James C Perry, MBA, Real Estate Agent - Coldwell Banker Select Real Estate

10/15/2026

Florida Keys Homes Need Regular Care
Living in the Florida Keys means embracing the beauty—and the unique challenges—of coastal homeownership. Over nearly four decades on St. George Island, I’ve seen firsthand how sun, salt, sand, and sea test every property, whether it’s canal-front, oceanfront, or nestled inland. Regular maintenance isn’t just a suggestion—it’s a responsibility that protects your investment for the long term. Even simple routines like keeping up with paint and caulk make a measurable difference against the relentless elements. As someone who’s built a career on precision and problem-solving, I can tell you that a little preventive care today helps preserve both value and peace of mind tomorrow.

10/14/2026

Florida Buyers Seek Energy-Resilient Homes
After nearly four decades helping clients navigate Florida’s unique real estate landscape, I’ve seen firsthand how priorities shift when it comes to storm season. Recently, one Florida community stood out—homes there kept the lights on through a major hurricane, thanks to energy-resilient design. That kind of durability isn’t just a technical detail; it’s become a real driver of buyer demand. The conversation has moved beyond saving on utility bills—folks are looking for peace of mind and true self-sufficiency when the grid fails, especially with the unpredictable weather we see here on the Gulf Coast. While upfront costs for these features can give some buyers pause, state and local incentives are starting to make energy independence more accessible. Builders and insurers are taking note, too, recognizing that resilient homes aren’t just safer—they’re likely to hold long-term value. My approach—rooted in problem-solving and practical advice—always takes these evolving priorities into account, because what you invest in today should stand the test of tomorrow.

10/13/2026

How much is your Home Worth?
Find out if it's time to sell your home

Find out what your home is really worth. Get a free, personalized home evaluation based on local market data from James C Perry, MBA.

10/13/2026

What Florida Homebuilders Should Know About Impact Fees
A significant change is on the horizon for Florida homebuilders: starting January 1, 2027, a new law will mandate plan-based impact fee methods. No more collecting fees before permits are issued—an important safeguard for anyone navigating development timelines. The legislation also protects pending applications, requires sound handling of infrastructure credits, and insists on clear contracts to address fee risks and credits upfront.

With nearly four decades in Florida real estate, I’ve seen how regulatory shifts like this can ripple through every stage of a project. My approach—grounded in straightforward guidance and careful attention to detail—has always been to keep clients prepared for these changes. Whether you’re an investor, developer, or family planning your next move, understanding the new landscape is crucial for smart, risk-aware decisions.

10/12/2026

Florida Listings Below Purchase Price
Having watched the Florida market evolve for decades, I've seen few moments quite like this: more than 1 in 10 active listings in Florida are now priced below the seller's original purchase price. It’s a clear signal that many owners are recalibrating their expectations to facilitate a move. In select areas, nearly half of all homes for sale have already reduced their asking prices, and seller concessions are increasingly common—something I’ve noticed firsthand in recent transactions.

This shift comes on the heels of rapid price gains followed by softer demand, higher borrowing costs, and a growing inventory—factors that have compelled many sellers to rethink their strategies. Some owners who bought near the market’s peak are now accepting smaller returns to keep their plans on track, reduce ongoing expenses, or relocate when things haven’t matched their original hopes.

From my perspective as someone who’s helped clients navigate both hot and cooling cycles (and who specializes in complex moves, including 1031 exchanges), the current trend underscores the importance of realistic pricing and adaptable strategies. As more sellers accept lower sale prices to move forward, I continue to watch these market dynamics closely for the best ways to guide my clients through each new turn.

10/11/2026

Honoring the Significance of Indigenous Day

10/11/2026

Florida Housing Market Forecast for Next 2 Years: 2026-2028
Looking ahead to 2026–2028, Florida’s housing market is settling into a period of stability—something many buyers and investors have been waiting for. Single-family homes are averaging $415,000, with prices forecasted to climb by a steady 1–3% each year. For those considering condos, be aware: while opportunities exist, higher association fees and softer price trends present a different landscape. Insurance costs remain a real factor, directly impacting affordability across the board. After 38 years in Florida real estate—and with a background in both military precision and advanced investment finance—I’ve found that understanding these nuances is essential for making the right move, whether you’re buying, selling, or planning a 1031 exchange. As always, my approach is rooted in straight talk and clear-eyed analysis for every client.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/jim-19/2090802-Florida-Housing-Market-Forecast-for-Next-2-Years%3A-2026-2028

10/10/2026

Cities with the fastest-growing home prices in the Sebring metro area
With 38 years in real estate—both in the trenches and at the negotiation table—I've seen markets surge, stall, and surprise. The latest figures show the U.S. typical home value climbing to $369,678, a 1.3% increase over the past year. Yet, as mortgage rates rise, we're watching growth cool in some pockets. What's striking is Venus, FL: a 5.9% jump this year, and a remarkable 38.8% increase over five years. These numbers remind me that even in a shifting landscape, opportunities exist for buyers and investors who know where to look. My approach has always been about clarity and strategic thinking—qualities that matter even more when navigating markets with this kind of volatility.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/jim-19/2084115-Cities-with-the-fastest-growing-home-prices-in-the-Sebring-m

10/09/2026

Florida home prices hold firm in August
August brought another steady month for Florida real estate, with median prices holding strong—single-family homes at $415,000 and condos/townhouses just under $298,000. While sales dipped by about 1.5% for single-family properties and nearly 2% for condos, ending an 11-month streak of growth, this shift reflects the natural ebb and flow of a market adapting to 6-7% mortgage rates. In my four decades navigating Florida’s unique property landscape—especially on St. George Island—I’ve learned that numbers like these often signal resilience, not retreat. For those considering a move, investment, or a strategic 1031 exchange, it pays to look beyond headlines and dig into what drives these trends. Precision, integrity, and a clear-eyed view always serve my clients best.


https://www.housing-trends.com/agent-news/jim-19/2084866-Florida-home-prices-hold-firm-in-August

10/08/2026

Florida Sellers Face an Equity Squeeze
After nearly four decades guiding clients through the Florida real estate landscape, I've seen how easy it is to overestimate what you'll actually pocket from a home sale. Take a property valued at around $500K with a $350K mortgage: on paper, you might expect $150K in equity. But once you factor in a price reduction, buyer negotiations, repair concessions, commissions, and closing costs, that number can quickly shrink. In the example, net proceeds before mortgage payoff dropped to about $422K, leaving just $72K after settling the mortgage. If the home also requires $50K in deferred maintenance, that figure falls further to $372K before payoff and only $22K after. Many Florida sellers find themselves weighing the risks of a traditional sale against a discounted cash offer, or considering alternative deal structures that promise smaller profits but fewer headaches. The real number you should focus on isn’t the 'estimated value'—it’s your true net proceeds after every deduction, repair, and payoff. Precision and clarity around these figures are what keep surprises at bay and ensure you make the best possible decision for your situation.