Tampa Leads the Nation in Foreclosures — Here’s What Florida Homeowners Need to Know (and How Sandy Buys Houses Can Help)

Sandra Cantu
2 days ago
3 min read

Florida is back in the headlines… and not for a reason anyone hopes for.Recent data shows that Tampa now ranks among the highest foreclosure cities in the entire United States.

Rising insurance rates, increasing property taxes, job changes, medical bills, and lingering post-pandemic financial stress are pushing more Florida homeowners into default than ever before.

If you’re a homeowner in Tampa or anywhere in Florida, this trend isn’t just a news headline — it’s a warning sign. And if you’re already behind on payments, facing a Notice of Default, or worried foreclosure might be around the corner, please know this:

You do not have to go through this alone. You have options.

As the owner of Sandy Buys Houses, a cash buyer, and Florida Licensed Real Estate Salesperson SL3642627 (Jalexian Realty), I help homeowners take back control of their situation — quickly, safely, and without judgment.

Why Tampa Has Become a Foreclosure Hotspot

Many homeowners ask, “Why Tampa? Why now?”Here are the biggest contributing factors:

1. Skyrocketing Property Insurance

Florida insurance premiums have become some of the highest in the country. For many families, it’s simply unaffordable — leading to missed mortgage payments.

2. Increased Property Taxes

Values rose fast from 2020–2022, and now tax bills are catching up.For homeowners on fixed incomes, this is devastating.

3. Job & Income Shifts

Layoffs, reduced hours, or medical issues continue to hit Tampa families, pushing many into unavoidable delinquency.

4. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Resetting

Mortgage payments for many homeowners have spiked overnight, making foreclosure more likely.

5. Lack of Guidance

Most people don’t understand that foreclosure moves fast in Florida. By the time you receive a Lis Pendens, the clock is already ticking.

✅ You Have Options — And We Walk You Through Every One

At Sandy Buys Houses, we don’t pressure you.We present all your options so you can choose what’s best.

1️⃣ Short Sale Assistance

If you owe more than your home is worth or you’re behind on payments, a short sale may help you:

Avoid foreclosure
Reduce credit damage
Walk away owing little (or nothing)
Close faster than traditional sales

Short sales require experience — and we handle the entire process for you.

2️⃣ Cash Offer (Sell As-Is — Fast)

As a cash buyer, I can purchase your home:

In as-is condition
With no repairs
No showings
No inspections
No closing costs
Fast closings — sometimes in as little as 7–14 days

This option is ideal if you’re facing a foreclosure sale date or need immediate relief.

3️⃣ List on the MLS for Top Exposure

As a licensed real estate salesperson, I can also list your home on the MLS for full market value.

This is ideal for:

Homes in good condition
Sellers who want maximum visibility
Those who aren’t in immediate danger of foreclosure

Some sellers start with a listing — and if things change, we pivot to a cash sale.

You always get multiple exit strategies.

Here’s the Latest Data From FOX 13 News

Here’s a key news article underlining just how serious the situation has become locally:

“Foreclosures are rising nationwide and Florida now leads the country, with Tampa reporting the highest rate among major U.S. metros in October. … One in every 1,373 housing units in Tampa had a foreclosure filing in October, according to ATTOM Data. … Real estate experts say a combination of declining home values, rising insurance premiums and increasing daily expenses is forcing more homeowners into financial distress.”(FOX 13 Tampa Bay)

This is real. It’s local. It’s happening now — and it’s exactly why you need someone who understands Tampa’s foreclosure climate.

My Promise to Tampa Homeowners

I’ve been where many homeowners are today. I know what foreclosure feels like.I know the fear, the uncertainty, the embarrassment — and the frustration of not knowing where to turn.

That’s why my approach is always: