The Market Just Shifted—Here’s What Buyers and Sellers in Maine Need to Know

by Craig Priestly

The latest Redfin report just dropped—and it’s sending a clear message:

Sellers officially outnumber buyers for the first time in over a decade.

Let’s break down what this means for you—whether you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on the market.

Sellers Have the Inventory, But Buyers Hold the Power

According to Redfin, there are currently 1.9 million homes listed across the country. But only about 1.5 million active buyers are in the game. That 34% gap is the largest it’s been since 2013.

This shift means homes are sitting longer. Price drops are becoming more common. And sellers are more willing to negotiate or offer concessions.

What Buyers Should Know

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to buy, this could be it.

✅ More inventory means more choices.

✅ Less competition means stronger negotiation power.

✅ Prices are expected to dip by about 1% this year.

In a competitive market like southern Maine—where listings used to disappear in days—this shift gives you more breathing room to explore your options and find the right fit.

What Sellers Should Know

It’s still a good time to sell. But strategy matters more than ever.

📌 Pricing your home correctly is critical.

📌 Presentation (photos, staging, marketing) can make or break your listing.

📌 Flexibility helps—especially when it comes to showings or minor concessions.

In a softer market, the listings that stand out will be the ones that sell.

Final Thought

Whether you’re buying your first home or prepping to list, understanding where the market is headed is the key to making confident, informed decisions.

Have questions about how this shift might affect your next move? I’m happy to talk strategy and share what I’m seeing here on the ground in Maine.

Let’s connect.

Ready to take the next step in your real estate journey? Whether you’re buying, selling, or just exploring your options, I’m here to help! Let’s make your goals a reality. Contact me today at 207.387.5416 or craig@craigpriestlyrealestate.com to get started!