Is December The Best Time?
Florida’s Shifting Market: From Boom to Buyer’s Edge
Florida’s housing market in late 2025 is cooling after years of frenzy, creating opportunities for buyers amid rising inventory and softening prices. Statewide, the average home value sits at $384,811, down 4.3% year-over-year per Zillow’s Home Value Index. With mortgage rates dipping to around 6.3% by year-end (Fannie Mae forecast), and inventory climbing 22.6% YoY to 196,605 listings (Houzeo data), December offers leverage—homes now take 49-70 days to go pending, up from last year’s pace.
Yet, regional splits persist: Miami values fell 3.1% to $575,173, while Orlando bucked the trend with 1.0% growth to $372,206. No crash looms—experts like NAR’s Lawrence Yun predict modest 3% statewide price gains for 2025 overall, driven by population influx and job growth—but oversupply in the Sun Belt favors negotiators now.
Core Trends Driving December Decisions
Florida’s trends signal a buyer’s tilt, especially in condo-heavy markets with 10.3 months’ supply (Norada Real Estate). Sales dipped 5.7% YoY for single-family homes, but easing rates could spark a 1% uptick (Miami Realtors).
These shifts stem from post-pandemic corrections: High insurance premiums (up due to hurricanes) and rates deterred sellers earlier, but now flood the market. Zillow notes 40% YoY inventory surge statewide, easing pressure in hotspots like Tampa ($410K median, 4.3 months’ supply).
Dcember Forecast: Stabilize & Strike
Buy Now Pros:
– Bargains in cooling metros (e.g., negotiate 5-10% off in Miami).
– Rate lock savings: 6.3% on $385K loan = ~$100/month less than 7%.
– Holiday slowdowns = fewer bidders.
Risks:
– Insurance hikes erode savings; hurricane season lingers.
– Tight low-end supply limits first-timers.
– If rates rebound, inventory could tighten fast.
Florda Hotspots: Where to Buy in December
Focus on buyer’s markets per Zillow/Realtor trends:
– Miami/South FL: -% prices, high condos—strong for investors.
– Tampa Bay: Stable $410K median, 4.3 months’ supply—balanced entry.
– Orlando: +1% growth, quick pendings—growth play.
December 2025 is prime for Florida purchases: Declining prices, surging supply, and sub-6.5% rates create rare leverage amid steady demand. If pre-approved and in a target metro, buy now to build equity before 2026’s rebound.
Call Laura Now: 786-457-8001
Visit: LauraGravesRealEstate.com
Send an email for more information: [email protected]Your future home — or future investment — is waiting.
