Downsizing or Upsizing? How to Strategically Time Your Move in Sarasota’s 2025 Housing Market
Bev Murray
Sell Your Home
If you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to make a move in Sarasota, the answer is: opportunities abound. After years of bidding wars and lightning-fast sales, the market in 2025 has shifted from an overheated seller’s market into a more balanced environment. Buyers finally have room to breathe, compare options, and negotiate favorable terms, while sellers who prepare and price strategically can still achieve excellent outcomes.
As one of the top 0.5% of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices agents nationwide, with over $400 million in transactions, Bev has helped Sarasota families navigate markets of every kind. Today’s conditions require a thoughtful approach—but they also open doors for both downsizers and upsizers alike.
Why the Market Has Shifted
In recent years, Sarasota real estate moved at a dizzying pace. Homes sold within days, often above asking price, and buyers had little room for negotiation. In 2025, things look different:
• More homes are available on the market, giving buyers real choice.
• Negotiation has returned, allowing for favorable terms on both sides.
• Homes take longer to sell, which rewards sellers who price competitively and present their property well.
• Broader economic factors such as new tariffs and global uncertainty have added a layer of caution for some buyers and investors, creating a steadier pace in the local market.
For buyers, that means less stress and more opportunity. For sellers, it means focusing on quality preparation and partnering with an experienced agent to position your home effectively.
Why Sarasota Homeowners Are Downsizing
Downsizing is often motivated by lifestyle changes—empty nesters, retirees, or simply those ready for a lower-maintenance lifestyle. Sarasota offers a wealth of attractive downsizing options, from modern condos on Lido Key to maintenance-free villas in Lakewood Ranch.
• Longtime homeowners still hold significant equity, built up during more than a decade of appreciation.
• Selling a larger home and moving into a smaller property can unlock cash for travel, investments, or family.
• With more inventory available, downsizers can take the time to choose the right fit rather than feeling rushed.
Bev’s tip: Focus on making your home move-in ready. Kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal upgrades help downsizers maximize returns, even in a more balanced market.
Why Others Are Upsizing
On the other end of the spectrum, many Sarasota families are looking to upsize. Whether it’s growing households, a need for home offices, or the dream of waterfront living, upsizing remains a strong motivator.
• More homes are available across neighborhoods like Lakewood Ranch, Palmer Ranch, and Bird Key.
• Buyers face less competition, with fewer bidding wars than in recent years.
• Negotiation opportunities mean families can stretch their dollar further—perhaps affording an extra bedroom, outdoor space, or waterfront access that felt out of reach before.
Bev’s tip: Target neighborhoods with strong long-term value, such as Siesta Key, Bird Key, or The Oaks. Even as the market shifts, these locations remain highly desirable for lifestyle and investment potential.
Neighborhood Highlights in 2025
• Lakewood Ranch: Popular with families, this master-planned community offers newer construction, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. Homes range from moderately sized single-family residences to expansive estates. Current conditions provide more inventory and time to find the right fit.
• Siesta Key: Known for its world-famous beach, Siesta Key offers a mix of property types. While its character is primarily single-family homes—including both large waterfront estates and smaller older homes ripe for renovation—there are also several condo options for those seeking low-maintenance living.
• Longboat Key: A barrier island that balances luxury estates with an abundance of condominium options. Buyers can choose between grand bayfront or Gulf-front estates, or take advantage of the many condo communities that provide a more maintenance-free lifestyle.
• Indian Beach/Sapphire Shores (Museum Area): Along the bayfront you’ll find historic and modern estate homes, while just inland the neighborhood shifts into an eclectic mix of charmingly restored homes and older properties ideal for renovation. Its cultural proximity to downtown makes it appealing to both upsizers and downsizers.
• Palmer Ranch: A large master-planned, gated community comprised of many smaller subdivisions. While primarily known for its single-family homes, Palmer Ranch also offers some condos and villas. Its maintenance-free and gated community living appeals to those seeking convenience and security.
• The Oaks: An exclusive, golf-oriented gated community featuring luxury estates and well-appointed single-family homes. The Oaks offers ample space for those upsizing, while also providing a strong sense of community for those downsizing into a lifestyle-focused neighborhood.
Strategic Advice for Downsizers
• Price Realistically
Today’s buyers are informed and cautious. A well-priced home generates interest faster than one that lingers on the market.
• Stage Smartly
Focus on the updates that matter most: clean finishes, refreshed kitchens, and neutral colors. These help buyers envision themselves in the home.
• Highlight Lifestyle Benefits
When marketing, emphasize what makes your property unique—proximity to beaches, walkability to downtown, or outdoor living spaces.
Strategic Advice for Upsizers
• Negotiate with Confidence
Sellers are more open to negotiation on price, closing costs, or repairs. This can give buyers more room to tailor the deal.
• Think Long-Term
Upsizing is not only about square footage but about lifestyle. Consider neighborhoods that will retain value—waterfront communities, established gated neighborhoods, or walkable areas near Sarasota’s cultural core.
• Be Patient, But Prepared
With homes taking longer to sell, you have time to compare. But when you find the right property, be ready to make a strong offer.
Why Bev Murray Is the Right Partner in 2025
• Top-tier recognition: Ranked among the top 0.5% of over 50,000 Berkshire Hathaway agents nationwide.
• Local expertise: Specializing in Sarasota’s waterfront, barrier islands, and luxury markets.
• Construction knowledge: Close ties with Murray Homes provide unique insight into remodels, teardowns, and custom builds.
• Proven results: Over $400 million in real estate bought, sold, and built in Sarasota.
• Global reach: Backed by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, ensuring properties receive worldwide exposure.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Sarasota’s 2025 housing market is no longer the frenetic seller’s market of the past. Instead, it offers opportunity—for buyers to secure the right home without pressure, and for sellers to unlock value with careful preparation. Whether you’re downsizing to simplify or upsizing to expand, timing your move strategically can make all the difference.
Stay ahead of the market. Subscribe to Bev’s monthly newsletter for Sarasota real estate insights, neighborhood spotlights, and property updates. When you’re ready to explore your next move, schedule a consultation with Bev Murray—trusted by Sarasota families for over 20 years.
