Existing-home sales are rising as lower mortgage rates, slower price growth, and wage gains improve housing affordability. First-time buyers are returning to the market, and buyers may have more negotiating power as prices moderate.
In this episode of The Norris Group Real Estate Podcast, Joey Romero is joined by Craig Evans, CEO of The Norris Group, and Douglas Brooke Homes for an in-depth discussion on the upcoming Florida Bootcamp and the current state of the Florida real estate market. The conversation covers key macro trends driving migration into Florida, including domestic vs. international population shifts, the long-term outlook for housing demand, and how rising interest rates and insurance changes have reshaped buyer behavior. The team also breaks down their current build-to-rent model, highlighting affordability-driven construction, stable cash flow projections, and why new construction continues to outperform aging rental stock in today’s market.
20-year Dallas study found that pocket listings—homes sold off-market before hitting the MLS—earned an average 1.7% premium, though the advantage largely disappeared after the Clear Cooperation Policy limited pre-MLS marketing.
Compass leads U.S. brokerages for the fifth consecutive year with $262B in 2025 sales, boosted by its merger with Anywhere. Anywhere Advisors ranked second at $196.1B, while The Real Brokerage posted the fastest growth at 53.7% year-over-year
New-home sales dropped sharply in January—the biggest fall since 2013 . Even low mortgage rates aren’t enough to ease buyer caution. Experts predict a slow start to the spring housing market.
In this episode, Joey Romero continues his conversation with Sarah Ayala of Tower Agency, diving into her approach to mentorship, team building, and navigating today’s unpredictable real estate market. Sarah shares how she developed an 8-week mentorship program designed to equip new agents with the mindset, systems, and lead generation strategies needed for long-term success. She also discusses the importance of vulnerability, consistency on social media, and finding balance while managing both personal production and leadership responsibilities. With insights on today’s “emotional market,” this episode offers valuable guidance for agents, buyers, and investors looking to adapt and thrive.
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