Did the Boston condo for sale inventory increase in January 2026?

Boston Condos for Sale and Apartments for Rent

Did the Boston condo for sale inventory increase in January 2026?

• Modest Growth: Real estate experts project a 5% to 10% increase in inventory levels throughout 2026. This rise is partially driven by a “thaw” in the market as sellers, previously “locked in” by low mortgage rates, begin to list their properties due to life events like job changes or growing families.
• Luxury Oversupply: In contrast to the broader market, the luxury segment (units over $3M) is facing an inventory glut. Stagnant high-end “trophy” condos have rolled over from 2025, leading to supply levels nearly double what is considered typical for the urban core.
• Neighborhood Variations: While the city as a whole saw a 16.2% year-over-year surge in active listings as of December 2025, inventory remains critically scarce in high-demand areas like Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and Cambridge.
• Supply Cliff Concerns: Despite the slight rise in available units, new housing permits as of mid-2025 were down 44% from 2021 levels. This lack of new construction could lead to a “supply cliff” later in 2026 or 2027. 

• Increased Negotiating Power: The rise in options is giving buyers more leverage than in previous years, with some properties staying on the market longer—median days on market reached approximately 32 days in early 2026.
• Absorption Rates: Well-priced mid-tier condos still move rapidly, often going under agreement within the first few weeks of listing.
• Buyer Competition: Motivated buyers are currently capitalising on the slight supply increase, and if mortgage rates stabilize below 6%, experts expect competition to heat up further by the spring.