Florida Real Estate News & Market Trends

Market reports, local insights, and practical guidance for buyers and sellers from Key Largo to Key West. Updated regularly with current data from the Florida Keys MLS. Topics include market trends, home values, buying and selling tips, and neighborhood spotlights across the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys. If you have questions or want to schedule a call, visit ScheduleJim.com.

March 18, 2026

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Report — February 2026

Florida Keys Market Update February 2026

Florida Keys Real Estate Market — February 2026 Quick Answer

The Florida Keys residential market is tightening. Pending inventory jumped 33% year-over-year in February 2026 while active inventory fell and new listings dropped 12%. In my view, buyers who wait for better conditions may find fewer homes to choose from and higher prices when they get there.

Contract activity surged across Monroe County while available inventory continued to shrink. February also saw mortgage rates briefly touch 3-year lows, giving buyers an additional push toward the contract table. That window has since tightened, which makes the timing of February's contract surge worth paying attention to.

Key Market Highlights — February 2026

  • ▼ Active Inventory: 1,671 — down 3.7% from a year ago
  • ▲ Pending Inventory: 272 — up 33% from a year ago
  • ▼ Closed Sales: 135 — down 2.9% from a year ago
  • ▼ New Listings: 285 — down 12% from a year ago
  • ▲ New Pending Sales: 206 — up 27% from a year ago
  • ▲ Median Sale Price: $909,500 — up 2.2% from a year ago

What the Numbers Are Telling Us

Pending sales have posted strong year-over-year gains for two consecutive months while new listings have not kept pace. Fewer homes entering the market while contracts rise means available inventory gets absorbed faster, leaving buyers with less selection and more competition for well-priced properties.

The median sale price of $909,500 is up 2.2% year-over-year. That is a modest gain, but directionally consistent with what a tightening market typically produces over time.

A Word to Buyers

Waiting for a meaningful rate drop while prices trend upward rarely works out in the buyer's favor. The better question is not whether rates will improve, it is whether the home you want will still be available, and at what price, when they do. In this market, well-priced homes move quickly.

If you are ready to explore what is available in the Florida Keys, I can help you identify the right fit. Browse current Florida Keys homes for sale or reach out directly, no pressure, just straight answers.

For more monthly market updates, visit the Florida Keys Real Estate Blog.

Florida Keys Real Estate — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Florida Keys real estate market doing in early 2026?

The market is tightening. Active inventory is down 3.7% year-over-year while pending inventory has surged 33%. Buyer demand is outpacing supply, putting upward pressure on prices.

Is inventory increasing in the Florida Keys?

No. Active inventory fell to 1,671 homes in February 2026, down 3.7% from a year ago. New listings dropped 12% year-over-year, meaning fewer homes are entering the market while buyer demand continues to rise.

What is the median sale price in the Florida Keys in 2026?

The median sale price in Monroe County was $909,500 in February 2026, up 2.2% from a year ago. That gain is consistent with tightening inventory and two consecutive months of rising contract activity.

Is it a good time to buy a home in the Florida Keys?

In my view, waiting for rates to drop while prices trend upward is rarely a winning strategy. With inventory shrinking and contracts rising for two consecutive months, buyers who wait risk fewer choices and higher prices. The right time to buy is when you find the right home, not when the market feels comfortable.

Posted in Florida Keys Market Update
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March 5, 2026

Founders Park Islamorada: New Rates Effective March 1, 2026

If you have been to Founders Park in Islamorada, you already know it is one of the best amenities in the Florida Keys. If you have not been yet, here is your introduction - and a heads-up that new entrance and membership rates took effect on March 1, 2026.

What Is Founders Park?

Founders Park is a 45-acre community park at Mile Marker 87 on Plantation Key in Islamorada. It sits on the bayside of the Overseas Highway and packs an impressive amount into one location: a shallow-water beach on Florida Bay, the Ron Levy Aquatic Center (an Olympic-size pool with diving boards, a water slide, and a toddler splash pad), lighted tennis and pickleball courts, soccer and baseball fields, basketball courts, a marina with a boat ramp, a dog park, a skate park, an amphitheater, fitness trails, and a playground.

Islamorada residents get in free. Everyone else pays a non-resident entrance fee - and those fees just updated.

2026 Non-Resident Daily Entrance Fees

Standard daily rates (non-holiday) are now $7 for youth and seniors (ages 3-17 and 65+) and $10 for adults (ages 18-64) for park entry only. Add pool access for an extra $3 per youth/senior or $5 per adult on top of the park fee.

