Brevard County Market Update Brevard County Housing Market Update: September 2026 By Debbie Strawhand, Real Estate Advisor, Avanti Way Realty · Published October 19, 2026 Every month I dig into the Space Coast MLS numbers so you don't have to. September told a clear story: prices held steady, there are noticeably fewer homes on the market than a year ago, and well-priced homes are selling faster. Here's what happened and what it means for you, whether you're thinking about buying or selling. Median Sale Price $352,000 +0.6% vs. Sept. 2025 Homes Sold 972 −7.4% vs. Sept. 2025 Active Listings 4,586 −17.6% vs. Sept. 2025 Median Days on Market 42 Down from 57 last year Months of Supply 4.25 −20.0% vs. Sept. 2025 Sale to Original List 94.1% Strongest in the past year All residential property types combined. Year-over-year changes compare September 2026 with September 2025. Prices are steady, not surging The median sale price in Brevard County was $352,000 in September, up just 0.6% from $350,000 a year ago. The average sale price came in at $434,158, up 2.7%. The median list price was essentially flat at about $368,000. That's a healthy sign. Prices aren't jumping, and they aren't sliding. For sellers, it means the market rewards realistic pricing. For buyers, it means there's no runaway price spike to chase. Fewer homes on the market than a year ago There were 4,586 active listings at the end of September, down 17.6% from last year. That works out to about 4.25 months of supply. A market with roughly six months of supply is usually considered balanced, so Brevard is still leaning in sellers' favor. One thing worth watching: active listings ticked up from 4,497 in August to 4,586 in September. That's the first month-over-month increase in a year, which is typical as we head into fall. New listings also rose 2.4% from last September to 1,539. Homes are selling faster The median home spent 42 days on the market in September, down from 57 days a year ago. Sellers also kept more of their asking price. On average, homes sold for about 94.1% of their original list price, the strongest level we've seen in the past year. Sales volume did dip. There were 972 closed sales in September, down 7.4% from 1,050 last year. Year to date, 9,798 homes have sold in Brevard, just 1.4% behind 2025's pace. Pending sales dropped sharply Pending sales, meaning homes under contract that haven't closed yet, are the number I watch most closely as an early signal. As of this week, the MLS shows 636 pending sales for September, about 40% below the 1,061 recorded last September. Pending counts can shift as statuses are updated, so I'll keep an eye on how this number settles. Even so, a drop this large is worth noting. It suggests some buyers have pressed pause this fall, likely in response to higher mortgage rates. How each price range performed Here's how closed sales compared by price range, September 2026 vs. September 2025:   Sept. 2026       Sept. 2025 Under $200K   112   132 $200K to $299K   185   225 $300K to $399K   302   303 $400K to $499K   125   137 $500K to $999K   206   214 $1M and up   42   39 Price Range Sept. 2026 Sept. 2025 Change Under $200K 112 132 −15.2% $200K to $299K 185 225 −17.8% $300K to $399K 302 303 −0.3% $400K to $499K 125 137 −8.8% $500K to $999K 206 214 −3.7% $1M and up 42 39 +7.7% Total 972 1,050 −7.4% A few takeaways: The $300K to $399K range remains Brevard's busiest, and sales there held almost exactly even with last year. In the $500K to $999K range, active inventory is down 24.3% from last year even though new listings rose 7.5%. Homes in this range are being absorbed quickly, so buyers have fewer choices at any given time. Sales between $1 million and $1.5 million rose 20%, from 25 to 30. The biggest declines were in homes under $300K, the price ranges most sensitive to monthly payments. Where mortgage rates stand now According to Freddie Mac's weekly survey released October 15, 2026, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate held at 7.40%, unchanged from the week before. That's the highest level since late 2023. The 15-year fixed averaged 6.71%. For comparison, a year ago the 30-year rate was 6.27% and the 15-year was 5.52%. Higher rates raise monthly payments, which helps explain the drop in pending sales and the slowdown in lower price ranges. The good news is that steady prices and growing fall inventory can give prepared buyers more room to negotiate. Your own rate depends on your credit, down payment, and loan type, so a conversation with a lender is the best way to see where you stand. What this means for you If you're thinking about selling Brevard is still tilted in sellers' favor. Inventory is down nearly 18%, supply sits around 4.25 months, and homes are selling faster with stronger list-to-sale results. But prices are steady, not climbing, and higher rates are making buyers more careful. That means pricing right from day one matters more than ever. A home that's priced well and shows well gives buyers a reason to act now. If you're thinking about buying The picture is mixed, but there are real opportunities. With fewer homes to choose from, the best properties move quickly, so getting pre-approved and being ready to act is key. On the bright side, prices have held steady, new listings are ticking up heading into fall, and sellers are still averaging about 6% below their original list price. On the right home, there's room to negotiate. Let's talk about your next move Real Estate Made Simple Whether You're Buying or Selling Market numbers tell the big story, but your situation is personal. Whether you want to know what your home could be worth in today's market or what your buying power looks like right now, let's sit down and build a plan together. Call 321.317.8241 Email Debbie Sources: Space Coast Association of REALTORS® MLS Market Summary, Brevard County, all residential property types, September 2026 vs. September 2025. Pending sales as reported in the MLS on October 19, 2026. Mortgage rates from the Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey, October 15, 2026. Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Data reflects MLS activity only and may not include all transactions. If your property is currently listed with another real estate brokerage, this is not intended as a solicitation of that listing. Debbie Strawhand Real Estate Advisor · Avanti Way Realty   DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.com 321.317.8241 dkstrawhand@gmail.com Avanti Way Realty · 2825 Business Center Blvd, Ste A1, Melbourne, FL 32940 · Equal Housing Opportunity

