Hurricane Season: Sell or Wait?
Hurricane Season Real Estate Tips: Should You Sell or Wait in Florida?
Selling a home in Florida during hurricane season (June–November) presents unique challenges and opportunities. With rising insurance costs, shifting buyer behaviors, and unpredictable weather patterns, homeowners must weigh the pros and cons carefully. Here’s what you need to know to make an informed decision.
📉 Market Trends During Hurricane Season
- Increased Listings Amid Slower Sales: Despite high mortgage rates above 6%, home listings have risen by 7.6% year-over-year. However, buyer demand remains subdued, leading to the slowest pace for existing-home sales since 2009. Barron’s+1Barron’s+1
- Price Adjustments: Approximately 20% of listings underwent price cuts—the highest April rate since 2017—as sellers aim to attract cautious buyers. Barron’s
- Condo Market Challenges: Florida’s condo market faces additional hurdles, with sales dropping 9% year-over-year in April. Buyers are scrutinizing building finances and potential future expenses, such as major repairs and rising homeowners’ association (HOA) dues. WSJ+1WSJ+1
🏠 Should You Sell Now or Wait?
Consider Selling Now If:
- Your Property Is in a Flood-Safe Zone: Homes in areas like Flood Zone X are less prone to flooding, making them more attractive to buyers during hurricane season. Zillow+1Facebook+1
- You Have Upgraded Features: Properties with hurricane-resistant features, such as impact windows and reinforced roofs, can command higher prices.
- You’re Facing Financial Pressures: Rising property taxes and insurance premiums are motivating some homeowners to sell sooner rather than later. Reddit+2Barron’s+2WSJ+2
Consider Waiting If:
- Your Home Requires Repairs: Homes needing significant repairs may be harder to sell during hurricane season, as buyers are wary of potential storm damage.
- You’re in a High-Risk Flood Zone: Properties in high-risk areas may face decreased demand during hurricane season, potentially leading to lower offers.
🏡 Featured Flood-Safe Listings
Explore these properties located in flood-safe zones:Facebook
- Lakeland, FL: 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home listed at $295,000. Zillow
- Cape Coral, FL: 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom new construction listed at $495,000.
- Northdale, FL: Homes in no flood zones with a median listing price of $500,000. Redfin
Partner with Laura Graves Real Estate
With over 26 years of experience and more than $730 million in career sales, Laura Graves is a trusted advisor in Florida real estate. Her expertise ensures clients navigate the complexities of selling during hurricane season effectively.-+1WSJ+1
📞 Contact Laura Graves: lauragravesrealestate.com/contact
Selling your home during hurricane season requires strategic planning and expert guidance. By understanding market trends and working with seasoned professionals like Laura Graves, you can make informed decisions that align with your financial goals.
