What’s the Central Florida Housing Market Like Right Now?

If you’ve been wondering whether now’s a good time to buy or sell in Central Florida, you're not alone. Real estate headlines can feel contradictory — but when you zoom in on the local market, a clearer picture emerges.

Let’s break down what’s really happening across Central Florida, what it means for buyers and sellers, and where the market might be headed next.

📍 Inventory is Growing — But Still Below Normal

After years of ultra-low inventory, we’re finally seeing more homes hit the market. New construction is also adding to the mix, especially in areas like Clermont, Winter Garden, and The Villages.

That said, inventory is still below pre-pandemic levels, which means:

• Buyers have more to choose from than last year

• But competition for well-priced homes is still strong

• Move-in ready and updated homes are getting the most attention

💸 Prices Are Holding Steady (or Rising Modestly)

Despite higher interest rates, home prices in Central Florida have remained resilient — especially in desirable neighborhoods and lakefront communities. Why?

• Out-of-state migration (hello, snowbirds and remote workers)

• Limited resale inventory

• Long-term demand driven by job growth, lifestyle appeal, and tax benefits

Price growth has slowed from 2021–2022, but we’re not seeing the widespread price drops some national markets have experienced.

📈 Interest Rates Are Shaping Buyer Strategy

Mortgage rates remain a key factor in buyer behavior. While they’ve come down from recent peaks, most buyers are budgeting carefully and leaning on:

• Rate buy-downs

• Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs)

• Refinancing plans for the future

Many sellers are offering concessions to help offset rate pressure — something we rarely saw during the pandemic boom.

🧭 What This Means If You’re Buying

• More options mean you don’t need to rush or overpay

• Less competition in many price points (especially above $500K)

• Negotiation power is back on the table — for price, closing costs, and repairs

💡 Bonus: Some builders are offering aggressive incentives in new construction communities to attract buyers.

🔑 What This Means If You’re Selling

• Homes that are priced correctly and marketed professionally are still selling quickly

• Staged, updated homes shine — especially in competitive areas like Mount Dora, Winter Garden, and Horizon West

• Overpricing can lead to stale listings, so pricing strategy is more important than ever

Buyers are active — but they’re doing their homework. Sellers who align with market expectations are seeing great results.

🏘️ Market Highlights by Area

• Clermont & Lake County: Strong buyer demand, especially for lakefront and family homes

• Mount Dora & Tavares: Historic charm + new builds = diverse market activity

• The Villages & Sumter County: 55+ market still hot; new construction in Middleton attracting younger families

• Orlando & Orange County: Mixed activity depending on price point — urban condos softer, suburban single-family homes strong

📆 What’s Next?

We expect the market to stay steady through the end of the year, with minor shifts based on interest rate changes and local inventory. The Central Florida market remains more affordable than coastal metros — and continues to attract buyers relocating from out of state.

👋 Thinking About Buying or Selling?

If you’re curious about how these trends affect your specific neighborhood or price point, let’s chat. Whether you’re planning ahead or ready to make a move now, I’m here to help you navigate the market with clarity and confidence.

📩 Schedule a consultation or request a free home value estimate today.

🧠 Final Thought

The Central Florida market isn’t crashing — it’s adjusting. With the right advice and strategy, there are great opportunities for both buyers and sellers in this moment.