The Sansovino: Gulf-Front Condo Living on Venice Island

by Hunt Brothers Realty

 

 

The Sansovino is an established Gulf-front condominium at 840 The Esplanade North on Venice Island in Venice, Florida. Built in 1974, the high-rise community contains approximately 60 residences and occupies a beachfront site overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and Venice Beach. Residents have access to the beach, a heated swimming pool, clubhouse, elevators, secured building access and covered parking. Most recent resale activity involves two-bedroom residences, while larger layouts and penthouses are also represented. Its combination of direct Gulf frontage and proximity to historic Downtown Venice makes The Sansovino a notable option for buyers comparing established Venice Island beachfront condominiums.

Quick Answers About The Sansovino on Venice Island

Where Is The Sansovino Located?

The Sansovino is located at 840 The Esplanade North, Venice, FL 34285. The building occupies a Gulf-front site on Venice Island near Venice Beach, Tarpon Center Drive and the northern portion of the island's coastal residential corridor.

Is The Sansovino Directly on the Gulf?

Yes. Current property records identify The Sansovino as Gulf-front and beachfront, with direct water and beach access. Many residences have expansive Gulf views, although the precise view varies by floor, unit position and orientation.

When Was The Sansovino Built?

The Sansovino was built in 1974. Buyers considering the building should review current association finances, reserves, insurance, structural documentation and completed or planned capital projects as part of condominium due diligence.

How Many Condos Are in The Sansovino?

Current community sources generally describe approximately 60 residences, including five penthouses. Public sources differ slightly on the exact unit and story count, so buyers needing precise building statistics should confirm them through the condominium association and recorded condominium documents.

Does The Sansovino Have a Pool?

Yes. The Sansovino has a heated community swimming pool in its Gulfside recreational area. Current records also document a renovated clubhouse and outdoor barbecue area.

Does The Sansovino Have Elevators?

Yes. Elevators are documented in current property records. Buyers with accessibility requirements should still verify the route from parking and building entrances to the individual residence and common amenities.

Are Pets Allowed at The Sansovino?

Current and recent property records consistently report that ordinary pets are not permitted. Buyers should verify the current written rules, while recognizing that legally required accommodations are separate from ordinary pet policies.

Can Sansovino Condos Be Rented?

Recent MLS records document a three-month minimum lease period. Additional restrictions involving rental frequency, ownership periods or association approval may apply, so buyers considering rental use should obtain the current governing documents before purchasing.

Where Is The Sansovino on Venice Island?

The Sansovino occupies a beachfront parcel at 840 The Esplanade North on the western side of Venice Island. The Gulf of Mexico and beach are immediately west of the property, while The Esplanade provides access toward Venice Beach, Tarpon Center Drive and the rest of the island.

The location places residents within the same northern Venice Island coastal corridor as several other established beachfront condominium buildings. Historic Downtown Venice is also accessible through the island street network, providing restaurants, shops, parks, cultural destinations and professional services without leaving Venice Island.

What Makes The Sansovino a True Gulf-Front Condominium?

The Sansovino occupies property directly along the Gulf shoreline rather than sitting several blocks inland or merely facing the beach from across a residential neighborhood. Current property records document beach frontage, Gulf frontage and beach access.

That distinction matters when comparing Venice Island condominiums. A Gulf-front building provides immediate access to the coastal environment, but it also introduces property-specific considerations involving salt exposure, wind, flood risk, insurance, exterior maintenance and long-term building upkeep.

Do Sansovino Condos Have Gulf Views?

Gulf views are one of The Sansovino's defining characteristics. Current 2026 listings document full Gulf and beach views, with higher-floor residences offering elevated perspectives across the shoreline.

For example, a 2026 eighth-floor sale documented sweeping Gulf views from a 1,487-square-foot residence. A first-floor elevated residence sold in August 2026 also featured Gulf and Venice Beach views, demonstrating that desirable coastal views are not limited to the highest floors.

The exact view from any residence should be evaluated individually because floor level, unit position, vegetation and building geometry can affect sightlines.

What Are Condos at The Sansovino Like?

Recent Sansovino sales demonstrate a range of condominium sizes within the building. Two-bedroom, two-bathroom residences are particularly well represented, while larger floor plans and penthouse residences provide additional options.

