2024 was a year to remember for all of us at Portside Real Estate Group— our teams best year yet! Together, we helped over 110 families with their real estate pursuits with nearly 70 million in sales volume. We remain the leading team in Brunswick and continue to expand into surrounding micro markets. We also continue our expansion north and up the coast with Addie Peet at the helm. Most importantly, these numbers reflect the passion, grit, and care we bring to our work every day. We couldn’t be more proud of the Brent + Lisa Team at Portside Real Estate Group.
This year, with all of our colleagues at Portside we also hit a goal close to our hearts: giving back over $1 million to Mainers in need through our 1% Back to Maine initiative and Portside Foundation events. We supported organizations like Midcoast Community Alliance, Tree Street Youth, and Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, as well as causes focused on mental wellness, homelessness, and youth empowerment. These moments of giving reflect our belief that the future is local—stronger communities, deeper connections, and a collective commitment to caring for one another.
2024 wasn’t without its challenges. The NAR settlement prompted industry-wide reflection, while shifts in buyer and seller behaviors and an influx of new forms and flood disclosure requirements kept us on our toes. These changes demanded adaptability, diligence, and a renewed focus on clear communication. Challenges like these remind me why Portside thrives: we adapt, stay focused, and keep showing up for what matters most—helping people navigate their lives through real estate while staying deeply connected to our local roots.
We move into 2025 with renewed energy and purpose. While inventory challenges persist, the pull of Maine’s lifestyle—a place of community, natural beauty, and quality of life—remains as strong as ever.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Together, we’re building what’s next—because the future is local. Here’s to an incredible 2025!
With Gratitude, Brent + Lisa Team
brentandlisa@portsidereg.com
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A YEAR OF CHANGE
KEY CHANGES IN REAL ESTATE THIS YEAR
NAR Settlement
MORE TRANSPARENCY
Many potential buyers and sellers of real estate are aware of the NAR Settlement, but may not fully understand its implications. Under the terms of the NAR settlement, listing agents are no longer allowed to advertise a shared buyer agency fee in the MLS, but they are still allowed to share their fees with their seller clients' permission, and sellers are also allowed to offer a direct payment to a buyer agency or buyer concession to help facilitate a transaction.
Flood
CLARITY + AWARENESS
The Maine Legislature is now requiring sellers to disclose whether any portion of a property being sold is in a Special Flood Hazard area as defined by FEMA and to provide FEMA flood maps if so. Additional disclosure requirements include if there has been a flood event at the property, if any portion of the property has been affected by a flood event, and whether any sort of flood related insurance claim or disaster aid has been received.
More Inventory
INCREASED BUYING POWER
With inventory 29% higher than last year, along with price reductions and longer days on the market, buyers have the advantage of increased opportunities and negotiating power.
CONSUMER BENEFIT
D Increased transparency of commissions.
D Seller can negotiate a change to the commission.
D Signed buyer agreements are necessary prior to any showings so the buyer and agent both understand how the agent is being paid.
CONSUMER BENEFIT
D For sellers, this statute requires that these disclosures be made in advance of going under contract.
D For buyers, this should help them make an informed decision on purchasing a property based on their intended use and own individual risk assessment.
CONSUMER BENEFIT
D More home options!
D More negotiating power, homes on the market for 30+ days get an additional 5% off list price.
D More relaxed pace of looking for homes, more time for due diligence.
D Sellers are also allowed to offer a direct payment to a buyer agency or buyer concession to help facilitate a transaction.
MARKET REPORT
REPORTS FROM MAINE AND NEW HAMPSHIRE
The market remains strong with rising prices, increased sales, and higher inventory levels, despite a slight increase in days on market. While seller power has eased slightly— list price received dropping below 100% and longer time on market—buyers found a bit more leverage. The uptick in new listings signaled a more balanced market, yet strong demand continues to drive higher prices per square foot and median sales prices. Maine and New Hampshire are still attractive and growing markets.
MAINE SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
NEW HAMPSHIRE SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
MEDIAN HOME PRICES
SUSTAINED GROWTH
In 2024, home prices experienced sustained growth compared to 2023. Alongside rising prices, the number of units sold also increased, reflecting a positive shift in the market for both buyers and sellers. This uptick in transactions, combined with steady price growth, strengthened the residential market, culminating in a total sales volume of $8.4 billion for the year—a 17% increase over 2023.
SLOWEST GROWTH
Western Maine saw the slowest home price growth compared to other regions, however, the rise in inventory indicates that improved affordability may be drawing more buyers, enhancing the area's appeal.
