Sarasota & Manatee County Housing Market Update – May 2026

May 2026 Sarasota & Manatee Housing Market Overview

The May 2026 real estate market continued to show encouraging signs for both buyers and sellers throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties. Buyer demand remained healthy, pending sales increased across every major property type, and housing inventory continued to decline, creating a more competitive environment for desirable homes.

Although the market is becoming more active, buyers are approaching purchases carefully. Instead of rushing into offers, today's buyers are comparing properties, negotiating favorable terms, and making well-informed decisions. This balanced approach continues to create opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

Sarasota County Single-Family Homes

Sarasota's single-family market experienced another month of growth.

Key Statistics

• Closed Sales: 845 (+7.2%)
• Median Sale Price: $475,000 (+2.2%)
• Average Sale Price: $673,741 (+3.4%)
• Inventory: 4.4 months
• Days to Contract: 50
• Days to Close: 92
• Median Original List Price Received: 94.2%

Buyer demand remained strong throughout May, with pending sales increasing by 11.4%. While new listings also increased, they were not enough to offset declining inventory, resulting in a more competitive marketplace for well-priced homes.

Manatee County Single-Family Homes

The Manatee County market remained remarkably stable despite changing market conditions.

Key Statistics

• Closed Sales: 782 (-0.5%)
• Median Sale Price: $460,000 (-3.8%)
• Average Sale Price: $667,503 (+4.5%)
• Inventory: 4.4 months
• Days to Contract: 47
• Days to Close: 95
• Median Original List Price Received: 95.4%

Although the median sale price declined slightly, the increase in average sale price reflects continued activity in the luxury market. Sales of homes priced above $3 million increased substantially, demonstrating continued confidence among high-end buyers.

Sarasota County Condo & Townhome Market

Condominiums and townhomes continued to attract buyers while maintaining more inventory than the single-family market.

Key Statistics

• Closed Sales: 371 (+8.5%)
• Median Sale Price: $336,829 (+4.9%)
• Inventory: 7.1 months
• Days to Contract: 67
• Days to Close: 108
• Median Original List Price Received: 91.2%

Luxury condo sales remained particularly active, with transactions above $1 million increasing significantly compared to last year.

Manatee County Condo & Townhome Market

The condo market in Manatee County also experienced healthy buyer activity.

Key Statistics

• Closed Sales: 288 (+8.7%)
• Median Sale Price: $297,000 (-5.1%)
• Inventory: 6.3 months
• Days to Contract: 61
• Days to Close: 106
• Median Original List Price Received: 93.2%

Inventory continued to decline while pending sales increased, suggesting that buyer activity remains strong despite shifting price trends.

What These Numbers Mean for Buyers

The May market continues to offer opportunities for buyers.

Although inventory has declined, buyers still have time to evaluate homes carefully and negotiate favorable terms. Compared to the fast-paced markets of previous years, today's buyers can make more informed decisions while still benefiting from increased selection—particularly in the condo market.

Working with a knowledgeable REALTOR® can help buyers identify neighborhoods where competition is strongest and negotiate effectively.

What These Numbers Mean for Sellers

For homeowners considering selling, the market continues to provide favorable conditions.

Inventory has declined across every major property type, meaning well-priced homes are attracting serious buyers. Sellers who price competitively, prepare their homes well, and market effectively continue to achieve strong results.

Luxury properties also remain in demand, especially in Sarasota and Manatee's premium waterfront and golf course communities.

Market Trends to Watch

Several important trends emerged during May 2026:

• Buyer demand continues to strengthen, with pending sales increasing across all market segments.
• Single-family inventory declined to just 4.4 months in both Sarasota and Manatee counties.
• Condo inventory also tightened but still provides buyers with more choices than the single-family market.
• Sarasota recorded modest price gains while Manatee experienced softer median pricing.
• Luxury home sales continue to support rising average prices across both counties.
• Buyers remain active but are making thoughtful, value-driven purchasing decisions.

Thinking About Buying or Selling?

Every neighborhood tells a different story. While county-wide statistics provide valuable insight, local trends can vary significantly based on community, price range, and property type.

Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or investing, having an experienced local REALTOR® can help you make informed decisions with confidence.

Ready to discuss your real estate goals? Contact Darren Dowling today for a personalized market analysis or home buying consultation.

Beyond Realty
2170 Main Street, Suite 103, Sarasota, FL 34237
941-204-0493

Darren Dowling is a Sarasota-based real estate broker-owner specializing in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch residential real estate, new construction, and relocation.