The Malvern, PA housing market continues to be a highly competitive and desirable area within Chester County, known for its excellent schools (particularly the Great Valley School District), charming downtown, and convenient access to the Philadelphia Main Line.

As of May/June 2025, the market exhibits a fascinating blend of strong demand and increasing inventory. The median list price in May 2025 was around $939,997, though this reflects a notable 13.5% decrease year-over-year, possibly indicating a recalibration of initial asking prices after a period of rapid appreciation. Conversely, the median sold price for homes was $900,000 in May 2025, suggesting that properties are still closing at high values.

Malvern is currently described as a balanced market, meaning supply and demand are roughly equal. However, the pace of sales remains incredibly swift, with homes spending an average of just 48 days on the market—a significant drop from the previous year. This rapid turnover is further highlighted by homes frequently selling for around, or even slightly above, their asking price.

Inventory has seen a notable increase, with 89 homes for sale in May 2025, nearly double the previous month's figures. This rise provides buyers with more options, potentially easing some of the intense competition experienced in recent years. Despite the increased supply, Malvern's fundamental appeal ensures it remains a robust and attractive market for both buyers and sellers.

Malvern, PA, a highly desirable borough in Chester County, showcases a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Its housing market reflects this unique character, with several popular home trends:

1. New Construction and Luxury Custom Homes: Malvern is experiencing significant growth in new construction, particularly luxury custom homes. Builders like Toll Brothers and Moser Homes are active, offering a variety of floor plans (from 1,800 to over 5,000 sq ft) with high-end finishes. These homes often feature:
   
   • Timeless Styles: Combining classic elements with modern touches, aiming for elegant, relevant, and sophisticated spaces that use high-quality materials and well-proportioned layouts.
   • Multifunctional Spaces: Rooms that can easily transform from a home office to a gym or entertainment area, reflecting a need for flexibility and convenience.
   • Biophilic Designs: Integrating natural elements like indoor plants, water features, abundant natural light (large windows), and materials like wood and stone to create calming and healthy environments.
   • Wellness Rooms: Dedicated spaces for health and relaxation, including spa-like bathrooms, meditation areas, and custom home gyms. Features like circadian lighting and air purifiers are also popular.
   • Outdoor Living Spaces: Seamless integration of indoor and outdoor areas with features like outdoor kitchens, designer gardens, and integrated landscape lighting, designed for entertaining and relaxation.
2. Traditional Architectural Styles: Given Malvern's history, you'll find a wide range of architectural styles. Common historical styles that remain popular, often with modern updates, include:
   
   • Colonial Revival: A classic and enduring style, often seen in newer developments, blending traditional aesthetics with modern layouts.
   • Cape Cods: Charming and often compact, these are still prevalent in the area.
   • Split-Levels: A popular mid-20th-century design, offering distinct living zones.
   • Craftsman-style homes: Characterized by their handcrafted elements and natural materials.
   • Historic Stone Farmhouses: While fewer in number, these original structures are highly sought after for their unique character and history, often undergoing meticulous renovations.
3. Renovations and Upgrades of Existing Homes: Many homes in Malvern were built before 2000, so a significant trend is homeowners choosing designs that complement their home's existing architectural style while incorporating modern desires. This includes:
   
   • Open Concept Layouts: Knocking down walls to create larger, more fluid living, dining, and kitchen areas.
   • Updated Kitchens and Bathrooms: High-end appliances, custom cabinetry, natural stone countertops, and spa-like bathroom features are in high demand.
   • Energy Efficiency: Upgrades to windows (e.g., vinyl or fiberglass for better insulation), HVAC systems, and smart home technology for energy savings and convenience.
   • Curb Appeal Enhancements: Investing in landscaping, new entry doors (wood, fiberglass, or steel), and durable exterior materials like brick, stone, or James Hardie siding.
4. Desire for Spacious Properties: Malvern offers a mix of lot sizes, but there's a strong demand for homes on larger properties, especially those that provide serenity and privacy. This is particularly evident in areas bordering more rural townships.
   