$320,000 — 4.92%
Western Maine
Androscoggin, Franklin, Oxford
$545,000 — 7.6%
Southern Maine
Cumberland, York
$535,000 — 9.18%
Seacoast NH
Rockingham, Strafford
See what the median price in these regions got you in 2024
$296,00 — 7.64%
Central Maine
Kennebec, Somerset, Piscataquis, Aroostook
$348,500 — 7.23%
Downeast Maine Hancock, Penobscot, Washington
$412,000 — 9.87%
Midcoast Maine
Sagadahoc, Knox, Lincoln, Waldo
Southern Maine
1 Canterbury Circle Kennebunk, ME
Lot size: 0.34 Acres
Home Size: 2004 sqft
Beds: 3 Baths: 1.5
List Price: $520,000 Sold Price: $545,000
Central Maine
746 Kennebec River Road Embden, ME
Lot size: 10.25 Acres
Home Size: 1120 sqft
Beds: 2 Baths: 0
List Price: $299,000 Sold Price: $299,000
Midcoast Maine
70 High Street Bath, ME
Lot size: 0.85 Acres
Home Size: 1714 sqft
Beds: 2 Baths: 2
List Price: $395,000 Sold Price: $420,000
Downeast Maine
629 Main Street, East Machias, ME
Lot size: 1.25 Acres
Home Size: 1802 sqft
Beds: 4 Baths: 1
Lakes Region
157 Mountain Drive, Rome ME
Lot size: 1.5 Acres
Home Size: 4800 sqft
Beds: 4 Baths: 3.5
List Price: $2,195,000 Sold Price: $2,100,000
Western Maine
5 Goddard Street Lisbon, ME
Lot size: 1 Acre
Home Size: 1174 sqft
Beds: 3 Baths: 1.5
List Price: $309,000 Sold Price: $318,000
Seacoast New Hampshire
2 Godfrey Avenue, Hampton, NH
Lot size: 0.23 Acres
Home Size: 1360 sqft
Beds: 3 Baths: 1 List Price: $549,000 Sold Price: $560,000 SOLD FOR OVER ASKING 2 %
Island Property
150 Island Avenue, Peaks Island ME
Lot size: 0.17 Acres
Home Size: 1720 sqft
Beds: 3 Baths: 3
List Price: $1,650,000 Sold Price: $1,575,000
MAINE MARKET AT A GLANCE
Total volume of condo, mobile and single-family homes sold MARKET GREW 17% 8.4 BILLION
Units of condo, mobile and single-family home sales UP 1,600 UNITS 17.6K UNITS
Change increase in median price CONDO PRICES UP 3% 8 PERCENT
Mobile home prices dropped slightly (-1.46%). This decrease could indicate that rising interest rates and affordability concerns are impacting buyers in this lower-cost segment more than other property types. Sales volume rose significantly, suggesting mobile homes remain an attractive, affordable option for buyers priced out of other markets.
HOME SALES OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS
The 2024 sales trajectory is below the peak years (2020, 2021) but closely aligns with 2023 levels. It indicates a moderate recovery compared to the sharper decline seen after 2021.
Sales climbed consistently from January through June, following a typical seasonal pattern where spring and early summer see the most activity.
Unlike 2020 and 2021, which experienced strong late-year performance, 2024 sales plateaued in the fall and stayed flat through November and December, reflecting slower market activity.
2025
STABILIZING RATES
Mortgage rates are projected to stay in the mid 6%s throughout 2025, slightly lower than the average for 2024.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
More approvals for affordable housing projects.
SALES VOLUME
Existing-home sales are expected to rebound, we are predicting 7% to 10% increase in 2025
PRICE REDUCTIONS
As the market adjusts, buyers are becoming increasingly pricesensitive. Ambitious sellers may need to reduce their asking prices to attract offers.
HOME PRICES
in Northern New England are anticipated to rise modestly, 3% -4%, increase in 2025
MORE INVENTORY = MORE SALES
With inventory up 27% year-over-year, more homes will be available to trade.
NEGOTIATION POWER
A slower market pace will give buyers more leverage to negotiate not only on price but also on inspection issues, appraisals, and home sale contingencies.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRENDS
It’s well known at this point that Maine and the nation face a historic housing crunch. A recent report from the Governor’s Office and MaineHousing projects more than 80,000 new units are needed in Maine by 2030 to keep pace with current and future demand. It is often cited as the top issue in public opinion polling. We have our work cut out for us to alleviate the crunch. One way we can build more housing is by fostering partnerships between developers and businesses.
