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        <title>Real Estate Blog</title>
        <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/</link>
        <description>Insights on commercial and residential real estate in Sarasota from 53-year broker Loyd Robbins and the team at Loyd Robbins &amp; Co.</description>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/one-region-two-very-different-markets-sarasota-homes-vs-condos-in-2026/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/one-region-two-very-different-markets-sarasota-homes-vs-condos-in-2026/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>One Region, Two Very Different Markets: Sarasota Homes vs. Condos in 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
One Region, Two Very Different Markets: Sarasota Homes vs. Condos in 2026





 


One of the questions I hear most often is, “How is the real estate market?”


After more than five decades in Sarasota real estate, I can tell you that the answer has never been as simple as the headlines make it sound. Today, it depends heavily on where the property is located, its price range and, perhaps most importantly, whether we are talking about a single-family home or a condominium.


The latest available June 2026 statistics from the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee make that distinction especially clear.


Florida Buyers Are Moving Forward


The statewide market provides some helpful context. According to Florida Realtors®, closed sales of existing single-family homes increased 9.3 year over year in June. The statewide median sale price rose 4.9 to $432,000, while new pending sales increased 4.1.


That tells us buyers are moving forward despite mortgage rates remaining around 6.5 and affordability continuing to be a concern.


However, statewide statistics only tell part of the story. When we examine Sarasota and Manatee counties, the differences between property types become much more noticeable.


Single-Family Inventory Is Tightening


In Sarasota County, 805 single-family homes sold during June, an increase of 15.2 from June 2025. The median sale price climbed 8.2 to $492,450.


At the same time, active single-family inventory fell 27.4 to 2,870 homes. That reduced the available supply from 6.3 months last June to just 4.1 months this year.


Manatee County experienced similar momentum. Closed single-family sales increased 26.2, while the median sale price rose 11.4 to $490,000. Inventory declined 15.3, also leaving Manatee County with 4.1 months of supply.


This is not the frantic market we experienced several years ago, when homes routinely received multiple offers within days. Buyers are more selective today, and price, condition, insurance costs and location all matter. Nevertheless, the significant decline in inventory means buyers no longer have the abundance of single-family choices they had last year.


Well-maintained homes that are priced correctly are getting attention. Sarasota County single-family homes spent a median of 47 days on the market before going under contract, compared with 72 days one year earlier. In Manatee County, that number was 45 days.


Sellers still need to be realistic, but the balance has shifted in their direction in many single-family neighborhoods.


Condos Are Telling a Different Story


The Sarasota condo and townhome market is moving in another direction.


Closed condo and townhome sales increased 25.5 in Sarasota County, showing that buyers are active. However, the median sale price declined 7.5 to $343,750.


Available inventory also declined, but Sarasota County still had 6.3 months of condo and townhome supply—considerably more than the 4.1 months available in the single-family market. These properties spent a median of 71 days on the market before going under contract.


In Manatee County, condo and townhome sales increased 11.2, while the median price declined slightly to $310,000. That segment had 5.7 months of available supply.


Statewide, Florida’s condo and townhome market carried an even larger 8.1-month supply in June. By comparison, statewide single-family inventory stood at 4.5 months.


These numbers do not mean that every Sarasota condo has lost value. Waterfront location, building age, amenities, condition, association finances and recent renovations can produce very different results. Higher-priced Sarasota condos were active in June, with sales of $1 million or more increasing 50.


What the statistics do tell us is that condo buyers generally have more choices and greater negotiating leverage than buyers searching for single-family homes.


What This Means for Sellers


A single-family homeowner should not base a pricing decision on what is happening in the condo market, just as a condo owner should not assume that rising single-family prices automatically apply to their unit.


For single-family sellers, declining inventory can create an opportunity—but only when the home is properly prepared, marketed and priced against its true competition.


Condo sellers face a different challenge. Buyers are looking closely at association budgets, reserves, insurance costs, special assessments and inspection reports. Having that information organized and available can help buyers evaluate the property with greater confidence.


