Renewed momentum anticipated in 2026 Florida housing market
Florida’s housing market cooled in 2025, but easing mortgage rates, steady population growth and a rebound in international buying activity are laying the groundwork for renewed momentum in 2026, according to Florida Realtors. The state’s largest real estate trade association said market conditions softened over the past year, giving buyers more leverage, while pointing to early indicators of stabilization that could lead to modest price growth next year. [Source: Gulfshore Business]
Canadian snowbirds still want out of Florida — But they’re struggling to sell their homes
Some Canadian snowbirds who flocked to South Florida for the balmy weather are starting to feel frozen out amid the ongoing tariff dispute with the United States. And some of those who have put down roots in Florida are struggling to offload their properties. In 2025, Canada's oldest real estate company, Royal LePage, found that 54% of Canadians surveyed were considering selling their stateside homes within the next year, with the main reason being the current political administration. More from Realtor.com and CBC.
South Florida real estate is a buyer’s market. That may not last long
It’s a buyer’s market in South Florida, but that may not last for long into the new year. In 2025, the local real estate market was soft, with high insurance costs and mortgage rates, uncertainty in the condo market and demand that’s continuing to cool following pandemic-era highs. But the Federal Reserve has been cutting interest rates, and mortgage rates are expected to drop in the new year, too. [Source: Tampa Bay Times]
Florida property tax reform: 2026 could be pivotal year
Florida homeowners could see major changes to their property tax bills in 2026 as state leaders push forward with proposals to significantly reduce or eliminate property taxes altogether. The debate has been brewing since spring 2025, when Gov. Ron DeSantis and state lawmakers began floating the idea of cutting property taxes. The proposals have sparked fierce pushback from mayors and county leaders who warn that essential services could be at risk. [Source: WPTV]
Study: Florida among most expensive states to buy land
The average cost for an acre in Florida is nearly $700,000, making it one of the most expensive state’s in the country to purchase property in. That’s according to study commissioned by Cinch Home Services. The home warranty company looked at state, ZIP code and Core Based Statistical data from the Federal Housing Finance Agency to come up with its findings. What if found is Florida ranked No. 10 in the country when it comes to the cost of land with the price of one acre averaging $696,700. [Source: Business Observer]
$30.3 million
A Longboat Key mansion sold for $30.3 million in 2025, setting a new record sale price for a residence in Sarasota and Manatee counties. [Source: Sarasota Herald-Tribune]
› Jacksonville's 2025 housing market year in review
In 2025, the U.S. housing market largely continued the sluggish trends that have defined the post-pandemic years: high prices, elevated mortgage rates, and persistent economic uncertainty. Historically few homes sold through November 2025, and as sellers struggled to find buyers, many chose not to list at all. That pullback reduced inventory throughout the year, which in turn kept prices elevated. However, national trends don't tell the whole story.
› Condo sales rebound across South Florida, including Miami and Key Biscayne
Condo sales appear to be regaining momentum across Miami-Dade County and South Florida, a trend that is also reflected in Key Biscayne’s market, where inventory remains limited and demand steady despite high prices. The range across Miami-Dade County and throughout South Florida includes affordable, luxury and even older units.
› Developer pays $70+M, plans huge entertainment district on blighted site near Disney
In one of the most anticipated and consequential deals of the year, South Florida-based Accesso paid over $70 million for the site of its planned mixed-use entertainment district, Ovation Orlando, propelling a project to redevelop one of Osceola County’s most prominent eyesores. Together with its joint venture partner, Meyers Group, Accesso acquired 76 acres at the northeast corner of Interstate 4 and U.S. 192, the former Orlando Sun resort property. The deal closed on Dec. 30.
› Here’s what to expect in South Florida’s luxury real estate market in 2026
South Florida’s luxury real estate market is crowded and experiencing a slowdown. With a cooler luxury market that’s tipped in favor of buyers, 2026 might be a good time to score a deal, said Zack Simkins, a managing director at Vaster, a private lending firm that offers bridge loans for luxury real estate buyers and developers. “Don’t be afraid to be aggressive at the negotiation table,” Simkins said. “Utilize those market factors and ... a slower transactional period to your advantage.”