With more than 100 properties and over 4,500 residents, Avesta is the largest nonprofit affordable housing provider in northern New England. We have over 800 housing units in our pipeline, including a development in Kennebunk. The proposed 74-unit development resulted from a partnership with Kennebunk Savings Bank (KSB)
Brad Paige, KSB’s recently retired President & CEO, and his team contemplated how to make the most of vacant land adjacent to the bank’s operations center. It quickly became clear that the land could be put to better use by partnership with Avesta to create housing opportunities for older adults. KSB donated the 12acre parcel and $550,000 to Avesta. They also donated another 12-acre parcel to conservation.
Avesta’s partnership with KSB is a model for other businesses that want to be involved in unlocking housing opportunities for Maine families and very likely their own employees. Whether it is donating land, contributing to capital costs, or speaking in support of housing at local meetings, now is the time for the business community to be part of solving the housing crunch
nonprofit organization founded in 1972. Find more information including how to donate can be found by visiting: AvestaHousing.org
Linnhaven Housing Preservation Project
Mobile Home Parks, a crucial source of affordable housing in Brunswick, Maine, faced a significant threat in 2023 when the owners of Linnhaven Mobile Home Center received a $26.25 million offer from an out-of-town investor.
To protect residents, Maine's newly enacted Right to Purchase law enabled the community, supported by public-private partnerships and organizations like Maine State Housing and the Genesis Fund, to organize into the Blueberry Fields Cooperative (BFC). The cooperative successfully countered with a $26.3 million offer, securing ownership of the park on October 19, 2024.
This landmark effort preserved affordable housing for nearly 300 residents and marked the first resident-owned community established under the new law.
Sally Costello, Brunswick Economic Developer
Avesta Housing Senior Officer of Planning and Partnerships
Prior to joining Avesta, Ryan Fecteau worked in the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future. He also served eight years in the state legislature. He recently returned to the legislature where he serves as Speaker of the House.
2020-2024 Trend: The sales of homes in the $0$300K range have dropped sharply over this period, falling from approximately 12,500 in 2020 to below 2,500 in 2024. As home values have appreciated, fewer properties fall into this price range.
Affordable homes have become increasingly scarce, impacted by demand and limited new construction in this category due to rising material and labor costs.
Affordability Challenges: The drastic decline in the lower price range highlights increasing affordability issues for first-time and lower-income buyers. The $300k to $600K range has remained steady after peaking in 2021.
Avesta Housing is a 501(c)3
2024 RELOCATION TRENDS
In recent years, Maine has experienced notable relocation trends, with a significant influx of new residents seeking the state's natural beauty, slower pace of life, and strong community ties. Key factors influencing these trends include: cost of living, housing costs, safety/crime statistics, quality healthcare, and length of commute.
KATIE SHOREY
Live and Work in Maine Director of Engagement
76% of those we moved had a job in the new location (or works remotely)
TOP REASONS TO RELOCATE
Quality of life Closeness to family
New job requires relocation
2024 TOP OUTBOUND STATES
#1 New York #2 Massachusetts
#3 Virginia #4 Florida
MA » ME
Massachusetts was the top inbound state
OUT OF STATE BUYERS
25% of sales were to out-of-state buyers
Portside Real Estate Group agents use their extensive area knowledge and market-specific experience, backed by global reach, through our connection with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. Our offices are strategically located along the Maine coast, providing convenience for our customers and critical exposure to buyers. If your search brings you outside of Maine, Portside’s affiliation with Luxury Portfolio International provides you with global access to properties near and far, whether you’re searching for your primary residence, second home or investment property.
DESIGN TRENDS
AN INTERVIEW WITH DAVID DUNCAN MORRIS
Interior Design Trends in 2025
From our experience, we’re seeing scarcity of white oak which equates to a much higher cost. As a result, I believe that we’ll start to see other species of wood become more visible. While we still love white oak, we’re using a variety of other species like maple, ash and even…..cherry!
Exterior Design Trends in 2025
I believe it’s pretty clear that our environment and climate is changing at a rapid pace. 2024 proved to be a very destructive year. Therefore, we must design houses that thoughtfully manage water, snow, wind and the sun in a more responsible manner than we ever have had to before. Our clients are becoming more educated and concerned about their investments; it’s our job to protect that investment. The real trick is to integrate those strategies into the building without sacrificing the integrity of the architecture.
