Florida Home Sales Up, Prices Stabilizing in Sept.

If you've ever felt like you’re missing out on the perfect investing in South Florida moment because you’re busy elsewhere, have a full property portfolio in multiple cities, or simply don’t want to manage another asset—this is the blog for you.

Imagine this scenario: You’re returning from a vacation with your family, relaxing poolside at a luxury beachfront property, and you remember that the condo you bought in Miami has just had its sale contract accepted—without you lifting a finger. The building’s full-service management team, valet parking, 24/7 doorman, and on-site concierge handled everything. You sip your coconut drink and smile.

That could be reality, not fantasy—and here’s why:

  • According to the Florida Realtors® report, closed single-family home sales in Florida rose 13.6% year-over-year in September 2025.
  • Closed condo and townhouse sales jumped 8% year-over-year in that same timeframe.
  • Falling mortgage rates hovering near 6.5% are helping reignite buyer demand and stabilizing prices.
  • As the 2025 President of Florida Realtors, Tim Weisheyer said: “We’re seeing clear signs of renewed strength and balance in Florida’s housing market — both in sales and buyer confidence.”

In short: For high-net-worth individuals seeking a second or third property, for homeowners looking to diversify, and for investors focused on luxury, full-service, low-maintenance assets—this is a “now or soon” moment.

Here’s how to navigate it smartly.

1. What’s Actually Happening in Florida’s Real Estate Market

  1. Sales momentum is back: Single-family homes in Florida reached 21,271 closed sales in September 2025—up 13.6% from a year ago. Condos/townhouses reached 7,187, up 8%.
  2. Prices are stabilizing: The median sales price of single-family existing homes held at about $410,000 in September, unchanged year-over-year. Condo/townhouse median was around $299,000 which is actually down ~4.8% vs same time last year.
  3. Inventory is transitioning: Single-family supply is about 5.1 months; condo/townhouse supply is about 9.1 months.
  4. Mortgage rate influence: The drop in the 30-year fixed rate near 6.5% is credited with driving more buyers into the market.

What this means for you: The housing market is no longer purely a seller’s frenzy where waiting just meant watch your property double overnight. Instead, we’re entering a phase of balance: demand is up, price spikes are muted, choices are better. That means more opportunity and less risk of overpaying.

2. Why “Investing in Miami” Should Be On Your Radar Right Now

As someone familiar with owning multiple properties across cities, you’ll appreciate this:

  1. Luxury + Service = Low-maintenance: When buying a prime condo in Miami, you’re not just buying a unit—you’re buying full-service amenities (doorman, valet parking, concierge, security) that allow you to “hands-off it” while still enjoying vacations, family stays, or strong rental income.
  2. Second-home lifestyle appeal: Miami blends luxury, world-class dining, entertainment, and beaches. The “escape” market is alive—and buyers/investors want simplicity, not management headaches.
  3. Rising demand, stabilizing pricing: With Florida’s broader market showing steady gains and holding price levels, the risk of sitting on a depreciating asset is lower versus other segments.
  4. Global feeder market: Miami remains a favorite among international buyers and high-net-worth individuals. This keeps luxury condominiums resilient.
  5. Pre-built platforms for ease: If you prefer being spoon-fed information rather than doing deep dives yourself, there are fully-managed luxury projects and specialist brokers who cater to you.

3. How to Approach Investing in Miami Condominiums (the smart way)

Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for your specific needs:

  1. Define your criteria
    • Location: Miami Beach, Brickell, Downtown, Edgewater, etc. Look for high demand, low supply.
    • Asset type: Prioritize luxury condominium or new development with full-service amenities.
    • Management: Must include on-site property management with minimal owner involvement.
    • Security & parking: Building must offer 24/7 security, valet or dedicated parking, doorman services.
  2. Shortlist buildings
    Use specialist portals and trusted advisors to locate buildings that match these filters. For example, you can explore the range of buildings listed here:
    Use that link to bookmark projects that deliver what you want.
  3. Evaluate supply/demand dynamics
    • For each building, ask: What’s the current inventory of units for sale? How long are they sitting?
    • Is there rental demand? If you plan to rent when you’re not using it, the building should cater to short-term or mid-term rentals (subject to condo rules).
    • Core market trend: With Florida single-family sales up 13.6% and condos up 8% in September, you’re aligning with broader momentum.
  4. Check the numbers
    • HOA/condo fees: Luxury buildings come with higher fees—confirm that services justify them.
    • Tax and insurance: Florida has particular cost variables (especially for waterfront/high-rise).
    • Rent potential (if applicable): Even if you don’t intend to rent now, know the upside.
    • Exit strategy: Because prices are stabilizing rather than skyrocketing, aim for 3–5 year hold with incremental appreciation + service/amenity value.
  5. Leverage full-service management
    • Choose buildings or property managers who handle everything: guest services, cleaning turnover, security, reserves, insurance.
    • For you, the goal is zero maintenance headaches—so your time remains free.
  6. Visit (or delegate the visit)
    • If you can physically inspect, spend a day in Miami: check the building, amenities, security, nearby dining and entertainment.
    • If you’re unable to visit, appoint a specialist broker (like those linked through the internal page above) who will walk you through virtually—with video, building tour, service-list inspection.

