The 2023 Annual Lay of the Land Conference was held on February 23-24, 2023 in Lakeland, Florida. Those interested in learning about the Florida land market joined this exclusive two-day networking event. SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler would like to thank all those who attended and give a special thanks to our 2023 Strategic Partners that made this event possible.
Economic Updates
Throughout the conference, SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler hosted economists who discussed current and future trends within our national and local economies. Dr. Jerry Parrish delivered a highly-informative update on the Florida economy. Later, Jim Costello of MSCI Real Assets provided a thorough analysis of the opportunities available to investors within a "down market." Finally, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson, provided a legislative update, where he addressed some of the most pressing questions and concerns within Florida’s land and agricultural markets.
Land & Agriculture
The event also hosted various land and agricultural panels that discussed Florida's land market trends. Senior Advisor Richard Dempsey, ALC, CIPS, led a conversation with several agricultural experts on Florida's evolving agricultural market. Senior Advisor Jeremiah Thompson also led a breakout session with various industry experts to explain their roles and perspectives within Florida's conservation efforts.
Residential Development
Our Lay of the Land Conference also served as a vital resource for Florida landowners, addressing many pressing issues and questions within the residential development industry. On the first day of the event, Founder and Managing Director Dean Saunders ALC, CCIM, and David Auld of D.R. Horton led a panel on Florida's residential development market and its opportunities for landowners. Day two of the conference also included a discussion of residential development experts, which Dean Saunders hosted.
We also invited Andrew Diaz of Gaylord Merlin Ludovici & Diaz to speak on the state's eminent domain policies. Later, Partner and Managing Director Gary Ralston, CCIM, SIOR, CRE, would lead discussions regarding Florida's growing population and the impacts on transportation.
The Lay of the Land Market Report
SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler annually releases our Lay of the Land Market Report for landowners, policymakers, investors, and other industry affiliates. The firm analyzes sales and land values on all land property types transacted in the previous year through industry-leading research and mapping systems. The report contains details of nearly all land sales from markets including Ranch & Recreation, Residential Development, Timberland, Farm & Nurseries, Citrus, and Conservation Easements.
Dean Saunders led a keynote discussion to close the conference, analyzing the details of the 2023 Lay of the Land Market Report. Some of the significant points of concern include the following:
- The Federal Reserve increased interest rates to slow rising inflation, leading to a slowdown in real estate transactions; however, the average price per unit for real property increased.
- The residential market slowed down due to increased capital costs, but demand for master-planned communities remained strong.
- The Florida citrus industry continues to face citrus greening setbacks.
- The development of solar farms and the State's investments in conservation programs will influence land demand.
- Talks of a recession persist, but the Florida real estate market remains attractive, with a growing workforce and room for growth.
If you missed this year's conference, the 2023 Lay of the Land Market Report is available for download. The report is a crucial investment tool for advantageous landowners, investors, and industry affiliates looking to stay ahead of the Florida land market.
Lay of the Land
Market Report
The Lay of the Land Market Report continues to be the single source compiling verified Florida land sales data to evaluate market trends throughout the year. We provide data to landowners that can be accurately interpreted and applied, leading to more informed, relevant decisions.
Download the Florida Market Report