Lee County Real Estate Market Update – May 2025

May 7, 2025 Market Trends
Aerial view of Sanibel Island and the Sanibel Lighthouse at sunrise, representing the Lee County housing market May 2025

The Lee County housing market is shifting again. April’s data shows fewer home sales, rising inventory, and prices adjusting from recent highs.

This May update breaks down the numbers and explains what they mean for buyers and sellers moving forward.

Key Takeaways (TL;DR)

  • Lee County home sales dropped 18% in April 2025 compared to last year.
  • Inventory climbed 22% year-over-year, reaching 7.7 months.
  • Average days on market rose to 82, up from 69 in 2024.
  • Prices adjusted 6.3% lower, averaging $468,000.
  • Mortgage rates steadied at 6.8%, with forecasts suggesting further decline.

Lee County Home Sales – April 2025 Data

In April 2025, 912 single-family homes closed in Lee County. That is an 18% drop compared to April 2024, when just over 1,100 homes sold. This decline reflects the market’s natural adjustment as conditions cool from the pace of recent years.

Lee County Real Estate Market Snapshot May 2025 showing key stats including homes sold, active listings, time on market, average price, and months of supply.
At-a-glance market stats for Lee County real estate in May 2025.

Lee County Inventory – May 2025 Market Update

Active listings in Lee County reached 7,076 in April, a 22% increase compared to the year before. With 7.7 months of inventory, the county is now in buyer’s market territory.

For buyers, this means options and leverage. More homes on the market translates into time to make decisions and room to negotiate.

For sellers, strategy matters. Homes priced in line with today’s reality and presented well are still closing. Sellers who prepare effectively are finding success, even in a more competitive environment. If you need ideas on how to prep, explore our free Home Staging Guide.

Split graphic comparing May 2025 real estate considerations for Lee County buyers and sellers
Key insights for both buyers and sellers in today’s local market

Homes Taking Longer, Some Not Selling

The average home in Lee County took 82 days to sell in April, compared to 69 days a year earlier. Buyers are patient, which gives them time to compare options.

Not all listings are moving. About 450 homes were withdrawn or expired without a sale in May, compared to roughly 370 a year ago. When compared to the number of homes that did sell, it suggests that close to half of recent listings did not result in a closing.

Homes that are overpriced, under-prepared, or poorly marketed tend to sit. Homes that are realistic and well-presented continue to find buyers.

Lee County Home Prices Adjust

The average sale price in April 2025 was $468,000, down 6.3% from $500,000 a year earlier.

This is not a collapse but a correction. Prices are settling into a more sustainable rhythm, giving buyers space to make thoughtful decisions while requiring sellers to be more strategic.

Interest Rate Trends

The average 30-year mortgage rate in spring 2025 is around 6.8%, down from the 8% range seen in late 2023. According to Fannie Mae, rates may ease further to about 6.3% by the end of 2025 and near 6.2% in 2026.

The stability is encouraging. Buyers are no longer facing the steep spikes of 2023 and 2024, which is helping restore confidence.

Freddie Mac interest rate trend chart showing weekly averages for 30-year and 15-year fixed-rate mortgages from May 2024 to May 2025
Source: Freddie Mac Primary Mortgage Market Survey® as of May 1, 2025. FreddieMac.com

What Buyers Should Know

This is a buyer-friendly season. Inventory is higher, competition is lighter, and the pace allows for more careful choices.

That does not mean every listing will linger. The best homes still attract interest quickly. To see what is available now, browse Fort Myers homes for sale or download our Home Buying Guide for a step-by-step plan.

What Sellers Should Know

Sellers can succeed if they adapt. Pricing must reflect today’s conditions, not last year’s. Homes that shine—clean, staged, and photographed well—are the ones moving.

Offers may include contingencies or negotiations, which is normal in a balanced market. Flexibility paired with smart preparation leads to stronger outcomes.

Free home staging guide from Worthington Realty, offering tips to prepare your home for a faster, stronger sale
Simple, strategic tips to help your home stand out—click the image to get the full guide now

FAQs About the Lee County Housing Market

How many homes sold in Lee County in April 2025?

A total of 912 single-family homes closed, which was an 18% decline compared to the same month in 2024.

Is Lee County a buyer’s or seller’s market in May 2025?

With 7.7 months of inventory, Lee County is firmly in a buyer’s market. Buyers benefit from more options and negotiating power.

What is the average home price in Lee County in May 2025?

The average sale price in April data was $468,000. That reflects a 6.3% decrease from $500,000 the year before.

How long does it take to sell a home in Lee County now?

Homes averaged 82 days on market, up from 69 days in April 2024. Some are moving faster, but many take longer.

Where can I find more insights on Southwest Florida real estate trends?

Our Market Trends updates provide detailed analysis for Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and beyond.

Final Thoughts

The Lee County housing market is adjusting. Sales are down, inventory is up, and prices are softening. Buyers now have time and leverage, while sellers need to be sharp in pricing and presentation.

If you are planning your next move, explore Fort Myers homes for sale or see our Market Trends updates to learn what is happening in Southwest Florida real estate.

Most homeowners feel overwhelmed when it’s time to move. At Worthington Realty, we provide personalized guidance and clear communication so that you feel heard, valued, and confident in your decisions.

Michael Davis

Michael Davis is a co-owner of Worthington Realty, where his mission is to help homeowners feel heard, valued, and confident in their decisions. As a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, he also guides business leaders and real estate professionals to lean into their strengths and build lasting trust. Michael leads Worthington Realty’s branding and market analysis, publishing insights that help Southwest Florida buyers, sellers, and investors understand the trends shaping their decisions.

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