Florida’s housing market may be gearing up for a stronger summer season as new pending sales for single-family homes climbed 8% year over year in April, according to data released by Florida Realtors.

Pending sales are considered a key indicator of future market activity because they track homes that went under contract during the month, with most transactions typically closing several weeks later. The increase suggests more buyers are continuing to move forward despite affordability challenges and elevated mortgage rates.

According to Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. Brad O’Connor, April’s jump in pending sales was especially notable after more moderate gains earlier in the year. February and March both saw smaller year-over-year increases, making April’s 8% rise a significant shift in momentum.

O’Connor noted that the stronger pending sales numbers could support continued growth in closed sales through May and June, extending what has already been a positive trend statewide. Florida has now experienced eight consecutive months of year-over-year gains in closed single-family home sales, with April closed sales increasing nearly 2.5% compared to the same time last year.

The latest data may also provide reassurance for both buyers and sellers as the market continues to normalize. While inventory levels and mortgage rates remain important factors, the rise in buyer activity indicates that demand for Florida real estate is still holding steady heading into the busy summer season.

Source: Florida Realtors