What's Happening in Boston Real Estate This Summer — Plus a Few Things We're Loving Right Now
Summer in Boston is never slow — and that's especially true in real estate right now. Whether you're thinking about buying, selling, or simply keeping a close eye on the market, here's what we're seeing on the ground.
The Market, Mid-Summer 2026
The Boston market is doing something interesting: it's splitting in two.
Well-priced, well-presented homes are still moving fast — often with multiple offers. Meanwhile, anything overpriced is sitting, and sellers are learning that lesson the hard way. Inventory has loosened up meaningfully, with around 2,860 active listings across the city and roughly 6.9 months of supply, which gives buyers more breathing room than we've seen in recent years.
The citywide median sale price is hovering around $852,000, and mortgage rates have come down a bit — currently around 6.47% on a 30-year fixed, down from nearly 7% a year ago. That movement is nudging some buyers off the sidelines.
On the luxury side, the neighborhoods we work in — Back Bay, Beacon Hill, South End, Seaport — remain highly competitive. Luxury prices are up roughly 2.5–5% year over year, and cash buyers continue to have a real edge in that segment. If you've been waiting for the right moment, this is a market that rewards being prepared.
We're always happy to talk through what this means for your specific situation — whether you're a buyer, seller, or investor.
25 Upton Street | South End | Off-Market
New Construction · 3 Duplex Residences · Union Park District
This is one of those opportunities that doesn't show up on Zillow.
We're representing three exceptional duplex residences at 25 Upton Street in the heart of the South End's coveted Union Park District — and they're only available off-market. The building is a complete gut renovation of a six-story brownstone: demolished to the brick, rebuilt entirely new.
Three distinct residences to choose from:
Garden Duplex — 2,156 sq ft | 3 bed / 2.5 bath | Private rear patio + balcony
Midrise Duplex — 1,771 sq ft | 3 bed / 2.5 bath | Parlor-level location, herringbone oak floors
Penthouse Duplex — 2,160 sq ft | 3 bed / 2.5 bath | 20'×23' roof deck with Boston skyline views
Every residence features Miele appliances, Grohe fixtures, Mitsubishi heat-pump HVAC (no fossil fuels), custom white oak flooring, designer millwork, a fireplace, wet bar, deeded parking, and in-unit washer/dryer. Occupancy Spring 2027.
The Design Team
25 Upton is the result of a thoughtful collaboration between Rachelle Hall of RST Interiors and a developer with a longstanding history of creating exceptional homes in the South End. Bringing together deep expertise in architecture and construction with RST Interiors' focus on interior architecture, materiality, and finish selection, the partnership was guided by a shared commitment to craftsmanship, timeless design, and enduring quality.
As a complete gut renovation, the project reimagines the home from the inside out — preserving its character while introducing a refined, contemporary sensibility. Every design decision was made to create a cohesive architectural foundation, allowing future homeowners to layer in their own furnishings, art, textiles, and personal style over time.
The Developer
Behind the project is Lewis Legon, founder of Renaissance Investments and a well-known name in the South End for over two decades. In Lewis's words:
"I founded Renaissance Real Estate Investments 23 years ago. As the founder, I personally value openness and direct communication. Our architects — Pitman and Wardley Associates — have been with me from the beginning, and Kennedy Design Build has been our general contractor for many years. Kennedy has a quality reputation in and around Boston, with particular expertise in brownstone renovations. Over the years we have forged relationships with some of the best tradesmen and women around. I believe this is the heart and soul of any successful project."
The team behind 25 Upton isn't assembled for this job — they've been working together for years. That continuity shows in the craftsmanship.
These residences won't be listed publicly. If you or someone you know has been looking for something truly special in the South End, reach out directly to our team.
Coming Soon: 11 Claremont Park, Unit 1 | South End
Few addresses in Boston carry the quiet prestige of Claremont Park. This gas-lit, Victorian street in the South End is the kind of block you walk by and think, I want to live here. Unit 1 at No. 11 is coming to market soon — steps to the Southwest Corridor, the city's best restaurants, and the Back Bay, with old-Boston charm all around you.
3 BD · 3 BA · 1,760 sq ft · Deeded Parking Condominium · South End, Boston
New Rentals in Southie (Both Also Available for Sale)
Two exceptional rental opportunities are now available in South Boston — perfect for anyone relocating, in between homes, or looking for an elevated living experience without the full commitment of buying right now.
844 E. 4th St, Unit 2 | $6,950/month
3 bed / 3 bath | ~2,400 sq ft
Scale, style, and location — this one has it all. Set in South Boston's coveted City Point, this expansive home features an open-concept living and dining area, a sleek kitchen, and a primary suite with dual vanities and a custom walk-in closet. Private outdoor space, two-car parking (EV charging may be available), and two blocks to the beach. City Point living at its best.
760 E. Broadway, PH | $8,000/month
4 bed / 2.5 bath | ~1,609 sq ft
This one stops you in your tracks. Dramatic 20+ ft vaulted ceilings, herringbone floors, and custom designer finishes set the tone — and a chef's kitchen with Thermador appliances, quartz countertops, and a wine fridge delivers. The private roof deck with sweeping city views is the closer. The primary suite features a walk-through closet, spa bath, and its own private deck. Skylights, radiant heated floors, custom closets, and exceptional indoor-outdoor flow throughout. Parking available nearby.
Caroline's Pick: The Tall Ships Are Here
Our own Caroline Barry (@MakeBostonHome) has the inside scoop on one of the coolest things to happen in this city in a decade. 60+ tall ships from 20+ countries have sailed into Boston Harbor to celebrate America's 250th — and it's free to board through July 15th. Fireworks, a festival at Northern Ave, and views you won't forget.
This is exactly why we love living here.
Questions about the Boston market, any of these properties, or what your home might be worth right now? We'd love to hear from you. Reach out to the Steph Crawford Group anytime.