What Amendment 3 could mean for Brevard homeowners and county services, with estimated savings from $200K to $800K. KNOW BEFORE YOU VOTE GENERAL ELECTION · TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026 Florida Amendment 3 What the proposed homestead exemption could mean for Brevard County homeowners and county services. WHAT AMENDMENT 3 WOULD CHANGE Bigger homestead exemption Non-school exemption rises from $51,411 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028. School taxes unchanged The $25,000 school exemption and school taxes stay the same. New residents wait New Florida residents after 2026 start at $50,000; full exemption in year five. 5% cap on non-homestead Rentals, second homes and commercial: yearly assessment cap drops from 10% to 5%. Limits on spending County and city property taxes limited to a list of core uses set in the constitution. Needs 60% to pass If approved, it takes effect January 1, 2027. WHAT HOMESTEAD OWNERS COULD SAVE Non-school taxes · Unincorporated Brevard · 5.5825 mills Assessed value Tax today Tax in 2028 Savings Cut $200,000 $830 $0 $830 100% $300,000 $1,388 $279 $1,109 80% $400,000 $1,946 $837 $1,109 57% $500,000 $2,504 $1,396 $1,109 44% $600,000 $3,062 $1,954 $1,109 36% $700,000 $3,621 $2,512 $1,109 31% $800,000 $4,179 $3,070 $1,109 27% WHERE THE $1,109 COMES FROM · less collected per homestead in 2028 County general fund $569 Law enforcement (Sheriff) $169 Fire control $128 Library district $64 Parks and recreation $60 Roads and bridges $37 St. Johns River Water Mgmt. $36 Mosquito control $27 Endangered lands $15 Inland navigation $5 Uses 5.5825 non-school mills from a sample unincorporated Brevard 2025 tax bill and the 2026 exemption of $51,411. Based on assessed value; excludes school taxes and non-ad valorem fees. Rates vary by location and city. THE TRADE-OFFS: WHAT IT COULD MEAN FOR LOCAL SERVICES Homeowner impact In favor: Direct, substantial property tax cuts for primary residents, shielding homeowners from rising property values. Against: Shifts more of the tax burden onto renters, small business owners and commercial property owners if local millage rates rise to compensate. Local revenue and budgets In favor: Pushes county and city governments to operate more efficiently and curb general fund spending growth. Against: State economists project local property tax collections statewide to drop by about $4.9 billion in year one and about $11.8 billion by 2031-32, risking budget shortfalls. Public services In favor: Requires local governments to prioritize core services like public safety and infrastructure. Against: Non-school services such as county parks, library hours, road maintenance, stormwater projects and local transit may face delays, cuts or higher user fees. Read it yourself:Full amendment text (FL Division of Elections)Brevard County Tax CollectorBrevard County Property Appraiser Educational only; not tax, legal or voting advice and not an endorsement for or against Amendment 3. Sources: CS/HJR 1F (2026); Florida Revenue Estimating Conference, July 2026; FL Dept. of Revenue 2026 exemption amounts. AVANTI WAY REALTY Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR® 321.317.8241DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.comdkstrawhand@gmail.com Equal Housing Opportunity

Helping clients find the right home is always rewarding, but it becomes even more meaningful when those clients are close friends. I recently had the privilege of guiding Bill and Emily through their homebuying journey here in Melbourne, Florida, and watching everything come together for them was incredibly special. Their experience is also a great example of what the homebuying process really looks like from start to finish. While every transaction is unique, most follow a similar path. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how their journey unfolded. Step 1: Defining the Vision We started with an in-person meeting at my office to discuss their goals. This is one of the most important steps in the process. We talked through: Where they wanted to live Their budget and comfort level Timeline for purchasing Must-haves versus nice-to-haves This conversation helps create a clear strategy and ensures we are aligned from the very beginning. Step 2: Understanding the Buyer Representation Process During that initial meeting, we also reviewed the buyer broker agreement and discussed how representation works. This ensures my buyers understand how I advocate for them throughout the process, from negotiations to closing. Step 3: Connecting with a Trusted Lender Next, I connected Bill and Emily with a local lender to explore their financing options. Getting pre-approved early is critical—it gives buyers confidence, clarity on budget, and strengthens their position when making an offer. Step 4: Initial Home Search Based on their criteria, I conducted an initial search and sent them a curated list of homes in their preferred areas. This step helps buyers start visualizing what is available within their price range and refine their preferences. Step 5: Narrowing Down Options and Scheduling Showings After reviewing the options, we narrowed down the list and scheduled showings. Seeing homes in person often helps buyers quickly identify what they truly want—and what they don’t. Step 6: Exploring Different Areas Bill and Emily explored three different areas before making their final decision. Ultimately, they chose a location that aligned with their lifestyle—close to places they enjoy and near friends. Location is