Summer 2025: A Review of the Ocean City Real Estate Market and What to Expect This Fall

Understanding the real estate market in Ocean City, New Jersey, can feel like trying to catch a wave—fast-moving and unpredictable. Summer 2025 was no exception. While other parts of New Jersey experienced their own fluctuations, Ocean City charted a unique course. Here’s a detailed look at the summer market and what it indicates for the fall season.

June kicked off the summer with a robust seller’s market. A total of 85 homes were sold, achieving an impressive 97.46% of their original asking price, well above the statewide average of 95.5%. Buyers were clearly motivated, often running into bidding wars on desirable properties immediately after they hit the market.

Homes in Ocean City sold quickly, averaging just 23 days on the market, compared with the New Jersey average of 43 days. Even the luxury segment saw record activity, highlighted by a brand-new Bayfront home on Glenwood Drive closing at $9,550,000, setting the high-water mark for the season.

In July, the market remained active, with 95 homes sold. However, there were signs of moderation. The average sale price dipped slightly to 95.52% of the asking price, aligning more closely with the statewide average. Buyers were more deliberate, resulting in an average time on market of 37 days.

This slower pace indicated a transition from the frenzied early-summer activity to a more measured market, where buyers were carefully considering their options before making a purchase.

By August, as the summer season wound down, the market’s pace continued to moderate. 59 homes sold, marking a solid close to the season. Interestingly, homes that were priced appropriately still commanded strong offers, with the sale price as a percentage of asking price increasing slightly to 97.57%.

The average time on the market rose to 81 days, reflecting both the seasonal slowdown and the broader inventory available to buyers. The most sought-after properties had already sold in June and July, leaving the remaining listings to compete for attention. This growing inventory provided buyers with more choices and increased leverage in negotiations.

Summer 2025 was essentially a tale of two markets: a blazing-hot start followed by a more measured finish. The increase in inventory and longer selling times at the end of the season suggest that fall will favor buyers. Those entering the market now will face less competition, have more properties to consider, and enjoy a more relaxed decision-making process.

For sellers, the opportunity remains strong, but success requires a strategic approach. Pricing accurately, presenting the home well, and partnering with a knowledgeable local professional are essential. Buyers in the fall are serious and motivated, seeking well-priced properties. As the market transitions from speed-driven summer sales to a more strategy-oriented fall, working with a trusted local expert, such as the professionals at OCNJHomes.com, will be key to achieving a successful transaction.

This content was sponsored by OCNJHomes.com