Fabric & Furniture Predictions for 2025
I think that we are all becoming ever more interested in comfort and I think the furniture we’ll want to surround ourselves in will be based on that comfort and that are more casual in nature. This could be represented by pieces that have a softer touch and feel, perhaps the lines are also less rigid and tailored, inviting you to sink in and relax. I'm also hoping to see some exciting mixing and matching of patterns… perhaps matching wall and furniture patterns.
DUNCAN MORRIS
Woodhull Partner & Director of Residential Studio
Prioritizing durability, honesty, and thoughtful use of materials, they guide the vision, push the envelope.
Hot Color Predictions
I’m super interested in highly chalky and colors like camel, eggplant and rose that have a neutral/ milky undertone. More color, in general.
Smart Home Trends
We’re seeing more and more interest in Geothermal mechanical systems.
Woodhull has focused on design-led construction.
DAVID
YEAR IN REVIEW
$1,000,000
The Portside Foundation supports organizations driving systemic change in the following key focus areas:
1
PORTSIDE'S 1% BACK TO MAINE & FOUNDATION CELEBRATE REACHING $1 MILLION MILESTONE
2
EDUCATION
3
FOOD INSECURITY
4 MEDICAL + MENTAL HEALTHCARE
GENERATIONAL POVERTY + AFFORDABLE HOUSING
THE PORTSIDE FOUNDATION
The Portside Foundation 501(c)(3) is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of Maine’s communities by supporting humanitarian, environmental and health-and-youth assistance programs. The Foundation organizes and hosts multiple fundraising events and awareness campaigns on behalf of local nonprofits throughout the year. These thoughtful events generate income through corporate sponsorships, ticket sales, auctions and direct donations. The proceeds from these events are used to support local nonprofits working to improve the lives of those in our communities.
In 2025, we’re excited to expand the reach of our Portside Foundation events! We’re introducing Pins for a Cure in Kennebunk, celebrating our 8th year of the Autumn Equinox at Maine Audubon in Falmouth, and bringing back Hops for Habitat to the Midcoast. We hope to see you there!
PINS FOR A CURE RETURNS TO RAISE $26,000+ FOR MAINE CANCER FOUNDATION
Maine Cancer Foundation (MCF) is dedicated to reducing cancer incidence and mortality in Maine. Cancer remains a significant health concern in our state, with rates above the national average. Our Pins for a Cure event brings the community together for a fun evening of bowling while raising important funds to support MCF’s efforts to address cancer in Maine.
$1,000,000
$270,000+ DONATED 24 GRANTS FUNDED AT A GLANCE
1% Back to Maine focuses on supporting the next generation of Mainers, Maine’s youth, helping to give them the greatest chance at creating a more wonderful world.
“Thanks to the generous support from Portside, Tedford Housing's new emergency shelter will feature a transformative outdoor recreation area that will greatly benefit the families residing there. This dynamic play area will provide a safe and engaging space for up to ten families at a time, fostering well-being and community support as they transition through the shelter and work towards stable housing solutions. By offering opportunities for play, learning, and emotional growth, this space will enhance the quality of life for both children and caregivers, reducing stress and promoting family connection on their journey from homelessness to home,” Development and Communication Associate, Katrina Webster shares. 20 24
Throughout the year, the Portside Foundation and participating Portside agents donate 1% of top line revenue to local nonprofits supporting systemic Maine problems. These issues include: education, generational poverty + affordable housing, substance abuse, limited access to medical care, and food insecurity.
OUR CONTRIBUTIONS AT WORK: MEET TEDFORD HOUSING
Tedford Housing provides emergency homeless shelter, supportive housing for previously homeless families and individuals and offers homeless prevention services. Portside’s 1% Back to Maine granted Tedford Housing a $7,500 grant to support the construction of an outdoor recreation area, including a playground, to serve children and parents living at Tedford’s new emergency shelter for families.
Tedford Housing Playground Conceptual Views
Birth Roots Center I $10,000
This grant will be used to help to expand community-based prenatal and postnatal programming and support for new and expectant parents.
Valo | $10,000
This grant will help to proactively, positively impact emotional wellbeing, resiliency, relationships, communication, and feelings of community belonging in Westbrook youth.
Tedford Housing I $7,500
This grant will help to build an outdoor recreation area, including a playground, to serve children and parents living at Tedford’s new emergency shelter for families.
Girls on the Run I $ 10,000
This grant will help inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running.