On holiday weekends - Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and all summer weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day - the park-only rate rises to $10 for youth/seniors and $15 for adults. Pool fees are additional.

Monroe County residents (non-Islamorada) have their own rate: $3 for youth/seniors and $5 for adults for park-only entry.

Membership Options for Non-Residents

If you are spending extended time in Islamorada, whether you are a seasonal resident, a second-home owner, or a long-term visitor, a membership pays off quickly.

1-Month Memberships (Park Only / Park and Pool)

  • Youth / Senior: $30 / $60
  • Adult: $45 / $90
  • Family (up to 4 members): $125 / $175 (each additional member $40)

3-Month Memberships (Park Only / Park and Pool)

  • Youth / Senior: $40 / $80
  • Adult: $60 / $120
  • Family (up to 4 members): $165 / $325 (each additional member $40)

Annual Memberships (Park Only / Park and Pool)

  • Youth / Senior: $130 / $190
  • Adult: $195 / $325
  • Family (up to 4 members): $360 / $615 (each additional member $40)

Non-resident memberships cover the cardholder only. Guests of members still pay standard non-resident daily rates.

Founders Park Islamorada non-resident entrance fees and membership rates effective March 2026

10-Pack Punch Cards

Prefer flexibility over a membership? The 10-pack punch card option has no expiration date and covers both park and pool entry. Pricing is $80 for youth/seniors and $120 for adults.

Good to Know Before You Go

The Ron Levy Aquatic Center closed February 1, 2026 for a resurfacing and facility improvement project, so confirm pool availability before your visit. Founders Park is alcohol-free — no glass containers, no smoking. Dogs are welcome on leash in most areas but not on the beach, in the pool area, or in picnic pavilions. The dedicated dog park is fully fenced with synthetic turf, agility equipment, and separate large and small dog areas.

 

Rates, amenities, and park rules shown here are based on information available as of March 2026 and are subject to change. Confirm current fees, hours, and facility availability directly with the park at (305) 853-1685.

Why Founders Park Matters to Islamorada Buyers

When buyers ask what everyday life looks like in Islamorada, Founders Park is always part of the answer. A world-class reef system and backcountry fishing are the headliners, but having a park like this - with a beach, a pool, sports courts, live music, and a marina - adds a layer of livability that is genuinely hard to find anywhere else in the Keys.

If you are exploring Islamorada real estate and want to understand what it actually feels like to live here, reach out. Jim Signor has been working the Florida Keys market since 1988 and is happy to answer questions about any neighborhood from Key Largo to the Lower Keys.

Browse Islamorada homes for sale or contact Jim directly.

Posted in Florida Keys Neighborhood Reviews
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March 2, 2026

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Report | January 2026

Jim Signor - Florida Keys Real Estate  ·  KeysListings.com
Florida Keys real estate market report January 2026

Florida Keys SunStats · Monroe County · Residential Properties

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Report
January 2026

The market didn’t ease into the new year - it accelerated. Here’s what the numbers say.

Published march 2026  ·  Jim Signor – Florida Keys Real Estate

Standout Stat

New pending sales hit 201 in January - up 34% from a year ago. When buyers are signing contracts at that pace in the first month of the year, it tells you something important: the sidelines are emptying out.

January is supposed to be quiet. The holidays just ended, snowbirds are still settling in, and the market usually takes a few weeks to find its footing. Not this January.

Every single metric in the Florida Keys residential market moved higher year over year. Inventory rose. Listings rose. Contracts rose. Closings rose. And after December’s median sale price pulled back to $905,000, prices rebounded sharply - jumping $195,000 in a single month to reach $1,100,000. That kind of move doesn’t happen in a hesitant market.

For buyers and sellers watching from the sidelines, the January numbers are a signal worth paying attention to. Here’s the full picture.

Wondering about financing? Mortgage rates recently dipped below 6% - see my February 2026 Florida Keys mortgage rate update and what it means for your purchasing power.

Key Market Highlights - January 2026

Active Inventory
1,800
▲ 10% from a year ago
Pending Inventory
220
▲ 11% from a year ago
Closed Sales
125
▲ 26% from a year ago
New Listings
452
▲ 22% from a year ago
New Pending Sales
201
▲ 34% from a year ago
Median Sale Price
$1.1M
▲ 12% from a year ago

What These Numbers Tell Us

Buyers Moved Fast in January

A 34% jump in new pending sales is not a rounding error - it reflects buyers who came into the new year with a decision already made. Pending inventory also rose 11%, meaning the contract pipeline is fuller than it was a year ago. These two data points together suggest sustained demand, not a one-week spike.

