Foreclosures on the Rise in Florida: What Property Owners and Lenders Should Know

Posted on May 14, 2026

The U.S. housing market has seen a notable increase in foreclosure activity over the past year, with complaint filings rising nationwide and particularly impacting states like Florida. According to recent data, foreclosure fillings increased 14% nationwide in 2025 with Florida having the highest foreclosure rate of any state.¹ Tampa, in particular, led the nation in foreclosure rates in November of 2025 with one in every 1,373 housing units facing foreclosure.² Experts say that the climbing foreclosure rates are due to a combination of declining home values, rising insurance premiums, and increasing daily expenses. As foreclosure activity continues to trend upward, both property owners and lenders should understand the legal landscape and their available options. 

Understanding the Recent Increase in Foreclosures

While foreclosure filings are increasing, experts emphasize that current levels do not yet reflect a housing crisis. Instead, the trend if often described as a “return to normal” following historically low activity during the pandemic years. Several factors are contributing to the rise in foreclosures, including:

• Increasing mortgage rates
• Rising property insurance costs, particularly in Florida
• Inflation and higher overall cost of living
• The expiration of pandemic-era relief programs
• Rising HOA costs
• Declining home values

Key Considerations for Lenders and Servicers

For lenders, the increase in foreclosure activity presents both challenges and opportunities. Proper handling of foreclosure matters requires strict compliance with Florida procedural rules and notice requirements. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in delays or dismissal of foreclosure actions. 

Key Considerations for Commercial Property Owners

Owners of commercial real estate facing a default scenario and/or foreclosure should be aware that they may have options depending on their circumstances. These may include:

• Loan modification
• Forbearance agreements
• Short sale opportunities
• Defending the foreclosure action where appropriate

Early action is often critical, as delays can limit available remedies. 

How Massey Law Group Can Assist

Massey Law Group represents clients in foreclosure and real estate litigation matters throughout Florida. Our attorneys have experience guiding both lenders and property owners through the foreclosure process, from initial filings through final resolution. Massey Law Group represents both lenders and borrowers in commercial foreclosure proceedings and lenders in residential foreclosure proceedings. 

We work closely with our clients to develop strategic, efficient solutions tailored to their specific needs, whether that involves prosecuting foreclosure actions, defending claims, or negotiating alternatives. 

Although foreclosure activity is increasing, it remains within historical norms and reflects broader economic adjustments rather than a systematic crisis. Understanding the legal process and acting proactively can make a significant difference in outcomes for both borrowers and lenders. 

For more information about foreclosure proceedings or assistance with a specific matter, please contact Massey Law Group.

1 https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/foreclosure-rate-us-2025-data-attom/

2 https://www.fox13news.com/news/tampa-foreclosure-florida-nation-housing-distress