Spring 2025 Market Update
Happy Spring (…Maybe?)
It may not feel like it every day (hello, moody Maine weather), but the spring market is officially here. Practically overnight, open houses are filling up, buyers are reemerging, and sellers are getting serious. The energy shift is real—and exciting.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve sent out more than 100 personalized market updates across Greater Portland, alongside Portside’s brand-new Annual Report. As we settle into this post-COVID real estate landscape, some clear themes are starting to emerge across nearly every market:
List-to-Sale Ratios Are Stabilizing
No, prices aren’t falling. But we are seeing a return to balance. During the COVID boom, it wasn’t uncommon to see homes selling for 103%–106% over asking price. Today, we're seeing more consistent numbers—homes selling right around 100% of list price. That tells us buyers are still competitive, but the frenzy has calmed.
Slightly Longer Days on Market
While we’re still seeing multiple-offer situations, many homes are sitting just a bit longer—closer to a week—before going under contract. For our buyers, this means more opportunities and less pressure. We’ve had great success helping clients find gems among listings that have been sitting just a little longer than expected.
Contingencies Are Back (and That's Not a Bad Thing)
I've had more Sale of Property contingencies in the past year than in the previous 7 years of real estate combined. Buyers and sellers today are serious—they’re committed to making their next move work. Inspections are also becoming more common again (although we did not have clients skip them, even in the height of COVID!). We’re even seeing some renegotiations, with both sides coming to the table to find creative solutions that move deals forward.
The Big Takeaway?
Buying a home is more possible than the headlines—or your friends—might suggest.
Yes, rates are different, and the pace has shifted, but opportunities are absolutely out there.
Thinking of Selling?
Buyers today are more discerning. Gone are the days of listing without prep and expecting 10 offers by Monday. Putting in the work up front—decluttering, staging, repairs—can make all the difference in a smooth, successful sale.
Want to see what that looks like in your market? I’m happy to send you our Annual Report or a town-specific market update. Just let me know where to mail it!
Recent Wins + Market Momentum
Here’s a peek at what’s working for our clients right now:
Inspection Contingencies Done Right
Whether on the buy or list side, we’re helping clients navigate inspections with creative, collaborative solutions that keep deals moving (think escrow hold backs, quotes paid from closing proceeds, etc.).
Off-Market Opportunities
Not every seller wants to go public. We’ve helped both buyers and sellers win with strategic transactions off market.
Our Strongest Q1 Yet
We’re off to a powerful start this year! Why does that matter? The more offers we write, contracts we negotiate, and listings we bring live brings us more insight into what’s working right now in this shifting market.
Let’s Chat
Curious about buying or selling this year? Or maybe you're just trying to make sense of your options in this market? Let’s connect. We offer complimentary consults to help you build a plan that aligns with your goals—no pressure, just strategy.