Central Florida's slow real estate market may be building momentum

February 20, 2026 - 13:48

After a prolonged period of cooling sales and rising inventory, the Central Florida housing market is displaying encouraging signs of gathering strength. Realtors across the region report a noticeable uptick in buyer activity and sales, suggesting a potential shift as the critical spring season approaches.

This emerging momentum is attributed to a slight moderation in mortgage rates from their previous highs, which has brought some buyers back off the sidelines. While inventory remains higher than the record lows of recent years, the increased pace of sales is beginning to balance the market. Properties that are priced competitively and in good condition are attracting multiple offers, indicating robust demand persists for well-positioned homes.

Industry professionals express cautious optimism, viewing these early-year indicators as a foundation for a more active market in the coming months. The traditional spring buying surge, combined with stabilized financing costs, could further accelerate this positive trend. This budding momentum offers a welcome change for sellers who had grown accustomed to longer listing periods, while buyers benefit from a less frenzied environment with more options than before. The overall sentiment points toward a market regaining its equilibrium and building steady momentum for the season ahead.