As daylight savings time ends and the sun now sets around 5:00 p.m., we feel the true transition into winter. With shorter days ahead and the warmth of holiday lights beginning to glow, it’s a beautiful reminder of the season of reflection, togetherness—and yes, real estate opportunity.
This week in Stillwater, the market continues its steady pace with:
•7 new listings
•6 homes going under contract
•57 active listings in total
•Market Action Index (MAI) remains strong at 47—solidly indicating a seller’s market
Even though Thanksgiving is next on the calendar, the early signs of Christmas are everywhere. Stores are already brimming with décor and toy displays, and many homes are now showing their best—decked out in holiday cheer and warmth.
For those wondering whether this is a “good time” to buy or sell—here’s why the answer is a resounding yes:
•Interest rates are beginning to come down
•Buyer competition is lower, offering more leverage and opportunity
•Active buyers are highly motivated, and sellers listing now are typically more serious as well
It’s truly a win-win situation for those who make the move before year-end.
📊 Current Stillwater Stats:
•Median List Price: $825,000
•Median Price of New Listings: $677,450
•Average Days on Market: 78
•Inventory: 45 (down from 57, indicating increasing absorption)
•Median Rent: $2,853
In short, while pricing has plateaued, buyer demand remains high, inventory is tightening, and the holiday season offers a golden window for meaningful real estate activity.
Whether you're ready to list or looking to make a move, now is a strategic time to act.
About Richard
Richard McDonough is a top-producing real estate broker in Stillwater & Wasington County Minnesota reaching into Western Wisconsin, specializing in luxury homes, waterfront properties, and distinctive estates throughout the St. Croix Valley With more than 33 years of experience, Richard has built a reputation for integrity, innovation, and results, making him one of the most trusted and recognized Realtors in the region.
As a fourth-generation Stillwater resident, Richard combines deep local roots with global reach through his affiliation with Lakes Sotheby’s International Realty. His expertise spans the area’s most sought-after communities — from Stillwater and Lake Elmo to Woodbury, Afton, Marine on St. Croix, Mahtomedi, Grant, and Dellwood — along with select Wisconsin river towns such as Hudson and Prescott.
Richard is known for delivering a “Luxury Plus” marketing approach that goes beyond traditional real estate services. Every listing receives a personalized strategy with professional staging, high-end photography, drone video tours, and targeted digital campaigns across Google, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. His ability to tell each home’s unique story consistently attracts qualified buyers and maximizes value for sellers.
In addition to his track record of selling some of the St. Croix Valley’s most prestigious properties, Richard is deeply engaged in his community. He serves on local nonprofit boards, volunteers for events like Home Town for the Holidays, and is dedicated to supporting the Stillwater area’s vibrancy.
Clients describe Richard as experienced, resourceful, and innovative — a true advocate who handles every detail of the buying and selling process with professionalism and care. Whether helping first-time buyers, seasoned investors, or high-net-worth individuals, Richard’s mission is to make every real estate experience seamless, rewarding, and successful.
