Seacoast Real Talk with John Rice

In this quarterly Seacoast Real Talk episode, John Rice and Sean Fellows review Southern Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast real estate trends and personal updates. John notes January’s brief $1M monthly median, then details April–July 2026 results across 13 Seacoast towns: strong single-family sales despite ~6.8% rates and inventory slightly below last year, medians around $900K+, and notable transactions including Stonehouse at 85 Wentworth Road for $8.575M and the Balmoral Mansion on Ocean Blvd in North Hampton for $16M (third-largest in NH). He highlights that 10.8% of sales through July were $2M+. Sean previews an oceanfront listing at 3 Ocean Blvd (Plaice Cove) at $5.6M and mentions a $395K Kittery listing. They also share travel stories from Finland, a Northeast baseball trip, a West Point visit, Nova Scotia, and Montreal.

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

John Rice hosts Seacoast Real Talk from Tate & Foss Sotheby’s International Realty with guest Sean Fellows, delivering a Seacoast (Southern Maine/New Hampshire) market report for the first four months of 2026: single-family sales are down 2% while condo sales are up 23.8%. January set records with Seacoast median prices exceeding $1M and strong sales, followed by a very slow February with lower median pricing, rising inventory, and mortgage rates dipping below 6% for the first time in three years; Newcastle leads local medians at $2.25M. March saw sales declines amid rising global uncertainty, yet notable luxury sales continued, including record condo sales at Wentworth Marina. They describe two markets: $2.5M+ behaving independently, and the rest flatter but generally appreciating. Fellows updates on his deals and outlines the Hampton Beach Casino project: demolition delayed to after the 2027 summer season, with plans for a 208-room hotel, 99 luxury condos, and a larger gaming space, projecting significant disruption but future tax and rental impacts. Rice also recounts severe ice-dam damage and insurance frustrations, mentions possible future homeowner tips, and notes upcoming travel to Finland.

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

In this episode of Seacoast Real Talk with John Rice, John, an expert from Tate and Foss Sotheby's International Realty, provides a comprehensive update on the Southern Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast real estate market. Focusing on data from the end of 2025 and early 2026, John discusses market normalization, rising inventory, and the significant presence of high-end transactions. Key trends include flat sales volume, rising single-family home prices, and a substantial number of high-end condominium sales in Portsmouth. John also highlights the impact of interest rates and the expectations for market adjustments in 2026. Additionally, John recounts his standout year in sales and shares personal anecdotes, including attending the Liberty Bowl and future travel plans. The episode emphasizes the unique desirability of the Seacoast area, driven by amenities, tax benefits, and a high quality of life.

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

In this episode of 'Seacoast Real Talk with John Rice,' John, Sean Fellows, and Michelle O'Dell discuss the latest trends and updates in the real estate market across Southern Maine and New Hampshire Seacoast as of September 2025. They cover significant property sales, including the landmark listing of the Ice House for $1.5 million and other notable multi-million-dollar transactions. John also provides a detailed market recap, highlighting increased inventory levels and median prices. The discussion includes an analysis of the high-end market activity and predictions for future trends. Additionally, Sean features recommendations on waterfront restaurants in the area. The episode concludes with a look ahead to the next podcast, which promises more updates and insights.

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

Have you ever dreamed of the prospect of owning waterfront property complete with a private dock? We are pleased to share that our latest podcast episode features John Rice and Sean Fellows, who provide valuable perspectives on the intricacies of docks and moorings. Additionally, John shares his insightful SRT Quarterly Market Report, offering valuable analysis of market trends.
 

For more New Hampshire Tidal Docks Information Click HERE

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

John has his SRT Marker Report, and we’ll tackle the big question: So, What about 2025? Where are we headed? Sean Fellows has insights and highlights from his Home Selling Guide! 

Selling Your Home on the Seacoast in 2025: Your Ultimate Guide to Success

If you're considering selling your home on the Seacoast this year, you're in the right place. With its stunning coastline, charming communities, and strong real estate market, the Seacoast remains one of the most desirable areas in New England. But how do you ensure your home stands out and sells quickly—and for top dollar? Let’s dive into my proven strategies to make 2025 your year for real estate success.

Why the Seacoast Market is Thriving in 2025

The Seacoast real estate market is as dynamic as ever. Here's why:

1. Continued Demand for Coastal Living: The pandemic created a shift toward lifestyle-focused living has made a lasting impact. Buyers are still focusing in on waterfront properties and quaint neighborhoods near the beach.
2. Limited Inventory: While inventory has increased slightly it is still down nearly 27% from 2021 for single family homes. Currently demand still outpaces supply, creating opportunities for sellers. 
3. Rising Home Values: Home prices in the Seacoast have seen steady appreciation, with homeowners gaining significant equity year over year. Those have that been in their home longer 

1. Timing is Everything

In real estate, timing can make or break your sale. Historically, spring and early summer are peak seasons for selling on the Seacoast. But in 2025, market activity remains strong year-round due to remote work flexibility and consistent buyer demand. The best timing is completely up to your personal situation, everybody will have a different ‘best time to sell’, let’s discuss an approach that works best for you. 

