In today’s ever-changing real estate market, one thing is becoming very clear across the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches: lifestyle-driven real estate remains one of the strongest sectors in Florida.
As we move through May 2026, buyers continue pouring into Florida from high-tax and high-density states such as New York, New Jersey, Illinois, and California. While some national markets are slowing due to interest rates and affordability concerns, South Flori- da continues to benefit from migration, wealth transfer, and limited supply in desirable communities.
What is especially interesting is the continued strength of the luxury and waterfront market. Palm Beach County recently posted strong gains in closed sales and dollar volume, fueled heavily by high-end transactions and cash buyers. Nearly half of many boxy transactions continue to be cash purchases, making markets like Palm Beach, Jupiter, Stuart, Sewall’s Point, and Jupiter Island less sensitive to mortgage rate fluctuations.
Here on the Treasure Coast, we are also seeing another important trend: buyers are becoming more selective. Today’s buyer wants value, quality construction, privacy, lower insurance exposure, newer roofs, waterfront access, golf, pickleball, resort amenities and co mmunities that offer a true Florida lifestyle.
Inventory remains tight in many of the best locations. While some segments of Florida are seeing more homes come to market, highly desirable properties, especially waterfront, country club, and well-located homes, continue to attract strong attention when priced correctly.
Another major story developing in 2026 is the continued rise in replacement costs. Construction materials, labor, insurance, and development expenses remain elevated. Many buyers are realizing that purchasing an existing home today may be far more economical than building the same home two or three years from now.
At the same time, many long-time homeowners are staying in place because of low mortgage rates secured years ago. That is limiting resale inventory even further.
The bottom line: Florida remains one of the great lifestyle destinations in America. The Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches continue attracting buyers seeking sunshine, tax advantages, boating, golf, and long-term quality of life.
As I often tell clients after 35 years in real estate, markets may shift, but exceptional locations and lifestyle properties always remain in demand.
Patrick Stracuzzi is a broker associate with RE/MAX Select Group, serving the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches for more than 35 years with over $3 billion in career real estate sales. He can be reached at (772) 486-7856 or Stracuzzi.
