After nearly two years of elevated borrowing costs, rates have settled into territory that is stimulating renewed buyer interest. While uncertainty remains around Federal Reserve decisions and economic policy, the local housing market is showing clear signs of movement.

Here’s what matters right now.

Mortgage Rates: Holding the 5% Range

Thirty-year fixed mortgage rates are currently holding in the high 5% range for well-qualified borrowers. While some loans may still see a 6% handle, conventional, VA, and FHA financing options are firmly positioned below where they stood a year ago.

For perspective:

• Rates were near 8% not long ago
• Today, a 5% rate is achievable under the right conditions
• Mortgage pricing varies daily and can change quickly

While some projections suggest possible rate cuts later this year — particularly around the June Fed meeting — those outcomes are not guaranteed. Markets often price anticipated cuts in advance, but global events, employment data, and inflation trends can shift direction rapidly.

The takeaway: if a rate beginning with “5” fits the budget and the right property is available, waiting for marginal improvements may carry unnecessary risk.

Inventory: Under 4,000 Homes

The Columbus MLS currently shows approximately 3,800 homes for sale across the metro area.

That is still relatively tight inventory.

As spring approaches, inventory traditionally increases through March, April, and May. Projections suggest Columbus could see listings rise significantly heading into early summer.

For sellers, this window before peak inventory may represent strategic timing. Listing before competition intensifies can create stronger positioning and higher visibility.

Days on Market Are Improving

Recent data shows:

• Median days on market decreased from 77 to 70
• Certain neighborhoods are seeing rapid activity
• Well-priced homes are generating multiple offers

Recent examples include:

• A property listed at $850,000 selling for $950,000 with inspections and appraisal waived
• A home priced at $750,000 receiving 25 showings almost immediately
• Entry-level condos in the $200,000–$230,000 range selling in just days

The Columbus Ohio real estate market is currently behaving like a “tale of two markets.” Some homes sit for 150+ days, while others sell in under a week.

Pricing strategy remains the defining factor.

Federal Reserve Expectations

Upcoming Fed meetings show:

• March: 97% probability of no rate change
• April: 85% probability of no change
• June: roughly 50/50 expectations for a cut

If rate cuts do materialize in early summer, activity could surge even further as buyers respond to improved affordability.

However, mortgage rates are influenced not just by Fed policy, but by bond markets, inflation reports, employment revisions, and global geopolitical events.

Predictability remains limited.

Buyer Activity Increasing

As temperatures rise and rate headlines improve, buyer inquiries and showing activity are increasing across Central Ohio.

Lower rates combined with seasonal demand create what could become a strong spring cycle.

Buyers who waited through higher rates are beginning to re-enter the market.

What This Means for Sellers and Buyers in Columbus

For Sellers:
Spring momentum is building. Inventory remains under 4,000. Listing before peak competition may create stronger negotiating leverage.

For Buyers:
Rates in the 5% range represent a three-year low. Well-priced homes are moving quickly in competitive neighborhoods. Waiting for dramatic rate drops may not produce significantly better outcomes.

The Columbus market is active and balanced, with opportunity on both sides.

Preparing for the Spring Shift

The next 60–90 days will likely shape the trajectory of the 2026 housing season in Columbus. As rate expectations evolve and inventory climbs, strategic positioning will determine success.

Sell For 1 Percent provides full-service representation while charging only a 1% listing fee. By leveraging modern technology and efficient systems, significant commission savings are passed directly to sellers without compromising marketing reach or negotiation strength. Buyers are supported with the same full-service guidance throughout the process.

Understanding pricing strategy, timing, and financing options can help position any move with confidence in today’s Columbus market.

The post Columbus Ohio Real Estate Market Update: Mortgage Rates in the 5s and Spring Momentum Building appeared first on sellfor1percent.

With February nearing its end and spring approaching, both buyers and sellers are watching rates, inventory levels, and Federal Reserve signals closely.

Here’s what the latest data reveals.

