As we move closer to 2026, the Citrus County real estate market is showing signs of steady improvement and renewed confidence. Whether you're considering buying, selling, or investing, here are the key trends shaping our local market—and what they mean for you.

1. Buyer Activity Slowly Picking Up

Although the past couple of years brought hesitation due to higher interest rates, buyer activity in Citrus County has been gradually increasing.
Many of today's buyers are relocating from higher-cost areas, retirees seeking affordability, or families searching for more land and space—something Citrus County offers in abundance.

What to expect for 2026:
More stabilized rates + pent-up demand = a healthier flow of buyers entering the market.

2. Inventory Is Growing, But Still Selective

We’re seeing more listings than we did during the peak shortage years, but supply still varies depending on the neighborhood:

• Citrus Springs & Beverly Hills: More consistent inventory, especially single-family homes in entry-level price ranges.

• Lecanto, Pine Ridge, and waterfront areas: Still limited supply; new listings attract strong attention.

Heading into 2026:
Inventory may continue to improve, but not enough to create a true “buyer's market.” Well-priced and well-maintained homes will continue to move.

3. Home Prices Expected to Rise Modestly

Instead of the rapid price jumps of the pandemic years, Citrus County is settling into a more sustainable rhythm.

• Prices are holding firm.

• Well-located, updated homes—especially with acreage or large lots—continue to command strong value.

• Homes needing updates may sit longer unless priced competitively.

2026 outlook:
A modest increase in home values is likely as demand stabilizes and growth continues throughout the county.

4. Land and New Construction Remain Big Opportunities

Citrus County is unique because we still have land available at reasonable prices—something most Florida counties can’t say anymore.

• Vacant lots in Citrus Springs remain popular with builders and long-term investors.

• Larger parcels in Dunnellon and Inverness continue to attract buyers seeking privacy and space.

• New construction is rising steadily, but labor and material costs still limit how quickly builders can supply inventory.

For 2026:
Investors and buyers looking for land will still find opportunity—but competition for the best parcels will increase.

5. Lifestyle-Driven Moves Will Dominate

Citrus County buyers tend to be motivated by lifestyle:

• Retirement or downsizing

• Escaping high-density metro areas

• Wanting acreage, privacy, or access to the Gulf

• Families wanting more space or better value

• Waterfront and recreational lifestyles (boating, kayaking, springs)

These motivations aren’t tied to interest rates—and they will continue driving sales well into 2026.

6. Affordability Remains a Key Advantage

Even with price increases, Citrus County remains one of the more affordable coastal-adjacent markets in Florida.
As long as nearby counties (like Marion, Hernando, and Pinellas) continue rising sharply, Citrus County will stay attractive to relocating buyers.

This competitive advantage is expected to hold strong in 2026.

What This Means for Citrus County Buyers

• You may have more choices as inventory improves.

• Prices are unlikely to drop significantly—waiting may not benefit you.

• Locking in a rate while they're stabilizing could give you long-term savings.

• Acreage and land opportunities are still strong but tightening each year.

What It Means for Sellers

• Well-priced homes will continue to attract strong buyer interest.

• Updated, move-in-ready properties shine in this market.

• Listing in 2025–2026 may benefit from improving buyer demand and stable prices.

• Acreage, waterfront, and unique properties are especially in demand.

Final Thoughts

Citrus County continues to grow, modernize, and attract new residents—while still maintaining the small-town feel people love. With buyer confidence on the rise and inventory balancing out, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong and steady year for the local real estate market.

If you’d like a personalized market update for your neighborhood or are considering buying or selling, I’d be happy to help you navigate the current trends.