The Listing Supply Finally Caught Up

452 new listings came to market in January, up 22% year over year. For buyers who spent 2024 and 2025 frustrated by thin inventory, this is a genuine shift. More choices are coming online - and with active inventory at 1,800 homes (up 10%), there is real depth in the market entering the spring season.

Deals Got Done - Up 26% Over Last Year

125 closings in January, up 26% from a year ago. This is the proof point behind all the contract activity: buyers aren’t just browsing, they’re completing purchases. For sellers wondering if demand is real, closed sales at this pace confirms it is.

Prices Rebounded Sharply From December

January 2026 Median Sale Price
$1,100,000
▲ 12% year over year  ·  ▲ $195K from December 2025

A $195,000 single-month swing is a reminder of how quickly the mix of closings can shift the median in a market like the Keys.

December’s dip reflected the specific mix of properties that closed that month - not a trend reversal. January’s return to $1,100,000, up 12% from January 2025, confirms that Florida Keys real estate is holding its value and then some. Sellers who waited out December to list are entering a healthier pricing environment.

Seasonality in the Florida Keys - What January Signals

  • January marks the true start of the spring buyer season. Snowbirds are in residence, northern buyers begin their search, and contract activity typically builds through April.
  • The 34% surge in new pending sales suggests 2026’s spring season may arrive earlier and with more force than last year.
  • High inventory and high demand can coexist - but the best properties still attract immediate attention. Priced correctly and presented well, homes are not sitting.
  • Fewer-than-expected new listings in late 2025 created pent-up supply. January’s 452 new listings may be the beginning of that release valve opening.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

For Buyers

More inventory means more options - but the 34% jump in new pending sales is a reminder that the best homes don’t stay available long. Getting pre-approved keeps you positioned to act. Visit KeysLender.com for Florida Keys financing →

For Sellers

Prices are up, closings are up, and buyers are actively contracting. You’re entering the spring season with wind at your back - but the market still rewards preparation. Pricing strategy and presentation remain the difference between a clean sale and a long runway. Florida Keys home selling guidance →

For a closer look at how these countywide numbers apply to a specific neighborhood, property type, or price range - reach out directly.

Contact Jim Signor

 

Jim Signor – Florida Keys Real Estate Broker-Associate · LoKation Real Estate
Cell: (305) 394-4449  ·  [email protected]  ·  KeysListings.com

Posted in Florida Keys Market Update · Monroe County Residential Properties · Single-Family & Condo Statistics · January 2026

Posted in Florida Keys Market Update
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Feb. 24, 2026

Florida Keys Mortgage Rates Below 6% (Feb 2026)

Waterfront homes along a calm Florida Keys canal at sunset, illustrating the February 2026 mortgage rate drop below 6% and its local market context.

 

Mortgage interest rates fall below 6% (Source: CNBC, February 2026)

Mortgage rates dipped below 6%. In the Florida Keys, the bigger issue is buyer behavior.

On February 23, 2026, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate hit 5.99%. For the first time since 2022, we have a “5” in front of the rate. National coverage has focused on refinancing activity, but the practical question for Florida Keys real estate is simpler: does this bring more buyers back into the same small pool of desirable listings?

A small rate move rarely changes affordability on its own, but it can change the pace of the market. In a low-inventory area like the Keys, even a modest increase in active buyers tends to show up first in showings and offer activity on the best homes. You can monitor current inventory here: Florida Keys Real Estate Listings.

The 2026 variable buyers forget: insurance costs

Alongside mortgage rates, insurance is a major component of monthly carrying cost in Monroe County. In early 2026, Citizens Property Insurance indicated an average rate reduction affecting Monroe County policyholders. Individual results vary by property characteristics and coverage, but any meaningful movement in insurance premiums is worth noting locally because insurance changes can outweigh small rate changes.

Put simply: if mortgage rates ease and insurance costs also soften for some homeowners, more buyers may feel comfortable re-engaging. In a specialized market like ours, that can translate into quicker competition for limited waterfront and canalfront inventory.

