Southern Maine Real Estate Roundup - February 2026
Market Snapshot
February rolls in with a steadier, more balanced Southern Maine market. Prices in York and Cumberland Counties are still trending higher than this time last year, but the pace has eased thanks to a steady flow of new listings. More homes are hitting the market, giving buyers more options and bringing a little breathing room back to the process.
Sellers are still getting solid offers—especially for move-in ready homes—but competition isn’t quite as fierce as it was six months ago. With mortgage rates dipping into the low–6% range, buyers who’ve been sitting on the sidelines are starting to re-engage. It’s a healthier, more thoughtful market heading into spring.
Trend to Watch: Functional, Flexible Homes
Today’s buyers aren’t just shopping for curb appeal—they’re shopping for lifestyle. Homes that offer flexibility and comfort are standing out. Think: a spare room that can double as a home office or gym, efficient heating systems, mudrooms with storage, or well-lit bonus spaces that can evolve with the family.
Energy efficiency is also on the rise. Upgrades like heat pumps, new insulation, and smart thermostats are catching buyers’ attention. The more adaptable (and affordable to run) your home feels, the better it performs in today’s market.
Ask Joe: What Do You Need to Qualify as a First-Time Homebuyer in Maine?
In Maine, you’re considered a first-time buyer if you haven’t owned a home in the past three years. That means even if you bought once years ago, you may still qualify now. Veterans and active-duty military members may also qualify regardless of past ownership, depending on the program.
To get started, most lenders will look for a stable income, a decent credit score (often mid-600s or higher), and some savings for a down payment and closing costs. The good news? MaineHousing and other programs offer big help—some buyers qualify for as little as 1% down, and may even get a $5,000 assistance grant. The best move is to talk to a local lender who knows MaineHousing and can walk you through what’s possible.
Town Spotlight: Freeport, ME
Freeport is a vibrant coastal town that really has it all. Nestled on Casco Bay just up the road from Portland, it’s famous for the flagship L.L.Bean store and a busy village full of shops and restaurants. At the same time, it offers easy access to nature—forests, marshes, and water are always close by. It’s a place where a morning hike can turn into a downtown lunch and a little shopping without missing a beat.
Fun Fact: Freeport’s L.L.Bean flagship store is open 24/7, year-round—a Maine icon and a shopping experience all its own.
Great Eats:
King’s Head Pub – Cozy English-style pub with hearty comfort food and a massive beer list.
Goodfire Tasting Room & Kitchen – Brewpub with great burgers, wood-fired pizzas, and craft beer.
Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro – Italian-inspired dishes with wood-fired flavor and a warm, rustic vibe.
Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster – Casual dockside seafood shack with lobster rolls and chowder right by the harbor.
Get Outside: Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park offers trails through pine forests and salt marshes with views of Casco Bay. Nearby Bradbury Mountain adds steeper trails and stunning overlooks.
Shop Local:
Maine Beer Company – A brewery and tasting room known for great beer and giving back to Maine-based causes.
Freeport Market – A downtown general store featuring local makers, snacks, and all the Maine-made goodies.
M.A.D.E. – Short for “Makers, Artists, Designers & Entrepreneurs,” this collective showcases handmade gifts, décor, and one-of-a-kind art.
Freeport’s mix of adventure, shopping, and community vibes makes it an easy town to fall in love with—whether you’re strolling through outlets or snowshoeing a trail, it delivers something special in every season.
Community Buzz
Flavors of Freeport runs all month long (February 1–29). Their Foodie Lotto lets you dine at participating restaurants, collect stamps, and enter to win prizes — including a $1,000 grand prize. An easy (and delicious) way to support local spots.
Pineland Farms in New Gloucester is offering free sledding and ice skating on select weekends throughout February, weather permitting. Check their schedule for open dates and pack the hot cocoa.
The Freeport Community Library will host its life-size Oregon Trail game from February 17–21 during school vacation week. This free, interactive event is open to all ages — and yes, you can die of dysentery.
Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections has its annual model train display running daily from February 1–29. Stop in for sweets and enjoy the setup, built by the Maine 3-Railers — it’s always a family favorite.
Portland’s Winter Light Festival is happening now through February 14 across the Old Port. Swing through for glowing outdoor installations, light shows, and a bit of mid-winter magic.