In both markets, beginning with an unrealistic asking price can cause a property to miss its strongest period of buyer attention. Today’s buyers have access to more information than ever, and they recognize when a property is priced above comparable alternatives.


What This Means for Buyers


Single-family buyers should be prepared to act promptly when the right property becomes available, particularly in neighborhoods or price ranges with limited inventory. That does not mean skipping inspections or accepting unfavorable terms. It means having financing in place and understanding the recent comparable sales before making an offer.


Condo buyers may currently find more selection and negotiating room, but price should not be the only consideration. Association reserves, planned projects, special assessments, insurance coverage and the overall condition of the building can be just as important as the unit itself.


Real Estate Is Always Local


The broad Sarasota and Manatee housing market is clearly more active than it was one year ago. Sales are rising, pending contracts are increasing and inventory is tightening.


But there is no single market condition that applies equally to every property.


A single-family home in Sarasota, a condominium near the Gulf and a townhome in Manatee County may all be operating under very different conditions. That is why I have always believed that good real estate decisions begin with local information—not national headlines.


Whether you are considering buying or selling, the most useful question is not simply, “How is the market?”


The better question is, “How is the market for this specific property?”
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 10:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/does-my-tenant-impact-the-value-of-my-property/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/does-my-tenant-impact-the-value-of-my-property/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>Does My Tenant Impact the Value of My Property?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Does My Tenant Impact the Value of My Property?





The short answer is absolutely.


When most people think about commercial real estate value, they focus on the building itself—its location, size, condition, or curb appeal. While those factors certainly matter, income-producing commercial properties are often worth far more because of who occupies them and how the lease is structured.


Simply put, a tenant can either enhance the value of a property or significantly reduce it.


A Lease Is More Than Just Rent


When a landlord signs a lease, they are granting a tenant the right to occupy and control the property under the agreed-upon terms. As long as the tenant fulfills their obligations, those lease provisions become one of the primary factors investors evaluate when determining value.


Every lease tells a story.


Questions investors commonly ask include:




Is the rent at market rates?


Does the lease include annual rent increases?


How much time remains on the lease?


Does the tenant have multiple renewal options?


Who is responsible for maintenance, insurance, taxes, and repairs?


Is the tenant financially stable?




The answers to these questions can significantly influence what a buyer is willing to pay.


Income Drives Value


Unlike residential real estate, commercial properties are often valued based on the income they generate.


For example, imagine two nearly identical office buildings located side by side.


One is leased to a financially strong company paying market rent with annual rent increases built into the lease.


The other is leased well below market value with no rent escalations for another ten years.


Although the buildings are physically the same, the first property will likely command a much higher purchase price because it produces greater income and offers better long-term investment potential.


Understanding CAP Rates


One of the most common tools investors use to evaluate commercial property is the capitalization rate, commonly referred to as the CAP rate.


A CAP rate compares a property's annual net operating income to its purchase price. While the calculation itself is straightforward, the concept is important: higher, more reliable income generally supports a higher property value.


Buyers aren't simply purchasing bricks and mortar—they're purchasing an income stream.


A property occupied by a dependable tenant with a well-structured lease often attracts stronger investor interest because the future cash flow is more predictable.


Tenant Quality Matters


The amount of rent collected is only part of the equation.


A tenant's financial strength is equally important.


We've all seen headlines announcing store closures, corporate bankruptcies, or companies downsizing their operations. When something like that happens, landlords can suddenly face months of vacancy, lost income, tenant improvement costs, leasing commissions, and other expenses associated with finding a replacement tenant.


Those risks are factored into a property's value long before they actually occur.


Conversely, a financially stable tenant with a successful business and a long operating history often increases buyer confidence, making the property more attractive in the marketplace.


Lease Structure Can Increase or Decrease Value


Well-written commercial leases help protect both landlords and tenants while preserving the long-term value of the property.


Items that deserve regular attention include:




Annual rental increases


Lease expiration dates


Renewal options


Maintenance responsibilities


Insurance requirements


Default provisions


Property use restrictions




Even small oversights can become costly over time.


For example, missing a scheduled rent increase or failing to properly document an option period may have a direct impact on a property's future value.