What to watch locally

The Keys rarely moves as a single, uniform market. The first change typically appears in the “best of the best” listings: strong condition, clean permitting and insurance profile, and features buyers actively seek, such as boating access, an updated roof, and impact-rated openings.

If rates stay near current levels into spring, watch Days on Market and the quality of offers. A useful signal is whether well-priced, move-in-ready homes begin going under contract faster and with fewer contingencies than they did in late 2025.

“This visit to the high 5s looks more sustainable on paper... mortgage rates stand a better chance of remaining closer to present levels than they did last time.”
— Matthew Graham, COO at Mortgage News Daily (via CNBC)

Practical steps for Florida Keys buyers

If the rate milestone has your attention, the most productive move is preparation rather than prediction.

  • Strengthen your approval: If possible, move beyond a quick pre-qualification so you understand your true buying range and timeline.
  • Model total monthly cost: Look at principal and interest, then add taxes, insurance, flood exposure (where applicable), and HOA dues (where applicable).
  • Track Days on Market: In smaller Keys submarkets, the best listings can attract attention quickly once buyer activity picks up.

If you want a grounded read on how competition is behaving from Key Largo through Key West, follow updates from Jim Signor - Florida Keys Real Estate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the current mortgage rate as of February 2026?
A: As of February 23, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell to 5.99%, matching its lowest levels since 2022, according to Mortgage News Daily as reported by CNBC.

Q: Are insurance rates dropping in the Florida Keys in 2026?
A: Citizens Property Insurance indicated an average rate reduction affecting Monroe County policyholders in early 2026. Premium impacts vary by property and coverage, so the best approach is to review quotes for the specific home and flood zone.

Data source: CNBC Real Estate report (Feb. 23, 2026). Insurance note: Citizens rate information reported/announced in early 2026; individual premiums vary by property and coverage.

Posted in Buying a Home
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Feb. 11, 2026

708 N Lake Drive Key Largo: Twin Lakes Home Near Boat Ramp

708 N Lake Drive Key Largo living room (Image source: Property photography, February 2026)

708 N Lake Drive in Twin Lakes, Key Largo

708 N Lake Drive is a single-family home located in the Twin Lakes subdivision of Key Largo, Florida, on the bayside near mile marker 103. The property sits directly across from the Twin Lakes community boat ramp, providing immediate access to Blackwater Sound. In the Key Largo market, homes with usable boat-ramp proximity often attract buyers who want boating access without paying canal-front pricing. This location places open-water boating within minutes of launch. For current neighborhood inventory, see: Twin Lakes homes for sale in Key Largo.

Key Takeaways

  • Across the street from the Twin Lakes community boat ramp for quick Blackwater Sound access.
  • Bayside Key Largo near MM 103, convenient for mainland commuters and second-home owners.
  • Priced at $650,000 with approximately 1,280 square feet of living area, positioning it among more attainable single-family options in Key Largo.

Where Is Twin Lakes in Key Largo?

708 N Lake Drive Key Largo aerial showing Twin Lakes boat ramp proximity

Twin Lakes is a bayside neighborhood in northern Key Largo near mile marker 103. Its location is often viewed as a practical advantage for buyers who want to be in the Florida Keys while keeping drive time to and from the mainland more manageable. Twin Lakes does not have a formal HOA. The neighborhood boat ramp serves the subdivision and is located directly across the street from 708 N Lake Drive.

Why Boat Ramp Proximity Matters Here

Twin Lakes community boat ramp Key Largo near 708 N Lake Drive

Many buyers searching in Key Largo prioritize boating access, but not every budget supports canal-front pricing. In those cases, a home near a usable neighborhood ramp can be a meaningful alternative. From the Twin Lakes ramp, Blackwater Sound is immediately accessible. Blackwater Sound is known locally for bayside boating and social events, including waterfront restaurants, bars, seasonal fireworks, and holiday boat parades.

Property Overview

708 N Lake Drive is a custom-built stilt home (built in 1987) with approximately 1,280 square feet of living area.

  • 2 bedrooms
  • 2 bathrooms
  • Stilt construction
  • Enclosed storage space below the main living area
  • Approximately 6,600 square foot lot

Stilt construction is common in the Florida Keys and typically provides separation between living space and ground-level utility or storage areas.

