Why Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch Home Prices Aren’t Actually Flat

Why Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch Home Prices Aren’t Actually Flat

If you’ve been reading real estate news, you’ve probably noticed headlines claiming home prices are flat. At first glance, that seems simple—but the reality in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and surrounding areas isn’t quite that straightforward.

What Local Data Really Shows

While the nationwide market has seen a moderation from the rapid price increases of 2020–2022, local trends can vary dramatically. In Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte County, some neighborhoods are still experiencing small increases in home prices, while others are seeing modest declines.

Data from ResiClub, Zillow, and local MLS listings make one thing clear: “flat” doesn’t tell the whole story. Prices are moving differently depending on inventory, demand, and local economic factors (see graph below).

Inventory is a key factor driving this divide. According to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies:

“Price trends are beginning to diverge across the country. Prices are declining in markets with high inventory, while they continue to climb where for-sale inventory remains tight.”

When you average these trends, it might look flat on a national level—but the reality in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and neighboring counties is much more nuanced.

Even in areas seeing small declines, most homeowners remain ahead. Nationally, prices rose roughly 50% over the past five years. Local corrections are simply normalizing after rapid growth.

What Buyers Should Know

Local market trends impact your buying strategy:

• In neighborhoods where prices are rising: Waiting could mean paying more later.

• In areas where prices are easing: You may have more leverage for repairs, incentives, or negotiating closing costs.

The key is knowing the trends in your area to make informed decisions.

What Sellers Should Know

Pricing your home correctly requires understanding your local market:

• In rising markets: You may not need to compromise to sell.

• In softening markets: Accurate pricing and willingness to negotiate are essential.

Working with a local agent who knows Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and Manatee/Charlotte County trends ensures your home is priced to sell.

The Real Story Is Local

National averages can provide context, but local trends are what truly matter. Anthony Smith, Senior Economist at Realtor.com, emphasizes:

“While national prices continued to climb, local market conditions have become increasingly fragmented…This regional divide is expected to continue influencing price dynamics and sales activity as the fall season gets underway.”

A local expert can tell you whether your neighborhood is holding steady, appreciating, or softening—and how that affects your buying or selling strategy.

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Bottom Line

Headlines claiming home prices are flat don’t tell the full story, especially here in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and nearby counties.

If you want to know the real numbers and trends in our local market, let’s connect. Understanding your area gives you the power to make the best move—whether buying or selling.