Maryland Real Estate Market Update January 2026: Should You Sell Now or Wait?

If you are wondering whether now is the right time to sell your home in Maryland, the January numbers give us important insight. Comparing January 2026 to January 2025 reveals a market that is shifting, but still active. For home sellers, understanding what these changes mean for pricing and timing is critical before making a move.

This Maryland real estate market update breaks down the data and what it means specifically for sellers who are unsure whether to list now or wait.

MARYLAND JANUARY MARKET UPDATE:

JANUARY 2026
Total # Homes Sold: 3,028
Avg. Sold Price: $508,410
Days on Market: 46

JANUARY 2025
Total # Homes Sold: 3,491
Avg. Sold Price: $478,301
Days on Market: 37

What’s Happening in the Maryland Housing Market?

1. Fewer Homes Sold

Home sales declined from 3,491 in January 2025 to 3,028 in January 2026. That signals a slowdown in transaction volume. Buyer activity has softened compared to last year, often due to affordability pressures and interest rate sensitivity.

However, over 3,000 homes still sold in one month. That means serious buyers are still in the market.

2. Home Prices Increased

Interestingly, the average sold price rose from $478,301 in January 2025 to $508,410 in January 2026. That is a notable increase year over year.

This tells us that while fewer homes are selling, pricing overall has strengthened. In many Maryland markets, including areas such as Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Anne Arundel County, and parts of Baltimore County, demand for well positioned homes remains solid.

3. Homes Are Taking Longer to Sell

Days on market increased from 37 days to 46 days. That nine day difference shows buyers are taking more time to evaluate options and negotiate.

This is no longer a hyper speed market. Strategy matters more than urgency.

What This Means for Pricing Your Maryland Home

The increase in average price is encouraging, but it does not mean sellers can price without discipline.

Buyers in 2026 are cautious. They are comparing properties carefully and reacting strongly to perceived overpricing. The homes that sell closest to list price are the ones that are aligned with current comparable sales, not last year’s peak expectations.

The mistake many sellers are making is assuming that because average prices increased, their home will automatically command top dollar. Condition, updates, location, and presentation still heavily influence final sale price.

Pricing correctly from the beginning often leads to stronger negotiation leverage and fewer days on market.

What This Means for Timing

Some sellers are considering waiting in hopes that demand will increase later in the year. The challenge with waiting is competition.

If rates improve or market confidence strengthens, more sellers typically enter the market. That creates more inventory, giving buyers more options and more negotiating power.

Selling now may mean slightly slower movement than January 2025, but it may also mean less competition compared to a busier spring or summer season.

The decision should be based on your equity position, relocation plans, and financial goals, not just headlines.

Common Mistakes Maryland Sellers Are Making Right Now

  1. Pricing based on optimism rather than current data

  2. Ignoring the increase in days on market and underestimating buyer negotiation

  3. Delaying necessary repairs or presentation updates

  4. Waiting for “perfect” conditions instead of evaluating personal timing

The Maryland housing market in January 2026 is not declining, it is stabilizing. Sellers who prepare strategically are still achieving strong results.

Is Now a Good Time to Sell in Maryland?

The data shows rising average prices, steady buyer activity, and a slightly longer sales timeline. That combination can work in your favor if you approach it with a clear plan.

If you are unsure whether selling now or waiting makes more sense for your specific situation, personalized guidance can make the difference between guessing and making a confident decision.

We cover this in depth at our Home Seller Workshop | Every Fourth Tuesday of the Month @ 7 PM. It is designed to help you understand your options, avoid costly mistakes, and build a strategy that works in today’s market. If clarity is what you are looking for, this is the next best step. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! You can sign up to attend HERE.

Your Price is Our Promise®. Your Home SOLD 100% of the Asking Price, or We Will Pay You the Difference! Call us at 301-769-7951 or visit us HERE.