Why Long-Term Homeowners Are Still Winning in Today’s Market

Boston, South Shore, Cape Cod | The Charles King Group

In a market full of headlines about high rates and slowing buyer demand, a new stat caught our attention—and it’s worth a closer look.

According to a recent report from ATTOM, the average homeowner who sold last quarter had owned their home for 8.18 years—the longest average in at least 25 years.

Here’s what makes that especially compelling:
Despite all the chatter about price fatigue and market slowdowns, the typical home seller still walked away with a 50% profit.

Home Values Have Held Strong

Even though the market has cooled from its 2021–2022 peak, long-term homeowners are continuing to see impressive gains—especially in areas like Hingham, Boston, and along the South Shore and Cape Cod, where demand for quality housing remains high.

Yes, raw profits have ticked down slightly from the white-hot frenzy of a few years ago. But across our local markets—from single-family homes in Cohasset and Norwell to condos in the Back Bay and townhouses on the Cape—values remain well above pre-pandemic norms. Back then, a 30% gain on a sale was considered strong. Today, 50% is average.

What This Means for Local Sellers

If you’ve owned your home for more than 5 years, chances are you’re sitting on substantial equity. Whether you’re thinking about upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, it could be a smart time to explore your options—even if we’re no longer at peak pricing.

The bottom line:
Sellers may not be cashing out at absolute highs, but they’re still selling into a market where long-term ownership has translated into real returns.