On December 10, 2025, real estate professionals from across South Florida gathered in Delray Beach for the December 2025 Real Estate Roundtable, one of the final major industry events of the year. Hosted by the Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce, this quarterly forum provided a platform for a diverse group of realtors, builders, developers, and investors to reflect on the state of the housing market and share insights as the year drew to a close. The roundtable served as a critical opportunity for these industry leaders to discuss the market’s current trajectory and consider emerging trends that could shape the real estate landscape as the region moves into 2026.
During the event, participants engaged in a wide-ranging discussion about several key issues affecting Florida’s housing sector. One of the central topics was the shifting demand in both coastal and suburban communities. Realtors and builders noted that while coastal areas remain popular, there has been a noticeable increase in demand for suburban properties, as more people seek larger homes and quieter environments, especially in the wake of the pandemic. This trend has been particularly evident among first-time homebuyers, as well as retirees relocating within Florida, who are looking for affordable yet spacious housing options in less densely populated areas.
Another prominent issue discussed at the roundtable was the rising cost of construction, which has been a persistent challenge for builders and developers across the state. The increase in materials and labor costs has led to delays in construction timelines and, in some cases, price hikes for new homes. While these challenges present clear hurdles, local builders shared their strategies for managing these rising costs, including the use of more cost-effective materials and innovative building techniques. Despite these challenges, the demand for new housing remains strong, particularly for projects aimed at first-time buyers and the growing population of retirees seeking to settle in Florida.
In addition to construction concerns, participants also addressed the evolving mortgage landscape. As interest rates fluctuate and lending conditions change, brokers emphasized the need for adaptive marketing strategies in order to remain competitive in a dynamic real estate market. In a year where both buyer sentiment and economic conditions have shifted, brokers are increasingly focused on tailoring their approaches to meet the needs of different demographics, especially those navigating higher borrowing costs. Understanding these changing dynamics and adjusting marketing and sales strategies accordingly was a key point of discussion among the attendees.
The roundtable also underscored the broader momentum within Florida’s real estate sector. Despite the economic uncertainties that have affected markets across the country, the state’s housing sector continues to see strong interest from both national and international buyers. Florida remains a top destination for individuals looking to relocate, particularly those from other states seeking tax advantages, a warm climate, and growing job opportunities in sectors like healthcare, technology, and finance.
Overall, the collaborative atmosphere of the roundtable reflected the region’s resilience and ongoing interest in the real estate market, even as broader economic challenges persist. Industry leaders expressed cautious optimism about the future, recognizing that while obstacles such as rising costs and fluctuating mortgage conditions exist, the demand for housing in Florida remains robust. As 2026 approaches, the discussions at the roundtable provided valuable insights into the evolving nature of the housing market, while also highlighting the need for continued adaptability and innovation to meet the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
