride your bike over the Ringling Causeway to the beach, Bay Plaza is where you want to live.

Most of the units in Bay Plaza enjoy sweeping waterfront views. Such is the case with unit number 302, which was listed for $985K in mid-2017. This is a three-bedroom and three-bathroom property with more than 2,000 square feet of living space; this particular unit enjoys three balconies and a large den with enough room to be transformed into an additional guest suite. The interior decor is modern and the floors feature a mixture of natural hardwood and fine ceramic tile. High-end appliances are installed in the gourmet kitchen, and crown molding decorates the entire unit.

Despite the ups and downs of the Southwest Florida real estate market in recent years, Bay Plaza has managed to offer homeowners constant property appreciation. The amenities certainly help: residents and their guests enjoy 24/7 security, concierge service, a heated swimming pool, spa, fitness center, media lounge, and private parking.

Living in Bay Plaza means that you could easily walk down for lunch at Marina Jack every day. The scenic Bayfront Park is your backyard, and the Whole Foods at Five Points is your neighborhood supermarket.