Key Takeaways at a Glance

• U.S. market: Inventory up 24.8% YoY in July (third straight month > 1M actives) yet still 13.4% below 2017–2019 norms. Median list price essentially flat (+0.5% YoY). Time on market lengthened to 58 days.
• Atlantic County: 3.94 months of inventory (seller-leaning), median sold price $380,000, median 23 days on market, selling around 98% of list.
• Cape May County: 4.17 months of inventory (balanced), median sold price $604,000, median 34 days on market, selling around 97% of list.
• Mortgage rates: Stable and recently eased to the lowest since April, still >6.5% on average; consensus points to a gradual drift lower over time rather than a sharp drop.

National Housing Snapshot (July 2025)

The U.S. market continued a slow, steady rebalancing in July: active listings rose for the 21st consecutive month, pending sales eased versus last year, and homes took a week longer to sell than in July 2024. Regional splits remain stark: the South/West are seeing larger inventory gains and slower conditions, while the Northeast/Midwest stay comparatively tighter.

South Jersey Shore: Atlantic & Cape May County Highlights

Atlantic County Detail

• Months of Inventory: 3.94 (seller-leaning)
• Inventory Trend: +4% MoM, +17% YoY
• Median Sold Price: $380,000
• Median Days on Market: 23
• Sale-to-List: ~98%

Cape May County Detail

• Months of Inventory: 4.17 (balanced)
• Inventory Trend: -7% MoM, -8% YoY
• Median Sold Price: $604,000
• Median Days on Market: 34
• Sale-to-List: ~97%

Mortgage Rate Outlook

Rates have been remarkably steady this spring/summer and recently dipped to the lowest since April, but remain above 6.5% on average. Most forecasts point to a gradual, not dramatic, decline toward 6% over the next year, possibly high-5% range in 2026. Even a 0.25–0.50% drop can significantly improve affordability and bring more buyers into the market.

What to Do Now

For Buyers

• Atlantic County: Be pre-approved and ready—fast DOM means the best homes move quickly.
• Cape May County: Inventory is tightening; negotiate smartly but don’t wait too long for a rate drop.

For Sellers

• Price for the market you’re in—first 10–14 days on market are critical.
• Light updates and staging help shorten days on market.

FAQ: South Jersey Shore Real Estate (August 2025)

Is the market cooling here like other regions?

Not to the same extent. We’re still seller‑leaning overall, with Atlantic moving faster and Cape May balanced but tightening.

Will prices drop if rates fall?

Lower rates typically increase demand, which can support prices. Don’t expect a sharp price decline to accompany a rate drop.

Is now a good time to list?

If your home is market‑ready and priced correctly, yes. Atlantic’s inventory growth argues for listing sooner; Cape May’s tightening favors sellers as we approach fall.

What’s the best buyer strategy right now?

Strong pre‑approval, decisive offers on well‑priced homes, and tools like buydowns or credits to improve affordability.

How close to list price are homes selling?

Roughly 98% of list in Atlantic and around 97% in Cape May, on average.