March 31, 2025
It’s been three years since mortgage rates spiked, bringing the pandemic-era real estate frenzy to an abrupt halt. Since then, buyers and sellers alike have been waiting to see if home prices would tumble or if the market would finally crash. But here’s the reality: neither has happened.
Yes, sales have slowed—2024 recorded the fewest home sales since 1994—but prices haven’t dropped. In fact, they’ve risen. The best neighborhoods around Disney, including Celebration, Windermere, Dr. Phillips, and Winter Garden, have all seen home values hold steady or climb, despite shifting market conditions.
Now, as inventory levels rise slightly and uncertainty looms over mortgage rates and potential policy changes under the new administration, the question is: what happens next? Let’s break it down.
CELEBRATION
A tight market holding strong
Current inventory: 4.86 months
Celebration continues to be one of the most desirable communities near Disney, and despite an increase in inventory, demand remains steady. In 2024, 306 homes were sold, up from 283 in 2023. Prices have also climbed, with the average home price increasing from $743,468 to $791,578. While days on market rose from 42 to 65, this still indicates a balanced, active market rather than one tipping into a buyer’s favor.
WINDERMERE
Luxury market resilient despite fewer sales
Current inventory: 5.21 months
Windermere saw a slight drop in sales, from 683 in 2023 to 624 in 2024. While the average price dipped slightly from $1,228,886 to $1,211,360, price per square foot has remained consistent. More importantly, the median home price has barely moved, from $785,000 to $775,000, proving that demand for this luxury market remains strong. Days on market increased, but only from 43 to 52—showing that while homes are taking a little longer to sell, they are still moving at healthy rates.
DR. PHILLIPS
Price gains continue despite slower sales
Current inventory: 5.57 months
Dr. Phillips saw a modest slowdown, with 749 homes sold in 2024 compared to 779 in 2023. However, the average home price jumped from $818,358 to $866,157, with price per square foot climbing from $296.42 to $319.09. While homes are sitting on the market longer—56 days on average versus 37 last year—sellers are still securing strong closing prices.
WINTER GARDEN
The most active market near Disney
Current inventory: 3.72 months
Winter Garden has been the standout performer, seeing an increase in both sales volume and prices. In 2024, 2,164 homes were sold, up from 1,948 in 2023, and the average home price rose from $639,109 to $646,423. The market remains highly competitive, with a 98% sales-to-list price ratio and a median price increase to $575,000. Even as days on market climbed slightly, demand continues to outpace supply, keeping this area firmly in seller’s market territory.
More Options for Buyers, But Speed Still Matters
These markets may still lean toward sellers, but it's worth noting that inventory has reached its highest point in recent years. That shift is giving active buyers more choices than they've had in quite some time. With more competition among listings, we're seeing an uptick in price reductions—especially on homes that linger on the market. Still, well-priced homes in desirable locations are selling quickly: 48% of properties that went under contract last month did so within 30 days.
What this means for buyers and sellers
For sellers, this market still works in your favor. While homes are taking slightly longer to sell, prices remain strong, and inventory levels are still relatively low. If you’re considering selling, now is still an excellent time to list before any major shifts in the market.
For buyers, while inventory is increasing slightly, it’s not enough to create a true buyer’s market. Prices are not dropping significantly, and competition remains high in the most desirable areas. If you’re waiting for mortgage rates to come down, there’s no guarantee they will, and waiting could mean paying even more as prices continue to rise.
Final thoughts
Even with market uncertainty, the best neighborhoods near Disney remain strong, resilient, and, in many cases, still a seller’s market. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, understanding the current dynamics is key to making the right move in today’s market. If you’d like to discuss your options, let’s connect and create a strategy that works for you.
