More Homes for Sale Isn’t a Warning Sign – It’s Your Buying Opportunity in Southwest Florida

More Homes for Sale Isn’t a Warning Sign – It’s Your Buying Opportunity in Southwest Florida
Featuring Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice

If you’ve been watching the real estate market in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, or Venice, you may have noticed more homes hitting the market lately. For some, this increase in inventory may raise concerns—especially if memories of 2008 come to mind. But in reality, what’s happening isn’t a signal of trouble. It’s a sign of a healthier, more balanced housing market returning to Southwest Florida.

What's Really Happening With Inventory?

According to the latest data from Realtor.com, housing inventory across the country has reached its highest point since 2020. That’s true locally, too—more homes are for sale across Sarasota County and surrounding areas than we've seen in recent years.

But let’s keep this in perspective. (shown in gray):

While inventory is up compared to the past few years, we’re still not back to the pre-pandemic norms. In fact, the number of available homes remains well below historic levels. So instead of worrying about too many homes, we should be asking: Are we finally getting closer to meeting buyer demand?

Why This Isn’t 2008 All Over Again

It’s natural to be cautious—especially when inventory rises. But today’s market fundamentals are very different from the ones that triggered the last housing crash.

Back then, we had an oversupply of homes and risky lending practices that caused a dramatic downturn. Today, we’re dealing with the opposite: a housing shortage that’s been building for over a decade.

New construction hasn’t kept pace with demand since 2012. And the result is a significant housing gap—millions of homes short nationwide, including right here in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice. According to Realtor.com, at the current rate of construction, it would take 7.5 years to close that gap. (see graph below):

So what we’re seeing now—more homes for sale—is not a glut. It’s the beginning of catching up with demand, helping more buyers find homes in a competitive market.

What This Means for You

For buyers, this shift brings opportunity. More listings mean more choices, less competition, and potentially more negotiating power.

For sellers, it means serious buyers are still out there—and with demand still outpacing supply, well-priced homes in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice are still moving.

Bottom Line

Don’t let sensational headlines cloud your view. Rising inventory isn’t a red flag—it’s a positive step toward market stability here in Southwest Florida. Whether you’re buying or selling in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, or Venice, now is a smart time to make your move.