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Real estate, community, and industry insight without the corporate fluff. I had three combat deployments to include OEF in Afghanistan.

Market updates, local highlights, tech, behind-the-scenes moments, and honest conversations to keep agents, buyers, sellers, and the community connected and informed. Professional Affiliations

Member, National Association of REALTORS®
Member, Florida Association of REALTORS®
Member, REALTORS® Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM)
Personal Background

I grew up in Northwest Bradenton attending Sea Breeze Elementary, Sugg Middle School and Manatee High School (class of 2006). After graduating high school I joined the United States Marine Corps where I served over 9 years as an Intelligence Analyst. During my time with the Marine Corps I got to see the world visiting over 25 countries on all continents except South America and Antarctica. The highlight of my career was conducting Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) missions outside the coast of Somalia where we took down the pirated vessel M/V Magellan Star in September of 2010. During this mission we rescued 11 crew members and captured 9 pirates. I spent the majority of my career stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA which is just North of San Diego, CA. I returned to Bradenton in July of 2015 to be close to my family and begin my career in real estate. Professional Style

Being in the military opened my eyes to the real estate industry since I moved around a lot. This was my first real experience in the industry and I had great success buying, remodeling and selling my personal homes each move. This success is what made me want to start a career in real estate. My professional demeanor is one of confidence, knowledge, and dedication to results. My top priority is going beyond the expected to deliver an exceptional and fully satisfying one-stop, full-service real estate experience for home buyers and sellers. I will work with you throughout your entire home search or sale process, and assist in finalizing the details. I Know Your Neighborhood

Growing up in the Manatee-Sarasota area has its advantages and gives me great knowledge of the local real estate market. Let me help you find your perfect home in our area and/or sell your current home as you move on to your next adventure. With Sarasota-Bradenton being the #1 real estate market in Florida, now is the time to buy or sell!

10/23/2026

🐢 SEA TURTLE SEASON ISN'T OVER YET!

Living along Florida's Gulf Coast comes with some pretty special neighbors!

Sea turtle nesting season continues through October 31 along Sarasota and Manatee beaches.

Here are three simple ways to help protect them:

💡 LIGHTS OUT: Turn off or shield lights visible from the beach after dark.

🏖️ CLEAR THE SAND: Remove beach furniture, fill holes, and pick up trash.

🐢 GIVE THEM SPACE: Stay away from marked nests and hatchlings. Avoid flashlights on the beach.

Our beaches are one of the things that make living here so special. Let's do our part to protect them!

10/22/2026

🌴 WEEKEND PLANS? KEEP IT LOCAL!

One of the best things about living in Sarasota-Manatee is there's always something happening!

Here are three local events worth checking out this weekend:

🎃 FRIDAY, OCT. 23
Haunted Trail + Bark-o-Ween at Arlington Park in Sarasota. 4–7 PM. FREE!

🎨 SATURDAY, OCT. 24
St. Armands Circle Fall Art & Craft Show. Enjoy local art, shopping, and coastal charm!

🛍️ SUNDAY, OCT. 25
Farmers' Market at Waterside Place in Lakewood Ranch. 10 AM–2 PM. Over 100 local vendors!

Whether you're new to the area or have lived here for years, there's always something to explore.

Get out, support local businesses, and enjoy the community we call home!

10/20/2026

🏡 HOME APPRAISALS ARE GETTING A MAJOR UPDATE!

Starting November 2, 2026, the real estate industry begins another phase of transitioning to a new residential appraisal reporting format called UAD 3.6.

So what does this mean for buyers, sellers, and agents?

🔹 More Detail: Appraisal reports will include more structured information about property conditions, improvements, and features.

🔹 Same Valuation Process: The new format changes how information is reported, not how appraisers determine market value.

🔹 Better Preparation: Agents and lenders should communicate early to help keep transactions moving smoothly.

Approved lender exceptions and transition periods may apply.

MY TAKE AS A BROKER:

Real estate is constantly evolving, and staying educated is part of providing exceptional service.

The best agents don't just keep up with industry changes. They stay ahead of them.

10/19/2026

THE RENOVATION LOOKS GREAT. BUT WAS IT PERMITTED? 🏡

Here's something I wish more homebuyers knew before falling in love with a beautifully renovated property.

