More Homes at Hitting the Market at the Jersey Shore

After years of tight inventory and fierce competition, we’re finally seeing a shift in the housing market — and it’s good news for buyers.

Nationally, the number of homes for sale is on the rise, giving more people the chance to find a home they truly love. While the pace of that growth varies depending on where you live, the trend is clear: options are improving. And here in Bay Head, Mantoloking, and throughout Ocean County, that shift is beginning to take hold — just at a more gradual pace.

A National Surge in Inventory

Across all regions of the country, inventory has increased year-over-year. According to recent data from Realtor.com, every region has seen at least a 19% jump in homes for sale, with the West leading at nearly 41%. Two key reasons are driving this uptick:

1. More sellers are listing – Some homeowners who’ve been waiting for interest rates to drop are deciding not to wait any longer.

2. Homes are staying on the market longer – With homes taking a bit more time to sell, active listings are building up, giving buyers more choices.

This rise in inventory is helping shift the market toward a more balanced place. For years, sellers had the upper hand, but now, the playing field is leveling. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, explains:

“The number of homes for sale is rising in many markets, giving shoppers more choices than they’ve had in years . . . the market is starting to rebalance.”

Bay Head, Mantoloking, and Ocean County: A Gradual Shift

Here along the Jersey Shore — especially in highly desirable areas like Bay Head and Mantoloking and other coastal towns — inventory is increasing too, just at a slower pace compared to other parts of the country.

That’s not a bad thing. In fact, it reflects continued demand for waterfront and oceanfront homes in our area. Whether you're looking for a serene lagoon-front getaway, a charming beach cottage, or a luxury oceanfront property, homes in these communities remain sought-after. The slower rise in inventory also means well-priced homes continue to attract serious buyers.

This more measured pace gives buyers a bit more breathing room, without flooding the market. And sellers can still stand out — especially if their home offers coastal charm, water access, or ocean views.

Why Local Expertise Matters

With inventory trends varying widely from one region to the next, working with a local expert is more important than ever. At Clayton & Clayton, we specialize in luxury homes, oceanfront estates,  and waterfront properties throughout Bay Head, Mantoloking, and the Ocean County coastline. We know the nuances of this market — from tidal lagoons to dune protections — and we use that knowledge to guide our clients with confidence.

Whether you're thinking about buying or selling, understanding what's happening locally — not just nationally — can make all the difference.

Bottom Line
Inventory is improving across the country, and here at the Jersey Shore, we’re seeing a steady, healthy increase in homes for sale. If you’ve been waiting for more options in Bay Head, Mantoloking, or anywhere along the Jersey Shore, now may be the perfect time to re-engage your search. And if you’re thinking about selling your waterfront property, it’s a great time to take advantage of serious buyer demand and limited local competition.

Looking for a home on the water? Or thinking about listing your coastal property? Reach out today — we’d love to help you navigate the changing market with confidence.