I help a lot of people move here, and the same surprises come up again and again. Here are fifteen of them.
- The frenzy is over. Buyers usually have time to look, compare and negotiate now.
- It isn't Miami. It's calmer, more relaxed, and that's the appeal for many people.
- $1 million doesn't mean luxury here. At the top end, prices go much higher. Our guide to what $1M buys in South Florida covers this.
- It's a collection of micro-markets. Prices can change block by block, and building by building.
- You can negotiate. In many cases there's room on price or terms, but it depends on the property.
- Taxes reset when you buy. Budget on your price, not the seller's bill.
- No state income tax. A real draw for many people, though property taxes and insurance still matter.
- People keep coming. Business and residents continue to relocate here, even if the pace has eased.
- New construction can be negotiable. Developers sometimes offer incentives, especially on remaining inventory. See our new developments.
- Downtown is changing fast. The waterfront and downtown have a lot of new development underway.
- Palm Beach is right next door. Cross a bridge and you're on the island.
- Insurance takes planning. Get quotes on the specific home or building early.
- Inventory has grown. Buyers have more to choose from than a few years ago.
- Some of the best deals aren't advertised. Relationships and timing matter.
- 2026 could be a good entry window. For buyers with a long horizon, today's conditions may offer more leverage than recent years. That's not a prediction about prices, just the balance between buyers and sellers right now.
If you're focused on condos, start with our West Palm Beach luxury condo guide and the condo building reports. If you're relocating from out of state, read buying a Palm Beach condo from out of state.
— Joel Poulin, Broker Associate | The Corcoran Group · (561) 556-3668