Agent recruiting activity rises sharply in early 2026

Agent recruiting activity accelerated in the first quarter of 2026 as brokerages competed more aggressively for talent after a slower 2025, according to a new industry report.

Sarasota Lands Margaritaville-Branded Hotel

Floridays Development is heading up a team to bring a four-story, 120-key Compass Hotel by Margaritaville to Tampa. The Tampa Bay Business Journal reports that the project, at 120 Bayview Drive, will adopt Evie’s at Spanish Point restaurant and tiki bar to be part of the waterfront hotel. Constructi

Publix Buys Boynton Beach Retail Center

As has been the case with numerous retail centers where Publix is located, the company has bought the entire shopping center. The South Florida Business Journal reports that Publix Super Markets bought out its landlord at the Fountains of Boynton Shopping Center west of Boynton Beach for $78 million

Fannie Mae: Rates likely to remain elevated longer than expected

Mortgage rates could remain near 6.3% through much of 2026, a forecast that could continue shaping affordability, inventory and buyer demand. Local market conditions and negotiating trends remain critical as inventory slowly improves.