The National Market:
The old journalism adage—“If it bleeds, it leads”—may help explain why 70% of Americans fear a housing crash in 2025, according to a recent survey. Yet, year after year, doom-and-gloom predictions rarely materialize. Like a stopped clock, the pessimists occasionally get it right—just not often.
In reality, the fundamentals remain strong. Home equity levels are solid as prices have increased 57% over the past five years. Meanwhile, inventory levels are rising, giving buyers more options. With interest rates expected to trend lower and the Federal Reserve likely to approve three rate cuts in 2025, the housing market appears poised for continued stability—not collapse.
The Local Market:
Year-to-date home and condo sales—measured by units sold—are still down across Okaloosa, Walton and Bay counties. However, key indicators suggest momentum is improving.
• Single-Family Homes: 8.5 months of inventory | 137 Days-on-Market to close
• Condos: 15.6 months of inventory | 151 Days-on-Market to close
While higher inventory benefits buyers, these figures also signal greater opportunity and movement—early signs of a market gradually finding its footing.
A summary of April Average Sold Prices:
Single Family Condo
30-A $2,570,771 $ 629,818
Destin/Miramar Beach $1,140,142 $ 618,358
Ft. Walton Beach $ 383,262 $ 426,498
Ed Sez: According to mortgage giant Freddie Mac, “We expect the pace of housing price appreciation to moderate, while still maintaining a positive trajectory”.
Ed & Terri Smith
Kay, Denis and Mary
Making Business a Pleasure ℠