A Neighbors Bank survey finds older owners and first-time buyers considering smaller homes, with upkeep, affordability and mortgage rates shaping decisions.

Florida’s third-quarter single-family sales held steady as homes reached contract faster and inventory tightened, though new pending sales declined.

The average 30-year mortgage rate fell to 7.32% from 7.40%, marking its first decline since late August and easing borrowing costs for homebuyers.

Florida claims 63 of the nation's top 100 snowbird destinations, with Winter Haven and Lakeland leading as affordability and lifestyle shape winter housing choices.