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Inventory (and prices) rising like the summer temps: July DC Metro Area Real Estate Market Update



Hey there, future and current homeowners of the greater Washington, D.C. area! Whether you're eyeing your first property or already have the keys to your dream home, staying updated on the latest market trends is crucial. 


Sales Slow, Prices Climb: The Paradox of the 2024 DC Area Real Estate Market

Across our area, the real estate market is serving a bit of a mixed bag this year. Sales are slowing down, but prices are still on the rise.

June 2024 Stats:

  • Median Sold Price: $640,000 (up 6.7% YoY)

  • Overall Sales: Down 12.2% from June 2023

  • Total Sales (First Half of 2024): 3.6% lower than 2023

So what’s driving these trends? Let’s unpack the details.


Price Dynamics: The Rise Continues

Despite the dip in sales, home prices in the D.C. metro area are not just holding steady—they’re climbing. The median sold price across the region hit $640,000 in June, marking a 6.7% increase compared to the same month last year. But, as with all things real estate, location matters.

Hotspots for Price Growth:

  • Washington, D.C.: The city itself is seeing some of the fastest price growth.

  • Arlington County, VA: This neighboring county is also experiencing a significant uptick.

For those who prefer the charm of the suburbs, don’t fret. Prices are rising there too, albeit at a more moderate pace. The surge in prices is a testament to the enduring desirability and limited supply of homes in these areas.


Sales Trends: A Slowdown

While prices are up, the number of homes changing hands tells a different story. June 2024 saw a 12.2% drop in overall sales compared to last year. This trend extends into the first half of the year, with total sales down by 3.6%.

What’s behind the slowdown? A cocktail of factors:

  • High Home Prices: The rising prices, while great for sellers, are daunting for potential buyers.

  • Mortgage Rates: Sticking stubbornly near the 7% mark, these rates are a significant hurdle for many would-be homeowners.


Inventory Insights: A Glimmer of Hope

Here's a silver lining for buyers: inventory is on the rise. For five consecutive months, the number of active listings has been climbing. By the end of June, there were 7,257 active listings across the region—up 21.9% from last year.

Key Inventory Highlights:

  • Current Supply: Still less than 60% of what it was in 2019.

  • Washington, D.C. & Arlington County: Supply levels here are back to pre-pandemic norms, thanks mainly to a surge in condo listings.


Market Outlook: Navigating the Road Ahead

As we look towards the latter half of 2024, here’s what you can expect:

  1. Mortgage Rates: There's a glimmer of hope that mortgage rates will drop in the coming months, possibly settling in the mid-6% range. This shift could ease the financial burden for many buyers.

  2. Price Trends: While prices are expected to continue their upward trajectory, the rate of growth is likely to moderate. This means buyers might find slightly more negotiating power, even if overall affordability remains a challenge.

  3. Buyer Leverage: With more homes hitting the market, buyers will have a bit more choice. This doesn’t necessarily mean prices will drop, but it does suggest a more balanced market where buyers have more leverage.


Tips for Buyers and Sellers Looking in the DC Area Real Estate Market


For Buyers:

  • Shop Around for Mortgages: With rates potentially dropping, it pays to shop around and lock in the best rate possible.

  • Be Ready to Move Fast: Even with more inventory, desirable properties in prime locations can still move quickly.

  • Consider the Suburbs: If city prices are too steep, look a bit further out where price growth is slower and you might find better deals.


For Sellers:

  • Price Strategically: With price growth slowing, setting a realistic asking price is more important than ever.

  • Highlight Unique Features: Make your property stand out by emphasizing its unique aspects, whether it’s a modern kitchen, a spacious backyard, or proximity to good schools.

  • Be Patient but Prepared: While homes are still selling, the pace has slowed. Be prepared for your property to take a bit longer to sell than it might have last year.


Conclusion: A Market in Flux

The Washington, D.C. real estate market in 2024 is a tale of contrasts. Prices are climbing, making it a potentially lucrative time for sellers, but high costs and mortgage rates are putting the brakes on sales. Increased inventory offers a ray of hope for buyers, suggesting a move towards a more balanced market.

Whether you’re buying or selling, staying informed and being prepared to adapt to changing conditions will be key. Keep an eye on those mortgage rates, watch the inventory levels, and make your move when the time feels right.


Give me a call today to talk more about data in your specific area, and to create a strategic plan that meets your needs.

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