October 2025 Market Watch: What the National Sales Increase Means for DMV Homeowners

The Mindful Realtor breaks down the latest NAR report and why local inventory is key to your next move.

Section 1: The National Vibe – A Glimmer of Hope

The latest data from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) for October 2025 gives us something to talk about! Nationally, existing-home sales saw a modest 1.2% increase month-over-month, reaching an annual rate of 4.10 million. Even better, this marks a 1.7% increase year-over-year, indicating a slow, steady climb out of the previous market troughs.

NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun points to a crucial factor: homebuyers taking advantage of slightly lower mortgage rates (the average 30-year fixed rate dropping to 6.25% in October). This demonstrates that while rates are still a primary concern, any dip brings motivated buyers out of the woodwork.

Section 2: The Regional Breakdown – Where the South and Northeast Shine

While the national numbers are up, it's vital to look closer at our neighbors. The Northeast showed no change month-over-month but saw a healthy 4.3% increase year-over-year in sales.

• Northeast Median Price: $503,700 (a sharp 6.5% increase YoY!)

This Northeast price surge, driven by tight supply, is highly relevant to our Maryland and DMV markets. While our regional data (which is a component of the South and Northeast) is complex, the national trend suggests that demand remains incredibly strong where inventory is scarce, driving up home values quickly.

Section 3: The Inventory Story (The Challenge & The Opportunity)

Nationally, inventory sits at a tight 4.4-month supply, still well below the 6-to-7 month supply typical of a balanced market. This is the primary challenge driving up prices.

• National Median Price: $415,200 (up 2.1% from a year ago—the 28th consecutive month of YoY increases!).

For Maryland Homeowners: If you have been waiting to sell, the data is clear: buyers are present, competition is high, and your home equity is likely still growing. The scarcity of inventory means well-priced, strategically marketed homes are moving quickly.

For DMV Buyers: While it's tough, remember the importance of getting pre-approved and being decisive. When the right opportunity arises, you need an agent ready to move fast, like our team, to secure a property before the market's median time on market (which is still only 34 days nationally) passes you by.

Section 4: The Mindful Realtor’s Takeaway

NAR's Dr. Yun noted that decelerating rents should encourage the Fed to continue cutting rates, which will eventually ease mortgage rates further.

As your Mindful Realtor, my advice is to stay grounded and present in your decision-making. Don't chase the headlines or fear the rates. Instead:

1. Sellers: Capitalize on the strong demand and high median prices.

2. Buyers: Focus on the long-term investment, knowing rates are expected to drop over time, which can open up refinance opportunities.

Ready to navigate the Maryland and DMV market with strategy and calm? Let's connect!