Market & Moments: Momentum May Pick Up; Beware of Ice Dams

Welcome to our monthly Burlington, MA real estate market update! If you’ve ever wondered, “So… how’s the market?”...this series is for you. This month, we’re taking a look back at what happened in the first month of 2026 in the Burlington real estate market.

Market Snapshot at a Glance: January 2026 Stats vs January 2025

The Burlington, MA real estate market kicked off January with 8 homes sold. Here are the highlights:

• Median days to accept an offer: 5 (versus 8 in 2025)
• Median sale price: $790,500k (vs. $925k)
• Homes sold: 8 (7 homes sold in Jan 2025)

January home sales typically reflect purchase agreements signed toward the end of the previous year, and early activity in Burlington points to a slow start to 2026. Only 5 homes went under contract in January, a decline of nearly 45 percent compared with the same period last year. That slowdown closely mirrors the number of new listings entering the Burlington market, which fell 44 percent over the same timeframe. While the pace is muted, and not unusual given the large snowbanks on every corner, there are signs of growing momentum ahead. In the final week of January, the Mortgage Bankers Association reported an 18 percent increase in new purchase mortgage applications, suggesting buyers are beginning to prepare for the spring market.

Fun Burlington Stats January 2026

• The least expensive home sold was this 2 bedroom gambrel for $500k
• For just under the median sale price, someone bought this ranch in need of updating for  $751k.
• The most expensive home sold was this new construction 5 bedroom colonial for $1.835M.

Lower Interest Rates Bring More Buyers Into Marketplace

Mortgage rates are hovering just above 6% right now, down almost a point from the same time period last year.  Lower rates bring more home buyers into the marketplace and we’re seeing that with increased mortgage purchase applications. 

Homeowner Tip of the Month: Ice Dams

During winter, heavy icicles or ice buildup along the edges of a roof can be a warning sign of ice dams. Ice dams form when heat escaping from a home melts snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves. This creates a barrier that traps water and can force it back under shingles and into the home.

Homeowners often first notice the problem indoors. Water stains on ceilings or walls, peeling paint, or leaks during snow melt are common red flags. Outside, thick ice along gutters or excessive icicles may signal that water is not draining properly.

If ice dams appear, it’s important to act quickly but carefully. Chipping away ice can damage roofing materials and should be avoided. Removing excess snow from the roof with a roof rake and keeping gutters clear can help reduce further buildup. If water is entering the home, professional steam removal is the safest solution.

Long-term prevention focuses on sealing attic air leaks, improving insulation, and ensuring proper ventilation to help maintain even roof temperatures and prevent ice dams from forming in the future.

Ice dams can cause serious water damage if left untreated. Early attention and proper prevention can help homeowners protect their homes through the winter season

Celebrity Home of the Month

The late Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman lived in a gorgeous 6 bedroom, 10 bathroom compound perched on a hilltop that overlooks Colorado and the Jemez Mountains. The New Mexico home was listed for $6.3M and spans over 53 acres. 

➔ check it out here