2. Preparation is Key: How to Maximize Your Home's Value

Declutter and Stage:

Today’s buyers want homes that feel fresh, clean, and move-in ready. Invest in professional staging to highlight your home’s best features. Need help? I’ve partnered with top local stagers who understand what Seacoast buyers are looking for.

Focus on Curb Appeal:

The most important part with listing your home is the first impression that it makes on buyers. You only get this opportunity once; you want to show your home at its’ highest and best. A sharp, fresh exterior, clean landscaping along with a welcoming entryway can add incredible value to your listing. I have local landscapers and contractors that are ready to get your home ready for going to market.

Upgrade Strategically:

You don’t need to throw money away by gutting your kitchen, but minor updates can yield big returns. A fresh coat of paint along with new kitchen hardware can do wonders for an aging space. Keeping your countertops clean and clutter free will make buyers feel more welcome in your kitchen. 

3. Pricing: The Goldilocks Strategy

Pricing your home too high can leave your home on the market for too long and buyers will ask ‘What’s wrong with it?’. Pricing it too low can leave money on the table. Using advanced market analytics and local expertise, I’ll help you find the "just right" price to attract offers quickly without undervaluing your property.

Understand Your Local Market:

The Seacoast market has unique trends and nuances. A deep dive into recent comparable sales, neighborhood dynamics, and buyer behavior is essential. I’ll provide a detailed pricing analysis tailored specifically to your home.

Consider Buyer Psychology:

A price just below key psychological thresholds (e.g., $999,000 instead of $1,000,000) can make a significant difference in attracting attention and offers. This is also house specific as pricing ‘On the Bridge’ at $1,000,000 may open up more buyers that are seeking homes at or above that price.

Stay Flexible:

Even with the perfect price, the market can shift. Regularly reviewing buyer feedback and market activity allows us to make real-time adjustments, ensuring your home remains competitive. Working with me, we will have a plan in place if your home doesn’t receive any offers within the first 14 days. 

4. Marketing in 2025: Digital Dominates

Your home deserves more than a simple MLS listing. My comprehensive marketing strategy ensures maximum exposure:

• Professional Photography and Video: Stunning visuals are no longer up for debate. I use top-tier photographers and videographers to showcase your home’s unique charm.
• 360-Degree Virtual Tours: Today’s buyers often start their search online. Virtual tours allow them to explore your home from anywhere. This is soon going to advance into Augmented Reality tours where we should be leading with your listing. 
• Social Media Campaigns: From Instagram reels to Facebook ads targeting out-of-state buyers, I’ll ensure your home is in front of the right audience. Reaching thousands of people that may otherwise not see your listing. 
• Email Marketing: My extensive database of qualified buyers and agents means your home gets noticed fast. 

5. Partnering with the Right Agent

Selling a home is more than just a transaction, it is one of, if not the biggest financial decision you will make. As a Seacoast expert with years of experience, I’ll guide you every step of the way. From pricing to negotiation, my goal is to make the process seamless and stress-free—all while achieving the best possible outcome.

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

The information on Seacoast Real Talk today is a must know if you’re thinking of buying or selling. 

Sean Fellows will discuss the new National Association of Realtors transparency laws. Plus, he will discuss the Fed’s latest interest rate drop and what that means to you.  

But, hold onto your seats as John describes his new luxury listing: the exquisite Villa Como which is sited on 16.3 lovely acres with more than 1,000 feet of Cocheco River frontage.   Click here to see the listing.  

Villa Como… where no detail is too small and quality uncompromised.

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

John and Sean dive into all that Hampton Beach has to offer: Where to stay and play and most importantly, where to eat! And of course, John will break down the latest seacoast real estate stats with his thorough market report. 

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

This episode marks the 10th for Seacoast Real Talk with John Rice, and he has his first guest:  Anne Hayes executive director of Gather, a dedicated team working to end hunger on the Seacoast.

Gather's focus on streamlined internal systems, processes and controls ensures that every dollar donated has a big impact on hunger. 90¢ of every dollar donated to Gather goes directly toward local hunger relief. And so many programs to help folks in need!

Plus, John and Sean discuss the Real Estate market numbers and so many other Volunteer Opportunities in and around the Seacoast.  Don't be shy, get out and do something good for the community and for yourself! 

Anne Hayes, Executive Director

Gather is located at 

210 West Road Suite 3
Portsmouth, NH 03801

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 603-436-0641

Facebook Messenger: @GatherNH

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE

Happy Thanksgiving! 

From all of us here at Seacoast Real Talk we wish you a hearty and happy holiday season.

This episode is full of useful market information specifically regarding the “home” of Seacoast Real Talk: Portsmouth. John has some good news for buyers in that area.

Sean will help us learn how to NOT hibernate the entire winter season with some great ideas for getting out of doors. From the beach to brew pubs he’s got you covered!

Email John HERE

Email Sean HERE

Email Michelle O'Dell HERE

Contact John Rice HERE

Contact Sean Fellows HERE

Contact Michelle O'Dell HERE