September 2025 Real Estate Market Update: What’s Happening Across the SouthCoast

by Donald Wagnon

🏡 September 2025 Real Estate Market Update: What’s Happening Across the SouthCoast

The local real estate market is shifting again — and this time, buyers and sellers are both paying attention. With recent mortgage rate cuts and the lowest rates we’ve seen in nearly a year, September has brought a noticeable uptick in activity around New Bedford, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, and Fall River.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to move, this may be your moment to take a closer look. Let’s break down what’s happening right now.

📊 Market Snapshot – September 2025

City	Avg. List Price	Avg. Sale Price	Avg. SqFt	Avg. $/SqFt	Avg. Days on Market	Avg. Days to Offer	Active Listings
New Bedford	$442,921	$431,243	1,423	$321	32	21	37
Dartmouth	$1,189,030	$1,211,395	1,992	$585	41	30	20
Fairhaven	$595,133	$584,361	1,790	$372	53	39	18
Fall River	$537,850	$535,800	1,712	$311	33	26	16

🔍 What the Numbers Tell Us

🏠 New Bedford:
The market here continues to show strong demand at affordable price points. With homes averaging just over $430K, New Bedford remains one of the most accessible cities for SouthCoast buyers. Days on market have stayed steady, showing that well-priced homes are still moving quickly.

🌳 Dartmouth:
Luxury and coastal properties continue to drive Dartmouth’s high average sale price. Interestingly, the average sale price slightly exceeded the list price, suggesting competitive offers and motivated buyers — especially in neighborhoods near the water or UMass Dartmouth.

⚓ Fairhaven:
With average prices in the mid-$500s and an uptick in days on market, Fairhaven is showing a more balanced pace this fall. Buyers have a bit more breathing room, but sellers who price strategically can still sell quickly, especially near Sconticut Neck or the town center.

🏙️ Fall River:
Fall River continues to attract buyers looking for more space and value. The average home is selling just below the list price, but with mortgage rates down, interest in this market has noticeably increased over the past few weeks.

💰 How the Fed’s Rate Cuts Are Affecting Local Buyers and Sellers

The recent interest rate cuts have been the talk of the real estate world — and for good reason. Mortgage rates have dipped to their lowest point in nearly a year, opening doors for first-time homebuyers who were previously priced out.

For sellers, this is welcome news too. Lower rates mean more qualified buyers entering the market, creating better competition and potentially stronger offers — especially for homes that are move-in ready and well-staged.

If you missed our recent post on First-Time Home Buyer Assistance Programs in New Bedford, now’s the perfect time to check it out. These programs pair nicely with the new, lower mortgage rates.

📈 Compared to August 2025

While some areas are seeing slightly longer days on market, prices have remained stable across the board. The biggest change has been buyer sentiment — confidence is back. With rates down and inventory slowly increasing, we’re entering a healthier, more balanced fall market.

✅ Key Takeaways

Mortgage rates are at their lowest point in nearly a year
Buyers are regaining confidence — and sellers are seeing stronger offers
New Bedford continues to lead for affordability
Dartmouth and Fairhaven remain strong for higher-end coastal homes
Fall River is seeing renewed buyer activity thanks to its value and location

💬 Thinking About Buying or Selling This Fall?

If you’ve been waiting for the market to make its move — this is it. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, or considering selling, I’d love to help you make a confident, well-timed decision.

👉 Let’s talk about your next move.
Visit WagnonRealEstate.com or contact me directly to get started.