Southern Maryland

the quarter in review

Q4 2025 in Southern Maryland reflected a measured but unmistakable shift toward a more balanced and deliberate housing market. Transaction pace moderated from earlier in the year, inventory expanded, and days on market increased — not as a result of weakening demand, but because buyers gained additional leverage and exercised it. This quarter marked a clear transition away from urgency-driven decision-making and toward a market where pricing accuracy, condition, and value alignment played a decisive role in outcomes.

Despite the slowdown in velocity, pricing across Southern Maryland remained broadly stable through the quarter. Median and average price trends held firm, reinforcing that this was not a corrective phase, but a period of normalization following several years of constrained supply and accelerated turnover. With inventory levels rising year-over-year, buyers encountered more choice than in recent quarters, allowing them to compare properties more critically and negotiate with greater confidence.

Buyer behavior varied by segment. Entry-level and more affordable homes continued to see consistent demand, supported by limited supply and household formation. In contrast, higher-priced and more customized properties experienced longer marketing timelines, particularly when pricing or condition failed to meet buyer expectations. Days on market increased across multiple price bands, reflecting a market where buyers were willing to wait for the right fit rather than compete aggressively across the board.

Lifestyle-oriented areas and properties with proximity to Chesapeake Bay access remained attractive, but even these segments showed increased negotiation and longer absorption periods. Buyers remained engaged, yet noticeably more analytical — placing greater emphasis on inspection outcomes, long-term ownership costs, and overall value. Homes that were thoughtfully priced and well-prepared continued to transact, while those that entered the market optimistically were more likely to undergo price adjustments before securing a buyer.

Overall, Q4 2025 did not signal weakness in Southern Maryland’s housing market. Instead, it confirmed a return to fundamentals. Success increasingly favored sellers who aligned pricing and presentation with current market realities, and buyers who approached opportunities with patience and discipline. The quarter closed with a market that was calmer, more transparent, and structurally healthier — setting the stage for informed, strategy-driven transactions moving into 2026.