Based on the cherry tree blossoming on my street and the flowers sprouting in my neighbors’ yard, it seems like Spring is in full swing in the DC metro area as we head into April. We're also revamping things here and hope you like the new look of our newsletter! This month you can find:
Real Estate News: An Update on the DC Metro Area Housing Market
Homeownership Tips: Spring Cleaning Tips
DC Metro Area Real Estate Market Data
New Guidance for DC Area Rental Property Owners
Neighborhood Spotlight: Riverdale Park, MD
I also know that many of you in the DC area are facing uncertainty, job loss, or other challenges that may be causing you anxiety or affecting you or you family in other ways. I wanted to remind you that I am here for you during this time – whether you just want to talk as a friend or want specific advice about your situation, I am just a phone call or email away!
As always, don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or have topics you would like to see covered in future newsletters. I love it when people share my content, so feel free to forward this newsletter on to anyone you know who might be interested! You can also follow me on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn for more real estate, homeownership, and life updates!
Wishing you the best,
Hannah
In last month’s newsletter, we cautiously approached the potential impacts of the new administration’s changes on our region's housing market because of scant data and a quickly-changing landscape. Now, with a few more weeks of sales data in hand, we can identify some trends which I’ll discuss below. But overall, the market remains unclear – some indicators are pointing to a softening market, while others are suggesting continued growth.
Bright MLS, the mid-Atlantic-focused Multiple Listing Service, has been continuing to track weekly shifts in the DC metro area’s home listings, prices, and market indicators. Some early trends are emerging, but confusing:
New listings are up across most cities and counties, with a 20.1% increase for the region. (Greater supply might suggest a softening or slowing market.)
However, inventory remains low overall, with only 1.64 months of supply across the region (from February’s monthly data). (Six months of supply is considered “balanced,” so we’re still firmly in a “seller’s market.” Notably, the District jumped to 4.20 months of supply.)
Some sellers are lowering their prices, with an increase from 6.6% to 8.8% of active listings with a price adjustment. (This could be an early indicator of slowing price increases.)
However, the median list price has increased 7.8%, and the median sales price in February increased 6.6% (from February’s monthly data). (Sellers are still expecting higher prices for their homes and many of those that have sold are getting them.)
The earliest indicators of market shifts, new pending contracts and scheduled showings, are modestly pointing in opposite directions (1.9% up and 3.1% down, respectively). (We can’t draw any conclusions either way.)
This might sound contradictory, but there are still good opportunities for both sellers and buyers right now in the market. Buyers are increasingly having more choice and perhaps even negotiating room as inventory increases, but Sellers may still be able to get a great price for their home as the median sold price continues to increase.
I know I shared this last month, but I wanted to remind you of my advice for those of you contemplating whether you should buy or sell right now:
Identify your specific needs: Look at your personal and financial situation to determine your housing needs. Do you need to move to a house with more space to accommodate a growing family? Or do you want to move to a neighborhood that is closer to a new job? Focus on those needs first, and don’t get caught up in hype about market swings.
Don’t try to time the market: Buying or selling a house is a long-term decision. Buy or sell when it is right for your needs, not when you think things are perfectly timed for the best price or interest rate. Often, time “in the market” through homeownership appreciation is better than “timing the market.”
Talk with a professional: Work with a Realtor that you can talk to about your specific needs and who knows the market and the area. My goal is to help you identify neighborhoods and properties that will fit your needs or connect you with buyers that see the best value in your property.
Again, if you have questions about how to approach your specific situation, I would be happy to share resources with you and help you think through your next steps.
Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it’s a rejuvenating process that can make your home feel like new. A little planning can go a long way in making sure your space is spotless and fresh. Let’s explore some effective strategies to tackle your spring cleaning.
Prioritize High-Traffic Areas: Start with the most-used spaces, such as the kitchen and living room. These areas accumulate dirt faster, so a deep clean is essential. Wipe down countertops, scrub appliances, and dust shelves. Don’t forget to clean light fixtures and ceiling fans, which are often overlooked.
Focus on Windows and Walls: Spring cleaning is the perfect time to address those overlooked windows. Clean both the glass and the surrounding frames to let in the light. A quick dusting or wipe down of the walls can also help remove cobwebs or sticky spots that have accumulated during the year.
Tidy Your Storage Spaces: Spring cleaning isn’t only about what’s visible. Reorganizing storage areas like closets, basements, and garages ensures you’re making the most of your space. Take time to sort through your belongings, donate items you no longer need, and reorganize what’s left. A clutter-free home will make the cleaning process easier moving forward.
