ThinkNaples.com - Real Estate - John R Wood Properties

Florida Housing Shows Recovery Signs
We're starting to see encouraging signs of recovery in the Florida housing market—a welcome shift for those of us who have tracked every peak and valley. Inventory levels are trending lower, which typically signals buyers are absorbing new listings more quickly and points toward a stabilizing market. Homebuilders are reporting increased backlogs again, a clear indicator that demand is strengthening after the slower patch we experienced earlier. Labor trends are also moving in a positive direction: job growth is ticking up, and goods-producing employment is set to turn positive after 2025. These improvements don’t just fuel real estate momentum—they’re also catching the attention of central bank officials, who may soon factor Florida’s renewed vitality into their broader economic outlooks. In my experience navigating the Naples luxury market, recognizing these shifts early can make all the difference for buyers and sellers aiming to make confident, informed decisions.

When buyers ask what their monthly mortgage payment includes, the answer is often more than principal and interest. Many payments also include property taxes, homeowner insurance, and possibly mortgage insurance, depending on the loan and down payment. HOA dues may be separate, but they still matter when calculating affordability. One important thing to remember is that even if your interest rate is fixed, your total payment can still change if taxes, insurance, or escrow amounts change. If you are planning to buy and want a clearer picture of the full monthly cost, contact me. I can help you look beyond the payment estimate and understand the bigger housing budget.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GregGormanPA/2026/09/08/What-Does-the-Mortgage-Payment-Include

Arizona vs. Florida: Two different growth stories for real estate investors
When considering real estate investment opportunities, it's fascinating to compare markets like Arizona and Florida—each with its own unique growth story. Arizona’s surge is largely powered by the expansion of the semiconductor industry, although investors need to weigh the ongoing concerns around water supply. Here in Florida, particularly in Naples, our growth is fueled by a steady influx of new residents and a thriving tourism sector. However, we must also remain mindful of flood and storm risks, which can influence insurance costs and development decisions. As someone focused on luxury properties and successful strategies for buyers and sellers in Naples, I understand how these local dynamics shape opportunities and challenges. Staying ahead of these factors is essential for making informed real estate decisions in both states.

South Florida FL Market Gains Momentum
Momentum continues to build in the South Florida real estate market as we look ahead to 2026. What’s fueling this trend? It isn’t a lack of buyers—rather, it’s the tighter inventory shaping our landscape. The low-6% mortgage range has brought a sense of stability, presenting unique opportunities for those prepared to enter the market. In the luxury segment—think homes priced over $5 million—there are currently about 488 single-family listings, with roughly 43 homes and 20 condos selling each month. Out of approximately 4,500 homes available across South Florida, just 10% are listed above $5 million while another 10% are under $500,000, underscoring how limited supply is supporting property values. If this trend continues, we can expect continued upward pressure on prices. It’s also worth watching the upcoming property tax referendum, which may prompt some owners to reconsider their next move. In my experience working with Naples-area buyers and sellers, understanding these market dynamics is key to making informed, confident decisions—especially in a fast-moving environment like ours.

Happy Labor Day!