Mortgage Rates: High 5s Are Back

Recent inflation reports came in softer than expected, helping mortgage rates ease slightly. Conventional buyers are now commonly seeing:

• 5.8% to 5.95% mortgage rates
• Some loans still in the low 6% range
• Government-backed loans (VA and FHA) solidly in the 5% range

This marks a notable improvement compared to last year, when rates hovered closer to 6.75%–7%.

While the Federal Reserve remains divided — as reflected in the widely discussed “dot plot” projections — the current trend suggests stability with mild downward pressure.

The key takeaway: rates are not collapsing, but they have improved enough to stimulate buyer activity.

Inventory Remains Tight — For Now

Active listings across the Columbus MLS currently sit around 3,855 homes, keeping inventory under 4,000.

That matters.

Lower inventory creates:

• Less competition for sellers
• Faster showing activity
• Stronger negotiating positions in certain price points

However, projections suggest that inventory could climb above 6,000 homes as the spring market ramps up in March, April, and May.

For sellers, timing may be critical.

Listing before that wave hits could mean standing out rather than competing in a crowded marketplace.

Showings Are Up Significantly

February showing activity is up sharply compared to the same time last year.

Data shows:

• A 30% decrease in showings during last year’s winter storm period
• A 14% increase this February
• A swing of roughly 44% in showing activity year-over-year

That rebound suggests buyers are actively re-entering the market as weather improves and rates soften.

Days on Market and Pricing Reality

The Columbus Ohio housing market currently shows:

• 105 average days on market
• 77 median days on market

This reflects a balanced environment.

Homes priced correctly are selling.
Homes priced aggressively above market expectations are sitting.

The long-standing principle remains true:

There is only one reason a house does not sell — price.

Strategic pricing and proper positioning remain essential.

What About the Federal Reserve?

The Fed’s internal projections — commonly referred to as the “dot plot” — show some division among governors regarding future rate cuts.

Current expectations suggest:

• Limited probability of a March rate cut
• Uncertainty heading into summer
• Continued “data-dependent” decision-making

Despite political debate and economic uncertainty, the Fed has managed to transition from ultra-low pandemic-era rates without triggering a major recession — a fact that many analysts acknowledge.

For housing, moderate stability is often more beneficial than dramatic rate swings.

What This Means for Columbus Buyers and Sellers

For Sellers:
Inventory is still relatively low. Showings are climbing. Listing before spring inventory peaks could provide a competitive advantage.

For Buyers:
Rates in the high 5s represent a three-year low. Increased inventory is coming, but competition may also increase if rates dip further.

The Columbus market is active, but disciplined. Timing and pricing strategy are critical.

Considering Your Next Move?

The current environment presents opportunity — particularly before inventory surges into the traditional late-spring peak.

Sell For 1 Percent provides full-service representation while charging only a 1% listing fee, allowing sellers to retain more equity without sacrificing marketing, negotiation strength, or professional support. With more than 30 years of combined experience in Central Ohio real estate, guidance is built around data, strategy, and long-term value.

A clear understanding of pricing, competition, and purchasing power can position homeowners and buyers to act with confidence in the evolving Columbus market.

The post Columbus Ohio Housing Market Update: Rates in the High 5s and Rising Seller Momentum appeared first on sellfor1percent.

As February moves forward, both buyers and sellers are trying to determine whether now is the right time to act — or whether waiting could produce better conditions.

Here’s what the latest data is telling us.

Mortgage Rates: High 5s Exist — But It Depends

Recent employment data showed 130,000 new jobs created in January, higher than expected. That type of job strength typically puts upward pressure on mortgage rates.

Currently:

• Most buyers are seeing low 6% mortgage rates
• Some borrowers qualify for high 5% rates
• VA and FHA loans remain solidly in the 5% range

However, rates vary significantly based on:

• Credit score
• Down payment
• Loan amount
• Loan type

The days of “one universal rate” are gone. Qualification specifics matter more than ever.

