Ken Markman Realtor

10/14/2026

Seller Concessions Reach a New US Peak
Over the past 18 years navigating the world of real estate—as a realtor, investor, and property manager—I've seen how market dynamics shape the opportunities available to both buyers and sellers. Recently, we’ve reached a new milestone: in the rolling three-month period ending mid-Q3, sellers offered concessions in roughly 45% of U.S. home sales—the highest share for this period since at least 2020. This uptick from about 43% a year prior signals a meaningful shift: buyers have gained more leverage, thanks in part to increased inventory and moderating competition. Concessions aren’t limited to simple price reductions; they often include assistance with repairs, closing costs, or mortgage-rate buydowns. These tools give buyers more ways to manage their total purchase costs. I’ve seen sellers adapt by offering closing-cost credits and rate buydowns, creating more flexible negotiations and deal structures. Notably, around 16% of homes sold in mid-Q3 combined a price reduction with a concession, further easing entry costs for buyers. Understanding these trends—and knowing how to leverage them—can make a real difference in your next move.

10/13/2026

Florida Metros Lead in Vibrant HOA Communities Nationwide
With over 18 years immersed in Florida real estate, I’ve seen firsthand how HOA fees can significantly shape a buyer’s monthly costs—especially in our state’s most sought-after metros. Recent data shows that Florida claims seven of the top 10 U.S. metro areas where HOA dues make up the largest share of mortgage payments. Miami tops the list, with a median HOA fee of $617 per month—accounting for nearly 27% of typical mortgage costs. It’s no surprise, then, that almost 44% of homes on the market here include HOA fees. For buyers and investors alike, understanding these extra expenses is crucial to making informed decisions in our unique market landscape.

10/12/2026

Housing Data Gives Buyers More Leverage
Recent housing data is showing buyers have more leverage than we’ve seen in a while. In late Q3, about 21% of active listings saw price cuts, and inventory has climbed to over 1.16 million homes—just about 9% shy of typical pre-pandemic levels. Despite this increase in options, buyers are still moving cautiously: the number of homes under contract dropped by roughly 4% year-over-year for the second month in a row, reflecting how current mortgage rates continue to challenge affordability. The national median list price now sits around $419,000, down about 1% both month-over-month and year-over-year, marking 11 straight months of annual declines. Price per square foot is also down 2% year-over-year. On the seller side, most are still staying active, with only about 6% of listings being delisted—a number that's steady compared to last year. However, more homeowners are lowering their prices and opening the door for negotiation. The key question going forward is whether these additional price cuts will boost contract signings, or if the combination of growing supply and tempered demand will extend this adjustment period. Having navigated many shifting markets over my 18 years as a realtor, I know how to help clients understand what these changes mean for their goals—whether they’re considering buying, selling, or investing.

10/11/2026

Honoring the Significance of Indigenous Day

10/11/2026

Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in the Sebring metro area
Tracking home values can reveal a lot about where opportunities—and challenges—are emerging in our local market. The latest data shows the U.S. typical home value has climbed to $369,678, a 1.3% increase from last year. While higher mortgage rates have cooled price growth in some areas, certain pockets are bucking the trend. Venus, FL, for example, posted a notable 5.9% rise in the past year and an impressive 38.8% over five years. With nearly two decades helping clients buy, sell, and invest in properties throughout the Sebring metro, I’ve seen how shifts like these can open doors for both homeowners and investors. Understanding these trends is key to making informed decisions—something I always strive to provide for my clients.


https://www.roomvu.com/agent-news/ken-joel-markman/2084115-Cities-with-the-fastest-growing-home-prices-in-the-Sebring-m

10/10/2026

Gen Z buyers lead every generation on affordability trade-offs
Having spent over 18 years guiding buyers and investors, I’ve seen market trends evolve—but Gen Z homebuyers are making a particularly strong impression right now. They’re showing remarkable financial flexibility, often willing to cut back on spending and consider smaller homes just to get on the property ladder. It’s interesting to note that Canadians are leading the way in being open to downsizing, while buyers in Britain seem less ready to make those compromises. For anyone navigating these decisions, understanding what you’re willing to trade off is key to finding the right fit in today’s market.


https://www.roomvu.com/agent-news/ken-joel-markman/2092125-Gen-Z-buyers-lead-every-generation-on-affordability-trade-of

10/09/2026

Florida Cities Lead Nation in Active HOA Communities
As someone who’s spent nearly two decades helping clients navigate Florida’s real estate landscape, I always keep an eye on factors that impact true housing costs. Recent data shows Florida now has seven of the top 10 U.S. metro areas where HOA fees make up the largest share of mortgage payments. Miami tops the list, with a median HOA fee of $617 per month—amounting to 26.9% of the typical mortgage. This is often tied to condos, newer developments, and rising insurance and inspection costs. For buyers, investors, and property owners, understanding these hidden costs is just as important as home price or location. Whether you’re planning a move or evaluating your next investment, it’s smart to factor HOA fees into your decision-making process.


https://www.roomvu.com/agent-news/ken-joel-markman/2077038-Florida-Cities-Lead-Nation-in-Active-HOA-Communities

10/08/2026

10/08/2026

The Housing Market Is Getting More Expensive to Wait Out
From my 18 years navigating real estate markets as an agent, investor, and property manager, I've seen how timing can be everything when buying a home. Right now, higher borrowing costs are making it more expensive to wait on a purchase—if rates stay high, waiting could mean higher monthly payments down the line. While some buyers hope for prices to drop, home values aren’t decreasing quickly enough to balance out these increased financing costs. In certain neighborhoods, though, improved inventory and more competition among sellers have opened up fresh negotiation opportunities. The bottom line: deciding whether to wait is no longer just about interest rates. It’s about weighing the full picture—financing, price trends, and where you might have leverage at the table. That’s the approach I rely on to help clients make confident, informed decisions.

10/07/2026

Mortgage Rates Aren’t Backing Down Yet
Mortgage rates remain stubbornly high, likely hovering near 7% through the end of the year. As someone who’s navigated changing markets for over 18 years, I know that persistent inflation and another possible Fed hike could keep borrowing costs elevated. On top of that, wider mortgage-backed securities spreads are adding more pressure to rates. A real shift down will require steady progress on inflation, calmer long-term yields, more supportive signals from the Fed, and healthier MBS spreads. For those looking to buy, invest, or refinance, current rates should be your planning benchmark for now—any future rate drop would be an added bonus. My goal is always to help clients make informed decisions in all market conditions, drawing on my experience as a realtor, investor, and property manager.