The logic sounds reasonable: mortgage rates are elevated, so waiting for them to fall before buying will save money. It is the kind of thinking that appeals to anyone who has spent time watc...
Accessory Dwelling Unit Restrictions Eased in Idaho, Opening Doors for Investors




A surge in new construction is forcing existing home sellers to significantly adjust their pricing strategies in Central Florida, according to Michael Dorman of Elevate Real Estate Brokers, who sees a fundamental shift in buyer preferences.
The New Construction Challenge
“With the new construction taking off, they’re having to come down to be competitive with construction,” Dorman says, describing the current market dynamic. “Because if they get a brand new house for the same price as a house that’s 50 years old, they’re going to go with that.”
This competitive pressure is particularly evident in the investment market, where traditional patterns have been disrupted. “The fixer uppers, they’re not flying off the market like they were back in 2020, 2018,” Dorman notes, reflecting on how market conditions have evolved.
Price Discovery in a Changing Market
The challenge of pricing older homes against new construction requires careful analysis and often challenges seller expectations. “You gotta do your adjustments,” Dorman explains, describing his approach to comparative market analysis. “Show them the one that you’re comparing it to, they’re not out there in the market looking at houses usually, and then seeing the difference in the houses and what the market is actually doing.”
This reality check often involves educating sellers about the true market value of their properties. Dorman notes that while online valuation tools can give sellers unrealistic expectations, the actual market comparison needs to account for the age and condition of properties.
Market Response and Adaptation
Through his work at Elevate Real Estate Brokers, Dorman emphasizes the importance of understanding current market dynamics when pricing properties. “I deduct and show them,” he says, describing his process of helping sellers understand how their properties compare to new construction options.
The impact varies by price point and location. Properties in the $250,000-$350,000 range still move relatively quickly if priced appropriately, while higher-priced properties face more significant competition from new construction alternatives.
This article was sourced from a live expert interview.
Every month we conduct hundreds of interviews with
active market practitioners - thousands to date.
Similar Articles
Explore similar articles from Our Team of Experts.


Broad statements about Queens real estate often overlook how individual neighborhoods respond differently to rising interest rates and economic pressure. According to Stella Shalamova, sales...


Despite widespread headlines about rising mortgage rates and a cooling housing market, Orlando’s luxury real estate segment remains steady. Homes priced above $1.5 million continue to sell...


While many investors remained skeptical of San Francisco’s recovery prospects throughout 2024, one multifamily investment firm was already positioning itself to capitalize on the marke...


After years of frenzied activity that pushed prices up 38% year-over-year at its peak, Austin’s residential market has settled into a more measured rhythm. Inventory has expanded, nego...


