As we wrap up the year, December brought a welcome burst of activity to the Maryland Eastern Shore real estate market. While a strong finish couldn’t fully overcome a slower overall year, there are encouraging signs as we head into 2026.
December Sales End the Year on a High Note
December saw 307 closed home sales across the Eastern Shore, marking a 7% increase compared to December of last year. This late-year momentum suggests that many buyers who had been waiting on the sidelines decided to move forward before the end of the year.
That said, when looking at all of 2025, total sales finished 2.7% lower than 2024, reflecting the challenges buyers faced throughout the year.
County-Level Bright Spots
Not all areas experienced the slowdown equally. Talbot, Caroline, and Cecil Counties stood out as bright spots, each posting modest increases in total sales compared to last year. These pockets of activity highlight that local market conditions can vary significantly across the Eastern Shore.
Buyer interest also showed improvement in December, with more contracts written than in December 2024. Slightly lower mortgage rates toward the end of the year likely helped improve affordability just enough for some buyers to take action.
Home Prices Remain Elevated
Despite slower overall demand, home prices stayed strong in 2025. The median sales price for the year reached $395,000, up 3.9% from 2024. This continued price growth reflects ongoing demand for Eastern Shore living, even as buyers became more selective.
More Homes on the Market
One notable shift this year has been inventory growth. Homes are spending more time on the market as demand softened, and by the end of 2025, the region had 15.4% more homes available than the year before. This increase gives buyers more choices and breathing room during negotiations.
Queen Anne’s County was the exception, remaining tighter on supply compared to last year, which continues to support stronger pricing there.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Affordability challenges and economic uncertainty slowed the market in 2025, and those factors will likely remain part of the conversation in 2026. However, there’s reason for optimism.
While overall sales may stay below long-term averages, transactions are expected to improve compared to 2025, and price growth should begin to ease, creating better opportunities for buyers. For sellers, well-priced and well-presented homes should continue to attract serious interest.
If you’re considering buying or selling on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in the coming year, understanding these trends—and how they apply to your specific area—can make all the difference. I’m always happy to help you navigate the market with confidence.
