Exploring South Shore's Real Estate Trends: June 3, 2024 – December 3, 2024

The South Shore real estate market has showcased a robust performance over the past six months, according to the latest single-family sales statistics compiled by the Charles King Group. With diverse communities ranging from coastal gems like Cohasset and Scituate to vibrant suburban hubs like Hingham and Braintree, the South Shore continues to attract buyers seeking an exceptional quality of life. Let’s dive into the data to uncover key insights.

Overview of Market Activity

The South Shore's housing market has seen significant activity, with Plymouth leading the pack with 371 units sold, followed by Weymouth (233 units) and Quincy (188 units). This reflects the appeal of these towns for their affordability, accessibility, and lifestyle offerings.

On the higher end of the spectrum, Cohasset recorded fewer transactions (34 units sold), but with a staggering median sale price of $1,537,500, the highest on the South Shore.

Home Prices: A Tale of Diversity

The median sale price across South Shore towns highlights the diversity of housing options available:

• Most Affordable: Abington, with a median sale price of $542,500, offers some of the most affordable homes in the area.
• Luxury Living: Towns like Cohasset ($1,537,500), Hingham ($1,325,000), and Duxbury ($1,227,750) cater to buyers seeking high-end homes, showcasing the premium market on the South Shore.

Price Per Square Foot: Value Across the Board

Analyzing the median sale price per square foot provides deeper insight into property value:

• Highest Value: Hingham, at $520.70 per square foot, reflects the town’s premium housing market.
• Budget-Friendly Options: Abington and Hanover hover around $350-$360 per square foot, offering buyers solid value for their investment.

Speed of Sales: A Hot Market

Homes across the South Shore are selling quickly, with median days on market highlighting the high demand:

• Fastest Sales: Milton leads with homes spending just 17 days on market, showcasing its desirability and competitive nature.
• Slower Yet Strong: Cohasset and Hull reflect slightly longer market times (32 and 28.5 days, respectively), potentially due to their luxury markets, which attract a more niche buyer segment.

Spotlight on Key Towns

1. Plymouth: A Market Leader

With the highest number of units sold (371) and a median sale price of $666,250, Plymouth balances affordability and high volume. Its spacious properties and proximity to the coast make it a consistent favorite.

2. Hingham: Premium Homes, High Demand

Hingham boasts one of the highest median sale prices ($1,325,000) and a value-rich $520.70 per square foot. Homes here move relatively quickly, with a median market time of 21.5 days.

3. Weymouth and Quincy: Accessibility Meets Affordability

These towns remain highly desirable for commuters and families, with median sale prices at $630,000 (Weymouth) and $725,000 (Quincy). Both markets see homes selling in just 20 days, underscoring buyer interest.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers

• For Buyers: The South Shore offers something for everyone—from affordable starter homes in Abington to luxurious coastal properties in Cohasset and Duxbury. Competition remains strong, so acting swiftly with the guidance of a skilled real estate team is crucial.

• For Sellers: Homes are selling fast across the board. Now is an excellent time to list, especially in sought-after towns like Milton and Hingham, where demand remains robust.

Closing Thoughts

The South Shore real estate market continues to thrive, reflecting strong demand across various price points. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or someone looking to settle into a luxury property, the area offers unmatched options.