While some buyers are waiting for major rate cuts, current projections show:

• Very low chance of a March cut
• Limited odds for April
• Mixed expectations for June

For now, the Columbus market remains in a holding pattern.

Inventory Drops Below 4,000 Homes

The number of active listings in the Columbus MLS has fallen to approximately 3,873 homes.

That is notably lower than recent highs above 4,000.

Seasonality plays a major role here:

• Snowstorms temporarily reduced showings
• Many sellers are waiting for “spring”
• Inventory typically increases sharply in March and April

If projections hold, Columbus could see inventory climb back above 6,000 listings by early summer.

That matters.

When inventory rises quickly, competition increases — especially for sellers.

Why Waiting Could Be a Strategic Mistake

A common pattern in the Columbus Ohio real estate market is sellers waiting until April or May to list.

However:

• March often marks the true beginning of spring activity
• Buyers who shop in late winter tend to be serious
• Less inventory means less competition

Historically, homes priced correctly sell — regardless of broader headlines.

As one long-standing industry principle states:

A home does not sell for one reason only: price.

Buyers today are more cautious than during the 2020–2022 surge. Overpricing in this environment leads to extended days on market.

Strategic pricing and timing are critical.

Could AI and Employment Impact Housing?

One emerging discussion point involves artificial intelligence and job displacement.

If employment weakens due to automation:

• The Fed could face pressure to lower rates
• But lower rates may not solve structural job loss
• Consumer confidence could become the deciding factor

Unlike past recessions:

• 9/11 saw housing stabilize the economy
• 2008 saw rate cuts fuel refinancing
• COVID saw ultra-low rates spark price acceleration

Today’s environment is different.

Housing is stable, but the broader economy is evolving in unfamiliar ways.

What This Means for Buyers and Sellers in Columbus

For Buyers:

• High 5% rates are possible for qualified borrowers
• Inventory is limited but growing
• Waiting for minor rate drops may not meaningfully change payments

For Sellers:

• Inventory remains relatively tight
• March could provide a strong early spring window
• Overpricing will stall activity

The Columbus market is balanced — not overheated, not collapsing.

And in balanced markets, strategy wins.

Thinking About Your Next Move?

Whether the goal is to sell before inventory surges or secure a home before competition intensifies, understanding timing and pricing in the Columbus Ohio real estate market makes all the difference.

Sell For 1 Percent provides full-service representation for buyers and sellers while charging only a 1% listing fee. By leveraging technology and efficient systems, thousands of dollars in commission savings are passed directly to clients — without sacrificing marketing power or negotiation expertise.

A conversation about current options, pricing strategy, and purchasing power can clarify the next best step.

The post Columbus Ohio Real Estate Market Update: Rates in the High 5s and What Spring Could Bring appeared first on sellfor1percent.

Mortgage Rates: Why They’re Stuck — and Why That Matters

Despite expectations of rate cuts, the Federal Reserve has maintained a holding pattern. Weak job growth typically supports lower rates, but persistent inflation has offset that pressure. As a result, most buyers are seeing 30-year fixed mortgage rates between 6% and 6.25%, a notable improvement from last year’s 7–8% range but still higher than many hoped.

Market sentiment—not just Fed action—plays a major role. Investors remain cautious, and without renewed quantitative easing, mortgage-backed securities are not attracting the demand needed to push rates below 6%.

Inventory Levels: Why Fewer Listings Can Benefit Sellers

Active listings in the Columbus metro currently hover around 4,100 homes, well below the 5,800–6,000 levels seen previously. This reduction has created less competition for sellers willing to stay on the market during winter.

With average days on market around 100 and a median closer to 70 days, sellers who price correctly and market effectively are still seeing results. Listing now allows homeowners to compete against fewer properties rather than waiting for spring, when thousands of homes typically flood the market.

Buyer Activity: Cold Weather, Serious Intent

Winter conditions naturally reduce casual showings, but the buyers who remain active tend to be highly motivated. Fewer showings often translate into higher-quality offers, as buyers touring homes in freezing temperatures are typically ready to move forward.

