If you’ve been watching the Maryland real estate market closely, you may have noticed something different in 2025: homes are sitting on the market longer than they have in recent years. After a period defined by bidding wars, waived contingencies, and lightning-fast sales, the pace has clearly shifted.

According to recent Maryland real estate market data, the average days on market in Maryland has increased, giving buyers more time to make decisions and forcing sellers to adjust expectations. But longer days on market do not mean the market is crashing — it means the market is rebalancing.

So why exactly are homes sitting longer in Maryland, and what does this change mean if you’re planning to buy or sell? Let’s break it down.

1. Inventory Is Up Across Maryland

One of the biggest reasons homes are taking longer to sell is simple: there are more homes available.

Across many Maryland counties, active listings are up compared to last year. More inventory gives buyers choices, which naturally slows down decision-making. When buyers are no longer competing with ten other offers, they are more selective and cautious.

This is especially noticeable in:

• Baltimore County

• Anne Arundel County

• Harford County

• Parts of Frederick County

What this means:
More inventory does not hurt demand — it shifts leverage. Buyers can compare homes, negotiate, and take time. Sellers must now compete on price, condition, and presentation.

2. Buyers Are More Payment-Conscious in 2025

Higher interest rates over the past two years have changed buyer behavior. Even as rates stabilize, buyers are far more focused on monthly payment than purchase price alone.

This has led to:

• Fewer emotional or rushed offers

• More attention to property taxes and HOA fees

• Buyers waiting for price reductions or seller credits

Homes that are priced aggressively or come with higher monthly costs often sit longer, even in desirable neighborhoods.

What this means for buyers:
You now have time to analyze numbers, request concessions, and walk away if the deal doesn’t make sense.

What this means for sellers:
Pricing based on last year’s comps — instead of today’s market — can significantly increase days on market.

3. Overpricing Is Being Penalized More Than Ever

In previous years, sellers could test the market with ambitious pricing and still receive multiple offers. In 2025, overpriced homes in Maryland are sitting — sometimes significantly longer than similar homes priced correctly.

Buyers now expect:

• Fair pricing based on recent comparable sales

• Transparency about condition and updates

• Justification for premium pricing

Homes that miss the mark often require price reductions, which can further extend time on market.

Key takeaway:
In today’s Maryland housing market, the first two weeks on the market are critical. Proper pricing from day one matters more than ever.

4. Condition and Presentation Matter More Than They Used To

With more options available, buyers are gravitating toward move-in-ready homes. Properties that need visible updates, repairs, or cosmetic work are still selling — but they often take longer and sell for less.

Homes that tend to sit longer include:

• Outdated kitchens or bathrooms

• Deferred maintenance

• Poor listing photos or limited online exposure

What this means:
Buyers expect value. Sellers who invest in presentation — even minor improvements — often reduce days on market significantly.

5. How Buyers Can Take Advantage of Longer Days on Market

For buyers, this shift is a major opportunity.

Longer days on market often mean:

• More room to negotiate price or closing costs

• Ability to include inspection and appraisal contingencies

• Less pressure to rush into a decision

This is especially helpful for first-time buyers, VA buyers, and buyers using down payment assistance programs.

6. What Sellers Need to Do Differently in 2025

Homes are still selling in Maryland — just not automatically.

To stay competitive, sellers should focus on:

• Accurate, data-driven pricing

• Strong online presentation and professional photography

• Addressing key inspection concerns before listing

• Being open to negotiation

Sellers who adapt to today’s conditions are still achieving successful sales without excessive delays.

The Bottom Line

Homes sitting longer on the market in Maryland is not a sign of a failing market — it’s a sign of a healthier, more balanced one. Buyers finally have breathing room, and sellers must be more strategic.

Understanding why days on market are increasing — and how that affects pricing, negotiation, and timing — can help you make smarter real estate decisions in 2025.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in Maryland?

At KNHome Group of Vybe Realty, we help buyers and sellers adjust their strategy based on real-time Maryland market data — not outdated assumptions.

If you’re curious how long homes are taking to sell in your specific neighborhood or want a pricing strategy that works in today’s market, visit KNHomeGroup.com to get started.