Mar 26, 2026
Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a broad Florida “farm bill” (SB 290) that, among other things, prevents cities and counties from banning gas-powered equipment like leaf blowers, though they can still encourage alternatives. The law also adds new rules such as banning commercial solicitation on posted properties, creating penalties for CDL exam fraud and signal jamming, expanding protections for agritourism, and limiting dense development in small cities unless unanimously approved. It includes a controversial provision allowing some state-owned conservation lands to be evaluated for agricultural use, which supporters say could help farmers afford land but critics worry could conflict with conservation goals.
Mar 26, 2026
Amazon purchased 232.73 acres near I-75 in Charlotte County (Jones Loop Road, Punta Gorda) for $20.14 million. The company hasn’t disclosed its plans, with all parties under an NDA. Based on past activity—like a 650,000 sq ft robotics fulfillment center in Fort Myers—it may be for a similar logistics facility, but that’s not confirmed. The land was sold by multiple owners and brokered by Justin and Randy Thibaut of LSI Cos.
Nov 5, 2025
Arlington Properties and Battery Global Advisors have launched construction on Tapestry Sarasota, a 325-unit luxury apartment community on 18.42 acres at 7914 S. Tamiami Trail, marking one of South Sarasota’s largest multifamily projects in over two decades. Scheduled for completion in early 2027, the development offers high-end amenities including resort-style pools, coworking spaces, and wellness centers. Adjacent to the site, developer Jeff Craft plans a 57-unit waterfront townhome community overlooking Little Sarasota Bay. The project signals growing investor confidence and revitalization in Sarasota’s southern corridor, blending coastal design with modern living and strengthening the area’s residential appeal.
Aug 25, 2025
U.S. apartment rent growth stalled in July, with more than half of the 50 largest multifamily markets seeing month-to-month declines. The national average rent held steady at $1,717, marking the sixth straight month of flat or negative growth, while annual growth slowed to 1.1% from 1.5% in January.The slowdown is driven by higher supply and softening seasonal demand, which typically peaks in summer. Regionally, the Midwest and Northeast led with modest gains, while the South and West posted declines, especially in markets facing heavy new construction.San Francisco, Chicago, and San Jose topped annual growth, while Austin, Denver, and Phoenix led in annual declines. This reflects a growing divide between Midwest/coastal markets that remain resilient and Sun Belt markets where supply is outpacing demand.