Pricing Context in Key Largo

708 N Lake price comparison

At $650,000 and approximately 1,280 square feet of living area, buyers comparing price per square foot will recognize this property as one of the more approachable single-family options currently available in Key Largo. This type of pricing often draws interest from buyers who want to enter the Key Largo single-family market while staying close to boating access and bayside recreation. ***PRICE HAS SUBSEQUENTLY BEEN IMPROVED TO $625,000***

Local Market Context

In the Florida Keys, boating access tends to create its own pricing tiers. Buyers commonly compare:

  • Open-water frontage
  • Canal frontage
  • Near-ramp access
  • Interior neighborhoods without practical launch options

708 N Lake Drive fits the near-ramp access category, which can appeal to buyers who want to use the water regularly without taking on canal-front maintenance requirements such as seawalls and docks.

Common Questions Buyers Ask

Is 708 N Lake Drive waterfront?

No. It is located across the street from the Twin Lakes community boat ramp, which provides quick access to Blackwater Sound.

Does Twin Lakes have an HOA?

Twin Lakes does not have a formal HOA. The neighborhood boat ramp is available for Twin Lakes property owners.

Where is Blackwater Sound?

Blackwater Sound is on the bayside of Key Largo. It is a popular boating area known for restaurants, bars, sandbars, seasonal fireworks, and holiday boat parades.

Is this property a good fit for mainland buyers?

Many mainland-based buyers prefer northern Key Largo because it can reduce drive time compared to areas farther south while still providing full Florida Keys access and lifestyle.

Practical Next Steps

  • Review Twin Lakes inventory to compare location and boat access options: Twin Lakes Key Largo listings.
  • Once this property is active in the MLS, confirm showing availability and any listing-specific terms.
  • If boating access is a priority, review ramp proximity and typical launch conditions at different tide levels during your due diligence period.

For ongoing Key Largo neighborhood updates and listing context, visit the KeysListings.com.

Posted in Homes For Sale
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Feb. 10, 2026

Florida Keys Homestead Exemption for 2026: Deadlines and Rules

florida-keys-homestead-exemption-2026Don't Miss the Florida Keys Homestead Exemption Deadline

If you recently bought or moved, timing matters

If you recently purchased a home in the Florida Keys, moved your primary residence, or changed how a property is titled or owned, homestead exemption should be treated as a priority.

In Monroe County, most homestead problems are not eligibility problems. They are timing problems. Missing the filing window can result in significantly higher property taxes for an entire year, even when a homeowner otherwise qualifies.

Eligibility for the 2026 tax year is based on your residency status as of January 1, 2026. Filing must occur by the statutory deadline. Waiting until the last minute leaves little room to correct documentation or resolve questions.

More Florida Keys articles

Important filing deadlines for 2026

To qualify for homestead exemption for the 2026 tax year:

  • You must own and occupy the property as your permanent residence as of January 1, 2026.
  • The statutory filing deadline is March 1.
  • Because March 1, 2026, falls on a Sunday, the effective deadline is Monday, March 2, 2026.

Homestead exemption is generally not retroactive if the filing deadline is missed.

How homestead exemption affects property taxes

Property taxes in Monroe County are not based on what a home might sell for on the open market. They are based on values established through the assessment process.

The starting point is the property’s assessed value. Homestead exemption is applied to the assessed value used for taxation, which lowers the property’s taxable value.

Tax rates are then applied to the taxable value. This distinction matters, particularly in higher-value Florida Keys neighborhoods where market values and assessed values can diverge over time.

Summary of homestead benefits for 2026

  • Taxable value reduction: Homestead can reduce the assessed value used for taxation by up to $50,000.
  • First $25,000: Applies to all taxing authorities.
  • Second $25,000: Applies to non-school taxes only.
  • Primary residence only: Second homes and rental properties do not qualify.

Save Our Homes limits future assessed value increases

Homestead exemption also establishes the Save Our Homes cap. This cap limits annual increases in the assessed value of a homesteaded property.

Each year, the assessed value increase is limited to the lesser of:

  • 3 percent, or
  • The Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Over time, this cap can significantly reduce the impact of rising market values on property taxes. In the Florida Keys, where values can change quickly, this protection often becomes more meaningful the longer a property is owned.

Portability for Florida Keys homeowners

If you are moving from another homesteaded property in Florida to a new primary residence in the Keys, you may be eligible for Portability.

Portability allows a homeowner to transfer a portion of their Save Our Homes tax savings from a prior Florida homestead to a new one, up to a maximum of $500,000.

Portability is not automatic. It must be applied for as part of the homestead filing process and coordinated correctly to be preserved.

