Stock Development's upbeat outlook

One of the first signs of an improving housing sector is when homebuilders can raise prices.

Consider Naples-based Stock Development. The developer and homebuilder raised prices five times at its Paseo residential development in Fort Myers last year, for a total of 26%. At Secoya Reserve in North Naples, home prices are 16% above last year.

“The most encouraging thing is you're seeing less inventory and an evolving change with buyers in the marketplace,” says CEO Brian Stock.