5. Proximity to Amenities and Schools: The desire for homes in the highly-rated Great Valley School District remains a driving trend. Buyers also seek properties with convenient access to Malvern's walkable downtown, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, balancing a suburban feel with community accessibility.
   

In summary, Malvern's home trends reflect its status as an upscale Chester County community. Buyers are looking for a mix of classic charm and modern luxury, with a strong emphasis on quality construction, smart design, and desirable locations within excellent school districts.

The oldest home in or near Malvern, PA, is believed to be the Great Valley House of Valley Forge, with its earliest part attributed to circa 1690. This conclusion is based on architectural features like a pre-1700 stone sink built into a wall. The first known legal resident, Thomas James, resided there in 1720 and built a significant portion of the house.

• Victorian Charm: Malvern's Borough reflects its Victorian-era roots with many Victorian facades in its business district, Victorian street lamps, and brick pavers.
• The Paoli Massacre: A significant historical event, the Paoli Massacre of September 20, 1777, occurred near Malvern during the American Revolutionary War. The preserved battlefield and a monument are located in Malvern.
• "The Blob" Connection: The iconic 1958 horror film "The Blob," starring Steve McQueen, was filmed in and around Malvern and nearby communities.
• Walkable Downtown: Malvern boasts a charming and pedestrian-friendly downtown area along King Street, featuring historic architecture, shops, and restaurants.
• Excellent Schools: Malvern is served by the highly-regarded Great Valley School District, known for its strong academic programs. The area also has numerous public and private schools, including traditional prep schools like Episcopal Academy and Malvern Prep.‍
• Proximity to Valley Forge: Malvern is close to Valley Forge National Historical Park, offering residents and visitors ample opportunities for hiking, exploring historical sites, and enjoying nature.

• Mikal Bridges: A well-known NBA basketball player.
• Frank Spellman: An Olympic gold medalist weightlifter.
• Adam McKay: A prominent director, producer, entertainer, and former head writer for Saturday Night Live.
• Jim Croce: (Though born elsewhere, had strong ties to the region) A beloved folk and rock singer-songwriter.
• Sue Galloway: An actress.
• Harry Hiestand: A collegiate and professional football coach.
• Bill Jenkins: A drag racer known as "Grumpy."

• The Desmond Malvern, a DoubleTree by Hilton: A full-service hotel that offers ballrooms and meeting spaces for weddings, corporate events, and other large gatherings.
• White Manor Country Club: A country club with facilities for banquets, social events, and corporate meetings.
• The Farmhouse at The People's Light & Theatre Company: While The People's Light & Theatre is primarily a theater, their "Farmhouse" offers a charming venue for events.‍
• The Vault Event Venue: Another event hall in the area designed for memorable celebrations.

• Malvern Blooms Festival: A popular spring festival celebrating flowers, crafts, food, and live music.
• Malvern's Victorian Christmas: A festive holiday event featuring a tree lighting, carriage rides, and various holiday activities.
• First Fridays: Similar to Coatesville, Malvern often hosts "First Friday" events, bringing extended shopping hours and special promotions to its downtown area.
• Malvern Community Day: An annual event, typically held in August at Burke Community Park, bringing residents together for fun and celebration.
• Movie Nights in Burke Park: Outdoor movie screenings during warmer months.
• Monster Mash Halloween Celebration: A festive event around Halloween.
• Memorial Day Parade: A traditional parade to honor veterans.

Paoli Battlefield Historic Park: A significant historical landmark commemorating the 1777 Battle of Paoli during the American Revolutionary War. It's a preserved 44-acre site with a self-guided walking tour.

Great Valley House of Valley Forge: As mentioned above, a historic home dating back to the late 17th century, representing early Welsh settlement.

St. Peter's Church in the Great Valley: A historic church whose original log structure was built in 1710.

General Warren Inne: Another historic inn dating back to the Revolutionary War era, originally owned by the Penn family.

Chester Valley Trail: While a recreational asset, this trail system, which runs through Malvern, is a notable feature connecting communities and providing opportunities for walking and cycling.

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