The National Market:
Slow growth and flattening prices seem to dominate the real estate news stories today. Home price appreciation is still positive in many markets but at a slower pace. Zillow reported earlier that 2025 average U.S. home values are rising at a pace of 0.1%. Most reliable forecasters place that estimate at something closer to 2%. So we are not seeing a boom, we are not seeing a crash — more of a “cooled down and steady” environment.

Many U.S. markets are seeing rising inventory levels and slower sales activity. Pending sales and new-home sales remain sluggish in many markets, but the trajectory is improving. Buyer activity is on the rise. In August, pending home sales rose 4.0% vs. July. Because “pending” contracts precede closed sales, this is an early signal of rising buyer demand.

The Local Market:  
Buyer activity across the Emerald Coast continues to trend upward, supported by increased inventory and a more balanced pace of sales. September 2025 data:

Single-Family Homes: About 8.0 months of inventory (240 days). Recent sales averaged 109 days on market and closed at 95% of asking price, reflecting steady buyer confidence.

Condos: Roughly 11.2 months of inventory (336 days). Sold units averaged 365 days on market, also achieving 95% of list price, as buyers take advantage of broader choices. For proper perspective, September was an anomaly in terms of days-on-market. The Y-T-D number is 201.

Residential Lots: Approximately 20.2 months of inventory (606 days). Closings averaged 194 days on market and 91% of asking price, showing continuing investor and builder interest.

With an estimated 68% of homes owned free and clear or holding more than 50% equity, the Emerald Coast market remains fundamentally strong and well-positioned for sustained growth.

A summary of September Average Sold Prices:


                                                              Single Family                    Condo
 30-A                                                 $2,722,977   (84)         $1,520,833   (24)                                   
Destin/Miramar Beach                $1,335,210   (48)         $   710,075   (88)
Ft. Walton Beach                           $   415,327   (71)         $   300,125     (8)      

Ed Sez: Why price matters? Consider that today’s buyers are informed, patient, and picky — but they’re still buying. A smart price isn’t surrender; it’s sound financial strategy. Nail it now, and you’ll be sailing toward sold while others are still waiting for the wind to change.

Ed & Terri Smith

RE/MAX Coastal Properties

Selling Emerald Coast Real Estate Since 1987!

 

Inlet Beach - 30A - Santa Rosa Beach - Miramar Beach - Destin - Fort Walton Beach