Author: AnneMarie Lennox

The share of Clearwater homes going off market within two weeks jumped by over 6 percentage points year-over-year. This means motivated sellers are seeing faster results. If you’re ready to sell, buyers are acting quickly on the right homes.

Florida's housing market corrections have eased in 2026, with some metros showing mild price gains. After significant post-pandemic price surges, markets like Punta Gorda and Cape Coral saw notable declines but are now stabilizing. Factors such as slowed migration, stricter condo rules, hurricane impacts, increased supply, and rising insurance costs contributed to the earlier downturn. Inventory is declining in hard-hit areas, signaling improving fundamentals and reduced downside risk, though some correction remains in parts of Southwest Florida.

Tampa’s September real estate market is sending a nuanced signal. The median sale price increased 4.75% year over year to $424,250, indicating that closed transactions are still achieving higher prices than they did last year.

At the same time, the median list price declined 6.43% to $449,900, while price per square foot fell 5.77% to $281. This combination points to softer asking prices and potentially more value-conscious buyers, even as final sale prices remain elevated.

For sellers, accurate pricing is more important than ever. A competitive list price, strong presentation, and clear understanding of comparable sales can help attract serious buyers and support a successful closing. Buyers may find more room to negotiate, but should evaluate each property using recent sales, condition, location, and price per square foot—not a single market statistic.

These trends can vary significantly by Tampa neighborhood and property type. If you’re considering buying or selling, connect with a local real estate professional for a tailored analysis of current conditions and your specific goals.

One of the things I cherish most about living in the Tampa area is how our community comes together to support one another—especially when it comes to preserving the comfort and safety of our homes. For homeowners in our county, there’s now a lifeline: a dedicated program offering financial aid for essential repairs, from roofing and plumbing, to HVAC issues, accessibility upgrades, lead paint removal, and weatherization. Even more extensive help—like demolition and rebuilding—may be available if repairs exceed half the value of your home. Having spent years in both client-focused retail and now real estate, I know how vital it is to feel secure and cared for where you live. If you’re navigating the challenges of home maintenance, know that resources like this exist to help keep Tampa a place we can all proudly call home.

As someone who found their place in Tampa after years in the fast-paced world of New York retail, I know firsthand that where you choose to call home matters—and so does understanding the true cost of that decision. If you’re considering a move in fall 2026, be mindful: some U.S. cities come with hidden costs that can catch buyers off guard. For example, coastal Florida offers beautiful beaches but also brings hurricane risks and higher insurance premiums. In Austin, patience is essential as the market’s pace can test even the most seasoned buyers. Phoenix currently faces market declines that might present financial challenges for newcomers. I always encourage thorough research before making any move—whether you’re drawn by sunshine, community, or a fresh start. My background in client-focused industries taught me that a great fit is about more than just curb appeal; it’s about knowing the ins and outs, the risks, and the rewards. Wherever your journey leads, being informed is key.

Having spent years helping clients find their perfect fit—first in fashion retail, now in real estate—I’m always on the lookout for what’s trending and where opportunities are emerging. Looking ahead to 2026 and 2027, cities like Dallas-Fort Worth and Raleigh-Durham are showing some exciting potential. Strong job growth, steady inbound migration, and more affordable housing are setting the stage for 2-3% home price increases, with mortgage rates around 6.3% and rental returns between 5-8%. Whether you’re considering a move, an investment, or simply love keeping an eye on market shifts, it’s fascinating to see how these cities are poised to thrive. For me, understanding these trends is an extension of my passion for finding the right fit—whether it’s in Tampa or beyond.