A Fresh Start for the January Real Estate Market in Ocean & Monmouth County

By DeFelice Realty Group

January is a quieter month in real estate by reputation, but experienced buyers and sellers know it is often one of the most strategic times of the year.

The noise of the fall market has faded. Holiday distractions are gone. What remains is clarity. Fewer listings, fewer buyers, and a group of highly motivated people on both sides of the transaction. This is when planning begins to matter more than timing.

At DeFelice Realty Group, January is where we see the strongest spring outcomes being built.

Why January Matters More Than Most People Think

Winter slows activity, but it sharpens intention.

Buyers face less competition and often gain leverage in negotiations. Sellers, while seeing fewer showings, tend to attract more serious, prepared buyers. At the same time, inventory traditionally begins to build as we move toward spring, which means decisions made now shape opportunities two to three months from today.

This is not a waiting season. It is a planning season.

What the Local Market Is Telling Us Right Now

Looking at December activity across Ocean and Monmouth County, several patterns stand out.

In Ocean County, single-family homes averaged:

• List Price: $695,320

• Sale Price: $677,920

• Days on Market: 44

New listings increased significantly, while closings also rose, a signal that demand is still absorbing new supply. Adult communities remain active, though they are taking slightly longer to sell, reinforcing the importance of pricing and preparation.

In Monmouth County, the market continues to move faster and at higher price points:

• Single-Family Sale Price: $960,916

• Days on Market: 36

Condominiums and adult communities showed strong increases in both pricing and closings, with days on market falling across most segments. This is a market that continues to reward well-positioned homes.

The message is consistent in both counties:
Homes that are prepared, priced correctly, and positioned strategically are still moving.

Thinking of Selling in 2026?

The most successful spring listings are rarely rushed. They are planned.

January is the ideal time to:

Declutter and organize your home
Address small repairs and cosmetic updates
Review pricing strategies and local market trends

A small amount of preparation now often leads to stronger offers later, fewer days on market, and better net results.

In today’s market, preparation is not optional. It is the difference between chasing the market and leading it.

Winter Maintenance That Protects Your Investment

Cold weather stresses homes in predictable ways. Simple steps this month prevent expensive surprises later.

Check insulation and seal drafts
Replace HVAC filters
Inspect exposed pipes to prevent freezing

These are not glamorous tasks, but they protect value, comfort, and future marketability.

A Buyer Tip Worth Taking Seriously

If buying is one of your goals this year, pre-approval should come before house hunting.

Pre-approval clarifies your true budget, shortens decision time, and puts you in a stronger position the moment the right home appears. In competitive segments of Ocean and Monmouth County, prepared buyers consistently win.

Our Role as Your Local Resource

Real estate is never national. It is local, granular, and specific to your neighborhood, your property type, and your timing.

If you are curious about your home’s current value, recent trends in your area, or simply want to talk through strategy, our team is here as a resource.

At DeFelice Realty Group, our work begins long before a sign goes in the yard.

Office: 732-920-0900
Brick & Lakewood, New Jersey