September turned out to be an exceptionally strong month for real estate in Franklin County, with a significant increase in closed sales and median sales prices compared to September of last year. Hampshire County also experienced a healthy month, with increased sales activity, rising prices, and more homes coming onto the market.
As we move further into the fall market, these numbers give us some encouraging signs of continued activity. However, it’s important to look beyond a single month’s results to understand what’s happening in our local real estate market.
Franklin County: An Exceptional September
Franklin County experienced a remarkable increase in closed sales during September 2026.
❖ Closed Sales: 61 single-family homes sold compared to 43 in September 2025, an increase of 41.9%.
❖ Pending Sales: Increased 11.1%, from 45 to 50 homes under agreement.
❖ Median Sales Price: Rose from $359,000 to $430,000, an increase of 19.8%.
❖ New Listings: Increased 18.3%, from 60 to 71 homes.
❖ Inventory: Remained relatively unchanged, with 123 homes available compared to 127 last September.
❖ Days on Market: Decreased from 40 to 37 days.
One of the interesting things about September’s numbers is that we saw a substantial increase in closed sales. If you recall, pending sales were particularly strong in August, and that activity carried over into September as those transactions closed.
While the 41.9% increase in closed sales is impressive, it’s important to keep that number in perspective. Looking at the first nine months of 2026, closed sales in Franklin County are actually down 6.1% compared to the same period last year.
The year-to-date median sales price, however, is up 8.1%, reaching $400,000 compared to $370,000 in 2025.
This is a good example of why I believe it’s important to look at both monthly activity and year-to-date trends rather than drawing conclusions from one particularly strong month.
Hampshire County: Strong Activity and More Homes for Sale
Hampshire County also experienced a very active September, with increases in sales, prices, and new listings.
❖ Closed Sales: Increased 16.5%, from 79 to 92 homes.
❖ Pending Sales: Increased 33.3%, from 81 to 108 homes under agreement.
❖ Median Sales Price: Rose 10%, from $450,000 to $494,950.
❖ New Listings: Increased 22.1%, from 113 to 138 homes.
❖ Inventory: Increased 29.3%, from 198 to 256 homes.
❖ Days on Market: Remained relatively stable, increasing slightly from 38 to 39 days.
One of the more encouraging developments in Hampshire County is the increase in available homes. More inventory gives buyers additional choices, something that has been limited in recent years.
Year-to-date closed sales are up 2.4%, while the median sales price has increased 10.1% to $498,000.
Pending sales are also up 8.6% year-to-date, suggesting continued buyer activity as we move through the fall.
What Do Rising Median Sales Prices Really Tell Us?
One number that stands out in both counties is the increase in median sales prices.
In Franklin County, the September median reached $430,000, while Hampshire County approached $495,000.
It’s important to remember that the median sales price represents the midpoint of all homes sold. Half sold for more, and half sold for less.
A higher median doesn’t necessarily mean every home has increased in value by that same percentage. The types, sizes, locations, and price ranges of homes sold during a particular month can influence the median.
That’s why I find year-to-date comparisons particularly helpful. They provide a broader picture of market activity and help put monthly fluctuations into perspective.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
Inventory remains limited, particularly in Franklin County, and buyers are continuing to purchase homes.
However, one of the most important factors in successfully selling a home is pricing it correctly from the beginning.
Even in a market with relatively low inventory, buyers are paying attention to condition, location, and value. Homes that are priced appropriately for their condition and the current market are generally in a better position to attract serious buyers.
Overpricing can result in longer marketing times and eventual price reductions.
Every property is different, and understanding what comparable homes have recently sold for is essential when determining an appropriate asking price.
What Does This Mean for Buyers?
There is some encouraging news for buyers, particularly in Hampshire County, where we’ve seen a noticeable increase in inventory and new listings.
More homes coming onto the market means more opportunities to find a property that fits your needs and budget.
While prices remain higher than they were a year ago, having additional choices can make the home search a little easier.
For buyers who have been waiting for more options, the fall market may offer opportunities worth exploring.
The key is to understand your financing, know what you can comfortably afford, and be prepared when the right property becomes available.
Looking Ahead: What Can We Expect This Fall?
September’s numbers were encouraging, and several indicators suggest that buyer activity remains healthy as we move through the fall.
Pending sales are strong, new listings have increased, and homes are continuing to sell.
At the same time, we’ll want to keep an eye on inventory levels and days on market. These are important indicators of whether the market is maintaining its momentum or beginning to shift toward a more balanced market.
Real estate is local, and conditions can vary considerably from one community to another, even within the same county.
Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply keeping track of your home’s value, understanding what’s happening in your local market can help you make informed decisions.
September was a strong month, but the bigger picture is what matters most.
If you’d like to discuss what these market trends mean for your property or your real estate plans, I’d be happy to help.
Source: REALTOR® Association of Pioneer Valley, September 2026 Local Market Reports. Statistics reflect single-family residential properties. All comparisons are September 2026 versus September 2025 or the corresponding year-to-date periods. Prices are rounded where appropriate.
Corinne Fitzgerald
FITZGERALD Real Estate
Serving Franklin County and Beyond
413-320-9509
[email protected]
FITZGERALD-RealEstate.com