As we move into the spring season, the reality of Newport County’s real estate market continues to be shaped by the simple, yet undeniable, law of supply and demand. With just 155 properties currently available across Jamestown, Newport, Middletown, Portsmouth, Tiverton, and Little Compton — ranging from $60,000 (643 Forest Park in Middletown) to $22,500,000 (441 W Main Road in Little Compton) — the shortage of homes is impacting buyers and sellers alike.

One of the most pressing observations in Newport is the severe shortage of inventory. In fact, there are only 13 residential properties available in Newport for under $1 million. This limited supply has kept the market firmly in a seller’s advantage, with demand still outpacing what’s available. Even in a market with limited inventory, there is still a palpable energy. Last week, I hosted some of the busiest open houses I’ve ever had, a clear indicator that pent-up demand for housing in our community remains. For those exploring the idea of selling, the returns on investments are incredible, and recent sales have contributed to a significant increase in home equity. Property owners in Newport County are sitting on more money than they might realize, making it an ideal time to consider a sale — if they’re ready to take the plunge or have the need to move.

For buyers, however, the reality is that competition will only intensify as we head further into the spring market. With so few properties available, many are feeling the pressure to act quickly or find themselves on the outside looking in. As more buyers flood the market due to the seasonal nature of New England, many are finding themselves competing with others, often making quick, decisive offers to secure their desired properties. But it’s not all about the highest bid. Sellers are often considering multiple offers and looking for favorable terms, not just the price. Offers that are free of conditions or contingencies are pacing the race to consumers, which requires a certain level of risk tolerance amongst consumers already competing in high price purchases. 

What many sellers are grappling with is a question that continues to be a major hurdle: where will they go if they sell? For many homeowners, this uncertainty about where to move next is what has kept them from listing their homes. But for those who decide to take advantage of the market, there’s an opportunity to capitalize on the high equity gains. Still, it’s essential to keep in mind that the cost of land and housing in coastal areas — particularly Rhode Island — is unlikely to decrease in the near future.

This is the reality of living in a coastal community, and it’s a trend that doesn’t seem poised to change anytime soon. The surge in housing prices, approachable interest rates, and metropolitan migration spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic created a frenzy that led to what I believe is a bubble in many coastal markets. While other markets around the country may experience some softening, the dynamics in Rhode Island remain unique. With only a finite amount of land left to be developed — particularly in the western part of the state — prices will continue to hold strong.

Recent reports underscore the precariousness of our market. According to Eastern Progress, Rhode Island ranks as the 10th least stable housing market in the country, signaling that volatility is a concern for many buyers and sellers. As noted in a Providence Journal article, the median sale price in Rhode Island rose 3.5% year-over-year in 2024, and homes are continuing to sell quickly — underscoring the competitive landscape we’re seeing locally.

In Newport, dirt alone is selling for hundreds of thousands of dollars, and the city’s size is limited: just 11 square miles in total, with 7.7 square miles of land and 3.3 square miles of inland water. The scarcity of land is something that’s truly unique to coastal communities like ours, and it’s a factor that will only continue to drive property values higher.

For those who purchased homes years ago or have no mortgage, you’re sitting on a significant amount of equity due to the unprecedented surge in property values. That equity might be more than you think, and it could be the right time to explore options that can help you capitalize on your investment or take money out of your home to fund capital improvement projects, pay off debt, etc.  

But for buyers, particularly those who were waiting for prices to drop or interest rates to do the same, it’s a harsh reality. The market remains competitive, and those who have been waiting on the sidelines may find themselves struggling to secure a property in a market that’s showing no signs of slowing down.

In light of this it’s crucial to understand your home’s true value in this market. This is information that every property owner, regardless of if you plan to sell, should have on hand. Your fair market value is often much different from your city assessment, and recent sales in your neighborhood will directly affect your home’s position. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about your home’s worth, consulting with an experienced local professional can provide the insight you need to navigate this ever-evolving market. I’d be happy to consult on any valuation, confidentially with no strings attached. 

For more information about this article or insight on the local real estate market, please reach out. My direct line is 401-241-1851 and my email is TylerB@resultswithremax.com.  Have a wonderful Sunday.