Newsletter October 2025

November 5, 2025

newsletter

Dear Friends, Neighbors, and Clients~

As the fall breeze sweeps in and coastal Florida begins its seasonal glow, I’m reminded how fortunate we are to call Sarasota and her Islands home. From pumpkin-spice lattes and walks to the festive anticipation of Thanksgiving, this time of year invites warmth, community and celebration. Whether you’re strolling along the shoreline or enjoying neighborhood décor and events, I hope you’re embracing the season. It’s also a moment to pause and say thank you for trusting me with your real estate journey—I am honored to serve as your luxury real-estate advisor in this unique market.

When it comes to real estate, the luxury market on Longboat Key and nearby coastal communities continues to show resilience and sophistication. While the Sarasota region is shifting toward a more balanced market, high-end properties remain in steady demand, particularly for well-positioned waterfront homes and turnkey residences. Inventory levels have improved slightly, giving discerning buyers more choice, yet premier listings — especially those with exceptional design, modern updates, or Gulf views — continue to command attention. Across Sarasota County, single-family sales rose nearly 26% year-over-year, even as the median price adjusted modestly, a healthy sign of normalization after several record-breaking years. For luxury buyers, this means opportunity and timing; for sellers, it underscores the importance of expert presentation, pricing strategy, and global marketing reach.

Whether you’re considering selling your luxury residence, investing in the area, or simply curious about what the season and market trends mean for your personal goals, I am here to help. With deep knowledge of Sarasota, Longboat Key and Lido Key, I’ll guide you with clarity, care and integrity. Wishing you a marvelous fall—and every success as we navigate this evolving market together.

Sunny Greetings from Paradise,

Judy Kepecz-Hays & Team

Featured Properties:

Siesta Key

✨ 21 & 25 Lands End Lane

✨ 6 Beds | 7 Baths | 5,060 sq. ft.

✨ Offered for $12,400,000

✨ 21LandsEndLane.com

Hideaway Bay

✨ 757 Hideaway Bay Drive

✨ 4 Beds | 5 Baths | 4,507 sq. ft.

✨ Offered for $7,488,000

✨ 757HideawayBay.com

L'Ambiance

✨ 435 L'Ambiance Drive #L807

✨ 3 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 2,525 sq. ft.

✨ Offered for $3,500,000

✨ LAmbiancel807.com

Click Here for ALL Featured Properties

Community Spotlight: Bay Isles Harbor

Bay Isles Harbor is the flagship neighborhood of the iconic Bay Isles real estate project, occupying the southern edge of the development. A boating community also known as Bay Isles Association, this community offers the ultimate in exclusivity and luxury in a waterfront residential setting. Read more here.

Investing in Paradise: High-End Real Estate Opportunities on Lido Key

There’s a rhythm to life on Lido Key that draws people in and keeps them rooted. Steps from soft sand and surrounded by turquoise water, this barrier island just west of Sarasota blends the quiet of residential living with the energy of a vibrant coastal town. For buyers looking to invest in a property that offers both lifestyle and long-term value, few places match the potential found here. Read more here.

Fed Poised to Weigh Another Rate Cut

Lenders and analysts have been anticipating that the Federal Reserve will announce another quarter-point cut to the federal funds rate at their Oct. 28-29 meeting. Central bankers will make their decision with limited information, as official data like the September jobs report haven't been released amid the ongoing government shutdown.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate fell four basis points to 6.04% APR in the week ending Oct. 23, according to rates provided to NerdWallet by Zillow. A basis point is one one-hundredth of a percentage point. Read more here.