Buyers currently benefit from:

• More time to evaluate properties
• Less competition than spring markets
• Greater negotiating leverage than during peak seller markets

Small rate fluctuations—often equating to $30–$40 per month—rarely outweigh securing the right home at the right price.

Why Timing Still Matters in Columbus

Columbus remains a strong market supported by:

• A diverse job base (healthcare, education, logistics, tech)
• Steady population growth
• Manageable commute times across the metro
• Continued housing demand even in winter months

As inventory rises later in the year, buyers may gain more options—but sellers will face increased competition. Strategic timing and accurate pricing are becoming more important than ever.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Whether navigating mortgage uncertainty, winter conditions, or shifting inventory levels, having experienced local guidance makes the process smoother. The Columbus market rewards preparation, realistic expectations, and decisive action—especially during quieter months when opportunity often goes unnoticed.

Closing Paragraph (Seamless CTA)

For homeowners and buyers navigating today’s Columbus real estate market, clarity and strategy matter. The team at Sell For 1 Percent combines modern technology, deep local expertise, and full-service representation to help clients make confident decisions—while charging only a 1% listing fee designed to save sellers thousands. With decades of combined experience on both sides of the transaction, trusted guidance is always available when it matters most.

Watch the full video below and make sure to like and subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

The post Columbus Real Estate Market Update: Mortgage Rates, Inventory, and Winter Buyer Behavior appeared first on sellfor1percent.

Mortgage Rates: Slightly Higher, Still Competitive

Over the past week, mortgage interest rates have edged higher following global economic uncertainty and volatility in financial markets. The 10-year Treasury bond, a key benchmark tied loosely to mortgage rates, moved sharply upward, pushing most conventional mortgage rates back into the low-six percent range.

While rates briefly dipped into the high-five percent range earlier this month, current pricing remains well below where rates stood one year ago. In January of last year, 30-year fixed mortgage rates hovered near 7%, making today’s environment meaningfully more affordable for buyers.

Inflation data released this week showed moderate and expected readings, signaling that inflation remains under control for now. Even so, short-term rate fluctuations are likely to continue as markets react to global events rather than local housing fundamentals.

Columbus Housing Inventory: Still Low, Slowly Rising

Active inventory in the Columbus metro currently sits just above 4,100 homes, well below the peak levels seen last year when inventory exceeded 5,800 homes. While inventory is expected to rise gradually heading into spring, current supply remains limited relative to buyer demand.

Historically, Central Ohio sees inventory bottom out in January and early February before climbing steadily through late spring and early summer. This seasonal pattern suggests competition may increase later in the year as more homes come to market.

Average days on market across the metro currently exceed 100 days, reflecting a more deliberate and thoughtful buying environment. Homes that are priced correctly and in good condition continue to sell, while overpriced listings tend to linger longer.

Buyer Activity: More Time, Better Decisions

Despite colder weather, buyer activity remains strong across most price ranges. Showings continue at a healthy pace, and buyers are benefiting from something that was rare just a few years ago: time.

Rather than rushing into decisions, buyers can evaluate homes carefully, compare options, and negotiate confidently. Even small fluctuations in interest rates often have minimal impact on monthly payments, especially when compared to the long-term value of securing the right home.

In many cases, waiting for a minor rate drop can cost more than it saves if home prices rise or competition increases.

What This Means for Sellers

For sellers, the current market still leans slightly in favor of those who price strategically and present their homes well. While inventory is expected to increase, sellers listing earlier in the year often face less competition than those waiting for peak spring months.

Homes that are staged, well-maintained, and priced based on current market data continue to attract strong interest—even during winter.

What This Means for Buyers

Buyers who are financially prepared and pre-approved are well positioned in today’s Columbus market. Inventory remains manageable, negotiation power exists, and interest rates—while not perfect—are historically reasonable compared to recent years.