Teens to Trails I $10,000
This grant will help fund Outdoor Clubs to connect the students of Greater Portland to the powerful benefits of spending time together outside.
The Family Restored I $4,000
To increase our capacity to provide support services to families affected by addiction by aiding adults, teens and individuals with substance use disorder.
Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Southern Maine I $10,000
This grant will help fund community events that provide crucial opportunities for shared experiences, skill-building, and network expansion, enriching the lives of both youth and volunteers.
MAMM Maine Academy of Modern Music I $8,950
This grant will be used to repair or replace music equipment in order to enhance our youth education programs and expand arts access in Greater Portland.
Kidspeace I $5,000
This grant will help fund afterschool peer engagement activities to youth receiving supportive family services to support therapeutic goals related to safe community engagement and social skill building.
Maine Association for New Americans I $10,000
This grant will help fund outdoor retreats to allow immigrant Middle Schoolers to explore Maine's outdoor recreation opportunities with leaders of color in a safe environment.
Foundation for Portland Public Schools I $12,000
To help fund projects related to for health and wellness care for Portland students.
Midcoast Community Alliance I $10,000
This grant will help to encourage substanceimpacted youth to work together to live a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.
Restorative Justice Institute of Maine I $10,000
Prioritizes proactively educating and training youth in conflict mediation and restorative practices. Their contract with the department of corrections in York and other counties allows them to assist in diverting youth away from the criminal legal system.
Community Dental I $10,000
Is a local leader in accessible oral healthcare providing crucial services to low-income households. This grant will help fund the expansion of their orthodontic program, which will serve nearly 500 children in the coming year.
Kids Free to Grow I $10,000
This grant will help provide abuse prevention programs for children and parents. Programs include Nurturing Parenting, Healthy Relationships, Community Awareness sessions, and Mandated Reporter Training.
ANDROSCOGGIN & PENOBSCOT COUNTIES
Tree Street Youth | $2,500
This grant helps fund programs for SocialEmotional Learning for Lewiston Children PreK to 5th Grade.
New Beginnings | $5,000
This grant helps to provide shelter, housing, food/basic needs, case management/access to health care, and educational support for Lewiston-Auburn youth experiencing homelessness.
Generational Noor | $6,000
This grant helps to build a support system for BIPOC and immigrant communities throughout Maine by helping with the destigmatizing of conversation regarding substance use disorder and mental health.
OHI | $10,000
To sustain operations at the Brewer Area Food Pantry for food insecure people in the Greater Bangor area.
Maine Childrens Home for Little Wanderers I $10,000
This grant will help young parents navigate a safe path to positive parenting, understand their own self-worth, and make positive connections with their children and the community.
Camp Kita Inc. I $10,000
These funds will help to prevent suicide by building intentional environments to foster connections and lifelong engagement with mental wellness.
Friends of Long Creek I $10,000
This grant will help provide programs directed toward returning youth in the Maine criminal system to their communities as productive citizens.
Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance I $10,000
This grant will help to co-design and develop data-informed professional learning for educators to support high-quality environmental learning opportunities for Maine youth.
Chase House | $2,100
The Chase Home’s mission has been dedicated to supporting youth and families. They are committed to providing trauma-informed residential and communitybased support services to at-risk youth and their families.
Victoria’s Victory Fight | $2,100
VVF is a 501 C 3 dedicated to providing assistance with the day to day needs of those living with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and other mobility related disabilities caused by an injury or diagnosis.
MAINE STATEWIDE
SAGADAHOC
FRIENDS OF LONG CREEK
TO LEARN MORE VISIT 1% BACK TO MAINE'S WEBSITE
$1.1 BILLION IN SALES
INDIE BROKERAGE
$1,000,000 MILESTONE for portside foundation + 1% back to maine 1863 UNITS SOLD #1
$270,000+ GIVEN BACK to our communities
OUR YEAR #2 OVERALL BROKERAGE in Maine #2 IN MAINE MULTI-FAMILY SALES #1 LIST PRICE TO SOLD PRICE of the top 10 Maine brokerages with lowest days on market
LOWEST DAYS ON MARKET for $1M+ of top 10 brokerages EXPERTS IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE
BELGRADE LAKES #1 for volume sold + units (buyers + sellers) IN MAINE for luxury sales #2 26% market share
INDIE IN ME for luxury sales #1 MIDCOAST #1 in SAGADAHOC COUNTY 1 in 6 properties sold by a Portside Agent
