Florida’s housing market kicked off 2026 with a surge in activity, showing increased closed sales, pending contracts, and new listings compared to the previous year. However, this uptick is accompanied by a slight decrease in median prices and a notable expansion of available inventory, suggesting a market shifting towards greater balance.
Key Takeaways
- January 2026 saw year-over-year increases in closed sales for both single-family homes and condos/townhouses across Florida.
- New pending sales have shown consistent year-over-year growth for six consecutive months, indicating sustained buyer interest.
- Inventory levels have risen, providing more options for buyers and signaling a move towards a more balanced market.
- Median sales prices for single-family homes and condos/townhouses experienced modest year-over-year declines in January.
- Regional variations exist, with South Florida’s condo market showing distinct trends across different counties.
A Strong Start to the Year
Florida’s housing market began 2026 with robust momentum, according to data from Florida Realtors. Statewide, closed sales for single-family homes rose by 5.9% in January compared to the previous year, while condo and townhouse sales increased by 5.1%. This positive trend is further supported by a significant jump in new pending sales, which climbed 15.2% for single-family homes and 16.9% for condos and townhouses. This marks the sixth consecutive month of year-over-year growth in pending sales, signaling sustained buyer engagement heading into the spring season.
Inventory Expands, Prices Moderate
One of the most significant developments is the increase in available housing stock. New listings for single-family homes were up 7% in January, and condo and townhouse listings saw a 2.7% rise. This expansion of inventory is a welcome sign for buyers who have faced tight supply in recent years. Despite the increased activity, median sales prices saw a slight moderation. The statewide median price for single-family existing homes was $405,000, down 1.2% from January 2025, and the median price for condo-townhouse units fell 2.4% to $305,000.
Regional Differences Emerge
While the statewide picture is generally positive, regional markets exhibit distinct characteristics. In Central Florida, the market is showing signs of building momentum after a slow 2025. New listings and pending sales have increased, with Realtors optimistic about the spring market, partly due to interest rates hovering around six percent. Conversely, South Florida’s condo market presents a mixed bag. Broward County saw a dip in median condo prices and sales volume, while Palm Beach County experienced a jump in sales with rising inventory. Miami-Dade County’s condo market remained relatively steady, with sales activity showing the slowest year-over-year change in over two years, though inventory increased, suggesting a buyer’s market.
Looking Ahead
Experts suggest that the current trends indicate a market moving towards equilibrium. More homes are coming onto the market, providing buyers with greater choice, while steady demand benefits sellers. The moderation in prices is also seen as a positive step towards stabilizing affordability. Realtors emphasize the importance of working with knowledgeable professionals to navigate these evolving market conditions as the year progresses.
Sources
- Central Florida’s real estate market building momentum, Spectrum News 13.
- South Florida’s condo market gets off to a mixed start in 2026, WLRN.
- January Shows Strong Start for Florida Housing, | Florida Realtors.
- Florida Housing Market Opens 2026 With Gains In Sales And Inventory – NMP, National Mortgage Professional.
- More Inventory, Steadier Sales, Cooling Prices – NMP, National Mortgage Professional.