Annual Lease Reviews Are Essential


One of the simplest recommendations I make to property owners is to review every commercial lease at least once each year.


An annual review helps ensure rental increases are being implemented correctly, lease obligations are being met, insurance requirements remain current, and both parties stay in compliance with the agreement.


Waiting until a property is ready to sell is often too late to correct issues that have developed over several years.


Final Thoughts


A commercial property is much more than land and a building. For investors, its value is closely tied to the quality of the tenant and the strength of the lease.


A well-established tenant paying market rent under favorable lease terms can significantly increase a property's value. On the other hand, below-market rents, financially unstable tenants, or poorly structured leases can reduce investor demand and ultimately lower what a buyer is willing to pay.


Whether you're a landlord considering a new lease or an investor evaluating your next acquisition, understanding how tenants influence property value can help you make better long-term decisions.
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    <pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2026 09:30:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/relationships-first-why-great-communication-is-still-our-greatest-competitive-advantage/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/relationships-first-why-great-communication-is-still-our-greatest-competitive-advantage/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>Relationships First: Why Great Communication Is Still Our Greatest Competitive Advantage</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Relationships First: Why Great Communication Is Still Our Greatest Competitive Advantage





In an industry filled with new technology, artificial intelligence, and constantly changing market conditions, one thing hasn’t changed: people remember how we made them feel.


BUILDING TRUST THROUGH EVERY INTERACTIONWhether I’m working with buyers, sellers, another REALTOR®, a lender, inspector, title company, or contractor, successful transactions rarely come down to one big moment. They are built through dozens of small interactions that create confidence and trust. Communication is one of the simplest and most effective ways we can elevate the experience for everyone involved.


COMMUNICATION CREATES CONFIDENCEPeople don’t necessarily expect us to have every answer immediately. They do, however, expect us to acknowledge their questions, follow through on our commitments, and keep them informed. A quick update, even when there isn’t much to report, is often better than silence. Uncertainty creates anxiety, while communication creates confidence.Responsiveness also means more than simply answering quickly. It means setting expectations. If I know I’ll need time to research something, I say so. If I’m waiting on another party, I communicate that as well. Those small updates prevent misunderstandings and reassure everyone that the transaction is continuing to move forward.


THE VALUE OF PROACTIVE COMMUNICATIONOver time, I have become increasingly intentional about communicating before someone has to ask. A seller should never have to wonder whether a showing took place. A buyer should not be left guessing about the next step in the inspection process. Another agent should not have to follow up multiple times for an update. Proactive communication reduces stress, builds trust, and allows everyone to focus on finding solutions rather than chasing information.


PARTNERS IN EVERY TRANSACTIONJust as important is treating every industry professional as exactly that: a partner. Every lender, title representative, inspector, photographer, contractor, and fellow REALTOR® plays an important role in our customers’ experience. When we approach these relationships with respect, appreciation, and a team mindset, transactions become far more collaborative and far less adversarial.Challenges are inevitable in real estate transactions. How we communicate during those moments often determines whether a challenge becomes a roadblock or an opportunity to work together toward a solution.Some of the strongest customer relationships are built after the closing table. A quick check-in, answering a homeownership question months later, or connecting someone with a trusted local resource reminds customers that our relationship didn’t end when the commission check arrived. Those continued conversations often become the foundation for future referrals and repeat business.


WHAT CLIENTS REMEMBER MOSTWhen I look back at the feedback I’ve been fortunate to receive, the compliments are rarely about contracts or negotiations. Instead, people mention feeling heard, informed, supported, and never pressured throughout the process. They remember responsiveness, patience, attention to detail, and the reassurance of knowing someone was consistently looking out for their best interests.Those qualities are not dependent on market conditions. They are choices we make every day. As REALTORS®, we also have the opportunity to shape how the public views our profession. Every conversation, showing, email, and interaction with another real estate professional reflects not only on our individual businesses but also on the industry as a whole.Professionalism is contagious. When we lead with respect, transparency, and clear communication, we encourage others to do the same. Markets will continue to shift. Technology will continue to evolve. New tools will continue to change how we do business. But genuine relationships, consistent communication, and a commitment to serving others will always remain among our greatest competitive advantages.Those are the qualities customers remember long after closing day, and they are the qualities that continue to build lasting businesses, one relationship at a time. 
 ]]> </description>
    <pubDate>Tue, 11 Aug 2026 10:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/are-commercial-real-estate-values-going-up-or-down/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/are-commercial-real-estate-values-going-up-or-down/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>Are Commercial Real Estate Values Going Up or Down?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 
Are Commercial Real Estate Values Going Up or Down?





