Hi neighbors,
The Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) released its third-quarter market report on October 16, 2026. The short version: more homes sold, fewer homes are sitting on the market, and sellers are getting closer to their asking price.
So what does that mean if you’re thinking about selling, buying, or moving to a home that fits you better? Here’s my plain-English breakdown.
Quick answer
From July through September 2026, closed home sales across Sarasota and Manatee County rose 8% compared with the same months in 2025. Active listings dropped, homes went under contract faster, and sellers received a higher share of their original list price. The median single-family sale price was $490,000 in Manatee County and $485,000 in Sarasota County.
The Q3 2026 numbers at a glance
Here’s how single-family homes performed in each county, compared with the third quarter of 2025.
| Single-family homes, Q3 2026 | Manatee County | Sarasota County |
|---|---|---|
| Closed sales | 2,017 (up 4.2%) | 2,071 (up 3.0%) |
| Median sale price | $490,000 (up 3.2%) | $485,000 (up 3.7%) |
| Active listings, end of September | 2,610 (down 1.7%) | 2,629 (down 16.2%) |
| Months of supply | 3.9 (was 4.2) | 3.7 (was 4.8) |
| Median days to contract | 49 (was 59) | 52 (was 68) |
| Sale price as % of original list price | 95.6% (was 93.8%) | 94.4% (was 91.9%) |
| Cash purchases | 27.5% of sales | 37.6% of sales |
Source: RASM Q3 2026 Market Report, released October 16, 2026. Figures cover July through September 2026 and compare with the same period in 2025.
Five things the report tells us
1. More homes are selling
Across both counties, 5,699 homes, condos and townhomes closed in the quarter, up 8.0% from a year earlier. Condos and townhomes led the way with sales up 20.9%, while single-family sales rose 3.6%.
2. There are fewer homes to choose from
Active single-family listings fell 16.2% in Sarasota County and 1.7% in Manatee County. Condo and townhome listings dropped too, by 12.0% in Sarasota and 13.9% in Manatee. As RASM President David Crawford put it, "The trend line continues to show a strengthening market across multiple data points."
3. Homes are going under contract faster
The median single-family home in Manatee County went under contract in 49 days, down from 59. In Sarasota County it was 52 days, down from 68.
4. Sellers are getting closer to their asking price
Manatee County single-family homes sold for a median of 95.6% of their original list price, up from 93.8%. In Sarasota County that figure rose from 91.9% to 94.4%. Most homes still sell a little below their first asking price, so pricing well from day one matters.
5. Prices are rising steadily, not jumping
Median single-family prices rose 3.2% in Manatee and 3.7% in Sarasota. That’s steady growth, not a spike.
One thing to watch: the quarter ended on a mixed note for single-family homes. In September, single-family closings rose in Sarasota County but fell in Manatee County, and new single-family contracts were down from a year earlier in both counties. Condos and townhomes stayed strong, with Sarasota County condo closings up 34.3% in September.
What this means if you’re selling
- Price it right from the start. Homes that sell closest to asking are usually priced well in the first two weeks.
- Presentation still counts. Buyers have fewer homes to choose from, but they still compare every detail. Small repairs, good photos and a clean, bright space make a difference.
- Plan your next move early. If you’re buying after you sell, map out the timing for both now so you aren’t rushed later.
Curious what your home could sell for in today’s market? Request a free home value estimate, or read my free home seller guide.
What this means if you’re buying
- Be ready to act. With homes going under contract faster, it helps to have your lender preapproval and your must-have list ready before you tour.
- Look at condos and townhomes, too. Condos and townhomes had about 5 months of supply in both counties, the most of any segment, which can mean more choices and more room to compare.
- Know the full monthly cost. Ask about property taxes, insurance and any HOA or condo fees for every home you consider.
Getting started? Download my free home buyer guide.
Thinking about upsizing or downsizing?
If you’re selling one home and buying another, today’s numbers work in your favor on the selling side: fewer competing listings and faster contracts. On the buying side, the extra condo and townhome supply gives you more options if you’re looking for less upkeep. The key is timing both moves together, and that’s exactly where a clear plan helps.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market in Manatee County right now?
At the end of Q3 2026, Manatee County had 3.9 months of single-family supply and Sarasota County had 3.7 months. That leans toward sellers. Condos and townhomes had about 5 months of supply, which gives buyers more room. Every neighborhood and property type is different, so it’s worth looking at your specific area.
What is the median home price in Manatee County?
The median single-family sale price in Manatee County was $490,000 in Q3 2026, up 3.2% from a year earlier. The median condo and townhome price was $307,000, according to RASM.
How long does it take to sell a home in Manatee County?
In Q3 2026, the median Manatee County single-family home went under contract in 49 days and took 99 days from listing to closing, according to RASM.
Let’s talk about your next move
Numbers tell part of the story. Your goals, your timeline and your home tell the rest. Whether you’re getting ready to sell, buying your first home in the area, or moving to something bigger or smaller, I’d love to help you make a plan that fits.
Ready to talk about your goals? Call or text our team at 941-565-7233 or send us a message.
Warmly,
Selina Griggs
Broker Associate, SG Global Group at eXp Realty
Specializing in Manatee and Sarasota County, and helping buyers and sellers anywhere in Florida
Market statistics: Realtor Association of Sarasota and Manatee (RASM) Q3 2026 Market Report, released October 16, 2026. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This article is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice.
