News & Market Trends

Stay Ahead of the Market

Curious about where mortgage rates, home prices, or inventory levels are headed? Here’s your hub for timely insights across central Florida. Lets keep a close eye on trends that matter for smart home buying and selling decisions

*Note: Data is accurate as of publication date and subject to change.

*Disclaimer: Market data is provided for informational purposes only and may change without notice. Always consult a licensed Realtor, lender, or legal advisor before making financial decisions.

Mortgage Rate Trends - June 2025

As of June 24, 2025, the national average for a 30-year fixed mortgage stands at 6.45%, up slightly from 6.36% in May. Florida rates are comparable, though select builders and lenders are offering temporary rate buydowns (as low as 5.5%) to stimulate summer purchases. This is particularly useful for buyers of new construction homes. For buyers with strong credit and higher down payments, some local banks are also offering rate locks for up to 90 days.

📌 Source: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey

Inventory Snapshot

Lake Mary and Sanford have seen a 9.2% increase in active listings since May, with homes under $500K moving the fastest. The average days on market has decreased from 21 to 17 days. Demand remains strongest in zip codes 32746 and 32771, especially for updated single-family homes in HOA communities. Many listings under $450K are receiving multiple showings within 48 hours of being listed, though bidding wars are less frequent compared to 2022–23 peaks.

📌 Source: Stellar MLS Monthly Snapshot – June 2025 (Market data pulled via Realtor.com and Redfin trends)

Builder Incentives- Summer 2025

Builders in Central Florida — including Lake Mary, Sanford, and Longwood — are ramping up buyer incentives this summer. Incentives include up to $20,000 in design credits, interest rate buydowns, and paid closing costs on quick move-in homes. Inventory homes built in 2023 and early 2024 are being offered with aggressive financing packages. Custom build timelines remain 7–9 months, but buyers seeking faster closings may benefit from ready-to-own homes priced under $600K.

📌 Source: Builder websites

Rental Market

Rental properties in Longwood and DeBary continue to attract investors due to low vacancy rates (4.8%) and strong cap rates (6.2%–6.8%). Well-maintained 3-bedroom homes under $450K are performing well in the long-term rental segment, especially with proximity to SunRail stations and good school zones. Landlords report high tenant retention and increasing rent rates year-over-year. Short-term rental activity remains limited due to HOA restrictions in several communities.

📌 Source: Zillow Rental Market Report (Central Florida), Florida Housing Data Clearinghouse

📈 5. Local Market Insights

Realtors across Lake Mary and Sanford are reporting an uptick in pre-approved buyers entering the market, though many move-up sellers remain hesitant due to their locked-in low mortgage rates from 2021–22. Home tour activity is steady, but offer submission timelines have stretched slightly. Price sensitivity is increasing, especially on homes needing updates. New listings priced above $650K are taking longer to sell unless turnkey. Buyer interest is rising among IT professionals relocating to the region for hybrid roles.

📌 Source: Local agent surveys + reports via National Association of Realtors

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Ruby sends a quick monthly roundup of housing trends, interest rate changes, and builder updates across Lake Mary, Sanford, and nearby cities. Stay smart and ahead of the market.