The most important factor remains affordability, not minor rate movements.

A Practical Path Forward

Understanding the Columbus Ohio real estate market requires more than watching headlines. Local inventory, buyer behavior, and pricing trends matter far more than day-to-day rate changes.

Sell For 1 Percent helps buyers and sellers navigate these conditions with clarity and confidence. By using modern technology and efficient systems, sellers pay only a 1% listing fee, saving thousands in commission while still receiving full-service representation. Buyers receive the same level of expert guidance, backed by more than 30 years of combined local experience.

Whether planning to buy, sell, or simply understand current market conditions, having accurate local insight makes all the difference.

Watch the entire video here! Stay up to date on changes in the market by liking and subscribing to our YouTube channel

The post Mortgage Rates Rise, Inventory Shifts, and Buyer Opportunity in January 2025 appeared first on sellfor1percent.

In this mid-January market update, we take a closer look at mortgage rates, inventory trends, and what buyers and sellers should be paying attention to right now in Central Ohio.

Mortgage Rates: High 5s Are Back in Play

Mortgage rates have quietly improved since late last year. With the right combination of credit score, loan type, and loan amount, many buyers are seeing rates in the 5.7%–5.9% range, with most conventional loans settling around 6%.

Loan size and structure still matter. Borrowers in lower loan brackets often receive slightly better pricing, while higher balances may carry higher rates. Even so, the consistency we’re seeing in rates is giving buyers more confidence to move forward — especially compared to the volatility of the past few years.

Inventory Has Fallen Sharply

One of the most important shifts in the Columbus market is inventory. Active listings across the metro have dropped to roughly 4,265 homes, down from nearly 5,800 listings just a few months ago.

Many sellers paused during the holidays, and that pause has reduced competition for those who stayed active. As a result, listings that are priced correctly are seeing increased showings and, in some cases, multiple offers.

Days on Market Are Higher — Expectations Matter

Average days on market across the Columbus metro now sit around 100 days, with a median closer to 70 days. This reflects a slower, more deliberate pace — not a weak market.

Homes are no longer selling in hours, but they are selling. Sellers who understand today’s timelines and price accordingly are still finding success. Unrealistic expectations remain the biggest obstacle to getting a home sold.

Buyers: A Balanced Window of Opportunity

For buyers, this market offers something rare — options without chaos. Less competition, more negotiation room, and motivated sellers make this an attractive moment for buyers who are financially prepared.

Many buyers today are “move-up” buyers: selling a first home to purchase their next one. That natural cooperation between buyers and sellers is helping stabilize prices and keep transactions moving smoothly.

Sellers: Why Waiting Until Spring Can Be Risky

While it’s tempting to wait for spring, inventory trends suggest that many sellers may flood the market at once. If another 1,500+ homes hit the MLS alongside normal spring listings, competition could rise quickly.

Right now, Columbus still operates with roughly a two-month supply of homes, which favors sellers. If that supply grows closer to three months, the market begins to tilt toward buyers. Timing and strategy matter more than ever.

A Healthier Market Overall

This is not the extreme seller’s market of the 3% mortgage era — and that’s a good thing. Today’s environment is more stable, more rational, and better for long-term decision-making.

Buyers who can move forward have leverage. Sellers who position their homes correctly still hold an advantage. That balance is what creates sustainable growth.

Thinking About Your Next Step?

If you’re considering buying or selling in Columbus, now is a smart time to understand where you stand. A quick conversation can help clarify options, timing, and strategy — whether that means getting pre-approved, preparing your home, or simply mapping out the year ahead.

When you’re ready, the team at Sell For 1 Percent is always happy to talk things through and help you move forward with confidence.

Check out the full video here! Make sure to like and subscribe to stay up to date on the real estate market!

The post Columbus Real Estate Market Update: Buyers Are Returning and Inventory Is Tightening appeared first on sellfor1percent.