That gorgeous new kitchen?
The enclosed lanai?
The new roof or impact windows?

They might look fantastic.

But there's another question buyers should be asking.

WAS THE WORK PROPERLY PERMITTED AND FINALIZED?

Here's something important to understand.

Just because a contractor finished the work doesn't necessarily mean the permit was closed out.

And just because a home looks beautiful doesn't mean every improvement was completed according to the applicable building requirements.

🔎 THREE THINGS I ENCOURAGE BUYERS TO CHECK:

1️⃣ SEARCH THE PERMIT HISTORY

Both Sarasota and Manatee counties offer online tools to research building permits.

You can typically search using the property address, parcel information, or permit number.

Remember, properties within city limits may fall under a separate permitting department.

2️⃣ LOOK BEYOND WHETHER A PERMIT EXISTS

A permit being issued isn't necessarily the end of the process.

Check whether required inspections were completed and whether the permit received final approval.

Open, expired, or unfinished permits deserve additional questions.

3️⃣ ASK ABOUT MAJOR IMPROVEMENTS

If the seller recently replaced the roof, enclosed a patio, remodeled extensively, or completed other major work, ask about the permits and final inspections where required.

Not every improvement requires a permit, and older records aren't always available online.

If something doesn't show up, that doesn't automatically mean the work was unpermitted.

It means it's worth asking questions.

💡 HERE'S MY TAKE AS A BROKER:

Buying a home isn't just about what you can see.

It's also about understanding what you're purchasing.

A fresh coat of paint and beautiful finishes can make a great first impression.

But documentation, inspections, and proper due diligence matter just as much.

And for my fellow real estate professionals, this is another opportunity to bring real value to your clients.

Don't just show them the upgrades.

Help them understand the history behind those upgrades.

Because a beautiful renovation is nice.

A beautiful renovation with the proper documentation is even better.

10/16/2026

FLORIDA'S DROUGHT HAS IMPROVED DRAMATICALLY! 🌧️🌴

Remember how dry Florida was earlier this year?

Back in May, large portions of our state were dealing with severe and extreme drought. Lawns were struggling, lakes were low, and water restrictions became part of everyday life.

Well, here's some encouraging news!

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor, released October 15, shows a dramatic improvement across Florida.

🌧️ Extreme drought has disappeared statewide.

💧 Severe drought has shrunk considerably.

🌴 Much of Florida is now experiencing less serious drought conditions, or no drought classification at all.

And here's something especially interesting for Sarasota-Manatee.

The Peace River regional water reservoir, which had fallen to roughly 40% capacity earlier this year, is now FULL after recent rainfall.

That's a huge turnaround for an important part of our region's drinking water supply.

BUT THERE'S A CATCH. ⚠️

Even with all this improvement, our local drought isn't completely over.

Parts of Sarasota and Manatee counties remain in drought, and the Southwest Florida Water Management District has extended its one-day-per-week watering restrictions through March 31, 2027.

So what does that mean for homeowners?

✅ Continue following your assigned irrigation schedule.
✅ Check for leaks and unnecessary watering.
✅ Remember that full reservoirs don't automatically mean drought restrictions are lifted.

As we move into Florida's typically drier months, protecting our water supply still matters.

It's great to finally see some positive environmental news after such a difficult start to the year.

A healthier water supply benefits our homes, landscapes, wildlife, and the communities we call home.

10/16/2026

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING FUN TO DO WITH THE KIDS TODAY? 🎃👻

Here's a little local knowledge for my Sarasota-Manatee families!

Manatee County's annual GOBLIN GATHERING is happening TODAY, and it's a great opportunity to get the kids dressed up and enjoy some early Halloween fun!

📍 G.T. Bray 51st Street Park
2910 51st Street W, Bradenton

📅 Friday, October 16
⏰ 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

🎃 HERE'S WHAT'S HAPPENING:

🍬 Trick-or-treating with local businesses
🎃 Costume contests
🚜 Hayrides
🐐 Petting zoo
🎈 Inflatable attractions
📸 Halloween photo opportunities

And don't forget those costumes!

Costume contest registration begins at 4 PM, with judging starting at 6 PM.

