YOUR AUGUST EDITION

Hello, August PALM BEACH & THE SURROUNDING COAST

YOUR AUGUST EDITION

Hello, August PALM BEACH & THE SURROUNDING COAST

A NOTE FROM CARA

Your Guide to Living Well This August

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A Few Thoughts From Me

There’s something about July that always feels like turning the page.

This month brought another birthday (mine), another birthday (my youngest’s), and Dennis and I celebrated 18 years together. Somehow the years seem to move faster while the moments become more meaningful. We also watched our oldest daughter begin her next chapter at Florida Atlantic University. If you’ve ever dropped a child off at college, you already know… they tell you to bring tissues for your child. They forget to mention you’ll need them too.

It reminded me of something I see every day in real estate: a home is never just a home. It’s where birthdays are celebrated, children grow up, dogs claim the best spot on the couch, holiday traditions begin, and sometimes where one chapter quietly makes room for the next.

Speaking of homes…

If you’ve been following the headlines, you’ve probably heard everything from “the market is crashing” to “it’s the perfect time to buy.” As usual, the truth lives somewhere comfortably in the middle.

Across the country, we’re seeing a healthier, more balanced market. Buyers have more choices, sellers need a stronger strategy, and while interest rates remain higher than any of us would prefer, people haven’t stopped moving. Life doesn’t wait for perfect mortgage rates.

Here in Palm Beach County, the story continues to be remarkably strong. Single-family home sales have risen for nine consecutive months, up 7.3% compared to this time last year, while median prices remain around $675,000. Beautifully presented, well-priced homes are still attracting serious buyers.

Just north in Martin County, buyers are enjoying more inventory and greater negotiating power than we’ve seen in several years. Sellers who understand today’s market—and prepare accordingly—are still achieving excellent results. It’s no longer enough to put a sign in the yard and hope for the best. Strategy has quietly become the most valuable feature a home can have.

One thing I’ve learned after helping families throughout Palm Beach County and the Treasure Coast is this:

Real estate isn’t national. It’s deeply local.

The headlines rarely know what’s happening on your street, in your neighborhood, or with homes that truly compare to yours. That’s where local knowledge matters.

So whether you’re curious what your home might be worth today, thinking about making a move next year, considering a second home, or simply enjoy staying informed, I’m always happy to be a resource.

No pressure. No obligation. Just good information, thoughtful advice, and an honest conversation.

After all, the best real estate decisions rarely begin with a contract.

They begin with a conversation

Warmly, Cara CARA CLOSE · LUXURY REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

A NOTE FROM CARA

Your Guide to Living Well This August

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As we settle into August, there's something special about this time of year in Palm Beach and Martin County. The summer season is still in full swing, with warm days on the water, evenings spent outdoors, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy everything our coastal communities have to offer before the pace of fall begins.

August is also an exciting time in our local real estate market. Buyers are finding more choices as inventory continues to improve, while sellers who prepare and price their homes strategically are still attracting strong interest. It's a market that rewards thoughtful planning, making this an ideal time to stay informed whether you're actively considering a move or simply keeping an eye on local trends.

In this month's newsletter, you'll find the latest market insights, a few of my favorite ways to enjoy August around town, a seasonal recipe perfect for late-summer gatherings, and a recent real estate success story that showcases the value of expert guidance and creative marketing. As always, if you have questions about your home's value or you're thinking about buying or selling, I'd be delighted to help. My door—and my phone—is always open.

Warmly, Cara CARA CLOSE · LUXURY REAL ESTATE ADVISOR

MARKET UPDATE · PALM BEACH & MARTIN COUNTY

Steady Prices, Strong Demand Heading Into August

The Palm Beach County market continues to show resilience. Home values remain strong, buyers are staying active, and fewer available homes are helping support pricing despite a slight slowdown in new listings.

  • Home prices continue to climb. The median sale price reached $545,000, a 9% increase from this time last year, reflecting continued confidence in the local market and strong demand for homes across the county.
  • Buyers are staying active. Closed sales increased 22% year over year to 2,473, while 2,196 homes went under contract, up 8.6%, showing that motivated buyers are still moving despite changing market conditions.
  • Inventory remains limited. Active listings are down 21% compared to last year, even with 2,812 new listings entering the market. For sellers, this means well-priced homes continue to attract attention, while buyers should be prepared to act quickly when the right property becomes available.
Palm Beach County Real Estate Stats (June 2026)

WHAT I'M WATCHING CLOSELY

“My advice remains the same
— focus on long-term value, not short-term headlines.”

LOCAL EVENTS

On the Calendar This Month

AUGUST 8

Azul & Palm : House of Wellness

Celebrate the opening of West Palm Beach's first wellness-focused Airbnb with an evening dedicated to movement, community, and healthy living.

AUGUST 9

Sunset at the Palms

WPB's favorite daytime party is back! Enjoy a vibrant afternoon of delicious brunch, handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment, and an energetic atmosphere. Gather your friends, soak up the sunshine, and experience one of the city's most anticipated social events.

AUGUST 22

2026 West Palm Beach Beer Fest

Raise a glass at the West Palm Beach Beer Festival, South Florida's ultimate craft beer celebration. Enjoy unlimited tastings* from top local and national breweries and spirit brands while soaking up waterfront views at Bryant Park in Lake Worth Beach.

AUGUST 27

Dogs & Dogs

Join the North Lawn for complimentary hot dogs.. with your dogs! Bring your pups on-leash, ready to play and socialize. enjoy giveaways, professional photography, and more. All dogs go to Nora!

WAIT... THERE'S MORE!

The Close Effect Returns This Season

The Close Effect is more than an event—it's an exclusive, invite-only experience that brings together luxury, lifestyle, and meaningful connections in one unforgettable setting. Each gathering is thoughtfully curated with exceptional venues, elevated hospitality, and an atmosphere designed to inspire conversation and create lasting relationships.

