P
olitics are shaping where people choose to live, not just who wins elections. A Realtor.com survey shows that about one in four Americans weigh local or national politics when deciding on a new home. Central Florida agents point to the state’s lower taxes and more affordable housing as the main pull for buyers from California, New York, Illinois, and Massachusetts. Yet Florida’s appeal goes beyond politics: its coastal towns, small‑town feel, proximity to Orlando’s theme parks and sports venues, and sunny climate attract residents for lifestyle, jobs, and quality schools. Realtor.com finds that affordability and good schools top the list of relocation motivations. Seasonal patterns persist, with October consistently bringing a wave of “snowbirds” and a condo market that is starting to rebound. The busy season, combined with the recent election, has intensified conversations among buyers, adding a new layer of activity to the market. Jonathan Cole, a Central Florida broker, notes that election results directly affect real estate, as tax changes alter household budgets. “Central Florida offers a cost‑effective alternative to pricier states,” he says, underscoring the draw for those seeking better value. Jennifer Matacale, a Global Real Estate Advisor, echoes this sentiment, citing Florida’s blend of community, employment prospects, and sunshine as key factors. She observes that the condo sector is recovering as winter‑season buyers return. Experts predict that affordability and the prevailing political climate will continue to shape buyer confidence and migration patterns in the coming months.