Market Reports | Housecats Company

2024

waterfront REPORT

Eastern Shore

Queen Anne's County | Kent County | Talbot County

waterfront market overview

Waterfront properties continued to represent a defining segment of the Eastern Shore market in 2024. Buyer interest remained focused on location, access, and long-term enjoyment, with transactions reflecting thoughtful evaluation rather than urgency.

Market activity highlighted the importance of realistic positioning and alignment with buyer expectations, particularly for unique waterfront offerings. Despite longer timelines in some cases, the waterfront segment maintained its appeal, supported by limited inventory and enduring lifestyle demand.

Eastern Shore

SNAPSHOT

The Eastern Shore is characterized by waterfront towns, agricultural landscapes, and a slower, more intentional pace of life. Buyers are often motivated by lifestyle considerations, privacy, and long-term ownership, including second-home purchasers and those seeking an alternative to more densely populated markets. Real estate activity in the region reflects a strong connection to place and a preference for quality over speed.

95.0%

LIST TO SALES PRICE RATIO

271

TOTAL TRANSACTIONS

$1,633,816

average sales price

21

median days on mkt

TOP SALES

THIS YEAR

buyer behavior

A closer look at how buyers are navigating today’s market

Buyer behavior across the Eastern Shore in 2024 reflected a measured and intentional approach. Purchasers often took additional time to evaluate options, prioritizing quality, privacy, and fit over rapid execution. This dynamic contributed to a market environment where well-aligned properties continued to transact, while others required patience and strategic positioning.

market composition

Market composition on the Eastern Shore in 2024 reflected balanced participation across segments, with demand influenced by a mix of primary residences and second-home ownership. Activity was shaped less by broad market swings and more by how individual properties aligned with buyer priorities related to location, privacy, and usability.

Rather than sharp concentration in any single tier, the year was characterized by thoughtful engagement, with buyers responding selectively to inventory that offered clear lifestyle value. This distribution underscored the Shore’s tendency to operate on its own cadence, distinct from more densely populated or commuter-driven markets.

→ Browse All Of The Communities In The Region

Chestertown

Chestertown blends historic charm with a relaxed pace of life, attracting residents drawn to community, heritage, and a quieter Eastern Shore setting.

→ View Market Report

Easton

Easton offers a refined small-town lifestyle with a vibrant arts scene, dining, and everyday convenience, appealing to buyers seeking charm without isolation.

→ View Market Report

Oxford

Oxford delivers a quiet, traditional waterfront lifestyle centered on boating, privacy, and historic architecture, appealing to buyers seeking understated coastal living.

→ View Market Report

St. Michaels

St. Michaels is a quintessential waterfront town known for maritime charm, tourism, and long-term lifestyle appeal, attracting both primary and second-home buyers.

→ View Market Report

Stevensville

Accessible Eastern Shore living with water influence.

→ View Market Report

Towns Driving waterfront Activity

Town-level market activity across the Eastern Shore reflected differences in lifestyle appeal, seasonality, and buyer intent. Individual communities responded uniquely throughout the year, reinforcing the importance of local context within the broader regional market.

LOOKING AHEAD

As the Eastern Shore moves forward, market conditions will continue to be shaped by lifestyle demand, seasonal patterns, and limited inventory. Buyer engagement is likely to remain intentional, with outcomes influenced by how well individual properties align with long-term ownership goals. Understanding local dynamics alongside regional trends will remain essential for navigating opportunities ahead.