If you've been hoping to experience The Close Effect for yourself, now is the perfect time to stay connected. The official date and location for this season's event will be announced soon, and invitations will be extended as details are released. Follow along, keep an eye on your inbox and social media, and don't miss your opportunity to get yourself invited to this season's most anticipated experience.

WAIT... THERE'S MORE!

The Close Effect Returns This Season

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The Close Effect is more than an event—it's an exclusive, invite-only experience that brings together luxury, lifestyle, and meaningful connections in one unforgettable setting. Each gathering is thoughtfully curated with exceptional venues, elevated hospitality, and an atmosphere designed to inspire conversation and create lasting relationships.

If you've been hoping to experience The Close Effect for yourself, now is the perfect time to stay connected. The official date and location for this season's event will be announced soon, and invitations will be extended as details are released. Follow along, keep an eye on your inbox and social media, and don't miss your opportunity to get yourself invited to this season's most anticipated experience.

CARA'S FAVORITE FIND

The best luxury isn't always found in a price tag. This month I'm loving early-morning
walks on Juno Beach, before the crowds arrive.

SIMPLE · BEAUTIFUL · FREE

Sometimes that's enough.

High Protein Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Jars

Creamy, high-protein peanut butter cup cheesecake jars layered with crunchy chocolate granola. Top these jars with fresh berries for a healthy breakfast or snack, and add chopped peanut butter cups for a more indulgent dessert! 

INGREDIENTS

½ cup chocolate granola (I like Purely Elizabeth) or 4 chocolate graham crackers
½ cup low-fat cottage cheese (I use Good Culture ONLY!)
½ cup plain greek yogurt (can use fat-free, 2% or whole-milk)
3 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings (optional)
Extra creamy natural peanut butter
Raspberries or strawberries
Chopped peanut butter cups

METHOD

  1. If you are using chocolate graham crackers: place them in a small plastic bag, then crush them with a rolling pin or pot until they resemble fine crumbs. If you are using chocolate granola, keep as is. Set aside.
  2. In the bowl of a food processor: add the cottage cheese, yogurt, peanut butter, maple syrup and vanilla extract. Process on high until smooth and well combined, about 30 seconds.
  3. In two 6 or 8-ounce mason jars or weck jars, add 2 tablespoons of granola or crushed graham crackers to the bottom of each jar. Top with 3 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling, then repeat the layers once more. Finish the jars with extra granola/graham crackers. You could also top with an extra drizzle of peanut butter, fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even a few chopped peanut butter cups.
  4. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

3 BEDS

2 BATHS

3,111 SQ FT

This beautiful corner-lot home in Jupiter Farms is
officially sold — and under contract in just one day.
Great homes attract attention, but successful sales
rarely happen by accident. This result came from a
seller who trusted the plan from day one.

THE PLAN WE BUILT TOGETHER

By addressing every concern before buyers walked
through the door, we eliminated surprises and
positioned the home to stand out — strong interest
immediately, a contract in one day, and a smooth,
stress-free transaction start to finish. A sincere
thank you to my seller for trusting the process.
Congratulations on the next chapter.

YOUR PRIVATE SEARCH

Off-Market Opportunities

Some of the best homes sell before they're
ever publicly listed. Tell me what you're looking
for, and I'll go hunting on your behalf — quietly
tapping my network to uncover the right fit.

Share your wish list — the location, the lifestyle, the must-haves — and I'll find the right property for you, the smart way.

RECENTLY SOLD

Closed With Cara

18240 SE Heritage Drive $1,825,000

10709 Northbrook Circle $1,099,000

12224 Arbordale Way $758,990

DID YOU KNOW?

West Palm Beach continues to attract significant investment from luxury developers, financial firms, and hospitality brands — transforming the city into one of the fastest-evolving luxury markets in the country.

Close

to details trusted with the outcome.

Because home should feel like a destination

START YOUR JOURNEY HOME TODAY!

Cara_Close__IPRE__1_-removebg-preview

Luxury Real Estate Advisor

561.972.1910

luxury@caraclose.com

www.caraclose.com

closepalmbeachfl

Close

to details trusted with the outcome.

Because home should feel like a destination

START YOUR JOURNEY HOME TODAY!

Cara_Close__IPRE__1_-removebg-preview

Luxury Real Estate Advisor

561.972.1910

luxury@caraclose.com

www.caraclose.com

closepalmbeachfl

A Little Life Update

Summer Has Been Busy In The Best Way.

The Close Effect was a great evening of connection and growth. If you missed it, I’d love to have you at a future event — reach out for guest list or sponsorship info.
We also recently moved, giving me an even deeper appreciation for what my clients go through. It’s a reminder that moving is about more than a house — it’s about creating a home. If you need tips,
I’m happy to help.

A big milestone this summer: My eldest started at Florida Atlantic University—a proud (and emotional!) moment. My youngest is loving summer camp and all the fun Jupiter has to offer.

If you’re thinking about a new home or life on the water, we’d love to help. While I guide clients through real estate, my husband Dennis helps them find the perfect boat with HMY Yacht Sales.

Thank you for following along and trusting me. If you’re ready to take the next step—whether it’s buying, selling, exploring waterfront living, or attending our next Close Effect event—don’t hesitate to reach out. You can call or text me directly, send a message through my website, or reply to this email to get started. I’d love to connect and help you make your next move with confidence.

Warmly, Cara Close

@CLOSEPALMBEACH · CARA CLOSE LUXURY REAL ESTATE

CLOSE EFFECT · CLOSE_WITH_CARA

luxury@caraclose.com · 561.972.1910 · CaraClose.com

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