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How is the real estate market in Lakeland and Polk County, Florida right now?

In this August 2026 market update, I’m breaking down the latest numbers and sharing what I’m seeing after 30 years as a local real estate agent. From average home prices and days on market to inventory, list-to-sale price ratios, and the most active price ranges, I’ll give you a clear look at what’s really happening in our market.

The good news? We’re not seeing the market crash or home values drop dramatically. Homes that are priced correctly and in good condition are still selling. However, buyers are taking more time, homes are sitting on the market a little longer, and sellers need to understand the importance of pricing their homes correctly.

In this video, I cover:

• Lakeland and Polk County market statistics for 2026
• Average list and sale prices
• Average days on market
• Current inventory levels
• The most active price ranges
• What sellers can expect when negotiating
• The luxury home market
• Why some homes sell while others sit on the market
• The three main reasons a home doesn’t sell: price, location, and condition

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Lakeland, Polk County, or Central Florida, I’d love to connect and talk about your specific situation. Every home and every buyer is different, so let’s have a one-on-one conversation about what makes the most sense for you.

If you’d like my checklist for getting your home ready to sell, send me a message. I’ve put it together based on my 30 years of experience, with practical and affordable things you can do to prepare your home for the market.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more Central Florida real estate updates, home-buying and selling tips, and local home tours.

God bless, and I look forward to connecting with you!

📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
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📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

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God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

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Why did I leave my previous brokerage after 11 years and make the move to eXp Realty?

In this video, I share my journey through the real estate industry from growing up around my father’s home-building business, to working with Coldwell Banker and REMAX, opening my own brokerage, navigating the real estate crash, spending six years in full-time ministry, and eventually returning to real estate and joining eXp Realty.

I’ll walk you through what led me to make the move and the things that stood out to me about eXp, including:

• Cloud-based training and opportunities to continue growing
• The 80/20 commission split and $16,000 cap
• Opportunities to earn company stock
• Revenue share opportunities
• Strong broker support and leadership
• A cloud-based model built for today’s real estate agents
• Opportunities to collaborate, mentor, and grow with other agents

But for me, this wasn't just a business decision. I share how prayer, faith, and a series of circumstances led me and my business partner, Russ Rhodes, to believe that God was stirring us toward something different.

Today, I'm passionate about helping other agents grow their businesses while developing Realtors of Faith—a community of real estate professionals who want to serve clients with integrity, encourage one another, and glorify God through their work.

If you'd like to learn more or have a conversation, my contact information is below. Shoot me a text or give me a call. I'd love to connect!
📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
📘 Facebook: Follow Me!
📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

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You Don’t Have to Take Every Listing: When Realtors Should Walk Away

In this video, I share a real-world experience that taught me an important lesson about being a real estate agent: I don’t have to take every listing, and neither do you.

I recently received an inquiry from sellers in North Lakeland who wanted to list their home. We had a great conversation, and I scheduled an appointment to walk through the property and see what we were working with.

During the walkthrough, I discovered several concerns that could significantly affect the home’s marketability, including a very strong pet odor, exterior paint that needed attention, landscaping that needed improvement, and pricing expectations that were higher than what I felt the market supported.

I explain why real estate agents need to be willing to have difficult conversations with sellers, set boundaries, and stand behind their professional opinions. Taking an overpriced or poorly prepared listing can lead to frustration, wasted time and money, and a difficult experience for everyone involved.

I also break down the three major factors that influence whether a home sells: price, condition, and location—with price often being the biggest factor.

The biggest takeaway is this: it’s okay to walk away from a listing when it isn’t the right fit. If the seller’s expectations are too far from market reality or they aren’t willing to address important issues with the property, sometimes the best decision is to say, “I’m not the right agent for you.”

I’m sharing this experience to encourage other realtors to protect their time, establish healthy business boundaries, trust their professional expertise, and focus on creating win-win situations for both themselves and their clients.

Have you ever decided not to take a listing because of the price, condition, or seller expectations? Share your experience in the comments so we can learn and grow together.

God bless, and thanks for watching!

📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
📘 Facebook: Follow Me!
📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

Send us Fan Mail

Why Are People Moving to Central Florida… While Others Are Leaving? 🌴🏡

Everyone is talking about people leaving Florida—but that’s not the whole story.

Polk County and Central Florida continue to experience major growth, with more people moving inland for affordability, new construction, job opportunities, and a central location between Tampa and Orlando.

In this video, Brian Stephens breaks down the real reasons people are moving TO Central Florida and the top reasons some residents are choosing to leave.

Why are people moving to Central Florida?

🏡 More affordable homes compared to Tampa and Orlando
📍 Convenient location between Tampa and Orlando
🏗️ More new construction and housing options
💼 Growing job opportunities and economic development
🌊 Moving away from higher-risk and more expensive coastal areas

Why are some people leaving?

💰 Rising homeowners insurance and property taxes
🏠 Increasing cost of homeownership
☀️ Florida heat and hurricane season
📈 Wages not always keeping up with housing costs
🍂 Missing cooler weather and four seasons

So, is Central Florida still a great place to live? The answer depends on your lifestyle, budget, career, and what you're looking for in your next move.

If you're thinking about moving to Lakeland, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Haines City, Bartow, Lake Wales, or anywhere in Polk County, I'd love to help you find the right home and neighborhood for your situation.

📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
📘 Facebook: Follow Me!
📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

Send us Fan Mail

If you're buying or selling a home in Florida, understanding property tax portability could save you thousands of dollars over time.

In this video, I break down Florida's Save Our Homes Portability program in simple terms and explain how eligible homeowners can transfer up to $500,000 of their accumulated property tax benefit when moving to another Florida homesteaded property.

I'll cover:
✅ What Florida property tax portability is
✅ Who qualifies for the Save Our Homes benefit
✅ The important March 1 filing deadline
✅ How portability works when upsizing vs. downsizing
✅ Why out-of-state buyers don't qualify on their first Florida home
✅ The proposed Florida homestead exemption changes for 2027 and beyond
✅ How to file for portability through the Property Appraiser's Office

I'm sharing my personal experience as a Florida real estate agent who has helped many homeowners navigate this process. While I'm not a tax professional, I'll explain what I've learned over the years and point you to the official resources for the most up-to-date information.

If you're planning to buy, sell, or relocate anywhere in Central Florida, I'd love the opportunity to help you make informed decisions throughout the process.

📞 Have questions about buying or selling in Central Florida? Let's connect!
I'd be happy to discuss your real estate goals and help you every step of the way.

🔍 Explore All Listings: www.BrianStephens.org

📲 Do me a huge favor:
Subscribe to my YouTube channel for the latest home walk-throughs, real estate tips, and market updates.
👍 Like this video, share it with friends, and click the notification bell so you never miss out on new content!

📍 Serving Lakeland, Florida & Beyond:
I'm based in Lakeland, conveniently located between Tampa and Orlando. I proudly serve all of Polk County, as well as surrounding areas in Central Florida.

⭐ Over 200 Five-Star Reviews on Google:
Check out our glowing reviews and see why so many people trust us with their real estate goals!

🌐 Google Reviews: Read Our Reviews

📞 Contact Me Directly:
Brian Stephens, eXp Realty
📱 Cell: (863) 640-5044
📧 Email: Bnstephens@msn.com

Book an appointment with me! www.calendly.com/Brianstephens1

Follow Me on Social Media:

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And remember…
"Whether Sellin’ or Buyin’, You Gotta Call Brian!"

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

Send us Fan Mail

What is the foundation of your business built on?

As real estate professionals, it's easy to put our confidence in our experience, marketing, negotiation skills, or hard work. While those things are important, they were never meant to be the foundation of our lives or our businesses.