just as important as the home itself, and taking the time to explore options is key. Step 7: Making the Offer Once they found the right home, we worked together to put together a strong, competitive offer. This includes not just price, but also terms, timelines, and strategy to position the offer for acceptance. Step 8: Offer Accepted – Moving Into Contract With the offer accepted, the transaction officially moved into the contract phase. This is where multiple pieces start moving at once, including lender processing and key deadlines. Step 9: Home Inspection We selected a trusted home inspector and scheduled the inspection. This step provides a detailed understanding of the home’s condition and identifies any potential issues. Step 10: Negotiating Repairs Based on the inspection results, we negotiated repairs with the seller. Not every transaction requires this step, but when it does, it is important to advocate for the buyer while keeping the deal moving forward. Step 11: Appraisal Ordered The lender then ordered the appraisal to confirm the home’s value. Step 12: A Win on Value The appraisal came back higher than the purchase price—always a great outcome. This meant Bill and Emily were walking into their new home with immediate equity. Step 13: Preparing for Closing As we approached closing, I provided a checklist of items to help them prepare, including: Setting up utilities Scheduling movers Finalizing lender requirements Preparing for closing day This step helps reduce stress and ensures nothing is overlooked. Step 14: Scheduling Closing We coordinated the closing with the buyer, lender, and title company to ensure everything was aligned and ready. Step 15: Final Walkthrough Before closing, we completed the final walkthrough to confirm the home was in the agreed-upon condition. Step 16: Closing Day And finally—closing day. Bill and Emily officially became homeowners. A Real-World Perspective This is a very typical homebuying process, but it is important to note that every transaction has its own nuances. There are often small hurdles or timing adjustments along the way. The key is having the right team in place—your agent, lender, and title company—to navigate those moments smoothly. Thinking About Buying? If you are considering buying a home and have questions about the process, I am always happy to help. Whether you are just starting to think about it or ready to move forward, we can sit down and map out a plan that fits your goals, timeline, and comfort level. Reach out anytime to schedule a conversation.  Click HERE to be directed to contact me form and let's get a conversation started.

Do Data Centers Move the Real Estate Needle? What New Research Means for the Space Coast A look at the latest national research, Florida’s new rules, and what it all means for Brevard County buyers and sellers.   Data centers are everywhere in the news right now — the massive, power-hungry buildings that keep the internet, cloud storage, and artificial intelligence running. As they spread across the country, homeowners and buyers are asking a simple question: if one of these facilities goes up nearby, what happens to property values? A major new national study gives us the clearest answer yet, and it is more nuanced than the headlines suggest. Here is what the research found, how Florida is handling the boom, and what it could mean here on the Space Coast. What the new national research found In September 2026, the National Association of REALTORS released its 2026 Data Center Impact Report, drawing on more than 3,200 counties and a survey of thousands of agents. The headline takeaway is that there is no single “data center effect.” Counties that host these facilities tend to show higher home values, higher incomes, and stronger long-term job growth than counties without them — but the researchers were careful to stress that correlation is not causation. Put simply, a data center does not automatically raise or lower the value of the house next door. Agent opinions were genuinely split. About one in four said nearby data centers had a positive effect on residential values, while roughly one in five saw a negative one. The commercial side leaned more positive, with about half reporting stronger commercial and industrial property values nearby. The concerns clients raised most often were energy costs and water use. It is also worth knowing how concentrated these facilities are: more than 90 percent of U.S. counties have none at all, with a small number of markets holding the vast majority. Florida’s approach Florida has become one of the more proactive states in shaping how this growth happens. In 2026, the Legislature passed and Governor DeSantis signed Senate Bill 484, effective July 1, 2026. Its core idea is that growth should pay its own way: large data centers must cover their own electric service costs so those expenses are not shifted onto families and small businesses through higher power bills. The law also preserves local zoning authority, creates a separate water-use permitting process for large facilities, and directs utilities such as Florida Power & Light to build rate structures accordingly. At the same time, Florida still offers a sales-tax exemption on data center equipment and electricity for qualifying large investments, currently extended through mid-2027. So the state is doing two things at once — welcoming the investment while putting guardrails around who pays for the strain on the grid and water supply. Utilities across Florida are already tracking enormous new AI-driven power demand, so these rules will matter for years to come. Closer to home — the Space Coast Here in Brevard County, our commissioners have already staked out a clear position. In spring 2026, the board voted to keep data centers out of the county’s property-tax exemption programs, citing the relatively small number of long-term jobs these facilities create compared with the size of the incentives, along with pressure on local electrical and water resources. Notably, there is no active data center project