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Market Update for May 2026 in Franklin and Hampshire County MA

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with FITZGERALD Real Estate 9500521

Franklin County: Limited Inventory Driving Prices Higher

Franklin County experienced a decline in closed sales during May, with 36 single-family homes sold compared to 50 during the same month last year. However, fewer sales did not translate into lower prices. The median sales price increased nearly 15%, rising from $367,500 to $421,290. Inventory remains the primary story, with available homes for sale down more than 30% compared to last year, helping support home values and keeping competition alive among buyers.

Hampshire County Continues to Show Strong Momentum

Closed sales increased 12.3%, rising from 81 homes sold last year to 91 this year. The median sales price climbed from $494,000 to $525,000. Pending sales increased 45%, signaling strong buyer activity heading into the summer market. Although new listings have increased, demand continues to absorb much of the available inventory.

The Bigger Picture Across the Pioneer Valley

Across the Pioneer Valley, closed sales increased 4.9%, median prices rose 6.8%, inventory declined 20%, and pending sales surged more than 34%. These numbers continue to demonstrate that buyers are adapting to current market conditions and moving forward with their housing plans.

What Buyers Should Know

Successful buyers are focusing on preparation. Financing, understanding local market conditions, and being ready to act when the right property becomes available remain critical advantages in today's market.

What Sellers Should Know

Inventory shortages continue to create opportunities for sellers. However, proper pricing, presentation, and marketing remain essential. The homes generating the strongest results are the ones positioned correctly from day one.

Looking Ahead

The Western Massachusetts housing market remains resilient, with strong demand continuing to support home values despite limited inventory. As we move through the summer market, inventory levels will remain the key factor to watch.

 

Call/Text: 413-320-9509 | Corinne Fitzgerald | FITZGERALD Real Estate | Corinne@FITZGERALD-RealEstate.com

 

Posted by

FITZGERALD Real Estate  

Corinne A Fitzgerald
ABR, AHWD, CRS, GRI, PMN
FITZGERALD Real Estate
116 Federal Street
Greenfield, MA 01301
413-320-9509  cell/text
413-376-4433 direct office line

Corinne@FITZGERALD-RealEstate.com

WEBSITE

 2015 President - Massachusetts Association REALTORS®
 2012 President – REALTOR® Association of the Pioneer Valley

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Comments(2)

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Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518
Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc - Walhalla, SC
Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.

This is an excellent and highly detailed market update, Corinne! The data really tells the story of how local factors create entirely different dynamics even in neighboring areas.

It's fascinating to see the contrast between Franklin County, where a steep 30% drop in inventory is driving prices up despite fewer closed sales, and Hampshire County, which is showing tremendous forward momentum with that 45% surge in pending sales. Your advice to both sides is spot on—buyers absolutely have to be prepared to act fast, and sellers still need correct pricing and presentation from day one to truly capitalize on the inventory shortage. Thanks for sharing such a clear snapshot of the Pioneer Valley market!

Jun 21, 2026 05:28 AM
Corinne Fitzgerald

Thank you, Gwen. 

Jun 21, 2026 12:47 PM
John Pusa
Glendale, CA

Hello Corinne Fitzgerald very valuable detailed market report for Franklin and Hampshire County, MA. May 2026.

Jun 21, 2026 11:49 AM