A Cooling National Market
Imagine if, during a school bake sale last year, everyone rushed to buy cookies as soon as they were put out. Prices went up quickly because demand was high and there weren’t many cookies to go around. That was the U.S. housing market in 2024. Now, in 2025, things have calmed down. Between January and August, the price of the typical home across the country rose by only half as much as it did the year before. In fact, by August, the median (or middle) sale price was only 2–3% % higher than it was in August of last year. That’s like if your favorite candy bar costs $3 this year instead of $2.94 last year – you’d notice the increase, but it isn’t huge.
Why are things slowing down? Partly because there are more houses for sale and buyers are being more careful. High mortgage rates have made monthly payments more expensive, which makes some people wait. With more “for sale” signs popping up and fewer eager buyers, ; ...

Florida Keys Market Update: A Shift Toward Buyers?
The Florida Keys housing market is showing clear signs of change. 
Nationwide, Recent data reveals a surge in available listings—driven by a 31% rise in for-sale condos, a 26% increase in townhomes, and a 25% boost in detached single-family homes. This uptick in supply is creating new dynamics in one of the most unique and desirable markets in Florida as well  
More Homes, More Choices
For buyers, the increase in inventory is welcome news. Homes are staying on the market longer, giving potential buyers more options to explore and stronger negotiating power. Unlike the frenzied seller’s market we’ve seen in recent years, today’s market is tilting toward balance—and in some segments, even toward the buyer’s side.
Demand Dampened by Rates and Prices
However, increased supply doesn’t automatically mean homes are flying off the shelf. Buyer demand has cooled noticeably due to elevate ...

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers sitting on the sidelines, this could be a turning point:
Lower borrowing costs – Even modest declines in mortgage rates can improve monthly affordability and purchasing power.
More inventory opportunities – Some sellers may re-list homes, expecting stronger buyer demand.
Refinance potential – Buyers who purchase now at slightly higher rates may soon have the option to refinance if cuts materialize. If you are searching homes in the keys Register to this link below and view the entire Florida Keys MLS listings in your price range www.SearchFloridaKeysHomes.com Thank you ?? Lela 305-395-0814, Lela@Cbschmitt.com, Coldwell Banker Schmitt 

?? So many people put their buying plans on hold when homes were selling faster than the speed of light. They didn’t want to deal with the intensity, the stress, or the constant bidding wars. Now may be the moment to re-enter the market with less pressure and more negotiating p; ...

The Market Sets the Price, Not the Seller: Why Pricing Strategy Matters More Than Ever


Life is harder now. The real estate landscape has fundamentally changed in the Florida Keys and nationwide, forcing us to confront an uncomfortable truth: the market sets the value, not our wishes or past investments. After years of unprecedented seller advantages, we're witnessing a sobering correction where pricing strategy has become the difference between a successful sale and a property that sits stagnant for months.
The New Reality: Marketing Exposes, Buyers Decide
Marketing doesn't sell properties—it exposes them. No amount of beautiful photography, compelling descriptions, or aggressive promotion can overcome poor pricing. When a property hits the market at the wrong price point, buyers instinctively know. They compare, they calculate, and they move on to better value propositions. The market speaks through its actions, and right now, it's speaking loudly about overpriced pro ...

A Mid-Year Shift: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in the Florida Keys
As we move into the second half of 2025, the Florida Keys real estate market is experiencing some important changes. Buyer activity has cooled, inventory is rising, and prices are adjusting, creating a more balanced landscape and opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
Here’s what you need to know:
Quick Market Overview (as of July 2025)


Home Sales: Down 5–10% in most areas, with a slight uptick in the Lower Keys


Pricing Trends: Prices have softened up to 10% in several markets, but luxury homes in Key West are holding firm or increasing


Inventory: Listings are up 17–20%, giving buyers more options and leverage


Days on Market: Homes now sit an average of 98–112 days, about 18% longer than in 2024


Buyer’s Market Zones: Middle Keys, Lower Keys, and parts of Key West are seeing a shift in negotiating power



Regional Breakdown



Region
Price; ...