“Is it a buyer's or a seller's market?” is the question we hear most — and the honest answer right now is that it's more balanced than the headlines suggest, which is good news for almost everyone.
Here's what the latest county data shows. In both Sarasota and Manatee counties there's roughly 4.1 months of single-family inventory. As a rule of thumb, under about five months tilts toward sellers and five to six is considered balanced — so we're sitting in a firm-but-not-frenzied zone. Homes are going under contract in about 45 to 47 days, and sellers are receiving roughly 94 to 96 cents on every dollar of list price. Prices are still up year over year — median single-family prices rose about 8% in Sarasota County and 11% in Manatee — even as active inventory sits well below where it was a year ago.
Translation for sellers: demand is real, well-priced homes still move, and you're likely to get close to your asking price — but buyers have more choice than they did at the peak, so pricing and presentation matter more than ever.
Translation for buyers: you have more options and more breathing room than a couple of years ago, and thoughtful offers are getting accepted — but the best homes still go quickly, so being prepared and pre-approved is your edge.
The truth is that “the market” is really hundreds of micro-markets — a 55+ villa and a waterfront estate can behave completely differently in the same month. That's why a read on your specific community and price point beats any headline. Sarah and Jackie Lowry track these numbers weekly and translate them into a plan for your situation. Call (941) 400-9026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is now a good time to sell in Sarasota or Manatee County?
For well-priced, well-presented homes, yes — sellers are still getting about 94–96% of list and homes go under contract in roughly six weeks. Sarah and Jackie can price and market yours to sell. Call (941) 400-9026.
Do buyers have any leverage right now?
More than they did at the peak — inventory is up from the frenzy years and thoughtful offers are getting accepted, though the best homes still move fast. The team can help you compete smartly. Reach them at (941) 400-9026.
