Thought the Market Passed You By? Think Again - Especially in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch

Thought the Market Passed You By? Think Again – Especially in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch

If you pressed pause on your home search over the past few years, you’re far from alone—and definitely not out of opportunities. The real estate landscape in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and across Manatee and Charlotte Counties has shifted, creating one of the most buyer-friendly environments we’ve seen in years.

With inventory growing, home prices stabilizing, and mortgage rates easing, this could be the perfect moment to revisit your dream of owning a home in Florida’s Gulf Coast communities.

Experts agree: buyers now have more leverage, more choices, and better negotiating power than at any point in recent memory.

Affordability Is Making a Comeback in Southwest Florida

After several years of record-breaking price growth, affordability is finally improving across Sarasota and surrounding areas.
Lisa Sturtevant, Chief Economist at Bright MLS, explains:

“Slower price growth coupled with a slight drop in mortgage rates will improve affordability and create a window for some buyers to get into the market.”

That’s exactly what’s happening locally. With Sarasota home prices leveling off and mortgage rates easing, buyers are regaining ground. Whether you’re a first-time buyer in Manatee County, upsizing in Lakewood Ranch, or relocating to Charlotte County, your budget stretches further today than it did just a year ago.

More Homes on the Market = More Options for You

One of the strongest signals that the market is balancing out? Inventory. According to Realtor.com, there are 17% more homes for sale nationwide than a year ago — and Southwest Florida reflects that same upward trend.

Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist at the National Association of Realtors (NAR), notes:

“Homebuyers are in the best position in more than five years to find the right home and negotiate for a better price.”

Take a look at this local data snapshot.

More homes on the market means less competition, more negotiating room, and a greater chance of finding the home that truly fits your lifestyle—from modern condos in downtown Sarasota to family-friendly neighborhoods in Lakewood Ranch or waterfront retreats in Punta Gorda.

Inventory Recovery Across the U.S.—and What It Means for Florida

While every region tells a different story, the South (including Florida) is seeing the strongest recovery in housing supply compared to pre-pandemic levels.

That growth is especially evident along the Gulf Coast, where new construction and resale listings have both increased. This expanded inventory means buyers can explore homes that meet their exact needs—whether that’s a larger lot, a pool, or proximity to Sarasota’s award-winning beaches.

Why Local Expertise Matters More Than Ever

Even though the overall market is improving, each community in Southwest Florida is unique. The dynamics in Lakewood Ranch may differ from Venice, North Port, or Englewood—and that’s where a local professional can help you interpret what the data really means for your neighborhood.

Working with a trusted Sarasota-based agent, like Darren Dowling of Beyond Realty, ensures you have an expert who understands local market shifts, price trends, and negotiation opportunities.

Bottom Line

This isn’t the overheated market of 2021.
This isn’t even the cautious rebound of 2023 or 2024.

This is a new market in 2025—and buyers in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Manatee County, and Charlotte County are in a prime position to make their move.

If you stepped back from your home search because things felt too competitive or unaffordable, this could be your moment to reenter with confidence.

Let’s talk about your goals and get a custom overview of what’s available today—so when the right opportunity appears, you’re ready.

Contact Darren Dowling of Beyond Realty at (941) 204-0493 to start exploring your Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch real estate options today.