July 2026 Real Estate MARKET UPDATE BY: D. MICHAEL BURKE, Mich … Continue reading...

Paradise Luxury Group: Where Your Dream Home Becomes Reality
As we move into summer, the Southwest Florida real estate market is continuing its transition from peak season into a more balanced environment. Seasonal residents have largely returned north, inventory has declined noticeably, and buyers who remain in the market are finding opportunities that simply did not exist a few years ago.
The market is no longer moving at the breakneck pace we experienced during the pandemic boom, but homes are still selling, buyers are active, and Southwest Florida remains one of the most desirable places to live in the country.
As of June 2026, there are 17,559 active listings across Southwest Florida.
That is a significant decrease from May’s inventory level of 19,177 homes and reflects the normal seasonal trend as many snowbirds return north and fewer new listings come to market during the summer months.
The reduction in inventory is one of the more encouraging signs we’ve seen this year. While buyers still have plenty of choices, the market is beginning to absorb some of the excess inventory that accumulated over the past 18 months.
| Month | Active Listings |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | 20,168 |
| February 2025 | 22,184 |
| May 2025 | 24,688 |
| June 2025 | 20,974 |
| September 2025 | 17,529 |
| October 2025 | 16,911 |
| December 2025 | 19,694 |
| January 2026 | 18,873 |
| February 2026 | 20,908 |
| March 2026 | 20,266 |
| April 2026 | 20,299 |
| May 2026 | 19,177 |
| June 2026 | 17,559 |
During the past seven days there have been 1,358 price reductions across Southwest Florida.
While price reductions continue to occur, the pace has slowed compared to earlier in the year. This suggests sellers are becoming more realistic with pricing from the start and buyers are finding value when homes are positioned correctly.
The market continues to reward sellers who price appropriately and present their homes well.
Months Supply of Inventory: 6.3 Months
Average Days on Market: 89 Days
Lee County remains one of the stronger markets in the region. Inventory has become more balanced and homes that are priced competitively continue to attract buyers.
Months Supply of Inventory: 6.8 Months
Average Days on Market: 100 Days
Collier County remains slightly slower than Lee County, but still maintains healthy market activity. Luxury buyers continue to be active, although many are taking more time to evaluate opportunities and negotiate terms.
Despite headlines suggesting otherwise, buyers are still purchasing homes across Southwest Florida.
2024 Total Home Sales: 30,171
2025 Total Home Sales: 30,655
2026 Year to Date Sales: 15,766
With nearly 16,000 homes already sold this year, the market continues to demonstrate strong demand for the Southwest Florida lifestyle.
Today’s buyers have opportunities that simply were not available during the highly competitive markets of 2021 and 2022.
• More inventory means more choices and less pressure to make rushed decisions.
• Sellers are increasingly willing to negotiate on price, repairs, closing costs, and financing incentives.
• Home prices in many areas have adjusted from post pandemic highs, creating better value for buyers entering the market today.
While buyers have gained leverage, sellers can still achieve excellent results with the right strategy.
• Inventory has declined significantly since last month.
• Nearly 16,000 homes have already sold this year.
• Serious buyers remain active and motivated, especially for well priced homes.
According to the latest data from the FGCU Regional Economic Research Institute, Southwest Florida’s economy continues to show a mix of strengths and challenges.

Some key takeaways include:
• Tourist tax revenues increased 9 percent compared to last year, showing that tourism remains a major economic driver for our region.
• Single family home sales increased 11 percent year over year, reinforcing the continued demand for housing across Southwest Florida.
• Median home prices increased 2 percent in Charlotte County and 10 percent in Collier County while remaining stable in Lee County.
• Residential active listings were down 19 percent compared to the same period last year, supporting the inventory reduction we are currently seeing.
• Airport passenger activity declined 2 percent and taxable sales declined 13 percent, indicating some moderation in consumer spending.
• Single family building permits fell 20 percent year over year, which could help prevent future oversupply if new construction remains at lower levels.
Overall, the economic data points to a housing market that is normalizing while still benefiting from strong population growth, tourism, and long term demand.
One of the biggest stories affecting Florida homeowners right now is a proposed property tax relief measure that is expected to appear on the November 2026 ballot.
Florida lawmakers recently approved a constitutional amendment that would significantly expand the state’s homestead exemption if approved by voters. Under the proposal, the current $50,000 homestead exemption would increase to $150,000 in 2027 and then to $250,000 in 2028. The measure would not apply to school taxes, which lawmakers protected during negotiations. The amendment will require at least 60 percent voter approval in November to take effect.
For many Florida homeowners, this could result in meaningful property tax savings over the coming years. Supporters believe the proposal could improve affordability and further strengthen Florida’s appeal to retirees, families, and relocating buyers, while critics have raised questions about how local governments would offset reduced tax revenue.
Regardless of where the debate ultimately lands, this will be one of the most closely watched ballot measures for Florida homeowners in 2026.
The Paradise Luxury Group powered by Realty One Group MVP
📞 239-498-7600 ✉️ Info@ParadiseLuxuryGroup.com 🌐 ParadiseLuxuryGroup.com
The housing market continues to shift in favor of buyers, particularly here in Southwest Florida.
Inventory levels remain elevated compared to recent years, homes are taking longer to sell, and sellers are becoming more realistic with pricing. In both Lee and Collier Counties, increased inventory and longer marketing times are creating opportunities that simply were not available over the past several years. At the same time, affordability has improved as home values in many Southwest Florida markets have adjusted from their post pandemic highs.
One of the biggest stories for Florida homeowners is the ongoing discussion surrounding property tax relief. Governor Ron DeSantis and state lawmakers continue to explore proposals that could reduce property tax burdens for homeowners, with voters expected to have the opportunity to weigh in on significant changes this November. If approved, the proposed expansion of Florida’s homestead exemption could provide meaningful long term savings for many homeowners.
Mortgage rates remain somewhat volatile as global markets react to ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. While rates continue to fluctuate, they remain below the highest levels experienced during the past two years.
For buyers, today’s market presents a unique opportunity. Home prices have softened in many areas, inventory is improving, and sellers are often more willing to negotiate repairs, closing costs, and other concessions. Buyers who are financially prepared and fully preapproved are in the strongest position to take advantage of current conditions.
While nobody can predict exactly where mortgage rates will go next, many buyers are finding that negotiating a better purchase price today can be more valuable than waiting for lower rates tomorrow.
Bottom Line: Southwest Florida is moving toward a healthier and more balanced market. Buyers have more choices, sellers must price strategically, and potential property tax relief could provide additional long term benefits for homeowners. Preparation, patience, and expert guidance remain the keys to success in today’s market.
Shawn Flinders
Sales Manager | NMLS #628471
1222 SE 47th St., Suite 204
Cape Coral, FL 33904
M: 239-385-2240 FL
Company NMLS #3274
Equal Housing Opportunity


July 2026 Real Estate MARKET UPDATE BY: D. MICHAEL BURKE, Mich … Continue reading...