Primary residence use and reporting changes

Homestead exemption applies only to a primary residence. Properties used as second homes or rentals do not qualify.

In Monroe County, homeowners are responsible for notifying the Property Appraiser if anything changes that could affect homestead status. Common examples include:

  • Converting a primary residence to a rental property
  • Renting out a portion of the home
  • Adding or removing an owner from title
  • Placing the property into a trust
  • Changing voter registration outside of Monroe County

Failure to report changes can result in back taxes, interest, and penalties. When circumstances change, it is better to confirm requirements than assume.

Important: Property tax rules, filing deadlines, exemption amounts, and interpretations can change. Homeowners should always confirm current requirements and instructions directly with the Monroe County Property Appraiser before filing.

Where to file in Monroe County

Homestead exemption applications for Florida Keys properties are handled by the Monroe County Property Appraiser.

Monroe County Property Appraiser – Real Property Exemptions

Florida Keys context

The Florida Keys have a high concentration of second homes and income-producing properties. As a result, homestead exemption applies to a smaller share of the housing stock than in many mainland Florida markets.

For full-time residents, filing homestead correctly and on time is one of the simplest ways to manage long-term ownership costs.

Practical next steps

  • Confirm the property qualifies as your primary residence
  • Apply as soon as you are eligible
  • Do not wait until the deadline if documentation may need review
  • Apply for portability if moving from another Florida homestead
  • Notify the Property Appraiser promptly if anything changes

Homestead exemption is not complicated, but it is unforgiving when deadlines are missed. For Florida Keys homeowners planning long-term ownership costs, it is one of the quieter details that consistently matters, especially when considered alongside local market realities by Jim Signor - Florida Keys Real Estate.

Posted in Buying a Home
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Jan. 20, 2026

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Report | December 2025

Florida Keys SunStats December 2025 residential market statistics

December wrapped up with steady buyer activity in the Florida Keys. Inventory stayed high, closings jumped from last year, and pricing reflected a more selective buyer.

Standout stat: Closed sales were up 48% year over year, which tells you the market is still moving when homes are positioned correctly.

Want rate context behind the timing? See my January update on mortgage rates near recent lows and what it means for Florida Keys buyers.

So what does this mean if you are thinking about buying or selling in 2026? The numbers below put recent market shifts into clearer context.

Key Market Highlights - December 2025

  • Active Inventory: 1,534 (▲ 3.9% compared to last year)
  • Pending Inventory: 143 (▼ 6.5% compared to last year)
  • Closed Sales: 133 (▲ 48% compared to last year)
  • New Listings: 237 (▼ 17% compared to last year)
  • New Pending Sales: 119 (▲ 6.3% compared to last year)
  • Median Sale Price: $905,000 (▼ 11% compared to last year)

What These Numbers Suggest

Inventory Stayed Elevated

Active inventory rose slightly to 1,534. More choices on the market usually means buyers can be more selective, and homes that are priced too aggressively tend to sit longer.

Contract Activity Improved

New pending sales were up year over year, which is a healthy sign of demand. Pending inventory was down, which can happen when deals move through the pipeline faster or when contract volume is uneven week to week. The bigger signal is that new contracts and closings both improved.

Closings Jumped Year Over Year

Closed sales were up 48% compared to last year. That points to real absorption, not just browsing. In practical terms, the well-positioned listings are still moving.

Pricing Softened

The median sale price was $905,000, down 11% year over year. That does not mean every property type is down, but it does suggest the market rewarded homes that were priced right and showed well. 

Fewer New Listings Came to Market

New listings were down 17% year over year. That can tighten options in specific price ranges, even if the overall inventory number remains high.

Seasonality Still Matters in the Keys

  • Inventory often builds after January 1, once holiday plans pass and sellers list for the spring season.
  • Buyer urgency tends to concentrate on the best homes, especially those that show well and are priced correctly from day one.

Buyer and Seller Takeaways

  • For buyers: With inventory still high, buyers often have more leverage and more choices. At the same time, the best listings can still move quickly, so preparation matters. See Florida Keys home buying guidance.
  • For sellers: The market is still producing closings, but it is not rewarding guesswork. Pricing, presentation, and preparation are the difference between a clean sale and a long negotiating runway. See Florida Keys home selling guidance.

Stay Informed

For a quick read on how these countywide numbers apply to a specific neighborhood, property type, or price range, use the contact form here: contact Jim Signor.

