If you tried to buy a home in Orlando or Tampa just a few years ago, you likely still remember how stressful it was. Homes were selling almost the instant they hit the market. Many buyers had to schedule showings on the same day, make offers within hours, and often compete against multiple offers well above asking price.
It wasn’t unusual for homes in Central Florida to sell in under 30 days, sometimes even in a single weekend. That kind of speed left little room for thoughtful decision-making. Buyers had to act quickly out of fear of missing out, and that pressure left many feeling frustrated and discouraged.
Today, the market looks very different, and for buyers, that is very good news.
The Market Has Shifted
According to Realtor.com, the typical U.S. home spent 58 days on the market in July 2025. That’s nearly double the pace of the pandemic years. Here in Florida, homes are taking even longer, averaging 86 days on market.
This shift signals a return to a more balanced and sustainable housing market. Instead of a whirlwind where homes disappear instantly, today’s pace allows buyers in Orlando and Tampa the breathing room they need to make confident choices.
Why More Time Matters for Buyers
The benefits of longer days on market are clear:
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Time to tour homes thoroughly. Buyers in Orlando and Tampa can now schedule showings at a reasonable pace instead of scrambling to get in the door.
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Time to weigh the decision. Purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments most people make. Having several weeks to consider your options instead of several hours makes the process less stressful and more thoughtful.
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Time to negotiate. The cooling pace of the Florida housing market means bidding wars are less frequent. This gives buyers more leverage to negotiate repairs, price adjustments, or seller concessions.
In short, more time equals less stress and more power for Central Florida buyers.
National vs. Local Trends
While the U.S. average is 58 days, local markets tell different stories.
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Florida homes are averaging 86 days on market.
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Illinois homes are moving much faster at 37 days on market.
Even within Florida, the pace differs. A move-in ready home in downtown Orlando may attract multiple offers quickly, while a property in a quieter Tampa suburb might take longer to sell. That’s why working with an experienced local agent is essential. They’ll know which neighborhoods are hot and which allow more room to negotiate.
Bottom Line for Buyers
The frenzy of the past few years has cooled. Buyers in Orlando, Tampa, and across Central Florida finally have more time, more options, and more control. If you’ve been waiting for the right conditions to re-enter the housing market, now could be the best opportunity you’ve had in years.
With the guidance of a knowledgeable Central Florida real estate agent, you can take advantage of today’s slower pace to find the right home for you.
Buyer FAQ: Orlando, Tampa, and Florida Housing Market
How long are homes staying on the market in Orlando and Tampa in 2025?
Homes in Florida are averaging 86 days on the market as of July 2025, compared to the national average of 58 days.
Why are homes taking longer to sell in Florida?
The housing market has normalized after years of intense competition. More inventory, higher mortgage rates, and careful buyer decision-making have slowed the pace of sales.
Is it a good time to buy a home in Orlando or Tampa?
Yes. Buyers in Central Florida now have more time to explore options, negotiate, and make confident choices without the stress of bidding wars.
What are the benefits of a slower market for buyers in Florida?
You gain more time to view homes, think through decisions, and negotiate favorable terms. For buyers in Orlando and Tampa, the shift creates a more balanced and less stressful path to homeownership.