Long Island Real Estate Sees Unexpected Fall Surge

The Long Island real estate market is experiencing an unusual and strong surge this fall. Experts note a significant increase in buyer activity and bidding wars, especially for move-in-ready homes. This trend defies typical seasonal slowdowns and points to a competitive market environment.

Long Island Market Feels Like Spring

Alana Benjamin, an agent with COMPASS Manhasset, observed a surprising level of activity. She described the fall of 2025 as feeling like spring in several Long Island markets. Bidding wars have returned, and open houses are seeing many active buyers.

This is different from a typical September. Normally, the fall market starts slowly. There are usually some active buyers, but also many who are just looking without immediate plans to make offers. This year, Benjamin noted a pleasant surprise in the number of truly ready buyers.

"At all price points we are seeing a surprising amount of activity for the fall market; it just seems much busier than a typical September," said Alana Benjamin.

Buyers are motivated to move. Some are relocating from New York City due to rising rents. Others are expanding their families and need more space. The fall 2024 market was good, but it felt calmer overall. Fall 2025 is more dynamic, and Benjamin hopes this energy will continue into 2026.

Demand for Turnkey Homes Drives Sales

Tara Fox of Daniel Gale Sotheby’s International Realty in Greenvale highlighted a clear trend: buyers prefer turnkey, renovated, move-in-ready homes. These properties feature modern kitchens, updated bathrooms, new flooring, and well-maintained systems, including roofs and HVAC.

Buyers want homes where they can move in immediately without major updates or repairs. Even small improvements, like fresh paint or new lighting, make a home more appealing. In the past, buyers might have planned renovations after closing. Today, many buyers are unwilling to take on that risk or expense.

Homes continue to sell for more than their asking price, with sold-to-list ratios above 100%. Inventory remains tight, with just over three months of supply. However, these numbers show a divide. The best-presented and correctly priced homes sell quickly. Properties needing work or priced too high stay on the market longer.

Seller Strategies for Success

Looking ahead, presentation and pricing will be crucial for sellers. They can no longer rely only on location or lot size. Today's buyers expect homes that match their lifestyle. Sellers who invest in thoughtful updates and smart pricing strategies will attract more attention and achieve better results.

Luxury Market Resilience and Quick Sales

Irene Rallis of Douglas Elliman Manhasset noted the surprising resilience of buyer demand in the North Shore luxury market. This holds true even with higher interest rates and economic uncertainty. The biggest change has been how quickly updated, move-in-ready luxury homes are selling. Often, these properties receive multiple offers.

Limited inventory also helps keep prices strong across several neighborhoods. Buyers are acting decisively when the right home appears. This is especially true for homes with modern design, high-end finishes, or a turnkey experience.

"What stands out is that buyers are showing less hesitation than expected—they’re willing to move decisively when the right home comes along," stated Irene Rallis.

Rallis sees two key trends shaping the future market. First, sellers who prepare and present their homes well will continue to achieve excellent results. Second, buyers will need to stay agile and act fast to compete for the best properties.

Secondary Vacation Home Market Changes

Ryan Springer of The Corcoran Group Cutchogue observed a significant shift in the secondary vacation home market. Buyers are no longer seeking fixer-uppers or rustic properties. Instead, they want modern homes with the latest amenities and a true move-in-ready status.

Features like state-of-the-art kitchens, resort-style pools, and well-designed outdoor living spaces are now essential. Convenience is very important. Buyers are willing to pay top dollar for homes that offer all these features without needing renovations.

Turnkey homes that combine modern design with luxury amenities are in highest demand. This reflects a lifestyle-driven approach where relaxation and enjoyment can start immediately. This also creates opportunities for investors who renovate existing properties for resale.

For current homeowners, investing in upgrades that improve their quality of life in the short term can also pay off financially later, if done well. This shift highlights a preference for immediate gratification and high-quality living in vacation properties.

Nassau County Remains Active and Competitive

Claudia Alvarez of The Agency Bay Shore reported that Nassau County’s housing market remains active and competitive this fall. The median sale price for single-family homes has risen to about $875,000. Homes continue to sell at or above asking price.

Properties are selling quickly, averaging just 35 days on the market. This reflects continued buyer demand. However, inventory remains low. Both active listings and new listings are down compared to last year. This tight supply puts upward pressure on prices, especially in high-demand areas.

As borrowing costs decrease slightly, more buyers may enter the market. However, affordability remains a major concern, as rising prices strain many budgets. Nassau County has also seen an increase in foreclosure filings, indicating financial stress for some homeowners.

The direction of interest rates, the volume of new listings, and broader economic conditions will heavily influence the market this fall. While the market still favors sellers, changing factors might create opportunities for buyers. This could happen if rates continue to soften or if inventory increases. Expert guidance and local insights are important for anyone navigating this market.