One thing I love about living in Sarasota-Manatee is how many community events we have throughout the year.

From local festivals and farmers markets to neighborhood celebrations and family activities, there's always something happening around us.

And sometimes those smaller community events are what make living here so special.

As a real estate broker, I spend a lot of time talking about homes, neighborhoods, and market conditions.

But there's another side of real estate that's just as important.

THE COMMUNITY YOU GET TO ENJOY AFTER YOU MOVE IN.

Whether you've lived here your entire life or just recently moved to Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Parrish, or Sarasota, get out and enjoy what our area has to offer!

And if you're heading to Goblin Gathering today, let me know!

What's your favorite local fall tradition? 🎃👇

10/15/2026

FLORIDA HOMEOWNERS: YOU COULD GET UP TO $500 BACK! 🏡💰

Planning to upgrade your windows or doors?

Here's a Florida homeowner benefit that might have slipped under your radar.

A new state program that took effect July 1, 2026, allows eligible homeowners to receive a refund of up to $500 in sales tax paid on qualifying home-hardening products.

And YES, certain condominium owners can qualify too!

WHAT QUALIFIES?

✅ Impact-resistant windows
✅ Impact-resistant exterior doors
✅ Impact-resistant garage doors

But there's a catch. Not every homeowner or every product qualifies.

🏡 HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

1️⃣ HOMESTEAD REQUIRED

The property must have a Florida Homestead Exemption.

2️⃣ PROPERTY VALUE LIMIT

The property's just (market) value must be $700,000 or less.

3️⃣ PURCHASE DATES MATTER

Qualifying products must be purchased between July 1, 2026, and June 30, 2029.

4️⃣ YOU HAVE TO APPLY

This isn't an automatic discount at checkout.

You pay the sales tax first, then apply to the Florida Department of Revenue for a refund of the eligible tax paid, up to $500.

5️⃣ KEEP YOUR RECEIPTS!

You'll need documentation showing the Florida sales tax paid on the qualifying products.

And here's something important:

If your contractor purchased the windows or doors, you may still qualify. You'll need documentation showing the sales tax paid on those products.

The application uses Florida Department of Revenue Forms DR-26S and DR-26HH.

The deadline to apply is September 30, 2029.

💡 WHY AM I SHARING THIS?

Because homeownership is expensive enough.

Between insurance, maintenance, property taxes and improvements, every opportunity to save matters.

And here in Sarasota-Manatee, impact-resistant windows and doors are more than just a cosmetic upgrade.

They can be an important part of protecting your home from Florida's severe weather.

If you're already considering these improvements, it's worth checking whether you qualify before starting your project.

A little research could put up to $500 back in your pocket.

Know someone planning to replace their windows or doors?

SHARE THIS WITH THEM!

10/13/2026

ONE EMAIL COULD COST YOU YOUR DOWN PAYMENT. 🏡🚨

Imagine spending months searching for the perfect home.

You finally find it.

Your offer gets accepted.
Inspections are complete.
Your mortgage is approved.

And then, just days before closing, you receive an email with instructions for wiring your money.

Everything looks legitimate.

The company name.
The email signature.
Even the conversation history.

But what if that email wasn't actually from your title company?

⚠️ THIS IS REAL ESTATE WIRE FRAUD.

Criminals can impersonate agents, lenders, and title companies to trick buyers into sending their closing funds to fraudulent accounts.

And the problem is bigger than many people realize.

According to the FBI, Americans lost approximately $275 MILLION to real estate-related fraud in 2025.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, so here's a reminder I want every buyer to remember.

🔒 BEFORE YOU WIRE MONEY:

✅ CALL YOUR TITLE COMPANY.

Use a phone number you independently verified—not one provided in the email containing the instructions.

✅ VERIFY THE ACCOUNT INFORMATION.

Confirm the recipient's name, routing number, and account number directly with the closing company.

✅ QUESTION LAST-MINUTE CHANGES.

If someone suddenly tells you the wiring instructions have changed, STOP.

Verify everything before sending a dollar.

✅ ACT IMMEDIATELY IF SOMETHING GOES WRONG.

Contact your bank right away to request a wire recall and report suspected fraud to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.

