If you are considering a move in the South Boston Waterfront, the January 2026 data indicates a high-velocity market that demands a strategic approach. While the neighborhood remains one of Boston's most elite, shifting inventory levels and significant price jumps are creating new opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
Is It a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market?
The Verdict: Firmly a Seller’s Market. With demand for luxury coastal living remains high, sellers currently hold the advantage, though the market is showing signs of increased activity.
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Months Supply of Inventory: 3.31 months (an 8.06% increase from last month, but down 31.8% year-over-year).
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Sold-to-List Price Ratio: 96%.
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Median Days on Market: 77 days (up 83.33% from the previous month).
Despite the increase in time on market, the sharp annual drop in inventory ensures that well-positioned properties remain highly competitive.
Pricing Trends: What Homes Are Selling For
The Waterfront continues to command some of the highest premiums in the city.
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Median Sold Price: $1,069,450.
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This is up 27.62% month-over-month, reflecting a surge in high-value closings to start the year.
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Median Estimated Home Value: $890,670.
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Down 2.1% from last month but up 1.1% year-over-year, indicating long-term stability despite short-term fluctuations.
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List Prices & Inventory Breakdown
Active and pending listings show a market that is preparing for a busy spring season.
For Active Listings (January 2026):
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Median List Price: $1.3M.
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Median Price/Sqft: $1,180.
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Active Listings: 66 properties (down 12% from last month).
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Median Living Area: 1,246 sqft.
For Pending Listings:
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Median List Price: $1.27M.
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Median Price/Sqft: $1,050.
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Pending Properties: 14.
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Median Days on Market: 55 days.
What’s Moving Fast
The luxury condo and townhouse segment remains the primary driver of activity in the Waterfront.
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New Listings: Surge of 25 new properties, up 108.3% month-over-month.
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High-End Demand: Recent public records show some high-end units reaching as high as $1,780 per square foot.
Is Inventory on the Rise?
While new listings spiked this month, the long-term trend shows a tightening market.
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Monthly Supply: Down 31.8% compared to January 2025.
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New Entry Opportunity: The 108.3% month-over-month jump in new listings provides a rare window for buyers to enter the market before the spring rush.
What This Means for You
If You're a Seller:
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High Leverage: Annual inventory is significantly lower than last year, meaning less competition for your property.
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Price Strategically: While sold prices are up, properties are taking longer to go under contract (77 days); pricing accurately from day one is critical to avoid stagnation.
If You're a Buyer:
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Increased Choice: The recent surge in new listings (up 108.3%) offers more variety than has been seen in recent months.
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Be Prepared: With a 3.3-month supply, the market is still tight. Ensure you have financing ready to compete for prime waterfront views.
