The Central Ohio housing market is feeling a temporary squeeze as the federal government shutdown continues. While Columbus mortgage rates remain steady in the low-to-mid 6% range for borrowers with strong credit, many transactions tied to government-backed loans are facing delays.
Mortgage Rates Hold Steady in the 6s
As of early October 2025, mortgage rates across Columbus have shown little change week over week. Borrowers with 780+ credit scores are still seeing conventional rates in the low to mid 6% range, while FHA and VA loans remain slightly lower.
Normally, this time of month would bring the highly anticipated jobs report — data that often moves interest rates — but with the government shut down, that report is on hold. That means we’re in a holding pattern, with little change expected until Washington reopens.
How the Shutdown Is Affecting Mortgages
According to local mortgage expert Rich from Equitable Mortgage, the shutdown has practical consequences beyond politics. Lenders rely on federal agencies for key verifications, such as:
- Social Security verification forms
- IRS income transcripts
- HUD and FHA loan approvals
With these offices closed, certain loans — particularly FHA loans and spot FHA condo approvals — are effectively paused until the government resumes normal operations. Once it reopens, lenders expect a heavy backlog, potentially adding days or even weeks to closings.
What It Means for Buyers and Sellers
Despite the temporary delays, the Columbus real estate market continues to show strong buyer demand. According to Sell For 1 Percent Realtor Jaysen Barlow, the number of showings across Central Ohio is higher than in the last few years, even though homes are taking slightly longer to sell.
- Active listings: ~5,600
- Median days on market: 49
- Prices: Still trending upward year-over-year
Buyers have more options now than during the pandemic surge, and motivated sellers are becoming more flexible. For savvy buyers, that means an opportunity to negotiate — before rates eventually drop and competition heats back up.
Why Now May Still Be the Time to Buy
As Jamie from Sell For 1 Percent points out, waiting for rates to drop can backfire. When rates eventually fall, refinancing will surge and buyers will flood back into the market — pushing prices up.
Today’s market gives buyers more room to negotiate, find discounts, and explore creative financing options like temporary rate buydowns or seller credits.
The Bottom Line
Government shutdowns come and go, but real estate keeps moving. The Columbus housing market remains active, and buyers and sellers who stay flexible can still make smart moves in today’s environment.
At Sell For 1 Percent, we work with top mortgage lenders in Central Ohio, from FHA specialists to local portfolio lenders. Whether you’re buying, selling, or refinancing, we’ll help you connect with the right experts to make your move smooth — and save thousands with our 1% listing commission.
Ready to make a move? Call Sell For 1 Percent at 614-451-6616 or visit sellfor1percent.com to learn how we can help you buy or sell your next home in Columbus for less.
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