ORLANDO, Florida. — Lower mortgage rates, gradually rising housing inventory and strong demographic demand are creating a more optimistic housing outlook, even as affordability challenges persist at the local level, according to Dr. Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist and vice president of research for the National Association of Realtors®.

Speaking during a Florida Realtors® Live session with Tracey C. Velt, Florida Realtor magazine’s editor at large and HousingWire’s senior director of data and content, Lautz said improving conditions are beginning to ease the market gridlock that has kept many buyers and sellers on the sidelines.

Mortgage rates begin to loosen market gridlock

Mortgage rates trending in the 6% range are helping more consumers reconsider moves that were previously on hold.

“Life changes still motivate people to move,” Lautz said in the session during the Mid-Winter Business Meetings, noting that events such as retirement, marriage and divorce are increasingly outweighing hesitation tied to higher borrowing costs.

Inventory rising, but unevenly

Inventory gains remain inconsistent across markets. While some Florida markets are seeing listings increase, other parts of the country continue to struggle with limited supply. Lautz cautioned that headline inventory growth can be misleading, as many markets are only now nearing pre-pandemic levels.

Affordability remains a local challenge

Affordability continues to be the central issue in housing, Lautz said, and meaningful solutions will largely come from local decision-making.

Key constraints include:

• Zoning and land-use rules
• Local development restrictions
• Community resistance to new housing

Realtors®, Lautz added, can play a key role by bringing data-driven context to discussions about housing supply and economic impact at the local level.

Institutional investors make up a small share

Addressing concerns about investor activity, Lautz noted that large institutional buyers account for just over 3% of home purchases, while the broader investor share has declined in recent years.

Demographics continue to drive demand

Buyer demand remains heavily shaped by demographic trends:

• Baby boomers are the largest group of buyers, often purchasing with cash and relocating closer to family.
• Gen Z buyers are entering the market cautiously and currently represent a small share of transactions.

These dynamics highlights ongoing demand for smaller, more attainable housing options, including condos and townhomes.

Planning ahead with data

For real estate professionals looking ahead, Lautz emphasized using research and market data from Florida Realtors and NAR to identify local opportunities and underserved market segments.

Despite ongoing challenges, she said the outlook is improving.

“We’re expecting home sales to increase from recent levels,” Lautz said. “With lower rates, more supply and strong underlying demand, there are reasons to be patient and optimistic.”

© 2026 Florida Realtors®

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