Maryland Real Estate Market Update: What’s Really Happening This Month on the Eastern Shore

by David J. Moore

If you’ve been keeping an eye on the Maryland real estate market — especially here on the Eastern Shore — you’ve probably noticed it feels a little different this year. Whether you’re buying your first home, considering selling your waterfront property on Kent Island, or just curious about what your home might be worth, the big question is the same: What’s really happening in our market right now?

Let’s take a closer look at what’s driving activity across Kent Island, Stevensville, Chester, and the surrounding Eastern Shore communities — and what it means for you.

The Market Is Still Moving — Just Differently Than Before

Despite what national headlines might make you think, homes on Maryland’s Eastern Shore are still selling. The pace has shifted compared to the frenzied years of 2020–2022, but serious buyers and motivated sellers are absolutely getting deals done.

The key difference? Strategy matters more than ever.

Inventory is rising slightly, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in a while.
Mortgage rates are fluctuating, which affects affordability — but local demand remains strong thanks to our area’s unique charm and proximity to Annapolis and D.C.
Prices have stabilized, but well-presented homes (especially waterfront or updated properties) continue to command premium prices.

On average, homes in Queen Anne’s County are taking a bit longer to sell compared to last year, but sellers who price smartly and market strategically are still seeing solid results.

For Sellers: It’s Not Just About Listing — It’s About Positioning

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Kent Island, Stevensville, or Chester, you might be wondering if now’s the right time. The answer? It can absolutely be — if you approach it the right way.

Today’s buyers are looking for value and confidence. They want to feel that they’re making a wise investment in a community and a lifestyle, not just a property. That’s why homes that are marketed with strong visuals, clear differentiation, and local appeal tend to perform best.

Here’s what’s working for sellers right now:

Accurate pricing based on real-time local data, not last year’s headlines.
Professional presentation, including photography, staging, and curb appeal.
Flexible buyer incentives, like help with closing costs or temporary rate buy-downs.
Strategic marketing that reaches both local buyers and relocation prospects from across the Bay.

At David J. Moore & Associates, we use tools like our VIP Seller Program and Home Value Offer to help sellers stay ahead of the market. Whether you want to sell fast or maximize your return, we’ll tailor a plan to your goals and timing — not just list and hope.

For Buyers: Opportunity Is Knocking (Quietly)

Buyers often think they should “wait for rates to drop,” but here’s the truth: when rates eventually do fall, competition will spike. That means more bidding wars, higher prices, and fewer chances to negotiate.

Right now, serious buyers on Maryland’s Eastern Shore have a window of opportunity. With more listings coming onto the market — from cozy Kent Island cottages to new construction in Chester — you can shop with more breathing room.

Our VIP Buyer Program helps you take advantage of that by giving you access to homes before they hit Zillow, personalized property alerts, and even savings guarantees that can help offset rate concerns.

Here’s how a few smart buyers are playing it:

Locking in now on a home they love, then refinancing later when rates dip.
Negotiating seller credits to buy down their interest rate.
Targeting motivated sellers who are open to creative terms or incentives.

So instead of sitting on the sidelines, buyers who act strategically are finding better deals and less competition — all while starting to build equity sooner.

Spotlight: Kent Island and the Eastern Shore Lifestyle Still Shine

Numbers are one thing, but lifestyle is another — and that’s something the data can’t capture. The Eastern Shore continues to attract buyers looking for what the Western Shore can’t offer: peace, space, and a sense of community.

From morning walks along the Cross Island Trail to evenings at Kent Narrows watching the boats go by, our area’s natural beauty and slower pace continue to draw both full-time residents and weekenders.

Even as the market adjusts, demand for waterfront homes, renovated properties, and low-maintenance townhomes remains strong. The secret is out — and people are realizing that life on the Shore offers more value for the money compared to many parts of Maryland.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in the Next Few Months

As we move toward the end of the year, we’re expecting a few things to unfold on Maryland’s Eastern Shore:

More listings will continue to come on the market, especially as sellers prep for early 2026 moves.
Interest rates may fluctuate but are expected to gradually ease over time.
Buyer confidence is returning — especially among those who understand the long-term benefits of homeownership.

In short: the market is normalizing. It’s not overheated, and it’s not frozen — it’s balanced. That means it’s a healthy time to buy or sell, as long as you have the right strategy and guidance.

Your Next Step: Get Clarity on Your Plan

Whether you’re thinking of buying your first home, moving up, or finally cashing in on your equity, the best way to make a smart move is to start with clarity.

Curious about your home’s current value? Request a free Home Value Report — it’s fast, local, and customized to your neighborhood.
Thinking about buying soon? Enroll in our VIP Buyer Program to get first access to new listings and savings opportunities.
Need advice on timing your move? Let’s have a quick chat — we’ll walk you through the current market data and your best options.