Fort Lauderdale, FL Housing Market Report

The Fort Lauderdale real estate market is currently undergoing a significant transition toward a buyer-friendly environment. As of December 2025, the median home value has dipped to $499,806, representing a 5.39% decrease year-over-year. This cooling trend is further evidenced by the increase in active inventory, which now stands at 51,735 units, and a notable rise in the average time homes spend on the market. Properties are now sitting for an average of 111 days, which is 23 days longer than the previous year, giving buyers more leverage and time to make informed decisions without the pressure of immediate bidding wars.

Price trends over the last six months show a consistent month-over-month decline, falling from $510,187 in July to the current sub-$500k level. This downward trajectory suggests that the market is correcting after years of rapid appreciation. Despite the dip in purchase prices, the rental market remains resilient with a median rent of $2,731, up nearly 3% from last year. This divergence indicates that while homeownership demand has softened due to affordability or financing costs, the fundamental demand for housing in the Miami-Fort Lauderdale metro area remains robust, supported by a steady influx of residents and a strong local economy.

Looking ahead, both buyers and sellers must adjust their expectations to this new reality. With a sale-to-list ratio of 0.96, sellers should expect to receive offers approximately 4% below their asking price and must be prepared for longer holding periods. For buyers, the current climate offers a rare window of opportunity to negotiate more favorable terms and explore a wider selection of inventory. However, potential investors should weigh the softening home values against the rising rental yields to determine if the long-term equity growth aligns with their financial goals in a market that is currently prioritizing stability over rapid price gains.