on file in Brevard — commissioners chose to set the ground rules before any proposal arrives. Our region is served largely by Florida Power & Light, which has some of the deepest infrastructure in the state for large industrial users. That means the bigger questions here tend to be about siting, permitting, and community input rather than raw power availability. And Brevard’s growth story is already anchored by something solid: real employment in aerospace, defense, and technology, from a record pace of launches at the Cape to major expansions in Titusville, Viera, and West Melbourne. Our market’s strength does not rise or fall on data centers. What it means if you’re buying If you are shopping for a home, this is a “look local” moment. A facility miles away is unlikely to affect your value, but for any specific property near industrial land, it is worth checking on proximity, noise from cooling systems, and views. Ask what is zoned nearby and weigh it alongside the factors you would always consider. What it means if you’re selling For sellers, the reassuring news is that no broad data center trend is pulling Brevard values in either direction. Your home’s price still comes down to location, condition, and current local demand. If you have questions about a specific parcel or a nearby proposal, that is exactly the kind of thing we can research together before you list. The bottom line Data centers are neither a villain nor a guaranteed windfall for property values. The honest answer is that it depends on the specific location — and Florida and Brevard County are being deliberate about how this growth unfolds. As always, we are here to help you cut through the noise with credible, property-specific information. Have a question for me about real estate?  Click CONTACT DEBBIE This article is for general informational purposes only and is not financial, legal, or investment advice. Market conditions change; for guidance on a specific property, please reach out.   Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR®  |  Avanti Way Realty Real Estate Made Simple — Whether You’re Buying or Selling 321-317-8241  |  dkstrawhand@gmail.com  |  DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.com Equal Housing Opportunity.

LOCAL AREA SPOTLIGHT What The Point in Fellsmere Means for Our Space Coast Market Something remarkable is taking shape just south of Brevard, and it's worth every local homeowner's and buyer's attention. The Point Surf Park, rising in Fellsmere, is on track to become Florida's very first surf park — and the first Endless Surf lagoon in the entire United States. For those of us who live and invest along the Space Coast and Treasure Coast, an attraction this unique is more than a fun day out. It's the kind of lifestyle draw that can shape how people see, and value, our whole region.S A One-of-a-Kind Attraction in Our Backyard Set on a 10.5-acre site at 9600 Mesa Park Boulevard — just off County Road 512 near I-95 and about 20 minutes from the legendary Sebastian Inlet — The Point centers on a roughly 700-foot, heart-shaped lagoon. Using Endless Surf's ES36 air-pressure wave technology, the park can adjust its waves on demand: gentle rollers for first-timers, or head-high sets for seasoned surfers, with rides lasting between 11 and 19 seconds. Sessions are reservation-only and capped at about 30 surfers an hour — a deliberate choice to keep the water uncrowded and the experience high quality. From Groundbreaking to Grand Opening The ownership team — Luiz De Araujo, Asa Cascavilla, and Jack Cook — broke ground in May 2025, and after a fast-moving build, they are targeting an opening in early September 2026. In other words, the waves could be firing any day now. Florida has produced some of surfing's biggest names yet never had a purpose-built wave pool. That is about to change, right here in Indian River County. Why It Matters for Our Local Market Here is where it gets interesting for real estate. Standout destination amenities tend to raise a region's profile, and inland surf lagoons in particular have caught the attention of developers and market analysts nationwide. The pattern they point to is a familiar one: unique, year-round attractions give an area lasting appeal, and can strengthen interest in the communities around them. Results always vary with location and market conditions, of course — but a first-in-the-nation feature like this shines a spotlight on the Space Coast–Treasure Coast corridor that is hard to match. For the communities we serve — from Melbourne and Satellite Beach to Palm Bay, Viera, and beyond — The Point adds one more reason people are taking a closer look at our stretch of Florida. And more reasons to visit often become more reasons to stay. Rooted in the Community Beyond the waves, the project is putting down real local roots. Plans include free youth surf lessons, water-safety and CPR classes, summer programs and jobs for kids, worship-and-surf Sundays, and community events throughout the year. The park also expects to hire locally for roles such as lifeguards, instructors, and support staff — a welcome economic boost for Fellsmere and the surrounding area. The Bottom Line Whether you are a lifelong surfer, a curious first-timer, or simply a homeowner keeping an eye on what is next for our region, The Point Surf Park is a milestone worth celebrating. And if all this regional momentum has you thinking about your own next move, that is where I come in. Whether you are buying, selling, or investing along the Space Coast, we will make the process simple from start to finish. Reach out anytime — I would love to help.   Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR® Avanti Way Realty Real Estate Made Simple, Whether You're Buying or Selling Phone:  321-317-8241 Email:  dkstrawhand@gmail.com Web:  DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.com Equal Housing Opportunity