It’s hard to go very long without hearing a financial talking head predict the next real estate crash. Whether it’s vacant office buildings in major cities, retailers closing stores, or concerns about interest rates, attention-grabbing headlines often leave commercial property owners wondering: “Is the value of my property going up or down?”


During my 53 years in the real estate business, I’ve seen several major market cycles. Historically, significant declines in Florida commercial real estate values have usually been caused by events outside our local market. The oil embargo of the 1970s, the Savings &amp; Loan crisis of the 1980s, and the Great Recession of 2007-2009 are just a few examples. The encouraging news is that every downturn I have experienced has eventually been followed by recovery and growth. If you were able to hold quality commercial real estate through those cycles, values ultimately rebounded and often exceeded previous highs.


Many factors influence commercial property values, including location, zoning, condition, visibility, and income potential. However, the single greatest driver of value has always been the basic economic principle of supply and demand.


That is where Southwest Florida continues to stand apart from many other markets around the country. While some major metropolitan areas are dealing with higher vacancies and slower leasing activity, our region continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited commercial inventory. Every new resident creates demand for goods and services. Those goods and services require businesses, employees, offices, warehouses, medical facilities, and retail locations. As businesses expand to serve a growing population, the demand for commercial space continues to increase.


Does that mean values will rise forever? Of course not. Real estate markets move in cycles, and periods of slower growth are inevitable. Interest rates, insurance costs, construction expenses, and broader economic conditions will always influence the market. However, when I look at the fundamentals of Southwest Florida today, I continue to see strong demand, limited supply, and long-term growth drivers that support commercial real estate values.


So, are commercial real estate values going up or down? While individual properties and property types can vary, the overall outlook for Southwest Florida commercial real estate remains positive. For the foreseeable future, demand continues to outpace supply, and that is a combination that has historically supported property values over the long term.
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    <pubDate>Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:30:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/southwest-florida-industrial-market-has-plenty-of-space-but-is-it-the-right-kind/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/southwest-florida-industrial-market-has-plenty-of-space-but-is-it-the-right-kind/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>Southwest Florida Industrial Market Has Plenty of Space —But is it the Right Kind?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Southwest Florida Industrial Market Has Plenty of Space —But is it the Right Kind?


Commercial real estate is cyclical by nature, and the industrial market throughout Southwest and the surrounding areas is proving that once again. Over the past several years, developers from around the country responded aggressively to pandemic-era demand for warehouses and distribution space. Larger industrial users were expanding rapidly, supply chains were shifting, and developers raced to build bigger facilities to meet the moment. Today, we’re seeing the effects of that wave of construction settle into the market.


In the 10,000+ square foot range, there is noticeably more availability than we saw just a few years ago. Much of that product was developed during or immediately following COVID, when larger users were absorbing space at a record pace, especially along the I-75 &amp; I-4 corridors. Now, some of those tenants have scaled back, consolidated operations, or simply slowed expansion plans, leaving a surplus of larger industrial inventory in many Florida markets. Nationally, vacancies for large-format industrial space have climbed significantly compared to smaller bay product.


What continues to remain extremely tight, however, is the smaller industrial sector — particularly spaces in the 1,000 to 5,000 square foot range. Contractors, service companies, local distributors, light manufacturers, tradesmen, and small business owners continue searching for functional warehouses and flex space with very limited options available. That segment of the market was largely overlooked during the development boom because larger warehouse projects were easier to finance and build.