 

Posted in Florida Keys Market Update
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Jan. 15, 2026

Mortgage Rates Near Recent Lows and What It Means for Florida Keys Buyers

Mortgage rates near recent lows in January 2026(Image source: Mortgage News Daily, January 2026)

Mortgage rates have been moving modestly day to day, but in the Florida Keys, the broader context matters more than the daily fluctuation. When rates stabilize near recent lows, buyer activity here has historically increased faster than in many mainland markets, largely because inventory is limited and demand is often waiting just beneath the surface.

As of mid-January 2026, national mortgage rates are hovering near levels not seen consistently in several years. For buyers considering Florida Keys real estate, this combination of rates and limited supply deserves attention, not urgency, but perspective.

Key takeaways for Florida Keys buyers

  • Mortgage rates are near multi-year lows, even though daily quotes vary by lender.
  • In the Florida Keys, limited inventory can influence prices more quickly than small rate changes.
  • Waiting to save a fraction on interest can sometimes mean paying more for the home itself.

Mortgage rates are near recent lows

As of January 15, 2026, Mortgage News Daily reported that some lenders moved rates slightly higher while others moved lower. The difference largely came down to how quickly each lender adjusted pricing in response to bond market movement.

Stepping back from the day-to-day variation, the average lender remains very close to three-year lows.

  • 30-year fixed: approximately 6.04%
  • 15-year fixed: approximately 5.57%
  • 30-year FHA: approximately 5.70%
  • 30-year VA: approximately 5.72%

While the national 30-year average is hovering just above 6%, it has dipped below that level at points this month. Government-backed loan options are currently running under 6%, which has brought more buyers back into the conversation.

Source context: Mortgage News Daily rate update.

Why timing works differently in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are not a high-volume housing market. Inventory is constrained by geography, zoning, and a large share of second-home ownership. When financing conditions become even modestly more favorable, buyer activity often increases without a corresponding increase in available homes.

Historically, this has meant that price adjustments can happen faster here than in markets with deeper supply. Buyers waiting for incremental rate improvements may find themselves competing for fewer homes once activity picks up.

The risk of waiting for a perfect rate

It is reasonable to want the best possible financing. The risk is assuming that a small improvement in rate will automatically produce a better overall outcome.

In limited-supply markets like the Florida Keys, increased buyer demand can offset interest savings through higher purchase prices or reduced negotiating room. In practical terms, waiting to save a small fraction on interest can sometimes result in paying more for the home.

Context, not predictions

This is not a rate forecast. Mortgage rates move in response to inflation data and bond markets, and lenders do not all adjust at the same time.

The more useful question for Florida Keys buyers is whether current conditions align with their goals, comfort level, and the type of property they are targeting.

Practical next steps

  • Evaluate rates and pricing together, not separately.
  • Focus on overall payment comfort and property fit.
  • Understand that availability can matter as much as financing in the Keys.

I’m Jim Signor - Florida Keys Real Estate, based in the Florida Keys, and I work with buyers navigating rates, inventory, and timing in a limited-supply market. If you’d like to discuss current conditions, you can reach me at jimsignor.com.

Posted in Buying a Home
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Dec. 22, 2025

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Report – November 2025 | Jim Signor, LoKation Real Estate

Florida Keys Real Estate Market Report - November 2025

florida keys real estate statistics november 2025

The November 2025 housing market numbers for Monroe County, which for real estate purposes largely reflect home sales in the Florida Keys, show a market doing two things at once. Inventory continues to build, giving buyers more choice, while buyer activity is clearly picking up at the same time. Closings are up, new pending sales are rising, and prices remain firm. That combination matters, because it suggests the market is not drifting or stalling, but actively sorting itself out.

Key Market Highlights - November 2025

  • Active Inventory: 1,509 (▲ 5.1% compared to last year)
  • Pending Inventory: 170 (▲ 27% compared to last year)
  • Closed Sales: 119 (▲ 12% compared to last year)
  • New Listings: 254 (▼ 7.0% compared to last year)
  • New Pending Sales: 122 (▲ 16% compared to last year)
  • Median Sale Price: $982,000 (▲ 16% compared to last year)

What These Numbers Suggest

Start with the simplest takeaway: more homes are for sale, and more buyers are writing contracts. Active inventory rose to 1,509, but pending inventory and new pending sales moved up sharply year over year. That combination matters. It suggests the market is not just accumulating listings - it is also absorbing them.

