What does 2026 hold for the Gulf Coast real estate market?

In 2025, U.S. home sales remained low due to affordability issues, high mortgage rates, and economic uncertainty, with Gulf Coast markets facing storm-related challenges. Sarasota and Naples saw gains in single-family home sales, while condos lagged. Nationally, luxury homes grew, but moderate-priced homes declined, reflecting economic disparities. Local prices rose 50% since 2020, limiting affordability. Forecasts predict modest sales and price increases in 2026, with continued demand in affluent markets.