After years of fast-paced sales and intense bidding wars, Maryland’s housing market is finally starting to cool down — and that’s opening new doors for homebuyers.

According to recent data from Maryland REALTORS®, home sales fell 9.1% year-over-year as of September 2025, while the number of active listings climbed nearly 50%. For the first time in years, buyers have more options, more negotiating room, and less competition.

So, what does this shift mean for Maryland’s real estate market — and how can you take advantage of it whether you’re buying or selling? Let’s break it down.

Why Maryland’s Housing Market Is Cooling

This isn’t a crash — it’s a correction. After several years of record-breaking demand and soaring prices, the market is finally balancing out.

Here’s what’s driving the shift:

• Higher Mortgage Rates: While rates have dipped slightly from their 2023 peaks, they’re still high enough to keep some buyers on the sidelines.

• Rising Inventory: Active listings are up nearly 50% year-over-year, giving buyers more selection and reducing urgency.

• Seasonal Slowdown: The fall season traditionally brings a dip in activity, but this year’s slowdown is more noticeable than usual.

In areas like Baltimore County, Harford County, and Anne Arundel County, homes are sitting longer and seeing occasional price adjustments — something buyers haven’t had much of since 2020.

What This Means for Maryland Homebuyers

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to buy, this could be your window. With more listings available and fewer bidding wars, buyers are gaining real leverage.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Negotiate With Confidence: Sellers are more open to offers with contingencies or requests for closing cost assistance.

• Take Your Time: Homes are now staying on the market longer — the median Days on Market has risen to 11 statewide (up from 8 last year).

• Look for Incentives: Some sellers and builders are offering concessions or rate buydowns to attract buyers.

Pro Tip: Get pre-approved before you start your search. Even in a slower market, a pre-approval helps you act fast on the right home.

What This Means for Maryland Sellers

For sellers, this market shift means strategy matters more than ever. Homes are still selling — just not as instantly as they used to.

Here’s how to stay competitive:

• Price Smart From Day One: Overpricing can cause your listing to sit. A well-priced home attracts serious buyers faster.

• Invest in Presentation: Professional photos, clean staging, and curb appeal can make your listing stand out.

• Offer Incentives: Covering part of the buyer’s closing costs or offering a home warranty can make your property more appealing.

Pro Tip: Homes under $500K in well-kept condition are still moving quickly in many Maryland counties when priced correctly.

A Quick Look at Maryland’s 2025 Housing Market

(Source: Maryland REALTORS® Housing Statistics, September 2025)

While prices remain steady, increased inventory and slower sales clearly show that Maryland’s market is rebalancing — creating opportunities for well-prepared buyers.

The Bottom Line

Maryland’s real estate market isn’t crashing — it’s normalizing. Buyers are regaining leverage for the first time in years, while sellers who adapt to changing conditions can still find success.

This cooling period is a reminder that real estate is cyclical — and understanding those cycles is the key to making smart moves.

Let's Talk About Your Next Move 

Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, sell your current property, or explore investment opportunities, KNHome Group of Vybe Realty is here to help you navigate Maryland’s evolving market with confidence.

👉 Contact us today at www.KNHomeGroup.com to schedule your free market consultation or buyer strategy session.

Let’s turn Maryland’s market shift into your next big opportunity.