[ WATCH THE MARKET UPDATE WITH BEV MURRAY ]

GET REAL covers all aspects of Sarasota real estate and aims to bring you the best market insights and practices for buying and selling real estate in Sarasota, Florida.

Current Sarasota market conditions are showing signs of recalibration

“The Sarasota market is in a phase of recalibration… greater inventory levels give buyers more options than they’ve had in years.”

Watch this part → 00:22

Bev explains that Sarasota buyers now have more choices than they’ve seen in years. While higher interest rates have caused some hesitation, the market remains resilient — particularly in lifestyle-driven and waterfront neighborhoods with strong cash activity.

The Sarasota housing market feels more like a shift than a slowdown

“It’s more a shift than a slowdown… we are technically in a very balanced market… the market is normalizing.”

Watch this part → 01:07

What feels like a downturn is actually a market adjustment toward balance. Bev notes that with about six months of inventory, Sarasota is operating as a healthy, stable market. Homes that are priced right and presented well continue to sell quickly, while buyers now have more room to negotiate.

What’s happening with second homes and vacation properties in Sarasota right now

“There’s definitely a slowdown in the second home and vacation purchase market for financed properties… but we’re still seeing cash buyers… people prioritizing quality of life, and this region delivers.”

Watch this part → 02:21

Higher interest rates have slowed some financed second-home purchases, but Sarasota’s tax advantages, sunshine, and beaches continue to attract cash buyers and retirees. Bev says people are still choosing Sarasota for its quality of life, not just as an investment.

How insurance costs and HOA fees are influencing Sarasota homebuyers

“These factors are encouraging buyers to be more thoughtful and strategic… we’re seeing a more educated, intentional buyer.”

Watch this part → 04:04

Florida’s rising insurance premiums and HOA fees are shaping how buyers make decisions. Bev sees this as a positive trend — creating more intentional buyers focused on long-term stability and well-maintained properties.

The outlook for the Sarasota real estate market through the 2025 season

“Sarasota has a proven track record of bouncing back stronger—post recession, post COVID, post hurricanes… I think we’ve got a lot to look forward to.”

Watch this part → 04:57

Bev is optimistic about the upcoming season. Sarasota’s vibrant arts calendar, restaurant scene, and resilient coastal communities continue to draw visitors and buyers alike. She believes the market is headed toward sustainable, steady growth — rather than the rapid pace of the post-pandemic years.

ABOUT BEV MURRAY

Looking for a successful, trusted real estate professional to help you buy or sell a home in Sarasota? Bev Murray has worked in Sarasota real estate since 1999. In 2023, she was ranked in the top 1 percent of over 50,000 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices agents nationwide.

Fluent in French and Spanish, Bev is a certified real estate negotiation expert (RENE), Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist®, and a member of the National Association of Realtors and the Global Business Council.

Contact Bev today to assist with your next home sale or purchase. 941-724-4995 or bev@murraygroupusa.com