I used to live next door to this cute little cottage, so I can attest to its charm and authenticity. It’s more than 100 years old and an example of what most Sarasota homes were like back in those days. This is the kind of place where the town’s middle class lived. The rich had their bayfront mansions but the tradespeople, high school teachers, and plumbers lived in homes like these. In fact, when I lived next door 20 years ago it was owned by a plumber, and he was the best neighbor I ever had.

The home has been beautifully updated and remodeled in a sort of coastal beachy style. It has three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, and a detached two-car garage out back. The living area has been reconfigured so that it’s open concept. The kitchen has a farmhouse sink and quartz countertops.

The big change is the addition of a deck in the back yard, with a pergola for shade and a table for outdoor dining. Also check out the swing on the front porch and the white picket fence. My favorite touch is still there, I’m glad to report: the sailboat on the front screen door.

The home is located in a little neighborhood called Bungalow Hill. It’s just south of downtown, and just north of Southside Village. It’s full of similar homes and many people consider it the nicest place in town.

1744 Irving St. is priced at $669,000. For more info, call Keith Whitfield of Premier Sotheby’s at (941) 302-4256.