Pending Sales Slowdown in Bristol County: What It Means for Q4
Pending sales—the contracts signed but not yet closed—are often the best leading indicator of where the housing market is headed. In Bristol County this September, the number of pending sales has slowed compared to last Fall, signaling that the pace of closings heading into Q4 may soften.
In fact, Bristol County pending's are down just over 5% from September 2024. Massachusetts as a whole shows a similar trend with a statewide decline of 5%, while Rhode Island pending's are down roughly 4%.
Nationally, the Mortgage Bankers Association reports purchase applications have dropped to their lowest levels since early 2023, which lines up with the slowdown in contracts being signed across New England.
For buyers, this easing means a little more breathing room and perhaps less frenzied competition over the next two months. For sellers, however, it underscores the importance of accurate pricing and polished presentation—because fewer buyers in the pipeline means more leverage for those still active in the market.
And for agents, it’s a reminder to watch pendings as closely as inventory, since they often set the tone for the next 60 days of activity.
Pending Sales (YOY Change)
