What the New Housing Forecast Means for Buyers and Sellers on the South Coast

According to the latest midyear housing forecast from realtor.com, home sales across the U.S. could hit a new 30-year low in 2025. That might sound like national-level data, but if you're buying or selling in South Dartmouth, Westport, or anywhere along the South Coast, it’s worth paying attention.

The revised forecast points to a few key trends. Mortgage rates are expected to stay higher than originally predicted, with a 6.7% average throughout 2025. Inventory is finally improving after years of tight supply, but even with more homes on the market, affordability concerns are keeping many buyers on the sidelines.

For those looking to buy along the South Coast, that means opportunity. With more listings available, there’s more breathing room than we’ve seen in recent years. Homes near the water, walkable neighborhoods, and properties that offer lifestyle flexibility are still drawing interest, especially from buyers relocating from higher-cost areas.

If you're thinking about selling, you might be feeling the slowdown. Nationally, many sellers are choosing to wait rather than adjust their pricing. But in areas like Westport and South Dartmouth, where quality of life and location are strong selling points, well-prepared listings still stand out.

Price growth is expected to continue at a slower pace. Realtor projects a 2.5% national increase in home prices through 2025. While that’s a slight dip from previous forecasts, it reflects a more stable, balanced market taking shape.

One important shift: new construction is projected to decline, with fewer single-family homes being built in 2025. That could strengthen demand for existing homes, particularly in sought-after coastal and semi-rural areas like the South Coast, where open land and zoning constraints already limit large-scale development.

For renters, there’s a bit of good news. Median asking rents are expected to stay flat or dip slightly, offering some relief after years of steady increases.

All in all, this forecast suggests a market that’s slower but still moving. The difference is that now strategy matters more than ever. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or just trying to make sense of the numbers, it’s important to understand how national shifts play out locally.

Have questions about how this could affect your next move? I’m always happy to chat.

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