The Florida west coast real estate market is had an above-average activity during 2020, and the trend is expected to continue for 2021. Local experts that serve the Gulf Coast's most sought-after areas, and members of the Haute Residence network of top real estate professionals, share with us their thoughts on the upcoming year of West Florida living!
Photo Credit: Matt Steeves Photography
"I am very excited about the 2021 market in Naples. It looks to be off to a fast start just based on the activity in December. We have such a lack of inventory in Naples and we are just at the start of the season. I can only imagine what will come." - Dante DiSabato, Naples, FL.
Photo Credit: Jason Ellis
"In 2021 we will continue to see a record number of people move to our area as their primary residence as they are seeking out areas and climates that give them the ability to have a lifestyle, they want in the new Covid world we live in. The ability for people to work from home has created a shift that will make our area one of the most desired due to climate, various outdoor activities, less populated, and of course, the unique and beautiful beaches that our area offers.
The second home market will continue to thrive as buyers are seeking an option for their family to come for school, Work, etc. now that the ability to do school and work is a virtual option. Also, with the migration of buyers from cities like Chicago, St Louis, New York to Nashville, Atlanta, Dallas, we will see a new group of buyers seeking a beach home as they will now be within driving distance of their primary home.
The luxury investment product will continue to be in demand due to low-interest rates and what is considered a tangible asset." Hilary Farnum-Fasth, Broker & Owner, Corcoran Reverie, Scenic 30A area, FL.
Photo Credit: Beach Properties of Florida
"In 2021 we expect to see a continued rising demand here in South Walton, yet with reduced inventory. The 30A beach community that has long been focused on tourism and vacation rentals is now shifting towards an increase in permanent residences." - Hunter Harman, South Walton, FL.
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"The market seems to keep getting better and better. People are leaving congested cities such as New York and Chicago for areas like SWFL where they will enjoy a resort-like living environment. Many companies have allowed their employees to work remotely, indefinitely. If you live in Bonita Springs, you can take your lunch hour on the beach every day. How can that be beat?" - Angela Lutzi Dellatorè, The Dellatorè Real Estate Group, Bonita Springs/Barefoot Beach/Bonita Beach, FL
Photo Credit: Coastal Home Photography
"The 2021 Sarasota real estate market will continue the trends from the latter half of 2020, demand outstripping the supply of available properties. Population growth driven by migration from high tax states, the new ability to work remotely, excellent schools, and fantastic weather are the underlying dynamics. Comparative value is also a factor. The Sarasota market is getting benchmarked against other Florida markets where prices are higher. The long and the short, the Sarasota market will continue to be strong only limited by the supply of properties." - Joel Schemmel, Sarasota, FL.
Photo Credit: Tony Sica
"Inventory for luxury listings is at an all-time low in the Tampa Bay area. Homes that are priced well are selling very quickly. If homes are overpriced, they will stay on the market for an extended period of time and often sell at a lower price than if they were priced correctly from the beginning. Since the onset of the pandemic, many buyers are trading up to larger hones and will continue to do so in the new year in order to accommodate working from home (and in some cases schooling from home). With the number of people leaving high tax states such as New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, and most recently California, we will continue to see an influx of buyers coming to the Tampa Bay market well into next year." - Jennifer Zales, Tampa, FL