Closed sales were up 12% compared to last year. That supports what the pending numbers are already implying: deals are getting done. If the market were truly stalling, you would normally see pending activity soften first, then closings follow later. Here, pendings, closings, and pricing are all pointing in a similar direction.

The other number worth pausing on is price. A $982,000 median sale price, up 16% year over year, tells you values are still holding firm even with higher inventory. In practical terms, that usually means the homes that are priced correctly and show well are still finding buyers, while the overpriced or compromised properties sit longer and do the negotiating.

Seasonality Still Matters in the Keys

Even with year-round demand, the Florida Keys still move with the seasons:

  • Inventory often builds after January 1, once the holidays are over and sellers put plans in motion.
  • Activity often slows briefly after Labor Day, when the local economy eases and some businesses temporarily close.

That is why monthly snapshots are useful. They help separate a normal seasonal shift from a real change in demand.

Buyer and Seller Takeaways

  • For buyers: Inventory is higher, which usually means more choice and more room to negotiate. At the same time, pending activity is up, so the best listings can still move quickly. If you are serious about buying, it helps to be ready before the right property appears. Florida Keys home buying guidance
  • For sellers: Fewer new listings came to market this month (December), but buyer demand is clearly present. Strong pending inventory is a good sign, but it does not reward guesswork on pricing. The homes that sell tend to be the ones positioned correctly from day one. Florida Keys home selling guidance

Stay Informed

If you want a quick read on how these countywide numbers apply to a specific neighborhood, property type, or price range, reach out to me at JimSignor.com.

 

Posted in Florida Keys Market Update
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Dec. 11, 2025

Florida Keys Home Loans: Choosing the Right Loan for Your Needs

Buying a Home in the Florida Keys? The Right Loan Matters

key largo sunset

Sunset in the Florida Keys - calm waterfront evening

At the end of the day, buying in the Florida Keys is about more than the view. The view is easy to fall in love with. You want to feel just as good about how you’re buying the home.

If you are planning to buy a home in the Florida Keys, financing tends to get treated as paperwork, but it deserves the same attention as the home search. You want to be in the right loan for your needs and comfortable that you’re not paying more than you should.

Why this matters in the Keys

Many buyers in the Florida Keys are second-home or out-of-state buyers. Some plan to use a property one way now and another way later. Those details can affect which loan structure makes sense, what documentation is required, and how costs show up over time.

  • How the home will be used (primary, second home, future plans) can affect which loan options are the best fit
  • Fees and overall costs can vary more than buyers expect
  • Some loan details are easy to adjust early and much more difficult to unwind late

A local MLO view, based in the Florida Keys

In addition to being an experienced real estate agent, I am a Florida-licensed Mortgage Loan Originator with Lokation Mortgage based in the Florida Keys. My job is to help you understand your options, compare them in a practical way, and choose the loan structure that best matches your goals.

  • Clear, buyer-friendly explanations (no jargon loops)
  • A straightforward review of estimated costs and trade-offs
  • Guidance that matches how buyers actually purchase here

florida keys home loan

LoKation Mortgage - A 2nd Look

If you already have a pre-approval, loan estimate, or a financing plan in progress, LoKation Mortgage’s no-obligation loan comparison is designed to provide clarity, without pressure or obligation.

In plain terms, it helps confirm:

  • Whether the loan structure fits your situation
  • Whether the overall cost picture looks reasonable
  • Whether anything important is being overlooked

Sometimes the result is simply confirmation that everything is already on track. Other times, a small adjustment can make the loan a better fit. Either way, the goal is confidence moving forward

Next step

If you are considering buying real estate in the Florida Keys, feel free to reach out. I'm happy to help with a personalized home search and a practical look at financing options.

FAQ

Is it worth getting a second look at my mortgage plan?

Yes. A second look can confirm you are already in the right loan or identify a better-fitting option before changes become stressful or expensive.

Do I need a local Mortgage Loan Originator?

You are not required to use one, but many buyers prefer working someone who understands how Keys purchases typically unfold. Added bonus: often sellers feel more confident when buyers are working with a local lender.

About Jim Signor

Jim Signor is a Florida Keys real estate professional and Florida-licensed Mortgage Loan Originator (NMLS #2773431) based in the Florida Keys. He helps buyers navigate the real estate and financing sides of purchasing homes in the Florida Keys with a focus on clarity and practical decision-making.

Posted in Buying a Home
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