DC Real Estate Market Update
FEB 2026
DC Homeowners Saw Near-Record Profits in 2025
Even as the pace of sales stayed flat, DC-area sellers pocketed a median profit of $172,000 last year — just slightly off the all-time record of $175,000 set in 2024, per ATTOM Data Solutions. One of the main drivers: homeowners are staying put longer than ever. The median ownership tenure in the DC area hit 9.3 years in 2025, the highest on record — which keeps inventory tight and supports values.
Rates Just Broke Through the Floor
The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate dropped to 5.99% this week (Monday) — the first time it’s been below 6% since 2023, and 90 basis points lower than a year ago. What makes this moment different from January’s brief dip: the decline has been gradual and steady rather than a one-day spike. Refi applications are already up roughly 130% year-over-year. Purchase activity tends to move more slowly, but with spring inventory arriving, this rate environment opens a real window for buyers.
Here are the latest rates from Freddie Mac →
What This Means Locally
Sellers: your equity position remains historically strong.
Buyers: the combination of improving inventory and rates below 6% is the most favorable setup we’ve seen in years. This is a good moment to get strategic.
January data from 20002, 20003 and Washington, DC from Bright MLS
Want to know how these trends affect your price point or neighborhood?
Call or text 202.243.7707 for a free consultation—book a time with one of our Buyer Experts or our Listing Team to map out your spring strategy.
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