4. What to Watch for in This Market (and How to Mitigate Risks)

  • While sales are up and prices are stabilizing, that doesn’t mean everywhere in Florida is “easy pickings.” Some condo markets have longer supply months (~9 months) which can soften pricing.
  • Ensure the building you buy into is not overloaded with units for sale; check its “days on market” trends.
  • Insurance and hurricane risk: Florida has unique cost components (flood, windstorm). Model those into your investment return.
  • Future rate risk: While rates around 6.5% are helping now, further drops or rises can influence demand.
  • Maintenance & reserves: Even “luxury” buildings must maintain reserves for repairs, so inspect the building’s financials.
  • Exit liquidity: For high-end assets, the buyer pool is narrower—make sure your timeframe is realistic.

5. Quick Action Checklist for You

  1. Set aside 30 minutes this week to click through the “Buildings” page linked above and bookmark 2–3 candidate buildings.
  2. Schedule a 15-minute call with a specialist broker who can send you virtual tours and service-feature sheets.
  3. Request recent data on the building: current listings, average days on market, condo fee schedule, rental rules (if you will rent).
  4. Estimate your usage: How many weeks per year will you stay, how many weeks you’ll rent, how much effort you’re willing to have = Zero.
  5. Once you narrow to a building you love, lock in a representative and plan a short visit or virtual inspection within the next 60 days.

Conclusion

The time is ripe for investing in Miami—and for you, that means a rare combination of strong market signals, luxury service-oriented buildings, and the lifestyle you value. The broader Florida market is signaling a shift into equilibrium: sales climbing, prices stabilizing, and buyer confidence returning. That gives you a robust backdrop to act.

If you’re ready to explore luxury full-service condominiums that deliver zero-maintenance, high-amenities living in Miami—and to pull the trigger on your next smart move—how about we start the conversation?

The 5 Hard Truths

Are you thinking of buying or selling a high-end property in Miami in 2025? If so, you’ve got to see beyond the headlines—this is a market full of nuance. In this post, I’ll walk you through five major realities shaping the luxury real estate market in 2025, with actionable insights for serious buyers and sellers.

Quick Take / Featured Snippet

  • At $2,000+/SF or $10M+, ~80% of deals are structured as “cash” (even if leveraged later).
  • In the $5M+ resale condo space, there’s oversupply—resales close ~10% below ask.
  • Coconut Grove is tight; Downtown/Brickell remains loose.
  • Luxury single-family homes are softening—now’s a window.
  • New development is flooding the market, forcing resales to compete.

1. Cash Is King: Why Proof of Funds Matters More Than Ever

At the ultra-premium tier, deals unfold differently:

  • When you see $2,000+ per square foot or $10M+ listings, only ~20 % of deals use conventional financing—the rest appear as cash. (Later, many buyers may tap private lines or SBLOCs.) Lux Life Miami Blog+2Miami Ultra Lux Condos+2
  • For sellers, that means certainty and speed trump small price bumps.
  • For buyers, the ability to present proof of funds and move decisively can be the difference between capturing your ideal unit—or missing it.

Actionable Tip (Buyers): Always have your proof of funds ready. Even if you plan to finance later, start with cash-equivalent strength.
Actionable Tip (Sellers): If multiple offers land, favor the one with cash or ultra-high certainty—even if it’s slightly lower.

2. $1M to 5M+ Resale Condos = Buyer’s Market

In downtown and ultra-prime zones:

What Buyers Should Do:

  1. Negotiate credits, repairs, or concessions.
  2. Target turnkey units to avoid renovation delays or surprises.
  3. Use closed comps (not just active listings) to anchor your offers.