First-Time Buyer Blind Spots: What Most New Buyers Don't Know (and How Mine Avoid It) July 2026  |  Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR®, Avanti Way Realty Here is a statistic that should get every future homeowner's attention. In a national Wells Fargo survey of more than 2,000 aspiring first-time buyers, nearly 70 percent said they felt knowledgeable about the homebuying process. But when they were quizzed on the basics, 75 percent got fewer than five of twelve questions right, and out of 2,012 people, exactly one answered them all correctly. Confidence, it turns out, is not the same as readiness. The Biggest Blind Spots The survey, highlighted in this month's Florida Realtor magazine, found the gaps show up in the moments that matter most: •     Closing costs. Nearly 90 percent of respondents did not understand what closing costs involve, the single largest blind spot. These typically run 2 to 5 percent of the purchase price, separate from your down payment. •     Timing. Only 25 percent knew when to apply for a mortgage, and 88 percent were unclear on the very first steps of the process. •     Offer strategy. 80 percent would make a critical mistake when writing a competitive offer, like handing a seller a pre-approval letter showing their maximum approval amount, which quietly gives away negotiating power. •     The full cost of ownership. Other research shows nearly half of buyers are blindsided by the complete monthly picture: taxes, insurance, HOA dues, utilities, and maintenance. Here on the Space Coast, insurance deserves special attention, and quotes should happen before you are under contract, not after. How My Buyers Avoid These Mistakes None of these mistakes come from carelessness. They come from a process most people only go through a few times in their lives, while relying on scattered advice from social media, websites, and well-meaning friends. That is exactly why I start every buyer relationship with a real consultation, before we ever look at a home. Together we map out when to talk with a lender and why fully underwritten beats pre-qualified. We walk through closing costs and the cash you will actually need at the table. We define your comfortable monthly number, not just your maximum approval, including Florida-specific costs like insurance and any HOA dues. And when it is time to write an offer, your pre-approval letter is tailored to that offer, protecting your position in the negotiation. The Takeaway Small misunderstandings can mean higher payments, delayed purchases, or missed opportunities. A little education upfront changes all of it. If you are dreaming about your first home in Brevard County, let's have that conversation before you start scrolling listings, so when the right home appears, you are the most prepared buyer at the table. Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR®  |  Avanti Way Realty  |  321-317-8241  |  DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.com Real Estate Made Simple Whether You're Buying or Selling Sources: Wells Fargo first-time homebuyer survey, as reported by Florida Realtors (Florida Realtor magazine, August 2026); Bankrate; Pearl first-time buyer report, 2026.

The Downsizing Myth: The Housing Trend Reshaping Our Market For years, the script felt automatic. The kids grow up and move out, retirement arrives, the big family home gets sold, and a wave of larger houses returns to the market for the next generation of buyers. It was one of the safest assumptions in real estate. There's just one problem: it isn't happening. Instead, many homeowners approaching retirement are staying right where they are. A recent Clever Real Estate survey found that 61% of baby boomers say they never plan to sell — up seven points from the year before — with aging in place the most common reason. Others point to paid-off mortgages, comfortable low interest rates locked in years ago, and simply not wanting to start over. And when this group does move, they're often not shrinking. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, boomers made up 42% of buyers and 55% of sellers in the year ending June 2025 — the largest share of any generation. Homes.com News reports that younger boomers who relocate frequently don't downsize at all, while older ones trim only about 200 square feet on average. Some are going bigger on purpose — adding guest suites, first-floor bedrooms, and gathering spaces designed for extended family. Nearly one in five homes bought by people ages 46 to 60 last year was a multigenerational household. Why This Matters to the Rest of Us Because it helps explain a market that many have found puzzling. When a large share of homeowners chooses to stay put, inventory stays tighter than the headlines predict — and that shapes prices, competition, and timing for buyers and sellers alike. But there's a bigger takeaway here, and it's the one worth holding onto: housing decisions are rarely about the house. They're about life. Families grow, priorities shift, and what we want from a home changes with each new chapter. The most useful question was never "Should I downsize?" It's "How do I want to live over the next 10, 20, or 30 years?" That's the question we love helping our clients answer — whether the goal is more space, less upkeep, a place for everyone to gather, or a home you can comfortably grow into for decades. Markets will keep shifting and trends will keep evolving, but that conversation never goes out of style. A Few Questions Worth Pondering If you could design your next chapter, what would home look like five years from now? Is your current home helping you live the way you want — or holding onto a version of life you've already outgrown? When you picture the years ahead, who's gathered around the table, and does your space make room for them? If you're thinking through your own next chapter, let's talk it out together — no assumptions about what you "should" do, just good questions and a plan that fits your life.   This article is for general informational purposes and reflects broad national market trends; it is not intended to solicit property already listed for sale. Data sources: National Association of REALTORS®, and Homes.com News.

