Key Takeaways

• The looming snow/sleet/freezing rain storm may have brought buyers out a little earlier, contributing to a very good week for new contracts!
• Northern Virginia posted a solid weekly gain, driven almost entirely by strength above $750,000. Contracts over $1 million were up sharply, signaling renewed confidence among higher-end buyers. Entry-level and mid-range activity was comparatively flat, but year-to-date totals remain comfortably ahead of last year. Average days on market increased meaningfully, underscoring that buyers are active, but taking their time.
• Loudoun County continued to skew upscale. While total weekly contracts rose, growth was concentrated in the $750,000+ segments—particularly homes priced above $1.5 million. Entry-level activity softened further. Year-to-date performance remains strong overall, though the sharp jump in days on market suggests buyers are increasingly selective.
• Prince William County delivered one of the strongest weekly performances in the region. Contract activity surged under $750,000, especially in the $500,000–$749,999 range, while higher-priced segments pulled back. Year-to-date totals are running well ahead of last year, supported by sustained affordability-driven demand.
• Montgomery County saw a notable weekly increase, with gains across most price ranges and particularly strong activity between $500,000 and $1.5 million. Year-to-date contracts are up solidly, but days on market nearly doubled, reinforcing the region-wide theme of patient buyers.
• Prince George’s County posted a modest weekly gain overall, with strength in the $300,000–$499,999 range offset by softness elsewhere. Year-to-date totals are essentially flat compared to last year, and rising days on market continue to reflect affordability sensitivity.
• Washington, DC experienced a pullback this week. Contract activity declined sharply, particularly above $750,000, and year-to-date totals remain well below last year. Elevated days on market suggest ongoing hesitation among urban buyers, especially at higher price points.

Why It Matters

• Rising days on market across every jurisdiction confirm that this is a thinking market, not a rushing one. Days on market increased to 52 from 39 this time last year.
• Last year’s pattern of strength in the Northern Virginia suburbs and Montgomery County, Maryland, and relative weakness in Prince George’s County and Washington, DC continues.
• This remains a market defined by participation without urgency. Activity is broad, but buyers are clearly exercising choice and leverage—especially as inventory continues to build. Momentum is uneven by geography and price point, but the underlying demand signal remains intact heading toward the heart of the spring market.