What Sellers Should Do:

  • Price to closed comps (not overly optimistic active listings).
  • Be willing to make concessions (e.g. pre-inspections, credits) to reduce buyer risk.

3. Coconut Grove Tight; Downtown & Brickell Loose

The dynamics differ sharply depending on neighborhood:

  • Coconut Grove condos are trading more swiftly. Demand is concentrated, inventory is limited. Lux Life Miami Blog+1
  • Downtown / Brickell remains oversupplied, with long days on market and soft bidding dynamics. CondoBlackBook+2Miami Ultra Lux Condos+2
  • In Q2 2025, Greater Downtown’s luxury condos had ~25 months of inventory, with median sales up but average price per square foot flat year-over-year. CondoBlackBook

For Buyers:

  • In the tight Grove market, move quickly on A-grade buildings with low assessments.
  • Be ready to act when a standout unit hits the market.

For Sellers:

  • Stage professionally.
  • Provide transparency: pre-inspection reports, clear HOA/assessment disclosures.
  • Emphasize the building’s full-service amenities to reassure out-of-town buyers.

4. Luxury Homes Softening — A Strategic Opportunity

While inventory is rising, pricing remains surprisingly resilient:

Buyers:

  • Monitor 30–60 day listings—motivated sellers often emerge.
  • Consider bringing strong terms (fast close, little contingency) to win.

Sellers:

  • Refresh media (photos, video, staging).
  • Price “surgically” (too high = instant stale).
  • Be ready to capture demand quickly if interest spikes.

5. Hard Truths

New condo supply is surging:

  • Brickell is adding ~4,500 new units (+17 %)
  • Coconut Grove up ~33 %
  • Beach markets ~5 % growth Lux Life Miami Blog+1
  • Many buyers prefer brand-new specs (smart home features, modern layouts, higher ceilings, resort-level amenities).

For Buyers:

  • Enter early phases of development for incentives, customization, and upgrade credits.
  • Leverage developer pricing vs resale units.

For Sellers of Resales:

  • Compete with value: price aggressively, stage impeccably, offer concessions.
  • Highlight upgrades, smart features, or bonus value your unit brings vs new builds.

✅ Pro Tip: Speed and Certainty Win

In this nuanced market, buyers who move quickly with certainty (proof of funds, clean diligence) win deals. Sellers should seek offers with minimal friction. The name of the game is not always “highest price”—it’s the highest certainty in execution.

Bonus: Why This Matters to You (Especially If You’re Buying a Second Home in Miami)

As someone shopping in the luxury space, you likely face time constraints, distance, and high expectations. You want zero surprises, full-service, seamless management, security, and a lifestyle your family will love. You don’t want to babysit renovations or chase contractors from afar. That’s why:

  • The building you choose matters (amenities, security, services).
  • You want a trusted local partner to filter options, negotiate, and oversee logistics.
  • You want turnkey units that don’t need retrofits or “catch-up” spending.

If you’re curious which neighborhoods or buildings are outperforming right now, I’d be happy to run a custom analysis based on your budget, needs, and timeline.

What the Government Shutdown Means for Mortgage Rates as Financial Markets React

When the U.S. government halts operations, the ripple effects go far beyond Washington, D.C. As of 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, a shutdown has paused many federal services and shaken financial markets. For someone exploring investing in Real Estate, especially in theluxury sector, this isn’t just another headline—it’s a reminder that timing and information are everything in real estate.

In this article, you’ll learn how the shutdown is influencing mortgage rates, what it means for buyers and investors, and the smart steps you can take to protect your goals and seize opportunities in Miami’s luxury housing market.

1. Why Mortgage Rates Are Fluctuating During the Shutdown

The Flight to Safety: Bond Yields and Rate Pressure

Whenever uncertainty rises, investors rush to safety—often into U.S. Treasury bonds. That demand pushes bond prices higher and yields lower. Because 30-year mortgage rates typically follow the 10-year Treasury yield, lower yields can temporarily ease upward rate pressure.

In early October, rates hovered near 6.3%, just slightly above their 11-month low. The modest rise reflects market caution—some investors anticipate rate cuts later this month, while others brace for volatility until economic data returns to normal reporting.

The Information Blackout

One major issue: the federal government is no longer publishing critical data, including the monthly jobs report and inflation numbers. The Federal Reserve, which relies on this data to guide rate policy, is now operating in the dark. That creates a guessing game for investors and could cause rates to swing more unpredictably in the weeks ahead.

