As we head into the final weeks of the year, the Columbus housing market is doing something that surprises a lot of people — it’s staying active. Despite the holidays, fewer homes for sale, and plenty of national noise about the economy, buyers and sellers in Central Ohio are still making moves.
In this latest market update, the Sell For 1 Percent team breaks down what’s really happening with mortgage rates, inventory, and buyer demand — and why December may actually be an overlooked opportunity.
Mortgage Rates: Stable, Not Flashy — and That’s Not a Bad Thing
After months of volatility, mortgage rates in Columbus have settled into a relatively narrow range. Most buyers are still seeing rates in the low 6% range, with some scenarios dipping into the high 5s for smaller loan amounts or first-time buyer programs.
The long-awaited October and November jobs reports didn’t move the needle much. While job growth was mixed and unemployment ticked up to around 4.6%, the overall takeaway is stability — not panic, and not a major shift in Federal Reserve policy.
For buyers and sellers alike, that stability matters. When rates stop swinging wildly, people feel more confident making decisions.
Inventory Is Falling — Fast
One of the biggest shifts in the Columbus housing market right now is inventory.
Just weeks ago, the metro area was hovering around 5,700 homes for sale, the highest level since 2016. As of mid-December, that number has dropped to just under 4,900 active listings — a decline of nearly 1,000 homes in a very short time.
Many sellers pulled their homes off the market, planning to “wait until spring.” While that logic feels safe, it may actually be creating opportunity for sellers who stay listed.
Less inventory means:
- Fewer competing listings
- More visibility for homes still on the market
- More serious buyers per available property
Buyer Demand Is Still Strong
Even with fewer listings, buyer activity hasn’t slowed the way people expect during the holidays. In fact:
- Mortgage applications are up nationally
- Nearly 3,000 homes are currently under contract in Columbus
- Showings are still happening — even less than 10 days before Christmas
Buyers shopping right now aren’t browsing for fun. They’re motivated, prepared, and ready to move if the right home comes along.
What This Means for Sellers
If your home is priced correctly and in decent condition, this market can work in your favor. Sellers who stay active right now are benefiting from:
- Reduced competition
- Serious, decisive buyers
- Less noise than the crowded spring market
Waiting until April or May may mean facing hundreds of additional listings that all hit the market at once.
What This Means for Buyers
Buyers currently have something rare: negotiating power without chaos. With rates stable and inventory tighter, it’s still possible to:
- Negotiate price or repairs
- Avoid bidding wars common in hotter markets
- Lock in a home before competition increases in the spring
Several buyers this month have secured excellent homes in desirable Columbus neighborhoods at favorable terms.
Looking Ahead to Early 2026
January is often underestimated, but historically it can be one of the smartest times to act. Inventory typically hits a low point, while buyer demand begins to rise again. Those who plan early often end up with more options and less competition.
The Columbus market continues to prove it’s driven by supply and demand, not headlines.
Thinking About Your Next Move?
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Columbus, Ohio, now is the time to have a real conversation — not guess based on national news. The right strategy can make a meaningful difference in what you pay, what you net, and how smoothly the process goes.
The team at Sell For 1 Percent is here to help you understand your options, connect you with trusted mortgage professionals, and guide you through today’s market with clarity and confidence.
Reach out anytime — we’d be glad to help you make sense of what comes next.
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