📈 Why Isn’t the Market Crashing? 🤔
With home prices still going up and interest rates higher than they’ve been in years, many people are wondering: Why isn’t the real estate market slowing down?
Here’s what’s really going on 👇
🏡 Inventory is Up—but Still Normal
Right now, Lakeland has around 1,000 to 1,200 homes for sale. That might sound like a lot, but during the pandemic, we had only about 300 homes available.
We’re simply back to pre-pandemic levels—more choices for buyers, but not so much that it drives prices down.
📌 For sellers: Price your home based on condition, and consider smart updates to help it stand out and get top dollar.
🌴 Florida is Still Growing—Fast
On average, 767 people move to Florida every day. That’s nearly 280,000 new residents every year over the next 5 years.
More people = more demand = prices staying strong.
🤝 Buyers Have Some Leverage
Even in a strong market, buyers are negotiating:
Lower purchase prices
Closing cost help
Repairs (like a new roof)
Despite that, homes are still selling for 98% of their asking price on average. It’s a win-win for both sides when you know how to negotiate.
📊 We’re Still in a Seller’s Market
Lakeland’s current inventory vs. sales rate means it would take just under 3 months to sell every home if nothing new came on the market.
🔹 A balanced market = 6 months of inventory
🔹 Over 6 months = buyer’s market
So yes—it’s still a seller’s market.
⏳ Why Does It Feel Slower?
We got used to homes flying off the market in just a few days back in 2020–2022.
Now? The average home in Lakeland takes about 63 days to sell. That’s just over 2 months—not slow, just more normal.
📈 Bottom Line
✅ Home prices are up $6,000 from last year
✅ Sales are only 46 homes behind last year
✅ The market is still moving, just at a healthier pace
Whether you’re buying or selling, working with someone who understands the local market, neighborhoods, and negotiation strategies makes all the difference. 💬 Let’s talk about your goals!