Current and recent 2026 examples include:

  • Unit 206, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and approximately 1,247 square feet
  • Unit 805, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and approximately 1,487 square feet
  • Unit 101, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and approximately 1,515 square feet

Secondary community records also document larger residences and penthouse layouts, with selected floor plans extending well beyond the size of the standard two-bedroom units.

What Interior Features Can Buyers Find?

Because The Sansovino was built in 1974 and residences have been individually renovated, interior condition varies substantially. Recent units demonstrate how extensively some owners have updated their homes.

Features represented in individual residences include:

  • Two-bedroom and selected larger floor plans
  • Two bathrooms in many standard residences
  • Enclosed or all-season lanais
  • Full Gulf views at selected residences
  • Updated kitchens and bathrooms
  • Open living and dining configurations
  • Walk-in closets
  • In-unit laundry at selected residences
  • Storm or impact-resistant window improvements at selected residences
  • Individual storage areas

These are examples from specific residences and should not be interpreted as standard features in every Sansovino condominium.

What Amenities Does The Sansovino Offer?

The Sansovino combines direct beachfront access with the common amenities expected of an established Gulf-front condominium building.

Current and recent property records document:

  • Direct Gulf and beach access
  • Heated community swimming pool
  • Clubhouse
  • Elevators
  • Secured or controlled building access
  • Outdoor barbecue area
  • Storage
  • Assigned or covered carport parking
  • Guest parking
  • Sidewalk connections to the surrounding Venice Island area

Current Unit 206 information specifically describes a renovated clubhouse, Gulfside pool and barbecue area. Buyers should verify the condition, operating hours and current rules for common facilities through the association.

How Much Are Condo Fees at The Sansovino?

A current 2026 listing for Unit 206 reports a condominium assessment of $3,200 quarterly, equivalent to approximately $1,067 per month or $12,800 annually when averaged over a full year.

Recent records show that assessments have increased. A 2026 Unit 305 transaction reported $3,000 quarterly, while a 2026 Unit 101 listing reported approximately $1,033 per month.

The current Unit 206 listing reports that its condominium assessment includes:

  • Cable television
  • Community pool expenses
  • Structure maintenance
  • Grounds maintenance
  • Management
  • Recreational facilities
  • Security
  • Sewer
  • Trash
  • Water

Other recent Sansovino records additionally identify common-area taxes, reserve funding, association insurance and pest control among included expenses. Buyers should use the current association budget and assessment schedule to determine the exact inclusions applicable at the time of purchase.

Are Pets Allowed at The Sansovino?

Current and recent Sansovino property records consistently report that ordinary pets are not permitted. This includes 2026 sales and listings as well as prior MLS records.

Anyone for whom animal occupancy is material should obtain the current written condominium rules before purchasing. Applicable rights involving service animals or other legally required accommodations are separate from ordinary pet policies and should be addressed through the appropriate legal and association processes.

Can You Rent a Condo at The Sansovino?

Current and recent MLS records document a three-month minimum lease period at The Sansovino. Lease restrictions and buyer or tenant approval requirements are also represented in property records.

Secondary community information reports additional limitations involving rental frequency and ownership duration before leasing. Because those provisions can change and were not established through the current MLS record alone, buyers should obtain the current declaration, rules and association guidance before purchasing with a rental strategy.

Rental income, tax treatment and legal compliance depend on the individual property and owner's circumstances. Prospective rental owners should verify association and governmental requirements and consult appropriate legal and tax professionals before making an investment decision.

Is The Sansovino a 55+ Condominium?

Recent Sansovino property records identify the building as not a senior community. Buyers should nevertheless review current governing documents for any occupancy provisions that are important to their purchase.

Does The Sansovino Have a CDD Fee?

Recent Sansovino property records report no Community Development District assessment. Buyers should still review the current property tax record and non-ad valorem assessments for the specific residence before relying on a no-CDD representation.

What Should Buyers Know About Flood Risk and Insurance?

The Sansovino's direct Gulf-front location makes flood, wind and insurance considerations particularly important. Current property data for Unit 206 reports FEMA Flood Zone AE, but buyers should verify the current designation and insurance implications for the specific residence and condominium property.

Condominium ownership can involve both association-level insurance and individual unit-owner coverage. The master policy may insure certain common or structural components, while the unit owner may need separate coverage for interior property, personal belongings, liability, loss assessments and other exposures.

