Selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people make, and timing matters. In many parts of the country, spring is the clear winner for home sales, followed closely by early summer. But in Florida, the dynamics are a little different. Thanks to year-round sunshine, an influx of seasonal residents, and a constantly shifting market, fall can be an overlooked but strategic time to sell.
So, is fall a good time to sell your home in Florida? In 2025, the answer is both yes and no—it depends on your goals and how you position your home in today’s market. Let’s break it down with current data, seasonal trends, and strategies to help Florida sellers make the most of a fall listing.
The Current Market Snapshot: September 2025
Before deciding if fall is the right time, it’s important to look at what’s happening right now.
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Mortgage rates are at a 3-year low. According to CBS News, interest rates dipped in September 2025, reaching their lowest level in three years. For buyers, this is huge—it makes monthly payments more affordable, even with higher home prices. For sellers, it means more buyers may be re-entering the market after sitting on the sidelines.
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Housing supply is climbing. Realtor.com’s August 2025 Monthly Housing Market Trends Report shows nationwide supply at a five-month level, the first time in nine years it has reached balance.
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Orlando and Tampa are now buyer’s markets. Orlando has 6.9 months of supply, and Tampa has 6.3. Anything over six months tips the scale toward buyers, giving them more negotiating power. Out of the 50 largest metros, Orlando ranks #3 and Tampa #6 for cities most favorable to buyers.
What does this mean for Florida homeowners? Lower rates may bring more buyers back, but with increased supply, sellers need to prepare for more competition and less room to overprice.
Why Fall Can Work for Florida Sellers
Even in a shifting market, fall offers unique advantages:
1. Motivated Buyers Are Still Out There
Fall buyers often have specific reasons to move. Some are relocating for jobs, others want to settle before the holidays, and investors may be looking to close before year-end for tax purposes. These buyers are less likely to be “just browsing” and more likely to make serious offers.
2. Seasonal Residents Begin Arriving
Florida sees a surge of “snowbirds” from northern states as the weather cools up north. Many start looking at homes in fall, either for seasonal living or as long-term investments.
3. Lower Competition from Other Sellers
While supply overall is up, many homeowners still wait until spring to list. That means in certain neighborhoods, especially in Central Florida, you may face fewer new listings and have a better chance to stand out.
4. Florida’s Weather Helps
Unlike northern states, fall in Florida doesn’t bring snow or harsh conditions that stall showings. Outdoor spaces—pools, patios, screened lanais—remain inviting and can be marketed year-round.
The Challenges of Selling in Fall
Of course, selling in fall isn’t without hurdles.
1. Buyer’s Market Conditions in Orlando and Tampa
With both cities above six months of supply, buyers have more leverage to negotiate price, ask for concessions, or take their time making decisions. Sellers need to adjust expectations.
2. Holiday Distractions
As fall moves closer to Thanksgiving and the December holidays, many buyers put big decisions on hold. Listing too late in the season may result in fewer showings.
3. Hurricane Season Concerns
Fall overlaps with hurricane season, which runs through November. Some buyers may hesitate or request extra inspections and insurance details. Sellers should be prepared to show their home’s storm-readiness.
4. Fewer Casual Buyers
Spring tends to attract more “lookers” who might become serious buyers. In fall, the buyer pool is smaller, which means each showing matters more.
How to Succeed When Selling in Fall
If you decide fall is the right time to list, here are strategies to maximize your success:
Price Strategically
In a buyer’s market, overpricing is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Buyers have options, and homes that sit too long become stale. Use a comparative market analysis (CMA) from a trusted local agent to set the right price from day one.
Highlight Affordability with Lower Rates
Work with your agent and lender to show buyers how today’s mortgage rates translate into monthly payments. For example, a home that seemed out of reach last year may now be affordable with rates at three-year lows. Marketing the affordability angle can draw in hesitant buyers.
List Early in the Season
September and October are stronger months than November and December. Buyers are more active before holiday plans take over, so timing your listing early in fall increases your chances of strong offers.
Stage for Comfort and Lifestyle
Even in Florida, subtle seasonal staging works. Use warm lighting, cozy textures indoors, and highlight outdoor living spaces that can still be enjoyed in fall. Show buyers that your home fits their lifestyle year-round.
Focus on Marketing Exposure
Because the buyer pool is smaller, you need to reach as many people as possible. This means:
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Professional photography and video tours
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Social media advertising targeting relocation buyers
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Open houses during weekends and evenings
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Virtual showings for out-of-state buyers
Be Flexible in Negotiations
With supply up, buyers have more confidence to ask for concessions. Being open to covering part of closing costs or adjusting move-in timelines can make your home more appealing without major price cuts.
Florida-Specific Considerations
Florida is different from many other markets, and those differences matter in fall:
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Tourism and seasonal ownership keep demand steadier than in colder states.
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Job relocations to growing metros like Orlando and Tampa bring in steady buyers year-round.
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HOA and condo dynamics can affect buyer decisions, especially in markets with heavy supply. Sellers should be upfront about fees and benefits.
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Insurance costs remain a hot topic. Highlight any upgrades, such as a new roof or storm-resistant windows, to ease buyer concerns.
So, Is Fall 2025 a Good Time to Sell in Florida?
This year, the market looks different. Falling mortgage rates are a clear positive for sellers, because more buyers may feel ready to make a move. At the same time, Orlando and Tampa’s transition into buyer’s markets means sellers must be realistic and strategic.
If your priority is selling quickly before the end of the year, fall can be a smart time. Motivated buyers are still active, and rates are working in your favor.
If your goal is maximizing price above all else, spring may still be the stronger season.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your situation. With the right pricing, preparation, and agent support, fall can absolutely be a good time to sell your home in Florida.
Next Steps for Florida Homeowners
At The Nickley Group, we’ve helped more than 4,000 families navigate the Florida real estate market in every season. If you’re considering selling this fall, our team can provide a detailed home valuation, guide you on pricing in today’s buyer’s market, and create a marketing strategy tailored to current conditions.