RASM is scrapping plans to build new and will renovate instead for a more cost-effective solution.

SARASOTA, Fla. (May 7, 2020) – The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) announced the purchase of the Centerstate Bank building located at 2901 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton. The building will be used as a member service center and conference center in Manatee County, in addition to the existing facility on Cattlemen Road in Sarasota.

“The REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee is excited to announce the purchase of the property located at 2901 Manatee Ave W.,” said RASM President David Clapp. “With this additional facility, we can fulfill our promise to serve members in Manatee County with a full-service member service center in their market, complete with classrooms, conference rooms, and our REALTOR® Store. It is our goal to push through with the design and renovation phases in order to make that promise a reality much quicker than anticipated because ‘Together We Win.'”

After the merger of the Manatee Association of REALTORS® and the Sarasota Association of REALTORS® in 2015, RASM’s leadership team began investigating opportunities for a new member facility in Manatee County. In 2017, RASM sold their North building located in Lakewood Ranch and in 2018, the Association purchased land on 3rd Avenue West with plans to build a new facility.

But after several challenges were presented in the process to build on the property, it became clear to RASM leaders that an alternative and more cost-effective plan would better serve the goals of the Association and its members.

Rather than build new, RASM will renovate the 7,500 sq ft. building at 2901 Manatee Ave. to provide a first-class North Member Service Center for members in Manatee County. The acquisition of the Centerstate Bank Building officially closed on May 6, 2020.

FAQ’s

Where is the purchased building located?

The Centerstate Bank building is located at 2901 Manatee Ave., W, Bradenton.

What is the history of the Centerstate Bank building?

Prior to 2007, the building was the main member facility of the Manatee Association of REALTORS® (MAR). Around that time, MAR relocated to Lakewood Ranch and sold the building to Centerstate Bank to be used as an operation center. The bank recently closed its operation center and was vacant at the time of RASM’s purchase.

Why is RASM purchasing this building?

To provide a first-class RASM North facility conveniently located to the largest concentration of RASM members in Manatee County. The facility will be a member service center with a REALTOR® Store and a state of the art conference facility for member education and events. RASM will continue to serve members in Sarasota at RASM South on Cattlemen Road.

What happened to the plans to build new on the 3rd Ave. West lot?

The 3rd Ave project was intended to be new construction on two assembled parcels of land. The project was complex due to a utility and pedestrian easement located in the center of the property and relocating the overhead power lines became unexpectedly complicated, caused significant delays, and costly, all while construction costs were rapidly rising. Our Executive Committee weighed the options and formed a Presidential Advisory Group (PAG) to investigate possible other properties during the delay. Fortunately, this building came on the market just as the PAG was looking. It was then decided that buying and renovating an existing building would save on time and cost. The previously purchased land is currently for sale.

What are our renovation plans for this building?

We are expecting to do extensive renovations to the building interior and exterior by engaging an architect to help us to design the building to meet the needs of our members and staff. The building will have a fresh, new look when it’s completed.

When is the building estimated to be ready for members to use?

We are hopeful to start renovations in 2020 and have it ready for members sometime in 2021.