Fall has arrived and so has the busy season. After a quieter summer, buyer demand is picking up across Sarasota, Venice, and Bradenton. Here's my ground-level view.
Fall has arrived in Southwest Florida — which means the real estate market is waking up after the slower summer months. Here's my ground-level view of where things stand heading into the busy season.
Inventory is up, and that's actually good news
After years of historically low inventory, we've seen a meaningful uptick in homes available across Sarasota, Venice, and Bradenton. This isn't a sign of trouble — it's a sign of normalizing. Buyers have more choices, and sellers need to be competitive on price and condition.
Where prices stand
Median prices in Sarasota County are holding in the $430K–$460K range for single-family homes, down slightly from the 2022–2023 peak but still strong historically. The Venice and North Port markets are similar. Lakewood Ranch, where new construction has increased supply, is seeing more negotiation room than a year ago.
Interest rates remain the story
Rates have edged down slightly from their 2024 highs but remain in the mid-6% range for a 30-year fixed. I'm seeing more buyers get comfortable with this reality and plan to refinance when rates eventually come down. If you're waiting for 4% — I'd encourage you to reconsider.
My read on the fall season
November through April is our peak season in Southwest Florida. Snowbirds arrive, out-of-state buyers visit in person, and serious buyers compete with each other. If you're planning to buy in the next six months, right now — before the rush — is a strategic time to start.
Sellers: if your home is priced right and shows well, fall through winter is when you want to be on the market.
As always, I'm happy to run the numbers on any specific neighborhood or situation. Just reach out.
Elena Mitchell
Realtor® · Coldwell Banker Realty · Sarasota, FL
Have questions? Elena is always happy to chat.
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