Brevard County Market Intelligence July 2026  |  Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR®, Avanti Way Realty If you have been watching the Space Coast market this summer, you have probably noticed something: the homes that sell quickly all have one thing in common, and it is not price. It is clarity. Buyers today want to understand their full monthly cost before they fall in love with a house, and the listings that make that easy are the ones moving. What Is Gaining Traction •     Move-in ready homes. Buyers are showing far less patience for projects. Homes with recent updates, newer roofs, and modern systems are drawing the strongest attention, while fixer-uppers are sitting longer. •     Established, amenity-rich communities. Listings where HOA dues and what they cover are disclosed clearly upfront are converting lookers into offers faster. •     Sellers who do the homework. Providing current insurance estimates and accurate tax figures, rather than leaving buyers to guess, removes one of the biggest sources of hesitation before it starts. •     Fully underwritten buyers. In a market where sellers can afford to be selective, buyers who arrive fully underwritten, not just pre-qualified, are winning the homes they want. What Is Creating Hesitation •     Rate anchoring. Some buyers are still holding out for a rate they saw in a headline months ago. Rates dipped near 6.1 percent earlier this year before climbing back, and as of mid-July the 30-year fixed average sits around 6.55 percent, according to Freddie Mac. •     Confusion over inflation and rates. June's inflation report cooled to 3.5 percent, yet mortgage rates barely moved. Why? Markets price in more than one report, and both Fannie Mae and the Mortgage Bankers Association expect rates to hold in the mid-6 percent range through year end. •     Insurance uncertainty. The good news many buyers have not heard yet: Florida's insurance market is finally stabilizing. Citizens Property Insurance rates dropped an average of 8.7 percent at spring 2026 renewals, and multiple private carriers have filed decreases with the state. Premiums remain high, but the trend has turned. •     Waiting on the sidelines. Buyers waiting for rates to drop before they even start looking may be waiting a while, and giving up today's negotiating room and inventory selection in the process. The Takeaway The listings moving fastest in Brevard County right now are the ones where a buyer can see their full monthly number clearly: principal and interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA dues, all laid out without guesswork. Sellers who provide that transparency are being rewarded with faster contracts. Buyers who get fully underwritten and understand the real numbers, not the headlines, are the ones getting keys. Thinking about buying or selling on the Space Coast? Let's sit down and run your real numbers together, so you can make your next move with confidence. Debbie Strawhand, REALTOR®  |  Avanti Way Realty  |  321-317-8241  |  DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.com Real Estate Made Simple Whether You're Buying or Selling

The June numbers are in for Brevard County, and they tell a more layered story than the headlines might suggest. We saw one of the strongest closing months of the past year, prices held steady, and inventory continued to tighten compared to a year ago. At the same time, a few quieter signals are worth paying attention to if you are thinking about making a move this summer. Here is a clear look at where the market stands, and what it means for you whether you are getting ready to sell or just beginning your search. June 2026 at a Glance Homes sold: 1,297 (up 4.9% from June 2025) Median sale price: $366,580 (down 0.8% year over year) Average sale price: $468,197 (up 1.0% year over year) Active listings: 5,041 (down 17.7% year over year) Homes under contract: 952 (down 18.3% year over year) Months of inventory: 4.58 (down from 5.63 a year ago) Sale-to-list price ratio: 97.2% Median days to contract: 41 (down from 46) What This Means if You Are Selling June was a busy closing month, with 1,297 homes sold across Brevard County. That is nearly 5 percent more than the same month last year, and the most we have seen close in a single month over the past year. Homes are still selling close to asking, at about 97 percent of list price, and the typical home went under contract in around 41 days. Inventory is also working in your favor. Active listings are down almost 18 percent compared to last June, which means less competition for homes that are well presented and well priced. One number is worth watching, though. Homes going under contract in June came in noticeably lower than a year ago, so buyer activity has softened a bit heading into summer. That makes pricing and presentation more important than ever. The gap between original list price and final sale price, about 6 percent on average, is a good reminder that overpricing tends to get corrected by the market. Sellers who come to market with a realistic price and strong presentation are the ones seeing quick, solid results. What This Means if You Are Buying If you are buying, there is more room to work with than the strong sales numbers might imply. On average, homes sold for about 94 percent of their original list price, which tells us many sellers adjusted along the way and were