Considering a Spring Move? What You Should Know About Today’s Housing Market
Many begin thinking about a move as spring approaches. For some, that means downsizing into a smaller, single-level home. For others it means transitioning into a senior living community. In either case, understanding the current housing market can make planning easier and reduce unnecessary stress.
Mid-Valley residential data from the Dec 2025 RMLS Market Action Report shows a market that is steady but noticeably slower than in prior years. New listings totaled 164, up 6.5 percent from Dec ’24, but down 18.4 percent from Nov ’25.
While slightly more homes came on the market compared to the previous year, the month-over-month decline reflects typical seasonal slowing, which can limit options for buyers seeking well-located, low-maintenance homes.
Pending sales declined to 147, a 5.8 percent decrease from last December and nearly 17 percent lower than November ’26. Closed sales followed a similar pattern. 171 homes closed Dec ’25, down 16.2 percent from Dec ’24. These figures suggest that buyers are still active, but decisions are taking longer and transactions are moving at a more measured pace.
Inventory in the Mid-Valley decreased to 3.7 months, which generally indicates a balanced market. However, total market time increased to 80 days, an important shift for homeowners planning a move.
For seniors, Days on Market can be a critical number. Those coordinating the sale of a longtime home to move into a senior living community often face fixed timelines, deposits, or notice requirements. Longer selling periods mean that timing assumptions from past years may no longer apply.
Looking at the year-to-date picture, overall activity softened compared to 2024. New listings declined 0.8 percent, pending sales dropped 5.4 percent, and closed sales fell 4.4 percent. Despite this slowdown, prices continued to rise. The average sale price increased 2.7 percent to $478,100, while the median sale price also rose 2.7 percent to $449,300, reflecting steady demand even as sales volume eased.
For Mid-Valley seniors considering a spring move, planning ahead is essential. Understanding inventory levels, pricing trends, and realistic Days on Market expectations can help create a smoother, less stressful transition — particularly as housing decisions increasingly support flexibility, multi-generational living, and long-term peace of mind.
Ben Richardson
50plus Magazine
Ben Richardson enjoys helping seniors as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. He is the principal broker and owner of Ideal Real Estate.

