High-End Real Estate Sales Accelerate

That is the word from area real estate brokers who report that sales on homes valued at $1 million and higher are humming during the hot summer, often a time when the market cools. (For a peek at some of these millionaire homes on the market, see the accompanying slide show, or visit Zillow, Patch's real estate partner.)

According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, 56 homes priced at $1 million and above sold in July in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte counties. That is 124 percent higher than in July 2012. The well-heeled buyers include European investors and elite athletes training at IMG Academy in Bradenton.