Southern Maine Real Estate Roundup — January 2026

Market Snapshot

As we kick off 2026, the Southern Maine housing market remains strong, though calmer than this time last year. Across York and Cumberland Counties, home prices are still up year-over-year, but the pace of growth has slowed as inventory has improved. More homes came to market in late 2025 compared to last winter, giving buyers slightly more options and time to make decisions.

Sales activity is holding steady, and well-priced homes continue to move, especially in desirable coastal and commuter-friendly towns. Looking ahead, the market feels more balanced than it has in years — less frantic, but still competitive — which is welcome news for both buyers and sellers heading into the spring season.

Trend to Watch: Cozy, Lived-In Homes

Winter continues to shape how buyers think about homes. This year, there’s a noticeable shift toward spaces that feel warm, comfortable, and personal. Buyers are gravitating toward homes with natural materials, thoughtful lighting, and a lived-in feel rather than overly staged or stark interiors.

Wood finishes, layered textures, and subtle pops of color are making a comeback, helping homes feel inviting during Maine’s colder months. Sellers who lean into warmth and authenticity — rather than minimalism — are resonating most with winter buyers.

Ask Joe: What Is the Cheapest Coastal Town in Maine?

This is one of the most Googled Maine real estate questions, and the answer depends on what “cheapest” really means. If you’re looking statewide, some Downeast coastal towns offer the lowest prices — but they’re often far from jobs, services, and year-round amenities.

For Southern Maine buyers, Saco consistently stands out as one of the most affordable coastal towns that still offers beaches, a walkable downtown, and easy access to Portland and Boston. While not the cheapest in the entire state, it provides one of the best balances of coastal living, community, and relative affordability — which is exactly why it’s this month’s Town Spotlight.

Town Spotlight: Saco, ME

Saco is one of Southern Maine’s most underrated coastal communities. Located along both the Saco River and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers beaches, historic charm, and a growing downtown — all while remaining more attainable than many neighboring seaside towns.

• Fun Fact: Saco is home to Ferry Beach State Park, one of the region’s most beautiful and peaceful sandy beaches, with rare coastal wetlands and nature trails.

• Great Eats:
  • Quiero Cafe – A local favorite for coffee, empanadas, and Latin-inspired comfort food.
  • The Deli & Co. – A go-to downtown spot for creative sandwiches, soups, and baked goods inside one of Saco’s historic mill buildings.
  • Social House Kitchen – A community-driven café serving breakfast, coffee, and lunch with a welcoming neighborhood vibe.

• Get Outside:
  Spend time at Ferry Beach State Park, explore the Saco River by kayak, or walk the historic downtown and mill district.

• Shop Local:
  Downtown Saco and Pepperell Square continue to grow with small businesses, cafés, and local makers helping bring new energy to the city.

Saco offers true coastal living without the premium price tag — making it an appealing option for buyers looking to stay close to the water while still feeling connected to a real, year-round community.

Community Buzz — What’s Happening Around Saco

• Biddeford WinterFest (Feb 6–8) – A free, family-friendly winter celebration featuring outdoor activities, sledding, skating, and community events across downtown Biddeford.

• New Saco Elementary School Project – Construction is officially underway on Saco’s new PreK–5 school campus, a major investment in the city’s future and a long-awaited milestone for local families.

• New Downtown Eats – Pepperell Square continues to see new energy, including recent restaurant openings and expansions that are helping strengthen Saco’s growing food scene.

• Downtown Events & Markets – Winter farmers markets and community gatherings continue throughout the season, keeping the downtown active even during the colder months.

Thanks for reading and welcome to 2026. Whether you’re planning a move this year or just keeping an eye on the market, I’m always here to help you navigate what’s next in Southern Maine.