ThinkNaples.com - Real Estate - John R Wood Properties

US Confidence Hits Seven-Mo Low
Recent figures show that US consumer confidence dipped to a seven-month low in mid-Q3, even as people felt a bit more positive about current conditions. The present-conditions index climbed about 7 points to 121, but the expectations gauge fell by roughly 6 points to 68—a level that has historically been associated with recession concerns. Early in Q3, we saw employers reduce payrolls by 23,000 jobs, with unemployment nudging up to around 4%. This uptick was largely due to people leaving the workforce, rather than an increase in hiring. Despite this softer outlook, homebuying expectations in mid-Q3 only eased slightly and actually continued to rise, with about 61% of consumers anticipating higher interest rates ahead. With federal policymakers holding rates steady and the markets not expecting much relief in the near term, it's looking like borrowing costs will remain elevated for buyers through the end of the year. In the luxury Naples market, these broader trends are always on my radar as I develop strategies to help buyers and sellers make confident decisions in an evolving landscape.

More Homes Hit the Market as Demand Cools
Recently, we've seen a subtle but meaningful shift in the national housing market: in the four weeks ending August 23, new U.S. listings ticked up 0.4% and total homes for sale increased by 0.5%, reaching the highest levels since early Q2. At the same time, pending home sales declined by 1.1% to a six-month low, likely a result of persistently high housing costs that have prompted many buyers to pause, even as inventory grows. The median U.S. home-sale price rose 1.9% year-over-year to just over $400K, and with average mortgage rates hovering near 7%—the highest in 13 months—buyers and sellers alike are navigating a more balanced landscape. For buyers, this uptick in inventory and cooling demand often means more negotiating power, with price cuts and concessions becoming more common, especially for homes that have been on the market for several weeks. For sellers, realistic pricing is key, as chasing last year's numbers doesn't serve your best interests. My focus remains on guiding clients through these evolving conditions with proven strategies tailored for luxury and Naples-area properties—making the most of every opportunity, whether you're buying or selling.

Down Payment Assistance Programs in Florida 2026
Navigating Florida’s real estate market can feel daunting, especially for first-time buyers facing affordability hurdles. Fortunately, our state offers a range of down payment assistance programs for 2026, from zero-interest loans to forgivable mortgages. These opportunities, which come with income limits and educational components, can make the dream of homeownership more accessible by reducing those upfront costs. In my work with Team Paradise/Think Naples at John R. Wood Properties | Christie's International Real Estate, I’ve seen how the right guidance and strategies help buyers unlock these valuable resources—particularly in the Naples luxury market, where every advantage matters.

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that market value and assessed value are not the same thing. Market value is what a buyer may be willing to pay based on current demand, recent sales, condition, location, and competition. Assessed value is used by the local taxing authority to help calculate property taxes and may follow different rules, timelines, exemptions, or limits. That is why your tax assessment may be higher or lower than what your home could actually sell for. If you are wondering what your home may be worth in today's market, contact me. I can help you look at the real estate side of the numbers.

Learn more at https://BetterHomeowners.com/GregGormanPA/2026/09/15/Market-Value-vs-Assessed-Value-What-s-the-Difference

US Luxury Home Sales Vary Widely
Luxury home sales across the U.S. are displaying remarkable diversity right now, with top transactions in major metros ranging from $3.7M all the way up to an impressive $130M. That record-setting $130M sale certainly grabbed attention, while other significant closings included $47M, $40.2M, $40M, $21.2M, $19M, $18M, and $17.5M. What’s particularly notable for those of us who follow the luxury market closely: in four standout metros, even the fifth-highest sales exceeded $10M, highlighting just how deep buyer demand runs for truly exceptional properties. One market stood out with a tight cluster of its five top sales, spanning $24M to $40M during this period. These figures are drawn from publicly listed properties, so private deals may not be reflected, and in nondisclosure markets, listing prices were used for the top numbers. As someone dedicated to the Naples luxury market, I’m always tracking how our region stacks up and what these trends signal for buyers and sellers seeking a strategic edge.

Rarely available and extensively updated, this Palm River home sits on an oversized cul-de-sac lot with private LaPlaya Golf Course views, a brand-new heated pool, and a location just minutes from Vanderbilt Beach and Mercato. Combining privacy, space, and modern upgrades, this move-in-ready home offers a rare opportunity east of US-41 and west of Airport Rd with the flexibility of a voluntary HOA. Thoughtfully improved for today's lifestyle, the home features impact-resistant windows and sliders, a durable metal roof, a new A/C system, updated water heater, and a recently added flex room perfect for a home office, hobby space, media room, or guest accommodations. Light-filled living areas flow seamlessly to the outdoor spaces, creating an inviting environment for both everyday living and entertaining. The backyard is a standout feature, highlighted by a newly constructed heated pool, expansive pool deck, covered outdoor living area, and sweeping golf course views. Whether enjoying a quiet morning coffee or hosting friends for an evening gathering, the setting offers a true Southwest Florida lifestyle experience. Located just minutes from Vanderbilt Beach, Mercato, Waterside Shops, dining, shopping, parks, and everyday conveniences, this home delivers an exceptional combination of location, comfort, and long-term value. With no mandatory HOA and significant recent improvements already completed, this is a property that allows you to spend less time on projects and more time enjoying everything Naples has to offer.

Set within the desirable gated community of Princeton Place at Wiggins Bay, this beautifully updated and rarely available third-floor end unit captures sweeping bay and lake views enhanced by ideal