Hampton Roads Market Update: December 2025

December is traditionally one of the quieter months for real estate, but the latest data from the Real Estate Information Network (REIN) shows that buyers and sellers across Hampton Roads stayed engaged as 2025 came to a close. While inventory dipped from November, year-over-year trends remained positive, closings increased, and prices held steady. Taken together, December’s numbers point to a market that ended the year on solid footing.

Closings Rose to Finish the Year Strong

One of the most encouraging signs in December was the increase in settled sales. A total of 2,142 homes closed, up from 1,774 in November and more than 12% higher than December of last year. This suggests that many buyers who went under contract earlier in the fall followed through and made it to the closing table, even during the holidays. Despite seasonal distractions, real estate activity continued at a healthy pace.

Inventory Shifted Seasonally, but Buyers Still Had Options

Active residential listings fell to 4,530 homes, down from November, which is typical as fewer sellers list during the winter months. Even so, inventory remained more than 11% higher than it was a year ago, giving buyers more choices than they had last December. While the market still leans toward sellers overall, this additional supply continues to relieve some of the pressure seen in previous years.

Prices Remained Stable

The median sale price in December was $360,000, down slightly from November’s $367,000 but still 1.4% higher year-over-year. This modest growth rate is below historical averages, which can help with affordability while still supporting strong home values. Rather than sharp swings, pricing trends continue to reflect a steadier, more sustainable market.

Buyer Activity Continued Through the Holidays

Pending sales totaled 1,839 homes, representing a 10.6% increase compared to December 2024. Even as activity slowed from November, buyers remained active heading into the end of the year. Homes spent a median of 35 days on the market, up from last December, giving buyers more time to make decisions and reinforcing the shift toward a calmer pace.

December closed out 2025 with a market that remains stable, active, and increasingly balanced. Buyers benefited from more inventory and moderate price growth, while sellers continued to see steady demand and successful closings. As we head into the new year, these trends provide a strong foundation for the Hampton Roads real estate market.