Conflicting Signals in the Economy

Recent private-sector data, such as ADP’s jobs report, revealed a surprise decline of 32,000 private payrolls, signaling potential weakness. Yet broader economic indicators still suggest resilience. This contrast leaves markets jittery—and reinforces why now is a time for precision, not panic, in financial decisions.

2. Who Is Directly Affected (and Who Isn’t)

Conventional Mortgages Continue Smoothly

If you’re financing through a traditional or jumbo lender, you’re largely in the clear. Most conventional loans don’t rely on federal agencies, meaning approvals and closings will continue. However, minor verification steps—like IRS transcript requests—might face delays.

Government-Backed Loans Face More Disruption

Loans insured by FHA, VA, or USDA programs are more vulnerable. Staff furloughs and paused operations can create bottlenecks in approvals, leaving borrowers in limbo until Congress reaches a deal.

The Flood Insurance Pause

For buyers in flood-zone areas like South Florida, the biggest hurdle may be the temporary suspension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Without NFIP authorization, new policies can’t be issued, leaving lenders unable to close deals that require flood coverage. The National Association of Realtors® estimates this could delay or disrupt about 1,400 transactions per day nationwide.

Markets with Federal Workforces

Cities such as Washington, D.C., San Diego, San Antonio, and Virginia Beach—where many residents rely on federal income—could see temporary softening in home sales if paychecks are delayed.

3. What This Means for Miami Investment Strategy Specifically

If you’re focused on investing in Miami, particularly in luxury condominiums, this environment calls for strategic calm. Miami’s high-end real estate remains resilient, but understanding how to time your move can make a significant difference in return and peace of mind.

A Window for Better Financing Terms

Lower bond yields can briefly translate into slightly improved mortgage rates. If your financing is already in progress, this could be an opportunity to lock in favorable terms before volatility returns.

Manageable Delays for Smart Investors

Closings that depend on NFIP or federal verifications could face short delays—but for most luxury buyers using conventional loans or cash, the impact is minimal. The key is to work with an advisor who can anticipate these nuances and prevent your deal from stalling.

The Miami Market Remains Strong

Despite the national uncertainty, Miami’s luxury market continues to show strength, driven by global buyers, limited new waterfront inventory, and strong rental demand. Premium full-service buildings—offering concierge, security, valet parking, spa, and fine dining amenities—remain in high demand among international and U.S. investors seeking zero-maintenance ownership.

If you’re evaluating your next investment, explore Miami’s finest full-service residences at ChrisPessyMiamiRealEstate.com/buildings to see where lifestyle and financial value align.

4. Tactical Moves to Stay Ahead

  1. Rate-Test Your Budget: Use a mortgage calculator to understand how even a 0.25% swing in rates could affect your payment.
  2. Lock When the Window Opens: If your lender offers a float-down option, take advantage—this protects you from both rate spikes and missed drops.
  3. Secure Private Flood Coverage: Avoid NFIP delays by sourcing alternative flood insurance early.
  4. Prioritize Strong Management: Focus on buildings with on-site management, full amenities, and 24/7 security—properties that stay attractive regardless of market swings.
  5. Think Long-Term: Short-term disruptions often create brief buying windows before rates normalize and demand rebounds.

5. What to Expect in the Coming Weeks

While uncertainty dominates headlines, the likely outcome is that mortgage rates will remain stable or edge slightly higher during the shutdown, then ease once operations resume. As markets correct and data flows return, any temporary rate bumps or drops will even out.

Flood insurance and government-backed loan disruptions may cause friction in certain transactions, but these impacts are unlikely to derail Miami’s luxury housing segment. Buyers in the $1M-plus bracket, often paying cash or using private financing, will continue moving forward—especially with quality inventory tightening in premier buildings.

In short: this is a moment for clarity, not caution. Stay informed, stay liquid, and act strategically.

Conclusion

The government shutdown underscores how external events can quickly influence mortgage rates and buyer confidence—but it also highlights the importance of working with an experienced advisor who understands both the macro trends and local market realities.

If you’re investing in Miami, focus on properties that deliver peace of mind: secure, full-service buildings that manage everything for you. Let your investment work for you while you enjoy the lifestyle that comes with it.

