If you've been waiting for the right moment to make your move
in the Manatee or Sarasota County real estate market, this news might be
exactly what you've been hoping for.
As we closed out 2025 and enter into 2026, mortgage rates dropped to their lowest point in months. According to Freddie Mac's final mortgage report of 2025, the average 30 year fixed rate mortgage fell to 6.15%, down from 6.18% the previous week. This represents a significant improvement from where we started the year, when rates were hovering near 7%.
What This Means for You
Whether you're a first-time homebuyer searching for your
dream home in Bradenton or Parrish, a growing family looking to upgrade in
Lakewood Ranch, or someone considering downsizing to a maintenance free condo
in Sarasota or perhaps on Siesta Key, lower mortgage rates translate directly
to more buying power and lower monthly payments.
"This marks the lowest readout of 2025, a year in which
rates averaged 6.6%," noted Joel Berner, senior economist at Realtor.com.
He added that the market is responding positively to a period of stability,
with little indication of major interest rate changes coming in January.
Looking Ahead to 2026
What makes this news even more exciting is the timing. We're
heading into the peak buying season of 2026, and economists are optimistic
about what this could mean for our local market. Mortgage rates have been
retreating meaningfully during the second half of the year, setting the stage
for a potential rebound in housing activity.
The challenge throughout 2025 has been affordability. With
rates staying in the mid 6% range for most of the year, many potential buyers
understandably chose to wait on the sidelines. But now, with rates moving
downward and pending home sales already responding to this relief, we're seeing
momentum build even during what's traditionally the slowest part of the year.
The Numbers at a Glance
Here's how current rates compare:
- 30-year
fixed-rate mortgage: 6.15% (compared to 6.91% one year ago)
- 15-year
fixed-rate mortgage: 5.44% (compared to 6.13% one year ago)
That's roughly a three-quarter point improvement year over
year, which can make a substantial difference in your monthly payment and
overall affordability.
What This Means for the Southwest Florida Market
Southwest Florida continues to be one of the most desirable
places to live in the country, with our beautiful beaches, vibrant communities,
endless sunshine and things to do. Lower mortgage rates make our already
attractive market even more accessible to buyers who have been dreaming of
making this area their home.
If you've been considering buying or selling in Manatee or
Sarasota County, now might be an ideal time to have a conversation about your
goals. I'm here to help you navigate the market with confidence and find a
solution that fits your unique situation.
Important Note About Mortgage Rates
Keep in mind that the rates mentioned above are national
averages. Your actual mortgage rate may vary based on several factors,
including:
- Your
credit score and credit history
- The
size of your down payment
- The
type of loan you choose (conventional, FHA, VA, etc.)
- Your
debt-to-income ratio
- The
specific lender you work with
- Current
market conditions at the time of your application
- The
property type and location
That's why it's important to get pre-approved and shop around
with multiple lenders to find the best rate for your unique financial
situation. I'm happy to connect you with a few trusted local lenders my past
Buyers have used, who can provide personalized rate quotes based on your
specific circumstances.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
The combination of improved rates and the upcoming spring
market could create excellent opportunities for both buyers and sellers. I'd be
honored to discuss your real estate goals and help you understand how these
market conditions might work in your favor.
Whether you're ready to start your home search or just want
to explore your options, I'm here to guide you through every step of the
process with integrity, innovation, and the personalized attention you deserve.
Have questions about what these rate changes mean for your
specific situation? Let's talk. Contact me today to schedule a no obligation
consultation about your real estate goals in Southwest Florida 941-920-2018 or
at fentonsellsflorida@gmail.com
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