And here's something important for my fellow real estate professionals.

Protecting our clients doesn't stop at negotiating contracts, scheduling inspections, or getting to the closing table.

It also means educating them about the risks they may never see coming.

Whether you're buying a $250,000 home or a $2.5 million home here in Sarasota-Manatee, the same rule applies:

NEVER trust wiring instructions based on an email alone.

A two-minute phone call could protect a lifetime of savings.

10/08/2026

THE SELLER’S PROPERTY TAX BILL ISN’T YOUR PROPERTY TAX BILL! 🏡💰

Here’s something every Florida homebuyer should understand BEFORE purchasing a home.

You find the perfect house.

The listing shows annual property taxes of $3,500.

Great, right?

Well… not necessarily.

That number reflects what the CURRENT owner is paying, and it may look very different from what YOU will pay after purchasing the property.

Here’s why. 👇

🏡 HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION

Florida homeowners who qualify for Homestead Exemption receive certain property tax benefits.

📉 SAVE OUR HOMES

Florida’s Save Our Homes benefit limits annual increases in assessed value for qualifying homesteaded properties.

Someone who has owned their home for 15 years may have a significantly lower assessed value than its current market value.

🔄 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU BUY?

The previous owner's exemptions and assessment limitations generally don't transfer to you.

The property's assessed value may be adjusted to current market value for the following tax year.

That means the tax bill could change significantly.

💡 BUT THERE'S GOOD NEWS!

If you're moving from another Florida homesteaded property, you may qualify for PORTABILITY.

This allows eligible homeowners to transfer up to $500,000 of their accumulated Save Our Homes assessment benefit to a new homestead.

That's a reduction in assessed value—not a $500,000 tax credit or cash payment.

📍 MY ADVICE FOR SARASOTA-MANATEE BUYERS:

Before making an offer, use the county property appraiser's tax estimator.

Consider your anticipated purchase price, potential exemptions, and portability eligibility.

And make sure your lender is using a realistic tax estimate when calculating your future monthly payment.

Because buying a home isn't just about what you can afford at closing.

It's about understanding what it will cost to OWN it.

A good real estate professional should help you understand both.

10/07/2026

WHAT’S NEW AROUND LAKEWOOD RANCH? 🌴🍽️🛍️

If it feels like there’s something new opening every time you drive around Lakewood Ranch and UTC… you’re not imagining it.

Here are a few additions worth having on your radar:

🌯 CHIPOTLE — NORTHCHASE CENTER

The newest Chipotle opened September 29 at Northchase Center on SR 64.

And there’s actually something unique about this one—it became Chipotle’s 1,500th location with a “Chipotlane,” their drive-thru pickup lane for digital orders.

🛋️ IKEA SARASOTA — UTC

IKEA announced its new Sarasota location at UTC—a roughly 48,000-square-foot store designed to bring a smaller-format IKEA experience to our area.

Plans include more than 5,000 products on display, thousands of items available to take home immediately, design-planning services and, yes… Swedish food. 🇸🇪

🥟 HAWKERS ASIAN STREET FOOD — UTC WEST DISTRICT

Another one I’m excited to see.

Hawkers is taking over the former JPan space on Cattlemen Road and bringing its Asian street-food concept to UTC.

Even cooler: Sarasota is expected to get Hawkers’ FIRST street-food sweet shop concept.

An official opening date hasn't been announced yet.

🍺 DELANY’S PUBLIC HOUSE — LAKEWOOD RANCH MAIN STREET

If you haven’t been down Main Street lately, Delany’s Public House is now open in the former McGrath’s location.

It’s an Irish pub and restaurant with lunch, dinner, a covered patio and regular live music—another new option right in the heart of Lakewood Ranch.

And this is exactly why I want to start sharing more posts like this.

Real estate isn't only about home prices and interest rates.

New restaurants.
New shopping.
New entertainment.
New services.

Those things help shape how a community grows and what it actually feels like to live there.

Lakewood Ranch keeps changing—and I’ll keep you updated on what’s coming next.

What new opening are YOU most excited about? 👇

Address

Lakewood Ranches, FL
34202

Telephone

+19415184496

Website

http://www.VinnieVinopal.com/

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