Anna Maria Island property sales for the year ending June 30 are almost 50 percent greater than the year prior, with 268 total homes, condos and multifamily units sold compared with 182 for the year ending June 30, 2009, according to data supplied by Island Real Estate agent John Van Zandt. That’s a 47 percent increase in unit sales and demonstrates a healthy demand for inventory, which is now slightly more than 500 active listings in the three cities of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach and Bradenton Beach, Van Zandt said. And for the fourth straight month, the average price per-square-foot for condos sold on the Island during the same period is up nearly 15 percent, at $315 versus $277 a year ago. “The numbers represent pent-up demand for the vacation homes this Island offers, generally lower prices, and more flexible sellers than in recent years,” Van Zandt said. “Buyers also have shown confidence that their second homes can help pay a portion of their cost through strong rental income.”

For buyers, it’s still great news, especially when one considers month-to-month comparisons, Van Zandt said. For example, comparing June 2010 with June 2009, the average selling price per square foot for homes is now just $251 versus $284 a year earlier; for condos, it’s a similar story, $231 this year and $253 last year. Unit sales for June this year are off 11 percent, average price per square foot is a bit lower and tales of cautious behavior have local agents wondering what, if any, additional effect the gusher in the Gulf will have on sales and property values, Van Zandt said.This information is derived from the Mid-Florida Multiple Listing Service and is deemed to be accurate.