Infill industrial product in desirable locations throughout Southwest Florida remains difficult to replace. Many of the smaller industrial buildings in our region were built decades ago, and there simply has not been enough new small-bay construction to keep pace with demand. A driving factor in the shortage of new smaller industrial buildings is due to the shortage of improved Industrial zoned vacant lots. The remaining vacant industrial lots that are 1 to 5 acres in size are sold at a premium which drives up the total cost of the new building.


The reality is that industrial demand never disappears — it shifts. Markets adjust. Developers follow trends. Then the cycle eventually corrects itself again. We are already beginning to see more conversations centered around smaller bay concepts, multi-tenant industrial projects, and flex space designed for local business users rather than massive distribution centers.


That is the nature of commercial real estate. Timing, supply, and demand are always moving targets. The key is to recognize where the market is headed before everyone else catches up.
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    <pubDate>Tue, 28 Jul 2026 10:30:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/thinking-about-building-a-commercial-project/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/thinking-about-building-a-commercial-project/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>Thinking About Building A Commercial Project?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



Thinking About Building a Commercial Project?


Developing a commercial project—whether retail, industrial, office, or multifamily—comes with many moving parts. Before anyone puts a shovel in the ground, there are numerous factors that need to be carefully evaluated. Zoning, setback requirements, utility availability and capacity, traffic studies, fill requirements, and construction costs are just a few of the items that can influence whether a project ultimately succeeds or struggles.


In my opinion, however, one of the most important considerations is understanding the market.


Over my 50+ years in the Southwest Florida real estate industry, I have seen many projects where developers had great plans and built impressive buildings, but completely missed the market. Timing plays a significant role in development, but identifying the right product—and pricing it correctly—can be even more critical. Whether the finished space will be leased or sold, unrealistic expectations for rental rates or purchase pricing can derail even the most well-built project.


Sometimes the smallest design details can also affect the success of a property. Ceiling heights, hallway widths, door openings, restroom placement, and the number or size of loading doors may seem minor during the planning stage, but these details can significantly impact how attractive a space is to future tenants or buyers and how quickly it leases or sells.


Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work alongside many successful developers who understood the importance of assembling the right team. Architects, civil engineers, mechanical engineers, and general contractors are all essential. Equally important, however, is involving an experienced commercial real estate professional early in the process.


Too often I have been brought into projects after design and permitting were completed, only to recommend changes to better match current market demand.


One developer I worked with said it best: “If we can’t lease or sell the product, nobody makes any money.”


If you are considering developing a commercial property—or building for your own business—make sure a knowledgeable commercial real estate professional is part of your team from the very beginning.
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    <pubDate>Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:30:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/whats-my-land-worth/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/whats-my-land-worth/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>What's My Land Worth?</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



What’s My Land Worth?


That is a question I hear all the time from landowners: “What’s my land worth?”


Early in my career in Southwest Florida real estate, I was quick to answer. I would say, “your land is worth so much per unit for residential, or so much per square foot for commercial or industrial land.” I am not sure if times were simpler back then, or if I simply did not yet understand all the pieces of the puzzle that go into evaluating vacant land.


After more than 50 years in the business, my answer has changed to:” without a lot of research, I really do not know what your land is worth.”


As Southwest Florida has grown from sleepy seasonal towns into large, year-round communities, the cost and complexity of development have grown right along with it. Development regulations, zoning laws, environmental rules, coastal setback requirements, building codes, infrastructure demands, and market trends have all changed over the years and will continue to change.


The value of vacant land in Florida can vary dramatically based on location, zoning, future land use designation, and the availability of utilities. What may appear to be a great piece of property can quickly become far less valuable if sewer, water, drainage, road improvements, or other infrastructure requirements make development difficult or expensive.


Beyond zoning and development costs, there are many other variables that must be considered when evaluating vacant land. For commercial land, some of the key factors include the types of uses allowed within the zoning district, average daily traffic counts, visibility, access, surrounding demographics, nearby businesses, and even which side of the highway the property is located on. In some cases, being on the “going home” side of the road versus the “going to work” side can make a significant difference in value.


All of these factors must be considered when trying to answer what used to seem like a very simple question.


