At the start of 2025, I shared two market outlooks focused on one central theme: a shift toward balance. Not a crash. Not a frenzy. But a more thoughtful, normalized market where strategy mattered again.
Now that 2025 is behind us, it’s worth stepping back and asking a simple question:
How did those predictions actually play out here in MetroWest?
This perspective is especially important for downsizers and sellers debating timing, because what worked in the last few years is not necessarily what will work moving forward.
What I Got Right About the 2025 Market
Inventory improved
One of my core predictions for 2025 was that inventory would increase, giving buyers more options and slowing the frantic pace we had grown used to.
That’s exactly what happened.
Nationally, active listings rose meaningfully throughout the year.
Homes.com article on inventory growth
What this meant locally:
In Needham, Wellesley, Newton, and Natick, more inventory didn’t mean weak demand. It meant buyers could be selective, compare homes, and move forward with confidence when the right property appeared.
Mortgage rates stabilized
I also predicted that rates would remain elevated but become more predictable. That stability mattered more than dramatic rate drops.
And again, that held true.
Rates stayed above the lows of prior years, but the volatility eased.
What this meant locally:
Buyers adjusted their expectations. Instead of waiting for the perfect rate, they focused on lifestyle fit, monthly comfort, and long-term plans.
Price growth slowed nationally, but MetroWest stayed strong
Nationally, price appreciation cooled in 2025, just as expected.
However, Greater Boston and MetroWest continued to outperform national trends.
What this meant locally:
Well-prepared homes in strong neighborhoods continued to sell well. Demand didn’t disappear. It became more discerning.
The market normalized
Another correct call was the return of a more normal market pace. Homes took longer to sell, and that wasn’t a bad thing.
What this meant locally:
Homes no longer sold simply because they existed. Pricing, preparation, and presentation became critical again.
Sales improved, but didn’t rebound
I didn’t expect a dramatic rebound in sales volume, and that prediction held as well.
Sales improved modestly year over year, but activity remained below historical highs.
What this meant locally:
Serious buyers were active. Motivated sellers succeeded. Casual or unrealistic listings struggled.
What Surprised Me in 2025 (From the Ground)
Two things stood out clearly in my day-to-day work:
Buyers were incredibly thoughtful.
There was no frenzy, but there was real intent. Buyers asked better questions, took their time, and moved decisively when a home truly fit their needs.
Pricing and preparation mattered more than ever.
Strong demand did not rescue overpriced or underprepared homes. The gap widened between listings that were positioned strategically and those that were not.
This was one of the clearest shifts I saw all year.
What This Means for MetroWest in 2026
If you’re a downsizer or a seller debating timing, here’s the most important takeaway:
2026 is shaping up to reward planning over urgency.
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Demand in MetroWest remains strong
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Buyers are engaged, but selective
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Pricing and preparation matter more than headlines
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Early planning creates flexibility and leverage
This is especially true for homeowners considering a lifestyle change, a phased move, or a downsizing transition.
Rightsizing - A Lifestyle shift
Final Thought
Looking back, 2025 wasn’t defined by extremes. It was defined by balance.
And in balanced markets, the homeowners who do best are the ones who plan early, understand their local market, and approach the process thoughtfully.
If you’re thinking about a 2026 move, planning early really matters.
Every neighborhood is different. Every timeline is personal. And every strategy should be tailored accordingly.
