Hello 2025!
We are already almost two weeks into the New Year! Even with the chilly temps here in New England (and some snow!), it seems to be a good start in real estate. I've been busy prepping for new listings with the launch of two hot homes at 35 Ferry Road and 25 Hancock Street. I've also heard from several new buyers who are looking to make a move this year.
While I'm excited to jump into 2025, I also wanted to share my personal achievements, reflections from last year and market thoughts and trends. And most importantly, I want to say THANK YOU to all of my clients who trusted me in 2024.
2024 Market Reflection
As you may recall from Last Year's Recap, 2023 proved to be a challenging year with a decrease in sales (down 16.03% in Essex County and 30% in Newburyport). And because mortgage rates peaked at over 8% in October 2023, it was so difficult to predict what 2024 would look like. A very slow personal start to 2024 had me very worried!
Thankfully, mortgage rates declined enough mid year causing a flurry on both the buying and listing side.
2024 resulted in a 15% increase in sales volume, bringing us almost back to 2022 totals. The average price for Greater Newburyport towns also increased from $626,653 in to $672,474 (Newburyport, Amesbury, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley), meaning we had more sales volume but overall number of homes sold was down.
The average sale price in Newburyport for all listings increased to $759,556 (up from 2023) with the average single family home at $1,234,860.
There were several factors impacting the increase including a growing prominence of AI Technology making real estate a bit more efficient.
2024 Accolades
As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and excitement with the humbling achievement of being recognized as a top agent:
#1 Agent in Newburyport (for the third year in a row) (Sales Volume)
#1 Agent in Greater Newburyport (Sales Volume)
#1 Individual Agent in Essex County! (Sales Volume)
These accolades are really just testament to how much love what I do, the trust my clients have placed in me, and the strong relationships we’ve built together. I also represented my clients in transactions ranging from $156,000 to $3,600,000!
Bentley's RE/MAX Collection also secured the number one position in Greater Newburyport for the 6th year in a row, with nearly double the sales volume of our closest competitor.
2024 Sales Highlights
My sales in 2024 expanded from Somersworth, NH to Exeter, NH to Andover, MA to Newton, MA and all along the North Shore of Massachusetts. 15 total towns were represented, with 6 transactions in New Hampshire and 39 in Massachusetts. Newburyport was home to the majority of my transactions at 27!
I had the pleasure of helping 11 sets of buyers achieve the goal of homeownership, ranging in prices from $156,000 to $3,600,000 and all in between.
One listing that I sold in 2024 is 2 William Griffin Way in Newburyport that closed at $2,225,500.
Off Market Sales
In addition to working with first time buyers and past clients, I represented 5 off market sales and nearly $12 sales volume! Off market sales offer a unique approach to real estate that caters to specific client needs.
For instance, sellers can maintain their privacy by avoiding public scrutiny and minimizing disruptions from open houses and showings. It also promotes direct negotiations, allowing buyers and sellers to communicate without the stress of competitive bidding.
Feel free to reach out if you're interested in learning more about presenting a property off-market!
Looking Ahead
As I look to the year ahead, I am energized by opportunity! The market is evolving, with interest rates playing a significant role in shaping buyer behavior. While some may view this as a challenge, I see it as an opportunity to provide even greater value to my clients by staying ahead of trends, leveraging data, and crafting creative solutions to meet their needs.
The Greater Newburyport area continues to be a sought-after destination for luxury living. Its coastal beauty, vibrant downtown, and exceptional schools make it a magnet for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Essex County, with its mix of picturesque towns and sophisticated properties, has further solidified its position as a premier market in Massachusetts!
Check out my current listings here, including the iconic 185 High St in Newburyport, and be sure to follow along for all that is to come in 2025!
From my family to yours, Happy New Year!