Why Florida is Leading Global Real Estate

Imagine arriving in Miami after a long flight from London, São Paulo, or Dubai. Instead of worrying about maintenance, security, or finding the right property manager, you step into your luxury condominium where every detail is handled—valet, doorman, private parking, world-class amenities, and zero stress.

At the Miami Real Estate Forum 2025, over 120 global leaders confirmed what sophisticated investors already sense: investing in Miami is not only about lifestyle—it’s about positioning your wealth in one of the most resilient and rewarding markets in the world.

This post unpacks the key takeaways from the Forum and explains why South Florida is once again at the center of international attention.

1. South Florida’s Unmatched Market Strength

Industry leaders at the Forum named South Florida as one of the strongest real estate markets in the U.S.—and arguably worldwide. While many U.S. metros experience slower growth, Miami continues to outperform in appreciation and demand.

For high-net-worth individuals, this means stability and security—your property here isn’t just a residence, it’s an appreciating global asset.

2. The International Appeal of Miami

Miami’s unique position as a cultural and financial gateway makes it particularly attractive to global investors. At the Forum, experts emphasized Miami’s steady flow of capital from Latin America and Europe, and increasingly from Asia and the Middle East.

Why international buyers love it:

  1. Dollar-denominated assets safeguard against home-country volatility
  2. Visa and residency options are tied to property ownership
  3. Miami offers a tax-advantaged environment compared to many European hubs

For buyers who already own homes in cities like Paris, London, or Bogotá, a Miami condominium offers both lifestyle and diversification.

3. Opportunities Across Real Estate Sectors

The Forum highlighted the diverse opportunities in Miami real estate, including:

  1. Luxury Condominiums & New Developments – Full-service buildings with spas, fine dining, rooftop pools, and dedicated staff.
  2. Multifamily Properties – Rising demand for rental housing ensures stable yields.
  3. Office & Retail – As companies expand into Miami, prime commercial spaces remain in high demand.
  4. Hospitality & Lifestyle – Miami’s reputation as a world-class travel destination continues to strengthen the hotel and resort sector.

If your primary interest is luxury living with full-service property management and amenities, explore some of Miami’s leading condominium developments here.

4. Future-Focused Growth: Tech, Sustainability, and Innovation

Another standout theme at the Forum was the future-driven nature of Miami’s growth. Developers and investors alike are focusing on:

  1. Sustainability – From green building practices to resilient coastal construction.
  2. Affordable Housing – Ensuring Miami remains livable for the workforce that drives its growth.
  3. Technology & AI – From smart-home systems to AI-driven property management, Miami is staying ahead of the curve.

For investors, this means your Miami property isn’t just modern today—it’s positioned for tomorrow.

5. Miami’s Resilient Outlook Despite Global Uncertainty

Even with global economic volatility and regulatory shifts, experts at the Forum expressed a “very good” long-term outlook for U.S. real estate, particularly South Florida.

Why?

  • Continued population migration from high-tax states like New York and California
  • Strong international demand
  • Limited waterfront and luxury inventory in prime locations

This resilience translates into confidence for anyone looking to invest in Miami.

6. Lifestyle: The Real Dividend of Miami Real Estate

Beyond numbers, Miami delivers what wealthy global buyers truly value—time, convenience, and lifestyle.

Picture this:

  • Your car delivered by valet as you step out of your building’s private lounge.
  • Michelin-star dining downstairs and nightlife minutes away.
  • A spa, fitness center, and resort-style pool accessible without ever leaving your residence.
  • Security, doorman, and concierge services ensuring peace of mind.

For those balancing properties across multiple cities, Miami offers simplicity and full-service luxury, so you can arrive and enjoy without lifting a finger.

Conclusion

The Miami Real Estate Forum 2025 confirmed it: South Florida is more than a hotspot—it’s a long-term wealth strategy. Whether it’s resilience in uncertain times, international prestige, or the effortless lifestyle of a luxury condominium, Miami continues to set the standard for global real estate.

If you’re ready to explore the best Miami condominiums, new developments, and luxury buildings with full-service amenities, view our curated selection here.

Your next Miami investment should be as effortless as the lifestyle it provides—book a free design consultation today.

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Coming from the world of hospitality, working with Chris has been a pleasure! His big heart, extensive network and deep understanding of the luxury real estate landscape gave the Mina Family access to the right opportunities and people to get the job done”
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My mission is to provide an unparalleled level of service and build genuine connections, ensuring every client's real estate journey is seamless, transparent, and rooted in trust.

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