January housing data reflects early-year market reset

Delaware’s housing market opened 2026 with a slower pace of buyer activity and longer marketing times, consistent with an early-year reset following the holiday season and continued affordability pressures across the state.

Statewide, 803 homes were sold in January, an 11% decrease compared with January 2025. Pending contracts declined 23% year over year, and homes spent more time on the market, with the average days on market increasing to 59 days, up from 47 last January. These trends indicate buyers are moving more cautiously at the start of the year.

Home prices remained elevated despite slower activity. The statewide median listed price rose nearly 3% from January 2025 to $402,448, while the median sold price increased just over 5% to $398,633. Inventory increased modestly, up 9% year over year, though overall housing availability remains limited relative to demand.

“January often serves as a reset for the market,” said Denise Forman Gaines, Delaware Association of Realtors 2026 president. “Buyers are entering the year more deliberately, while sellers are navigating pricing and supply realities. Realtors are helping clients make informed decisions as market conditions continue to evolve.”