The Absorption rate is roughly how long it will take the current homes on the market to sell.  It’s an estimate, based on the current number of lisings and sales.   Because those two factors fluctuate from month to month, absorption rate is a rough estimate. 

As of March 31, the absorption rate in Frederick County was down to 10 months, from a high of 16 months in the December.  That is a good sign for the market. 

An absorption rate of about six months indicates a balanced real estate market.  Balanced means a market that does not favor the buyer or the seller.  An absorption rate of less than six months indicates a seller’s market.  An absorption rate of more than 6 months indicates a buyer’s market.  We had a seller’s market for several years, in the last two years we have seen a buyer’s market.  It is still a buyers market but, hopefully, it’s coming closer to a more balanced market.  

In order to see a more balanced marketin Frederick County, we have to see the inventory come down, somewhere around 1200; it is currently at about 2200.  (A combination of more sales and fewer overpriced listings would be my dream ticket:) 

To compare Frederick real estate market statistics and absorption rates from month to month.  To see Maryland market statistics, go to: