DMV Housing Market Trends: What Buyers & Sellers Need to Know Right Now

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in Washington, DC, Maryland, or Virginia, you’ve probably seen a lot of confusing headlines about the housing market.

Some say prices are crashing.
Others say it’s still competitive everywhere.

The truth is more nuanced, and very local.

Here’s what’s actually happening in the DMV housing market, and what it means for you as a buyer or seller.

The Big Picture: A More Selective Market

Across the DMV, the market has shifted away from the frenzy of past years — but it hasn’t stalled.

What we’re seeing instead is a selective market:

• Well-priced homes in strong locations are still selling

• Overpriced or poorly presented homes are sitting longer

• Buyers are more cautious, but still active

This means strategy matters more than timing.

Washington, DC: Still Competitive — But Smarter

In DC, demand remains strong, especially in walkable neighborhoods and desirable school districts.

Key trends in DC:

• Buyers are taking more time before making offers

• Condos and single-family homes are behaving differently

• Negotiations, inspections, and seller credits are back

Homes that are priced correctly and show well continue to attract serious buyers. Those that don’t are often seeing price adjustments.

Maryland: Value, Space, and Flexibility

Maryland continues to attract buyers looking for more space and better value compared to DC.

What we’re seeing in Maryland:

• Strong interest from buyers relocating from DC

• Suburban areas performing well

• More flexibility with pricing and terms in certain communities

Maryland is especially appealing for buyers who want room to grow without sacrificing access to the city.

Northern Virginia: Demand Driven by Location & Commute

Northern Virginia remains one of the most competitive areas in the DMV, particularly for buyers focused on commute access and employment hubs.

Current trends include:

• Continued demand near major transit and job centers

• Interest in newer construction and townhomes

• Fewer bidding wars, but steady pricing

Buyers here are more intentional, but well-positioned homes still move quickly.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re buying in the DMV right now, this market offers opportunities, if you’re prepared.

Smart buyer strategies include:

• Focusing on total cost, not just interest rates

• Being open to negotiation where appropriate

• Prioritizing location and long-term value

This is one of the better environments we’ve seen in recent years to buy without rushing.

What This Means for Sellers

For sellers, pricing and presentation are more important than ever.

Key seller takeaways:

• Overpricing is no longer forgiven

• First impressions matter again

• The first two weeks on the market are critical

Homes that are positioned correctly are still selling, but strategy matters.

Why Local Expertise Matters in the DMV

National headlines don’t reflect how different neighborhoods behave across DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Each market, and even each price point, tells a different story. That’s why local guidance can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.

Final Thoughts

The DMV housing market isn’t crashing,  it’s normalizing.

Buyers have more room to think.
Sellers need to be more strategic.
And informed decisions matter more than ever.

If you’re planning to buy or sell in the DMV and want insight tailored to your situation, getting local clarity is key.