The calendar may say January, but the real estate market across Aquidneck Island and greater Newport County is behaving as if spring arrived early. The start of 2026 has carried an unmistakable sense of urgency, and in conversations with colleagues locally and throughout Rhode Island, the message has been consistent. Buyers who spent much of last year waiting are no longer on the sidelines.
From the first days of the new year, activity has come in fast. Listing appointments have filled the calendar, buyer consultations are stacking up, and inquiries are arriving with a level of decisiveness that typically does not show itself until much later in the season. There is a palpable sense that households who paused in 2024 and early 2025 have reached a tipping point, and that demand is now being released all at once.
That momentum is already translating into real transactions. Just this week, I’ve gone on a number of listing appointments and set up buyer consultations with new clients.
What makes this moment especially notable is that it is unfolding alongside renewed national discussion around interest rates and economic stability. While no one can predict policy with certainty, there is growing optimism that the narrative may shift in a way that further encourages consumer confidence. When motivation, clarity, and preparation align, markets tend to move quickly, and all signs suggest that spring 2026 could deliver exactly that kind of environment.
For buyers, the early start means competition is already here. Homes that are well priced and well positioned are drawing attention immediately, and preparedness matters more than ever. Working with a licensed professional and securing a pre approval with a trusted local lender or bank can make the difference between reacting to the market and leading within it.
For sellers, the window to get ahead of the curve is now. Pre listing preparation, a clear understanding of fair market value, and a thoughtful timeline are essential in an environment where buyers are decisive and inventory remains selective. Those who prepare early are often the ones who benefit most when momentum accelerates.
The opening weeks of 2026 are sending a clear signal. This is not a market warming up. It is already moving…
For insight into recent sales, perspective on current conditions, or to schedule a conversation, reach out directly to Tyler Bernadyn, the number one REMAX agent in Rhode Island for 2025 and President of the Newport County Board of Realtors. He can be reached at 401-241-1851 or TylerB@resultswithremax.com.
Here’s a look at What Sold since the start of the year in Newport County.
Middletown
• 19 Cows Path
Raised Ranch · 3 Beds · 2 Baths
Sold for $609,900 · 83 Days on Market
• 16 King Road
Cape Cod · 3 Beds · 1 Bath
Sold for $427,500 · 35 Days on Market
Newport
• 113 2nd Street
Cottage · 4 Beds · 2 Baths
Sold for $860,000 · 67 Days on Market
• 50 East Bowery Street
Bungalow · 3 Beds · 1 Bath · 1 Garage
Sold for $590,000 · 41 Days on Market
• 58 Connection Street
Cottage · 2 Beds · 1 Bath · 1 Garage
Sold for $550,000 · 2 Days on Market
Portsmouth
• 92 Harvest Drive
Cape Cod · 4 Beds · 3 Baths · 2 Garages
Sold for $1,620,000 · 44 Days on Market
• 30 Hamilton Drive
Colonial · 4 Beds · 2 Baths · 1 Garage
Sold for $1,460,000 · 82 Days on Market
• 134 Greenfield Avenue
Cottage · 2 Beds · 2 Baths
Sold for $960,000 · 72 Days on Market
• 45 Narragansett Avenue
Cottage · 2 Beds · 1 Bath
Sold for $500,000 · 14 Days on Market
Tiverton
• 420 Cottrell Road
Colonial · 3 Beds · 2 Baths · 1 Garage
Sold for $750,000 · 26 Days on Market
• 235 Kearns Avenue
Ranch / Split-Level (Attached) · 3 Beds · 2 Baths · 1 Garage
Sold for $622,500 · 6 Days on Market
• 100 Furey Avenue
Raised Ranch · 3 Beds · 1 Bath · 1 Garage
Sold for $417,000 · 46 Days on Market
• 171 Leeshore Lane
Townhouse · 2 Beds · 2 Baths · 1 Garage
Sold for $1,485,000 · 210 Days on Market