Insurance availability, coverage, deductibles and premiums can vary substantially by building and residence. Buyers should obtain the current association insurance documents and property-specific quotes and review coverage with a qualified Florida insurance professional before making a purchasing decision.

What Should Buyers Know About a 1974 Gulf-Front Building?

An extensively renovated residence can look and function very differently from its original 1974 interior, but an interior remodel does not change the age of the condominium building itself. Buyers should therefore evaluate both the residence and the shared property.

Important building-level topics can include:

  • Structural inspection documentation
  • Reserve studies and reserve funding
  • Roof condition
  • Exterior wall and balcony maintenance
  • Elevator maintenance
  • Plumbing and electrical infrastructure
  • Pool and recreational facilities
  • Water intrusion or storm-related repairs
  • Association insurance
  • Completed capital projects
  • Planned projects or special assessments

Florida condominium structural and reserve requirements depend on building-specific facts and current law. Buyers should obtain the association's current inspection, engineering, reserve and financial documents and review technical findings with the appropriate qualified professionals.

What Condominium Documents Should Buyers Review?

A beachfront condominium purchase should include a careful review of the association's current documents rather than relying only on listing descriptions or historical fees.

Relevant materials can include:

  • Declaration of condominium
  • Articles and bylaws
  • Current rules and regulations
  • Current operating budget
  • Reserve information
  • Recent financial statements
  • Meeting minutes
  • Association insurance documents
  • Structural inspection and engineering reports
  • Special assessment information
  • Rental restrictions
  • Pet restrictions
  • Parking and storage assignments
  • Current estoppel information when appropriate

Questions involving condominium governance, title, contract rights, assessments or other legal matters should be reviewed with a qualified Florida real estate attorney or other appropriate legal professional when individualized guidance is needed.

What Is Near The Sansovino on Venice Island?

The Sansovino combines a beachfront address with access to the broader Venice Island environment. The building is north of the main Venice Beach area and convenient to the island's residential streets, parks and downtown district.

Venice Beach

The Sansovino has its own beachfront position, while the public Venice Beach facilities are nearby along The Esplanade. This gives residents direct shoreline access from the condominium while keeping public beach amenities close at hand.

Historic Downtown Venice

Downtown Venice offers restaurants, cafes, shops, parks, professional services, Venice Theatre and other cultural destinations. The Sansovino's island location allows residents to reach downtown without crossing to the mainland.

Venice Inlet and the Northern Island

Tarpon Center Drive leads toward the Venice Inlet area, marina-oriented destinations and the northern end of Venice Island. Access and conditions at individual coastal recreation areas can change after storms or construction, so current conditions should be checked before planning around a specific facility.

How Does The Sansovino Compare With Gulf Shores?

Both The Sansovino and Gulf Shores are established high-rise Gulf-front condominiums along The Esplanade North, but buyers will find differences in unit count, floor plans, association expenses and individual residence features.

Gulf Shores was developed around 1973 and contains 68 residences, primarily two-bedroom, two-bathroom layouts. The Sansovino dates to 1974 and contains approximately 60 residences, with standard two-bedroom layouts as well as larger residences and penthouses.

Both buildings warrant careful review of current fees, reserves, insurance, structural documentation and individual-unit condition.

How Does The Sansovino Compare With Imperial House?

Imperial House of Venice is another Gulf-front option on The Esplanade North. Built in 1970, Imperial House is a smaller six-story building with approximately 37 residences.

The Sansovino provides a taller high-rise environment with approximately 60 residences and penthouse options. Buyers deciding between the two may want to compare preferred floor level, residence size, view, building scale, current assessments and accessibility.

How Does The Sansovino Compare With Gulf Horizons and Venice Sands?

Venice Island provides several established high-rise beachfront options, so buyers do not have to evaluate The Sansovino in isolation.

Gulf Horizons is a 10-story beachfront building at 555 The Esplanade North dating to 1970. Venice Sands is an 11-story Gulf-front condominium at 633 Alhambra Road, also dating to 1970.

Community General Setting Notable Characteristics
The Sansovino Direct Gulf-front high-rise Approximately 60 residences, penthouses, pool, clubhouse, elevators and covered parking
Gulf Shores Direct Gulf-front high-rise 68 residences, consistent two-bedroom layouts, pool and elevators
Imperial House Direct Gulf-front mid-rise Approximately 37 residences, six-story scale and heated pool
Gulf Horizons Direct Gulf-front high-rise Established 1970 building with pool and Gulf views
Venice Sands Direct Gulf-front high-rise 78 residences, pool, clubroom and three-month rental minimum reported by its association

The strongest comparison is between specific available residences and current association records. View, floor plan, renovation quality, accessibility, assessment level, reserves and insurance can matter more than small differences in building age.