open to negotiation. With fewer buyers competing this summer and around 4.6 months of inventory available, you have time to make a considered decision rather than a rushed one. Prices have stayed stable rather than climbing sharply, so today's values give you a clearer picture to plan around. For anyone who has been waiting on the sidelines, this is a market that rewards being prepared and ready to act when the right home comes along. The Bottom Line Overall, Brevard County remains a steady, fairly balanced market that leans gently in favor of sellers, with tighter inventory supporting prices while buyers gain a little more negotiating room. As always, these county-wide numbers are just the starting point. What is happening in your specific neighborhood, price range, and property type can look quite different. Let's Talk About Your Move Have questions about what these numbers mean for your home or your search? We are always happy to walk through your options and put the data in the context of your goals. Reach out any time and let's start the conversation. Contact Debbie Market data based on the latest MLS statistics for Brevard County residential properties, June 2026. Figures reflect county-wide activity and are not a prediction of results for any individual property or transaction.

BREVARD COUNTY REAL ESTATE Brevard County Real Estate Market Snapshot: What the April 2026 Numbers Tell Us By Debbie Strawhand  |  Avanti Way Realty  |  June 2, 2026   If you have been wondering what is happening in the Brevard County real estate market, the April 2026 data released by the Space Coast Association of Realtors gives us a clear and encouraging picture. Whether you are thinking about buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on your home's value, these numbers matter. Let me break it all down for you in plain language.   April 2026 Market Snapshot: By the Numbers Single Family Homes Metric 2026 2025 % Change Median Sales Price $375,000 $375,000 0.0% Homes Sold 880 964 -8.7% Days on Market 44 Days 45 Days -2.2% Months Supply of Inventory 3.7 Months 4.6 Months -19.6% Condos and Townhomes Metric 2026 2025 % Change Median Sales Price $286,000 $285,000 +0.4% Homes Sold 218 213 +2.3% Days on Market 73 Days 58 Days +25.9% Months Supply of Inventory 7.2 Months 8.8 Months -18.2% Source: Space Coast Association of Realtors / Florida REALTORS. Statistics compiled from MLS feeds on the 10th day of the following month. Single Family Homes: Stable Prices, Leaner Inventory The median sales price for single family homes in Brevard County held steady at $375,000 in April 2026, unchanged from April 2025. This is an encouraging sign of market stability rather than the volatility we saw in prior years. What is particularly telling is the months supply of inventory, which dropped from 4.6 months to just 3.7 months -- a nearly 20 percent decrease year over year. In real estate, a balanced market typically sits around 5 to 6 months of inventory. At 3.7 months, we remain in seller-favorable territory, meaning well-priced homes in Melbourne, Satellite Beach, and Palm Bay are still attracting serious buyers. Days on market also improved slightly, dropping from 45 days in April 2025 to 44 days in April 2026. For context, my most recent listings in Melbourne sold in just 10 days with multiple offers, and my Satellite Beach listing went under contract in 28 days -- both well ahead of the county average. The one area to watch is total homes sold, which dipped from 964 to 880 year over year. This reflects tighter inventory rather than softer demand -- fewer homes available means fewer closings, not fewer buyers.   Condos and Townhomes: More Inventory, Longer Days on Market The condo and townhome segment tells a slightly different story. Median prices held firm at $286,000, up marginally from $285,000 in April 2025, and the number of units sold actually increased from 213 to 218. However, days on market jumped significantly -- from 58 days to 73 days -- a 25.9 percent increase. This tells us that condo buyers are taking more time to make decisions, and pricing strategy is more important than ever in this segment. The months supply of inventory also decreased from 8.8 to 7.2 months, suggesting that while there is more inventory relative to single family homes, it is slowly being absorbed. If you own a condo or townhome and are thinking about selling, working with an agent who understands how to price and market your property competitively is critical in this environment.   What This Means for Buyers If you are in the market to buy, there is good news on both fronts. Single family home inventory, while still lean, is more available than it was at the peak of the seller's market. And in the condo and townhome segment, you have more selection and a bit more negotiating room than buyers of single family homes. The key is being prepared. That means having your pre-approval in hand before you start touring homes, knowing your priorities, and working with a local expert who can move quickly and negotiate effectively on your behalf.   