Refresh Soft Furnishings: Upholstered furniture, pillows, and curtains can trap dust and allergens. Refresh them with a thorough vacuuming, or have them professionally cleaned if necessary. If you’ve been considering a seasonal change, this is also a great time to rotate or replace bedding and other textiles for a fresh look.
Tidy and Clean Bedrooms: Don’t forget about your personal space. Changing the sheets, dusting furniture, and organizing your closet are simple tasks that can create a calm and inviting environment. Consider adding a fresh scent, like lavender, to make the room feel extra relaxing.
By breaking down your tasks and focusing on one area at a time, you can tackle your spring cleaning with ease, transforming your home into a fresh and welcoming space for the months ahead.
Curious about how the housing market shifts from month to month? In this section, I share insights about those changes so you can make informed decisions about buying or selling. When it comes to real estate in the DC metro area, every neighborhood tells its own story – from bustling DC condos to serene Maryland suburbs and Virginia's growing communities. Whether you're thinking about making a move or just want to stay informed about your home's value, I'll keep you updated on key trends, inventory levels, and price movements across our diverse market. Keep an eye on this section each month for the latest numbers and what they mean for you!
Washington DC Metro Area Housing Data
Data Provided by Bright MLS, as of March 6, 2025
Although I already gave you a market analysis at the top incorporating the latest weekly data, it is worth looking at the most recent monthly data in isolation as it is less prone to irrelevant fluctuations (noise). Based on the latest from February 2025 sales, here are a few key trends year-over-year compared to 2024:
The number of sold homes decreased by 4.1%, but the median sales price increased by 6.6%.
Active listings (a.k.a. the total number of homes offered for sale) jumped 30%, but months of supply (the metric used to determine if it is a buyer’s or seller’s market) still firmly indicates we’re in a seller’s market. (This just illustrates how little inventory we have had, and continue to have.)
Median days on market remained essentially unchanged, as did the median sale price to original list price.
So overall, the February market data was a mixed bag. You can also track weekly updates from Bright MLS in its Weekly Greater DC Area Housing Market Update that I mentioned at the top of the newsletter for a deeper level of detail.
Remember: these trends are averaged for the whole metro DC region, so what is happening on your street may be different. If you are interested in seeing the latest data for a specific neighborhood or zip code, don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m happy to have a conversation about what these market trends mean for your current home’s value or your future home search. Shoot me an email at hannah@districtroots.com if you’d like to schedule a time to chat or are just curious about what’s going on in your neighborhood.
Heads up DC landlords: there is a new process for registering with the rent control office of the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). DHCD is finally launching an online rent registry database – RentRegistry. Previously this process was paper-based, leading many landlords to hire an expediter to handle the process.
Please note: all landlords will be required to re-register their rental properties in the new rent control system. So if you have a rental in DC, I suggest you check out the new details on the DHCD website or one of the trainings DHCD will be hosting throughout April.
Located in the heart of Prince George's County, Riverdale Park, MD – sometimes referred to as just “Riverdale” – is a vibrant and growing community that offers a unique blend of affordability, suburban charm, and urban accessibility. Located just a short distance northeast from Washington, DC, this town is becoming a destination for homebuyers seeking a balanced lifestyle with easy access to the city.
Local amenities are abundant, with popular spots like Riverdale Park Station, which features a walkable downtown area with a selection of shops, dining options, and a Whole Foods. The community benefits from proximity to the University of Maryland in nearby College Park, which contributes to a vibrant local atmosphere and boosts the potential rental market. Additionally, the town offers plenty of green spaces, including two parks in the middle of town and nearby Greenbelt park with its campgrounds and several hiking trails.
Riverdale Park also boasts a prime commuting location, with excellent access to public transportation options such as the MARC train (with terminals in Baltimore and Washington), Metro (Green line and the Purple line when finished), and major highways such as Route 1 and I-495.
One of the standout features of Riverdale Park is its close-knit community feel, with its tree-lined streets, well-maintained homes, and a strong sense of neighborhood pride. The area is known for a variety of housing options, from cozy single-family homes to modern townhouses and apartment complexes. Expect to find most single family homes (around 1200sqft) starting in the $400,000-500,000s, depending on how renovated the property is. Some larger homes can fetch in the $600s. Newer construction townhomes are often offered between $600,000-$700,000.
Whether you're drawn to its central location, friendly atmosphere, or beautiful homes, Riverdale Park is an excellent place to plant roots and call home.
Is there a neighborhood you would like to see profiled? Let me know for future editions of this newsletter.
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