Mortgage Minute Update – October 24, 2025
Florida Market Opening New Opportunities as Rates Ease
Florida Market Overview
After several weeks of small increases, mortgage rates eased slightly — the average 30-year fixed now sits around 6.28%.
That’s not a dramatic drop, but it’s a real opportunity, particularly for homeowners who financed between 2022 and early 2025.
Many of those loans were written at higher rates, and this shift could open the door to lower monthly payments, debt consolidation, or cash-out options that strengthen long-term financial positions.
For buyers, the easing in rates comes at a time when inventory is expanding across much of Florida — meaning more homes to choose from and a bit more leverage at the negotiating table.
South Florida Snapshot (Palm Beach • Broward • Miami-Dade)
- Palm Beach County: Listings continue to build in the $500K–$800K range, giving buyers room to compare and negotiate.
- Broward County: More days on market are leading sellers to offer credits, repairs, and rate buydowns.
- Miami-Dade: Inventory remains the highest in South Florida — nearly 10 months of supply in some submarkets — yet move-in-ready homes in prime areas still move quickly.
Across the region, the tone is shifting from urgency to opportunity — smart buyers and sellers are finding deals that simply weren’t possible last year.
Central & North Florida Highlights
- Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Space Coast): Builders are active again, offering incentives such as rate buydowns and closing cost credits. Population growth and rental demand continue to drive a steady market.
- North Florida (Jacksonville & Panhandle): These areas remain some of the most affordable in the state. With new job growth and relocation activity, homes priced right are still moving at a healthy pace.
Florida Economic Pulse
Florida’s economy remains a powerhouse. Job growth and in-migration continue to outperform the national average, which supports housing demand even in a higher-rate environment.
However, insurance premiums and property taxes continue to be the two biggest obstacles for affordability — a key discussion point with both buyers and sellers heading into year-end.
What It Means for Buyers
- More homes to choose from and more negotiating power.
- Don’t wait for “perfect” rates — focus on comfortable payments and long-term goals.
- Remember: you can always refinance later, but you can’t go back and buy last year’s prices.
What It Means for Sellers
- Pricing accurately is key — buyers have options now.
- Homes that are clean, well-presented, and properly priced still move quickly.
- Offering seller credits or small concessions can make a big difference in today’s market.
Bottom Line
Florida’s market is stabilizing — not cooling off, but opening up.
Buyers have options, sellers have motivation, and rates have eased just enough to create real movement again.
If you financed in the past few years or you’re planning your next step, now’s the time to explore what this shift can do for you.