What This Means for Sellers If you have been on the fence about listing your home, the data supports making a move. Single family home inventory is still below the balanced market threshold, which means well-prepared, well-priced homes are selling. In fact, the slight year-over-year improvement in days on market confirms that motivated sellers who price strategically are finding success. Where I consistently see sellers leave money on the table is in preparation and marketing. Through my partnership with Homes.com, every listing I take receives professional Matterport 3D tours, detailed floor plans, top placement in search results, and real-time analytics so we can track performance and adjust strategy as needed. Every lead comes directly to me -- no competitor agents advertising on your listing. Over the past 9-plus years, I have closed a little over $38 million in sales, helping buyers, sellers, and investors across Brevard County hand over countless keys. That experience directly benefits my clients -- whether that is knowing how to price a home in a shifting market, or knowing when a buyer is serious.   The Bottom Line The Brevard County real estate market remains active and resilient. Prices are holding, inventory is lean for single family homes, and buyers are still engaged. Whether you are buying or selling in Melbourne, Satellite Beach, or Palm Bay, working with someone who knows these numbers -- and more importantly, knows what they mean for your specific situation -- makes all the difference. Real Estate Made Simple Whether You're Buying or Selling.   Ready to talk about your real estate goals? Whether you have questions about the market, want to know what your home is worth, or are ready to start your search, I would love to hear from you. Visit my website to get in touch: Contact Debbie Strawhand  |  321-317-8241   About Debbie Strawhand Debbie Strawhand is a full-time real estate agent with Avanti Way Realty, serving Melbourne, Satellite Beach, and Palm Bay, Florida. With over 9 years of experience and more than $38 million in closed sales, Debbie brings market expertise and personal commitment to every transaction. She is a proud Homes.com partner, offering her clients premium listing exposure, professional marketing, and real-time analytics. DebbieStrawhandSellsFLHomes.com  |  321-317-8241  |  Facebook: DStrawhandREAgent      

Florida Housing Market Outlook for 2026: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know As we move into 2026, Florida’s housing market is entering a more stable and predictable phase after several years of rapid change. While headlines often focus on interest rates or national trends, real estate remains highly local — and understanding both the statewide outlook and Brevard County market dynamics is key to making smart decisions. Florida Housing Market: Entering 2026 on Firmer Ground Across Florida, the housing market is no longer defined by extreme bidding wars or runaway price growth. Instead, we’re seeing a healthier, more balanced environment: Demand remains strong, driven by continued relocation to Florida, particularly among retirees and lifestyle buyers. Price growth has moderated, giving buyers more breathing room and sellers a clearer sense of realistic market value. Inventory has increased, offering more choices for buyers while rewarding well-prepared and well-priced listings. This shift doesn’t signal weakness — it signals normalization. Buyers are taking more time, sellers must be more strategic, and transactions are driven by preparation rather than urgency. Brevard County 2025 Year-End Snapshot: What the Numbers Tell Us The Brevard County annual data provides valuable insight into how our local market is behaving compared to statewide trends. Single-Family Homes Median Sales Price: $375,000 (down just 1.1% year-over-year) Homes Sold: 10,245 (slightly higher than 2024) Days on Market: Increased to 54 days Inventory: 3.7 months What this means:Prices have largely held steady, and demand remains solid. However, homes are taking longer to sell, which means buyers are being more selective. Sellers who price accurately and present their homes well are still seeing success, while overpricing leads to longer market times. Condos & Townhomes Median Sales Price: $280,000 (down 5.1%) Homes Sold: Down 6.9% Days on Market: Increased to 77 days Inventory: 7.1 months What this means:This segment is experiencing more pressure. Buyers have options, and pricing sensitivity is high. Condos and townhomes must be positioned carefully, with attention to pricing, condition, HOA health, and assessments. What This Means for Buyers in 2026 Buyers are entering one of the most favorable environments we’ve seen in years: More inventory and less competition Greater ability to negotiate price, repairs, or closing costs Time to evaluate neighborhoods, floor plans, and long-term value This is an ideal market for buyers who are prepared and informed. What This Means for Sellers in 2026 Homes are still selling — but strategy matters more than ever: Pricing correctly from the start is critical Presentation and condition impact time on market Understanding your specific neighborhood matters more than countywide averages The right approach can still lead to strong outcomes, even in a more balanced market. Final Thoughts The 2026 market rewards informed decisions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply watching the market, having accurate local insight makes all the difference. Real estate is never one-size-fits-all — and that’s where professional guidance becomes invaluable.  If you would like to discuss your situation and options regarding selling or buying in 2026, click HERE to send me a message.