When I consult with clients about the value of their property, I encourage them to invest some time and money with the right professionals BEFORE marketing the property or accepting an offer from a developer or investor. Lack of information can lead to selling a property for too little, or just as easily, having an unrealistic expectation of its true value.


Having answers to these questions also puts a seller in a much stronger position. The more information you can provide to a potential buyer, the more confidence they will have in the property, and the less time they will need to spend on their own due diligence. In many cases, that can translate into a higher price and a faster sale.


If you have questions about the value of your property or what its highest and best use may be, our team welcomes the opportunity to sit down with you and help you find the answers.
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    <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:52:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/what-business-owners-dont-say-out-loud-about-selling/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/what-business-owners-dont-say-out-loud-about-selling/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>What Business Owners Don't Say Out Loud About Selling</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



What Business Owners Don’t Say Out Loud About Selling


Most business owners don’t begin with the words, “I’m ready to sell.” The conversation usually starts somewhere else: retirement, health concerns, family priorities, burnout, or simply wondering what the next chapter looks like. These are weighty life events. When you’ve spent decades building a company, the decision to sell is never just financial. It’s personal.


For many owners, their business represents years of sacrifice, risk, and identity. Before we ever talk about putting a company on the market, I believe it’s critical to understand what’s really driving the conversation. Owners are often wrestling with questions like: Is this the right time? Am I too early or too late? Will I receive maximum value? Will I have the financial resources to sustain retirement? What happens to my employees, my customers, and the reputation I’ve worked so hard to build?


My role as a business broker is to help owners evaluate their options and make decisions they can live with long after closing.


Behind the scenes, my team conducts a thorough analysis before going to market. We review financial statements and tax returns, evaluate equipment and its remaining useful life, and determine the value of any real estate involved (whether included in the sale or structured as a lease.) We assess key employees and their importance to operations, analyze market sales trends, evaluate customer concentration, review work-in-progress schedules, confirm licensing requirements, and account for inventory. Proper valuation requires disciplined preparation.


On the buy side, structure matters. Is the transaction an asset sale or stock sale? How will payables and receivables be handled? What financing options are realistic? Are there family members, key employees, or competitors who could be potential buyers? What does the post-closing management transition look like?


Exit planning is not a deadline… it’s a process. My job is to help business owners understand what their company is worth, what a transition could realistically look like, and whether now — or later — is the right time to move forward. If you’re considering a sale, whether immediate or years away, I welcome the opportunity to sit down and discuss your options.
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    <pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 14:46:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/not-a-market-to-sit-out-what-southwest-floridas-economy-signals-for-2026/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/not-a-market-to-sit-out-what-southwest-floridas-economy-signals-for-2026/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>Not a Market to Sit Out: What Southwest Florida’s Economy Signals for 2026</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



2025 is in the rearview mirror, and many of us are trying to make sense of where the economy is headed in 2026. I spent the past several weeks attending economic outlook events across Southwest Florida, listening to a wide range of voices tied to development, finance, and market activity.


In mid-December, I attended the SWFL Commercial Real Estate State of the Market in Fort Myers, where developers in multifamily, industrial, office, and retail shared insights from Charlotte, Lee, and Collier Counties. In early January, I attended the Tampa Bay Economic Outlook, hearing from Mayor Jane Castor, Chief Economist for Fifth Third Bank, and Andrew Wright of Franklin Street. Most recently, I attended an event at my local association featuring Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors.


Despite different markets and perspectives, the message was consistent: Florida, especially Southwest Florida, remains one of the best places in the country to live and work. Population growth continues at a strong pace, and that momentum shows no signs of slowing. Anyone who spends time on our roads can see it firsthand U-Haul’s latest Growth Index placed Florida with eight of the top ten growth cities and twelve of the top twenty-five nationwide.


Even in what’s been described as a slower residential market, Lakewood Ranch ranked as the second fastest-growing master-planned community in the country in 2025.


