How Competitive Is the Tampa Housing Market Right Now?

Insights from Tampa Real Estate Experts Emeri & Joe Lewkowicz

If you’re wondering how competitive the Tampa housing market is right now, you’re definitely not alone. As Tampa real estate experts with more than 40 years of combined experience, we—Emeri Lewkowicz and Joe Lewkowicz—have watched this market through every cycle, every shift, and every surprise. And today’s landscape? It’s competitive… but in a very strategic way.

Let’s break it down the same way we do with our clients every day.

Tampa Is Still a High-Demand Market—Here’s Why

Even as the broader U.S. market adjusts, Tampa continues to stand out. We see this firsthand with the volume of calls, relocation inquiries, and investor pulls into the region.

Here’s what’s keeping the competition strong:

1. Tampa Remains a Top Relocation Destination

People from the Northeast, Midwest, California, and even overseas buyers continue moving here for lower taxes, great weather, thriving job opportunities, and an all-around better lifestyle. This keeps demand consistently high, especially in neighborhoods like South Tampa, Westchase, Carrollwood, Wesley Chapel, and St. Pete.

2. Limited Inventory in Key Areas

Even though more listings are hitting the market compared to the past couple of years, inventory is still tight for move-in-ready homes, updated properties, or anything under the median price point. In the neighborhoods we serve daily, a well-priced home can still draw multiple offers.

3. Tampa’s Long-Term Growth Is Steady and Strong

With continuous development, new infrastructure, and expanding job sectors, Tampa has proven, year after year, to be a stable and desirable long-term market—no signs of slowing down.

So… How Competitive Is It Really?

In simple terms: competitive enough that you need strategy, not luck.

For Buyers

We (Emeri & Joe) are seeing buyers needing to move quickly when the right home hits the market, especially in hot neighborhoods or price ranges below $600K. While the frantic bidding wars of 2021–2022 have calmed down, strong homes still get multiple offers—just not 20 at a time.

You can expect:

1. Competing with other highly motivated buyers

2. The occasional bidding war

3. Sellers leaning toward the strongest terms, not always the highest price
   
   

The buyers winning today? They’re the ones who act with confidence and rely on expert guidance.

For Sellers

Good news—Tampa is still a seller-friendly market, but it’s no longer automatic. Presentation and pricing matter more today than ever.

Well-priced homes that show well can sell fast. Overpriced homes? They sit.

We help our sellers position their home strategically—leveraging our decades of experience, targeted marketing, and deep understanding of what Tampa buyers are actually looking for right now.

For Investors

This market continues to offer strong returns, especially in:

1. Short-term rental zones

2. Long-term rental neighborhoods near major employers

3. Value-add properties in growing suburban areas
   
   

Sellers are motivated, buyers are active, and rents remain strong—creating opportunity for experienced investors.

What We Tell Every Client Right Now

With more than 40 years combined in Tampa real estate, this is our honest take:

Success in today's market comes from strategy, timing, and partnering with an agent who knows the neighborhoods, pricing trends, and buyer psychology inside and out.

We’ve guided thousands of families through competitive markets, shifting markets, and buyer-heavy markets—and we bring that experience to every single client we work with.

Whether you're:

1. A buyer who wants a competitive edge

2. A seller who wants to maximize your profit

3. Or an investor searching for the right opportunity
   
   

…you need a knowledgeable, well-connected team that lives and breathes Tampa real estate every single day.

And that’s exactly what we’re here for.

Final Thoughts

So yes, Tampa is competitive—but in a healthy, opportunity-filled way. With smart strategy and expert guidance, you can absolutely succeed here. This market rewards preparation, precision, and experience—three things we bring to the table in every transaction.

If you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Tampa, we’d love to help you navigate this market with confidence.

—Emeri & Joe Lewkowicz
Tampa Real Estate Experts | The Lewkowicz Group