Florida housing market at inflection point as summer approaches, economist says

Florida’s housing market is entering a period where the next several months could help determine whether conditions stabilize or soften later in 2026, according to Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor.
Read MoreFed minutes point to longer mortgage-rate uncertainty

Federal Reserve officials said rate hikes could still be considered if inflation stays high, adding uncertainty for buyers and sellers hoping for lower mortgage rates.
Read MoreAgent recruiting activity rises sharply in early 2026

Agent recruiting activity accelerated in the first quarter of 2026 as brokerages competed more aggressively for talent after a slower 2025, according to a new industry report.
Read MoreFannie Mae: Rates likely to remain elevated longer than expected

Mortgage rates could remain near 6.3% through much of 2026, a forecast that could continue shaping affordability, inventory and buyer demand. Local market conditions and negotiating trends remain critical as inventory slowly improves.
Read MoreFlorida housing inventory near pre-pandemic norms, economist says

Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O'Connor says statewide inventory levels resemble the 2014-2020 period far more than the post-2008 foreclosure crisis, with single-family supply just 7% above April 2019 levels.
Read MoreRealtors should rethink captions as social search changes

As social platforms scan captions, video audio and on-screen text, Realtors should use clearer keywords and more specific hashtags to help buyers and sellers find their posts.
Read MoreFlorida too hot to handle? Think again

Hot, yes. Exodus? Not yet. New research from Florida Atlantic University finds that extreme temperatures aren't pushing residents out of Florida or other Sun Belt states.
Read MoreSurvey: First-time buyers remain optimistic despite affordability hurdles

Many first-time homebuyers still plan to purchase homes despite affordability challenges, with buyers increasingly willing to compromise on location, size and financing strategies to enter the market.
Read MoreRising condo sales signal opportunity as Florida market stabilizes

Florida condo and townhouse sales rose 7% year over year in April, with pending sales up nearly 15%, giving agents new tools to re-engage affordability-focused buyers statewide.
Read MoreFlorida lawmakers support housing funding priorities in 2026 special session

House and Senate negotiators remain aligned on $50 million for Hometown Heroes and full SHIP and SAIL appropriations as budget talks continue.
Read MoreFlorida pending sales surge points to stronger months ahead

New pending sales of single-family homes in Florida rose 8% year over year in April, a sharp increase that Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor said could signal continued closed-sales growth into May and June
Read MoreFlorida cities lead startup ranking

Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, Hialeah, St. Petersburg and Miami ranked in the top 10 for startups in a new WalletHub analysis of 100 large U.S. cities.
Read MoreFlorida’s insurance overhaul is beginning to reshape the market

Litigation drops, insurers cut rates and more companies enter Florida, easing insurance costs and improving affordability and market stability.
Read MoreMore young buyers rely on down payment help

A growing share of younger buyers is relying on family help, gifts and assistance programs to buy homes, highlighting how affordability pressures are reshaping the path to homeownership.
Read MoreFlorida home sales rise again in April

Florida’s housing market posted its eighth straight month of year-over-year closed sales gains, with condo and townhouse activity showing particular strength.
Read MoreStudy finds home affordability improving in several Florida metros

A new ConsumerAffairs analysis found affordability rankings improved in several Florida housing markets, including Jacksonville, Ocala and Orlando, though high-income thresholds remain in Naples and Miami.
Read MoreMortgage rates ease slightly after two weeks of increases

Rates edged lower this week after rising the previous two weeks, with the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dipping to 6.36% and the 15-year fixed rate easing to 5.71%, according to Freddie Mac. The slight decline may help some buyers revisit affordability calculations heading into the summer mark
Read MoreUsing personality to boost listing videos

Creative, personality-driven listing videos are helping agents stand out, build recognizable brands and turn views into listings and leads. A Naples-area Realtor highlighted by NAR shows how.
Read MoreChild care costs add pressure for Florida buyers

A Realtor.com report found child care costs are adding to affordability challenges for families already weighing home prices, rents, insurance and other expenses.
Read MoreStudy: Buying may outpace renting in Florida

A 10-year rent-vs.-buy analysis found projected homeowner equity topped renter investment returns in five Florida markets, led by Miami.
Read More
Categories
Recent Posts