That population growth continues to drive demand across commercial sectors. Retail and small offices remain highly competitive, with low vacancy and rising rents. Industrial demand softened in 2025 for buildings over 50,000 square feet and may remain soft in 2026, while smaller industrial spaces under 10,000 square feet remain in short supply. Multifamily absorption slowed in 2025, with concessions becoming common, a trend likely to continue through 2026 before stabilizing in 2027.


For business owners, investors, and developers navigating 2026, the takeaway is clear: this is not a market to sit on the sidelines, but it is one that rewards thoughtful, well-timed decisions. While certain sectors may experience short-term adjustments, the fundamentals remain solid. Those who stay informed, understand the cycles, and focus on real local data—not headlines—will be best positioned to find opportunity as the market continues to evolve.
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    <pubDate>Wed, 06 May 2026 09:15:00 -0400</pubDate>
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    <guid>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/from-homes-to-heavy-industrial-how-loyd-robbins--co-shapes-southwest-florida-real-estate/</guid>
    <link>https://www.rerobbins.com/blog/from-homes-to-heavy-industrial-how-loyd-robbins--co-shapes-southwest-florida-real-estate/</link>
        <author>info@rerobbins.com (Super Admin)</author>
        <title>From Homes to Heavy Industrial: How Loyd Robbins &amp; Co Shapes Southwest Florida Real Estate</title>
    <description> <![CDATA[ 



I founded Loyd Robbins &amp; Co. as an independent real estate firm in Sarasota, Florida, with one simple goal: to provide honest, knowledgeable, and personalized guidance to people navigating the Southwest Florida real estate market. Over the years, we have grown into a full-service firm offering both commercial and residential real estate services throughout the region.


At Loyd Robbins &amp; Co., we represent buyers, sellers, investors, business owners, landlords, tenants, and developers in a wide range of transactions. Our work includes commercial sales and leasing, residential home sales, business acquisitions, investment properties, and land development opportunities. Whether someone is purchasing their first home, selling an office building, searching for retail space, or evaluating a piece of vacant land, we believe they deserve thoughtful advice, strong communication, and a strategy tailored to their goals.


I was born and raised in Sarasota and have been selling real estate here since 1973. Having spent my entire career in this market, I have had the privilege of watching Southwest Florida grow from a much smaller community into one of the most active and dynamic real estate markets in the state. That long history has given me a deep understanding of the neighborhoods, business corridors, growth patterns, and relationships that help our clients make informed decisions.


My wife, Freya Robbins, and my bonus daughter, Ali Marks, serve alongside me as co-owners and brokers of the firm. Together, we are supported by an outstanding team of 17 additional agents, each of whom brings their own expertise and perspective. We work closely together to ensure every client receives the attention, service, and market knowledge they deserve.


No two transactions are exactly alike. Some clients need guidance buying their first home. Others are navigating a complex commercial investment, acquiring a business, or searching for the right location to expand. We approach every situation with attention to detail, clear communication, and data-driven insight. Our goal is not simply to help someone close a transaction. We want to help them make the right decision for the long term.


Beyond traditional brokerage services, I work closely with investors, developers, and property owners on long-range planning and strategy. Often that means helping someone evaluate the highest and best use of a property, determine development potential, identify opportunities for repositioning, or understand the long-term value of a particular investment. We strive to provide value well beyond the closing table.


Our portfolio includes single-family homes, condominiums, office properties, retail centers, industrial facilities, vacant land, and development sites throughout Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties, as well as Lee, Sumter, St. Lucie, and Palm Beach Counties. Because we work across so many property types and markets, we are able to offer clients a broad perspective and a strong understanding of how different sectors of the market interact.


Southwest Florida continues to experience tremendous residential and commercial growth, and I believe there has never been a more exciting time to be part of this region. Through it all, our commitment remains the same: to provide professional guidance rooted in local expertise, decades of experience, and genuine care for the people we serve.


At Loyd Robbins &amp; Co., we pride ourselves on offering concierge-style service, maintaining a collaborative team culture, and staying deeply connected to the communities where we live and work. We are grateful for the trust our clients place in us, and we look forward to continuing to serve as a reliable and knowledgeable resource for real estate along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
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    <pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
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