If you're thinking about making a move to Florida’s Gulf Coast—whether it's for retirement, a second home, or a lifestyle upgrade—you may be asking the million-dollar question:
“Is now the right time to buy?”
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, but here's what we're seeing on the ground in Sarasota and Manatee Counties—and why this moment in the market may offer real opportunities for savvy buyers.
📉 1. Prices Have Shifted—And That's a Good Thing for Buyers
Over the past year, we've seen home prices adjust from their pandemic peak. While some sellers are still trying to catch up to the new market conditions, many have started pricing their homes more realistically. This is especially true for resale homes competing with new construction in Lakewood Ranch, Waterside, Wellen Park, and other master-planned communities.
Here’s what that means for you:
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You're less likely to face bidding wars than in years past.
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More room to negotiate—especially with motivated sellers.
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New construction incentives are making semi-custom homes more accessible than before.
If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, waiting for the market to cool—well, it’s cooled.
📊 2. Inventory Is Up, and Buyers Have Options
We’re currently in a market where active inventory is higher than it was just a year ago. That means you have more selection—from low-maintenance villas and 55+ communities to waterfront estates and bundled golf homes.
🛑 What this is not is a buyer’s market across the board. But it is a more balanced market, and out-of-state buyers are in a strong position, especially those who are paying cash or have flexibility on timing.
With more homes available in desirable areas like Esplanade, Country Club East, Del Webb, and Cresswind, you’re not limited to the leftovers. You can actually take time to evaluate the right fit for your lifestyle.
🏦 3. Interest Rates: Higher Than We'd Like, But Not Forever
Let’s talk rates. While we’re not seeing 3% anymore, mortgage rates have been relatively stable—hovering around 6.5%–7% for most borrowers.
The silver lining?
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You can often negotiate seller concessions to help buy down your rate.
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Some buyers are using adjustable-rate mortgages or temporary buydown programs to bridge the gap.
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If and when rates drop, you can refinance. But if prices and demand go up later this year, you may have missed your window to get the home you want.
If you're buying cash? Even better—you're holding the strongest hand in the market right now.
🧭 4. Timing the Market vs. Finding the Right Time for You
Trying to "time" the market is like trying to catch a falling knife. The better approach is to focus on:
✅ Your timeline
✅ Your budget
✅ Your goals for the next 5–10 years
If you're thinking about moving before the end of the year, now is the perfect time to plan a home-buying trip, tour communities, and get your ducks in a row. Many of my clients start the process 3–6 months before they plan to move—and that lead time pays off in clarity, comfort, and better choices.
💬 Final Thoughts from The Suarez Group
In a shifting market like this, your strategy matters more than ever. Whether you're looking at Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, Bradenton, or somewhere else along the Gulf Coast, my job is to help you:
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Understand which communities align with your lifestyle
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Compare resale vs. new construction options
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Negotiate with confidence
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Avoid common out-of-state buyer pitfalls
If you're ready to explore, let's talk. I can help you plan a productive trip, preview homes, or simply start with a phone call to answer your questions.
📞 Call, text, or email me anytime. Let’s make your Florida dream a reality.