In this video, I share one of the greatest lessons I've learned after more than 30 years in real estate—true hope, peace, and lasting success come from building your foundation on Jesus Christ.

We'll talk about:

Why skills and experience alone aren't enough
What it means to build your life on a firm foundation
How faith changes the way we handle challenges and uncertainty
Finding hope when deals fall apart
Trusting God to guide your business and your future
The peace that comes from making Christ the center of your life

No matter where you are in your career or your faith journey, my prayer is that this message encourages you to place your hope and trust in the One who never changes.

If you've never made Jesus Christ the foundation of your life, I encourage you to consider what that decision could mean for your future. He offers hope, peace, forgiveness, and the promise of eternal life to all who trust in Him.

📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
📘 Facebook: Follow Me!
📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

Send us Fan Mail

Are you a real estate agent struggling to find new clients? The good news is you don't need a big marketing budget to start generating leads. In this video, I share 7 proven ways to get FREE real estate leads using simple, practical strategies that anyone can implement.

Whether you're a brand-new agent or an experienced REALTOR® looking to grow your business, these lead generation ideas can help you build relationships, increase your visibility, and consistently attract new clients—all without paying for expensive ads.

In this video, you'll learn:
✅ How open houses can generate long-term clients
✅ Why posting listings on social media works
✅ How video walkthroughs help you stand out online
✅ The importance of calling and texting your database
✅ How to find opportunities with FSBOs (For Sale By Owners)
✅ Why expired listings are worth pursuing
✅ How networking at broker opens can grow your business

Success in real estate doesn't always require more money—it requires consistency, intentional action, and a willingness to put yourself out there. Start applying these strategies today and begin building a stronger pipeline of future clients.

📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
📘 Facebook: Follow Me!
📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com

Send us Fan Mail

If you've been in real estate for any length of time, you know how easy it is to get caught in the mindset of being available 24/7. But after more than 30 years in the business, I've learned one lesson that has helped me build a sustainable, long-term career:

Take a day off.

In this video, I share why setting healthy boundaries isn't just good for your personal life—it's one of the best business decisions you can make. We talk about avoiding burnout, honoring the importance of rest, and how taking a Sabbath can actually make you a better Realtor, business owner, spouse, parent, and leader.

In this video, you'll learn:

Why every Realtor needs a day of rest
How healthy boundaries can extend your career
The danger of always being available
What I've learned after 30 years in real estate
Why rest makes you more productive, focused, and effective
The biblical principle of the Sabbath and how it applies to business today

Whether you're a new agent or a seasoned professional, I hope this message encourages you to build a career that's successful and sustainable.

📌 If you are struggling in real estate and would like my direct help and support for free—click the link below and let’s chat about taking your business to the next level.

Book a Call : https://calendly.com/brianstephensrealestate/30min

👉 Partner with Me at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

🌐 Learn More About Realtors of Faith:
https://realtorsoffaith.com/

📞 Have Questions? Call or Text Me Directly!
Brian Stephens | eXp Realty
Cell: (863) 647-8600

🔥 SUBSCRIBE for Weekly Real Estate Tips, Market Updates & Faith-Based Guidance! 🔥
On this channel, you'll find:
✅ Home Buying & Selling Tips
✅ Real Estate Market Updates
✅ How Faith Impacts Real Estate
✅ Agent Success Strategies
✅ Inspirational Content for Christian Realtors

📺 Subscribe Now & Turn on Notifications!
Stay updated and grow your real estate knowledge with a purpose-driven approach.

Let’s Stay Connected!
📘 Facebook: Follow Me!
📸 Instagram: @brianstephens13
💼 LinkedIn: Let’s Connect!

🚀 Join Our Team at eXp Realty:
https://brianstephens.exprealty.careers/

Support the show

God Bless!

Brian Stephens

Realtor, eXp Realty

www.realtorsoffaith.com