What Should Buyers Inspect at The Sansovino?

Buyers should evaluate both the individual residence and the larger condominium property.

At the unit level, relevant inspection items can include:

  • HVAC age and condition
  • Electrical components
  • Plumbing
  • Windows and exterior doors
  • Storm protection
  • Moisture history
  • Lanai or balcony components assigned to the unit
  • Renovation permits when applicable

At the building level, buyers should investigate the association's responsibility for structural components, roof, exterior walls, elevators, common plumbing, electrical systems, pool, parking structures and other shared facilities.

Inspection and engineering findings should be evaluated with the appropriate licensed home inspector, contractor, structural engineer or other qualified professional before a buyer makes a property-specific decision.

What Should Buyers Verify Before Purchasing at The Sansovino?

A Gulf-front condominium purchase involves more than comparing price and square footage. Before purchasing at The Sansovino, buyers should verify:

  • Current quarterly condominium assessment
  • Exactly what the assessment includes
  • Reserve funding and current reserve documentation
  • Approved or proposed special assessments
  • Recent association meeting minutes
  • Structural inspection and engineering information
  • Association master insurance
  • Individual unit insurance costs
  • Current flood information
  • Rental restrictions
  • Pet restrictions
  • Buyer approval procedures
  • Parking and storage rights
  • Condition of the individual residence
  • Total expected annual ownership cost

Who Might Consider The Sansovino?

The Sansovino may be worth comparing for buyers whose priorities include:

  • Direct Gulf-front condominium ownership
  • Beach access from the condominium property
  • Gulf views
  • A heated community pool
  • Elevator access
  • Secured building access
  • Covered parking
  • Two-bedroom floor plans
  • Larger residence and penthouse possibilities
  • An established high-rise rather than a low-rise coastal building
  • Convenient access to Downtown Venice and other Venice Island destinations

The Sansovino may be less aligned with buyers who require newer construction, ordinary pet ownership, minimal condominium fees or limited exposure to the insurance, maintenance and reserve considerations associated with an established Gulf-front high-rise.

Is The Sansovino Worth Considering?

The Sansovino combines several characteristics that define classic Venice Island condominium living: direct Gulf frontage, elevated water views, beach access, a heated pool and convenient access to the island's downtown and recreational destinations.

Its approximately 60 residences also create a different environment from both smaller low-rise beachfront properties and much larger resort-style condominium developments. Buyers can find standard two-bedroom residences as well as larger layouts and penthouse options.

The location, however, should be evaluated together with the financial and physical condition of the condominium. Current fees, reserves, structural documentation, insurance, flood exposure, planned projects, rental restrictions and the condition of the individual residence can materially affect whether a particular Sansovino condo is a suitable purchase.

Explore Venice Island Condos With Hunt Brothers Realty

Hunt Brothers Realty can help buyers compare The Sansovino with other Venice Island condominiums based on beachfront position, Gulf views, floor plans, association expenses, building condition, insurance considerations and current availability.

Explore Gulf Shores, compare the smaller Imperial House of Venice, review Gulf Horizons, or learn about Venice Sands.

You can also explore Florida Gulf Coast communities or contact Hunt Brothers Realty to discuss current Venice Island condominium opportunities.

This article provides general real estate and educational information only and is not individualized legal, financial, tax, insurance, lending, inspection, engineering, construction, title, condominium association or other professional advice. Condominium assessments, reserves, special assessments, insurance, structural conditions, flood information, rental restrictions, pet rules, financing eligibility and individual-unit features can change or vary. Buyers should obtain current association and property-specific information and consult the appropriate licensed real estate professional, condominium association, mortgage lender, insurance agent, home inspector, contractor, structural engineer, Florida real estate attorney, tax professional, title professional or other qualified professional before making decisions requiring individualized guidance.

Sources

Contact Hunt Brothers Realty

Hunt Brothers Realty

46 N. Washington Blvd, Ste 3, Sarasota, FL 34236

Phone: (941) 388-7017

Email: info@huntbrothersrealty.com

Website: HuntBrothersRealty.com

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