The Maine housing market demonstrated a notable increase in sales activity from September 2024 to September 2025, with home sales rising by 5.12%. This positive momentum in transaction volume comes amid a slight moderation in the median sales price (MSP), which decreased by 1.35% during the same period, settling at $402,500.

This local trend in Maine contrasts somewhat with national and regional data, as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) reported an upward trajectory in existing home sales and prices across both the nation and the Northeast for the identical September 2024 to September 2025 timeframe. While Maine's sales growth aligns with the broader positive sentiment, its slight dip in median price presents a unique dynamic within the larger market context.

The 5.12% increase in home sales in Maine indicates a robust demand and continued interest from buyers in the state's diverse housing offerings. This could be attributed to a variety of factors, including the state's quality of life, economic stability, and evolving demographics. The willingness of buyers to engage in transactions suggests a degree of confidence in the long-term value of homeownership in Maine, even as affordability remains a key consideration for many.

Conversely, the 1.35% decrease in the median sales price, while modest, warrants careful observation. This slight adjustment could indicate a market recalibration, driven by increased inventory, shifts in the types of homes sold, or prevailing interest rate conditions that may be influencing buyer purchasing power. It could also suggest that, while demand remains strong, sellers are adjusting their expectations to align with market realities. This position Maine as a more balanced market, offering increased transaction opportunities without the rapid price escalation seen in some other regions.

If you've put your move plans on hold due to high rates or prices, it may be time to reassess your numbers. Affordability is improving in 39 of the top 50 markets, according to First American. And that’s the 5th straight month where buying a home has become slightly easier.

Let’s break this down into real dollars, so you can see the difference this could make for you (and your [...]

We are thrilled to announce that Martin Cates has been named the 2025 State REALTOR® of the Year!

This prestigious award recognizes a REALTOR® for their outstanding contributions to the real estate profession at the state, local, and national levels. Martin was selected from 11 nominees representing local REALTOR® associations and over 6,400 REALTORS® across Maine.

Martin has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication through numerous volunteer positions. He has served as a Director for the Maine Association of REALTORS® and has been a vital part of Maine Listings, the statewide multiple listing service, for the past 10 years. During this time, he served as a ​Director and then moved into an executive leadership role, including serving as Maine Listings President in 2022. He actively contributed to every committee and task force during his leadership tenure.​ His commitment significantly enhances both his REALTOR® community and the wider region.

Please join us in congratulating Martin on this well-deserved recognition!

Did you know? A record 40% of U.S. homeowners now own their homes outright. That’s the highest share ever recorded.

And that’s a crucial statistic if you’re considering downsizing. 

Think about it. If you’ve been in your house for a long time, you may be able to sell and buy your next home in cash. 

You can purchase a smaller, less expensive home that better suits your lifestyle today, with lower bills, less upkeep, and no new mortgage in [...]

The market is shaping up to bring buyers more options, better prices, and less competition in most of the top 50 metros.

But the exact week when buyer-friendly conditions peak varies by market. 

Want to know the sweet spot in our area? DM me and I’ll send you the details.

FMI contact: Cates Real Estate | 207-701-5600 | info@catesre.com 

#BestTimeToBuy #homebuying #October #lesscompetition #buyer-friendly #sweetspot 

3 Reasons Affordability Is Showing Signs of Improvement This Fall

For the past couple of years, it’s been tough for a lot of homebuyers to make the numbers work. Home prices shot up. Mortgage rates too. And a number of people hit pause because it just didn’t feel possible. Maybe you were one of [...]

While you’ve been out and about living your life, your house has been quietly building your wealth in the background. And that hidden wealth is called equity. When prices go up over time, and as you pay your mortgage, that number climbs. According to the latest data, the average homeowner has around $302K in equity right now. That’s six figures you could be sitting on without even realizing it. When was the last time you had a professional show you what your home is actually worth, and how much equity you likely have? DM me and we’ll run your personalized numbers, so you know exactly what you’re working with. It might be precisely what you need to fuel your next move.

Find out what your home is worth, give us a call at 207-701-5600 or email us at info@catesre.com

#HomeEquity #HomeValues #buildingwealth

Want to know something important? You probably don’t have a professional check for yourself nearly as often as you should. Spoiler alert: it’s the value of your home.

Because here’s the reality. Your house is likely the most significant financial asset you have. And if you’ve lived in it for a few years or more, chances are it’s been [...]

Buying your first home is a significant milestone, and the proper support will make it a whole lot easier.

Because while this process might be brand new to you, it’s not new to your agent. They’ve helped plenty of first-time buyers through it. They know what works, what matters, and how you can move through the process with a lot less [...]

In a recent poll from Gallup, real estate has once again been voted the best long-term investment. And it’s claimed that top spot for 12 straight years now. Homeownership is one of the top ways to build wealth, even with home price growth moderating and ongoing economic uncertainty. If you’ve been trying to decide if it makes sense to buy a home today, let’s connect and talk about the programs that can help you become a homeowner.

Let's talk! To reach an agent in Midcoast or Greater Portland email us at info@catesre.com