Sales of luxury houses and condominiums have been on the rise in a number of Florida counties, with prices also on the increase. The number of foreclosures and short sales is on the decrease, leading the upward movement of home prices.
Homebuyers and brokers seeking property in southwest Florida are not finding it as easy to find desirable homes at prices that can be afforded, making this area an attractive one for buyers with good capital behind them.
In Sarasota County, for example, inventories have dropped to an eight-year low, with a consequent knock on effect on how many homes there are for sale. In some areas, home prices have risen by around 4%, making it more attractive for sellers but still a good deal for buying investment property or as a home to live in.
The shortage of homes may partly be due to the fact that recent years have seen few new homes being constructed in southwest Florida, but this situation is beginning to change. With fewer properties available for sale compared to other parts of the US, a number of buyers are purchasing their own lots and building new homes on them.
There are reports from some real estate agents in southwest Florida that the early part of 2012 in particular saw waterfront lots being sold quickly. Whatever the reasons, it certainly seems that the region is very much on the upward trend, making it an inviting place for property investors to do business.