MAY MARKET UPDATE

The May numbers in and spring market has been hot! And while things usually start to slow down after May, June is still packing a punch and we see tons of market activity still. Stay tuned and reach out to your Pollock Properties Group agent to talk specifics/answer any questions you might have.

Spring Market Snapshot: Holding Strong Amid Demand

May typically brings a wave of new listings and buyer activity—and this year is no exception. However, low inventory continues to define the landscape across Essex County and beyond.

• Average Days on Market remained low, hovering between 10–21 days for most well-prepared listings.

• Homes priced between $700K–$1.2M saw the most competitive activity, especially in Maplewood and South Orange, often receiving multiple offers within the first week.

• West Orange offered more affordability and space, drawing attention from move-up buyers and NYC transplants alike.

• Inventory levels improved slightly from earlier in the year but still remain well below pre-2020 averages.

Town-by-Town Highlights

📍Maplewood
Still one of the hottest towns in the region, Maplewood continues to command top dollar for homes that are staged, priced, and marketed well. In May, turnkey homes near the Village and Maplecrest Park sold quickly—many within 3–5 days of listing.
Notable Trend: Buyers are valuing lifestyle as much as location, with outdoor space, flexible floor plans, and proximity to parks and shops being major selling points.

📍South Orange
Inventory in South Orange increased modestly in May, but demand remained sky-high. Proximity to the Midtown Direct line, vibrant downtown, and larger lot sizes make this town a standout. Homes in the $900K–$1.4M range are moving fast—particularly those with historic charm and modern updates.
Pro Tip for Sellers: Homes that include dedicated home office space or finished basements are seeing a premium.

📍West Orange
Known for its variety of neighborhoods and price points, West Orange had one of the strongest Mays in recent years. With more listings coming to market than its neighbors, it’s attracting buyers who have been priced out of Maplewood and South Orange.
Buyer Insight: There are still pockets of opportunity here, especially for first-time buyers and investors seeking properties with potential.

📍Nearby Towns to Watch:

• Millburn/Short Hills continues to see strength in the luxury market, with cash buyers still active.

• Montclair remains red-hot, especially near Walnut Street and Upper Montclair—though higher price tags have led some buyers to look south.

• Livingston and Springfield are seeing renewed interest thanks to their school systems and more generous square footage per dollar.

📈 What’s Next?

As we enter June and approach the summer season, we expect:

• Continued competition for updated homes in central locations

• A slight increase in listings as school lets out

• Mortgage rate sensitivity influencing buyer decisions at higher price points

• More sellers considering off-market and private sales

💬 Advice for Buyers and Sellers

For Sellers:
This is still your market—but presentation and pricing matter more than ever. Our team’s signature P7 Process ensures that your home is positioned to maximize interest and results.

For Buyers:
Preparation is everything. Work with an experienced agent, get pre-approved, and be ready to move quickly. The right home is out there—and we’re here to help you find it.

Curious what your home is worth? Thinking of making a move this summer?
Let’s connect for a custom market analysis or buyer strategy session.

📩 Contact us at PollockPropertiesGroup.com
Or DM us to get started!