A Guide from Counsellors Title Agency, Toms River, NJ
In today’s unpredictable economic climate, both buyers and sellers are asking: Which real estate markets hold up best when the broader economy gets shaky? At Counsellors Title Agency, we’ve seen firsthand that some markets weather storms better than others. Here’s what makes a market more resilient—and what that means for homeowners and investors in Toms River and beyond.
What Makes a Market Resilient?
Research and industry data highlight several key characteristics of real estate markets that are more resistant to dramatic price swings:
- Diverse Local Economy: Markets supported by multiple industries (like healthcare, education, and technology) are less likely to see sharp downturns if one sector falters. Cities reliant on a single industry, such as tourism, are more vulnerable to economic shocks
- Population Growth & Housing Shortage: Areas with steady population increases and limited housing supply tend to maintain strong demand, supporting stable prices even during downturns
- Strong Rental Demand & Low Vacancy Rates: Markets where rental properties are in high demand and vacancies are low provide a cushion against falling home values, as rental income remains steady
- Affordability & Moderate Price Growth: Markets that haven’t experienced runaway price growth are less prone to sharp corrections. Steady, sustainable appreciation is a sign of long-term stability
Nationally Recognized Stable Markets
A recent analysis of U.S. housing stability found that states like South Dakota, Oklahoma, Alaska, Iowa, and Vermont have rarely seen home prices drop more than 5% over the past 25 years. Among large metro areas, Buffalo (NY), Oklahoma City (OK), and Pittsburgh (PA) have shown exceptional resilience, with virtually no risk of significant price drops for homeowners during that period
How Does Toms River, NJ Stack Up?
Toms River and similar communities in New Jersey offer several features that support market stability:
- Consistent Demand: Toms River remains a competitive market, with homes selling quickly—often within a month—and many attracting multiple offers
- Steady Appreciation: Over the last decade, Toms River’s home values have appreciated at an annual average of 7.23%, ranking among the top 40% nationwide. Even during national downturns, local appreciation rates have remained strong, with recent annual gains exceeding 10%
- Balanced Inventory: While inventory has fluctuated, the market has not seen the oversupply that typically precedes sharp price drops. Recent months have shown a healthy increase in available homes, but demand continues to keep pace
- Desirable Location: Proximity to the Jersey Shore, good schools, and a strong sense of community help maintain buyer interest and support property values
Why Real Estate Is Less Volatile Than Other Investments
Unlike stocks, which can be sold in seconds and are subject to daily swings, real estate transactions take time. This longer hold period insulates the market from short-term panic, resulting in slower, steadier price movements. Private real estate investments, in particular, are less correlated with the stock market and offer smoother returns during periods of economic uncertainty.
About Counsellors Title Agency
We are an award-winning agency and one of New Jersey’s leading title insurance businesses, based in Toms River. Counsellors is known for its team of knowledgeable service professionals recognized for its exceptional title, settlement and escrow services, for all 21 New Jersey counties. Its glitch-free signature service provides confidence to home buyers, sellers, and industry professionals. The knowledge base of its staff has processed over $17 billion in orders and established itself as a pillar of trust and benchmark of excellence within the real estate community.