Central Florida Housing Outlook 2025: Prices, Inventory, and the New Loan Limits
Buying or selling in 2025 feels different and the numbers explain why. Inventory has loosened compared with the tightest months in 2023–24, while 30‑year rates have hovered in the mid‑6% range for much of the year. The net effect: more negotiating room for well‑qualified buyers and a renewed focus on pricing and presentation for sellers.
Loan limits that matter in 2025
• Conforming (Fannie/Freddie): The baseline conforming loan limit rose to $806,500 for one‑unit properties in 2025, expanding access to conventional financing before loans become “jumbo.”
• FHA in Florida: FHA limits vary by county; the baseline single‑unit limit increased to $524,225, with higher ceilings in designated high‑cost counties.
What this means: more borrowers can qualify for lower‑rate conventional loans and more first‑time buyers fit into FHA—broadening the buyer pool for sellers.
Buyer playbook
Get fully underwritten before touring. Fast, clean approvals still win.
Compare points vs. temporary buydowns; in this rate band, a properly structured 1‑0 or 2‑1 buydown can bridge affordability.
Target homes 20+ days on market; request credits for repairs or for a rate buydown.
Seller playbook
Price to today, not last spring; Watch nearby pending comps.
Offer targeted incentives (closing‑cost credit, interest‑rate buydown) instead of broad price cuts.
Make the home “inspection‑ready”: roof, HVAC service, WDO report, and clean four‑point items to ease insurance underwriting.
In Orlando’s family‑friendly suburbs, updated homes near major employers and roadways (SR‑417, SR‑429, I‑4 corridors) continue to draw multiple offers—when priced to the most recent pending comps.
