https://www.nar.realtor/magazine/real-estate-news/economy/lower-mortgage-rates-help-push-home-sales-to-nearly-3-year-high

While the decrease in rates is helping to offset higher home prices, buyers still face a challenging housing market.

Hopeful home buyers may be getting their New Year’s wish: Lower mortgage rates—and they’re fueling an uptick in home sales.

Existing-home sales jumped 5.1% in December, the strongest reading in nearly three years, even after adjusting for seasonal factors, the National Association of REALTORS® reported Wednesday. Sales are up 1.4% from a year ago. December’s gain followed a smaller increase in November, also tied to the drop in mortgage rates that was set in motion this past fall.

It’s the type of building momentum the housing market has been waiting for. After all, “2025 was another tough year for home buyers, marked by record-high home prices and historically low home sales,” says Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist. “However, in the fourth quarter, conditions began improving, with lower mortgage rates and slower home price growth.”

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Emerald Coast Real Estate Market Update

The Emerald Coast real estate market is showing renewed momentum as mortgage rates become more appealing. National trends point to increased home sales, and we’re seeing that same shift locally across the Emerald Coast, including Navarre, Gulf Breeze, Fort Walton Beach, Destin, and Santa Rosa Beach, where buyer activity has been picking up.

For sellers, homes priced with a strong strategy are being picked up sooner than usual, helping combat long days on market and increasing the likelihood of securing a better offer earlier in the process.

For buyers, improving mortgage rates are opening doors again. With the right guidance, buyers can still secure a solid deal throughout the Emerald Coast before competition intensifies further.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re buying or selling anywhere along the Emerald Coast of Florida, The Camargo Group is here for all your real estate needs and ready to help you move forward with confidence.

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