🏡 Market Moves: Where Florida’s Market is Headed

Rates, Lawsuits & Real Talk

Florida real estate isn’t just shifting — it’s recalibrating. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or advising, staying sharp means knowing what’s happening on the ground and what’s coming next.

In this edition of Market Moves, we’re unpacking four hot-button topics:

• Rising interest rates (with builder workarounds)

• New construction vs resale performance

• Commission lawsuits and what they really mean

• Key predictions, pricing, and practical advice

Let’s dive in.

Part 1: Interest Rates & Financing

We kicked off with the elephant in the market — interest rates.

What are buyers facing right now? Rates are currently sitting around 6.75%–7.25% for a 30-year fixed mortgage. Just earlier this year, we were in the low 6s. But inflation and Fed guidance have pushed them back up.

Creative financing is still alive. We’re seeing lenders offer 3-2-1 buydowns, builder-paid points, adjustable rates, and even sweetened FHA and VA programs. Some buyers are adjusting budgets, but the deals haven’t disappeared — they’ve just become more complex.

Builder loophole: rates as low as 3%. Major builders like Lennar are offering rates around 3% through in-house financing incentives. So while the traditional rate may seem high, new construction buyers could still lock in rates their neighbors would envy.

Part 2: Builder Market vs Resale Market

Inventory is split — and so is buyer behavior.

New builds are booming. Builders are handing out $15K+ in incentives, covering everything from closing costs and rate buydowns to appliances and upgrades.

Why do buyers prefer new construction right now? Warranties, fixed costs, and no repairs are huge draws. But delays and HOA costs remain concerns.

Resale listings? Taking longer to sell. It’s no secret: resale homes are sitting longer — and not just a few days. Many are lasting well beyond 30–45 days, and price reductions are common. In many areas, it’s officially a buyer’s market.

What’s the psychology shift? Sellers are slowly accepting the shift. Buyers are holding the cards — and that’s showing up in contract terms and pricing power.

Part 3: Commission Lawsuit & Legal Shifts

You’ve heard the buzz about the NAR settlement, but what’s actually changing?

Let’s be real: not much — if you’re doing it right. As a buyer’s agent, you should already have a signed buyer agreement and a loan prequalification letter before showing homes. That’s not new — that’s smart business. But here’s what’s different now:

• You must now disclose that realtor fees are not guaranteed by the seller.

• You must clearly communicate that commission is negotiable, and buyers may be responsible for covering their agent’s fee.

  
  

So what’s the impact? There’s more paperwork, more explanation, and more client education. But at the end of the day, this change just formalizes what top agents were already doing: protecting themselves and advising their clients with clarity.

Legal wrap-up from me: This isn’t just about policy — it’s about liability. If you don’t explain your fee structure clearly, or operate without signed agreements, you’re opening yourself up to serious risk. Don’t wing it.

Part 4: Predictions & Advice

Let’s close with a few quick takes for where the market is headed:

Lender Tip: Get pre-approved early. Rates move fast, and you need a real number—not a guess.

New Home Agent Insight: Don’t overlook builder deals. Incentives and in-house financing are outperforming resale in many areas.

Listing Agent Insight: Price it right the first time. Overpricing kills momentum. The longer it sits, the more leverage the buyer has.

Legal Advice: Know your contract, your commission terms, and your leverage. Buyers and sellers both have options—if you play it smart.

📊 Florida Market Snapshot – Mid 2025

Average Condo Price in Florida:~ $361,000(Coastal areas like Miami or Naples often exceed $450K)

Average Single-Family Home Price in Florida:~ $427,000(With urban and suburban pockets pushing $500K+)

Trend: Inventory is rising. Days on market are longer. Buyers are negotiating harder. And sellers who don’t adapt quickly are falling behind.

🐎 Final Word from #TheMustangLawyer

This isn’t a normal market. It’s a market in transition — and that means opportunity for the prepared.

Whether you're a buyer, seller, or pro, your next move requires clarity, contracts, and coaching. Subscribe to Market Moves, follow along, and drop your questions in the comments.

Stay sharp — and I’ll see you in the next blog.

I’m Mack Justin — broker, attorney, investor, and #TheMustangLawyer.