In this first market update of the year, the Sell For 1 Percent team breaks down mortgage rates, inventory levels, buyer activity, and what these trends mean as we move deeper into the winter market.

Mortgage Rates: Quiet, Steady, and Holding

Mortgage rates haven’t delivered any fireworks to start the year — and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Rates remain stuck in the low 6% range, with small daily movements driven by mortgage-backed securities rather than any major economic shifts.

There hasn’t been significant financial news to push rates meaningfully higher or lower, and much of the market is waiting on upcoming data like non-farm payroll numbers and future Federal Reserve guidance. Compared to where rates were not long ago — in the high 7s and low 8s — today’s environment feels far more predictable.

For buyers and sellers alike, that predictability makes planning easier.

Inventory Has Dropped — And It’s Changing the Market

One of the biggest shifts heading into the new year is inventory. Active and “coming soon” listings across the Columbus metro have fallen to roughly 4,200 homes, down from nearly 5,800 listings just weeks ago.

Many sellers paused during the holidays, choosing to wait for spring. That decision has quietly helped the sellers who stayed active by reducing competition and increasing visibility for their homes.

With fewer choices available, buyers who need to move have less room to wait — and that dynamic continues to support sellers who price their homes correctly.

Days on Market Are Rising — But Prices Aren’t Falling

According to broader regional data, average days on market have climbed above 100 days, while local MLS numbers still show homes selling closer to the 45–50 day range. This disconnect highlights how nuanced today’s market really is.

Homes that are:

• Priced appropriately
• Well-maintained or updated
• Located in desirable areas

are still selling — sometimes quickly. Properties that need work or are priced aggressively tend to linger, creating the perception of a slower market.

Despite longer timelines, home values remain at or near record highs, reinforcing that this is not a distressed market — just a more balanced one.

Buyers: Opportunity Still Exists for Those Who Can Move

For buyers who are financially prepared, this market offers real leverage. Longer days on market, price reductions, and motivated sellers create opportunities that didn’t exist during the frenzy of previous years.

At the same time, buyers who are waiting for dramatic rate drops may be waiting longer than expected. Stability, not sharp declines, continues to define the mortgage environment.

Sellers: Less Competition Can Be an Advantage

While it may feel counterintuitive, the start of the year can be a smart time to sell. With fewer homes on the market and serious buyers still active, sellers who position their homes correctly often benefit from reduced competition.

The key difference today is realism. Pricing, condition, and strategy matter more than ever — and that’s where experienced guidance makes the biggest difference.

Filtering the Noise Matters More Than Ever

Between conflicting headlines, national forecasts, and industry hype, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The reality is that the Columbus housing market operates on local supply, demand, and affordability — not national talking points.

Working with professionals who track local data daily helps cut through the noise and focus on what actually impacts your decision.

Thinking About Your Next Move?

Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply want to understand where you stand, having a clear plan makes all the difference. The team at Sell For 1 Percent is here to help you evaluate your options, understand today’s market, and connect you with trusted mortgage professionals when needed.

If you’re ready to talk through what makes sense for you in this new year, reach out anytime — we’re happy to help you start 2026 with clarity and confidence.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel for all of our updates!

The post Columbus Real Estate Market Update: Stable Mortgage Rates and Shrinking Inventory Kick Off the New Year appeared first on sellfor1percent.

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.

make sure to subscribe to our blog channel for the latest updates!

The post Columbus Housing Market: Mortgage Rates and Inventory Heading Into 2026 appeared first on sellfor1percent.

In this week’s update, the Sell For 1% team—along with mortgage expert Rich Cercone of Equitable Mortgage—shared what’s happening right now in the Central Ohio market, why mortgage rates are still hovering in a familiar range, and how both buyers and sellers can win in a market that’s feeling more balanced heading into the holidays.

The Fed Cut Rates… So Why Aren’t Mortgage Rates Plummeting?

Even though the Fed lowered rates by 0.25%, Rich explained that Powell quickly moved to talk down future rate cuts—hinting at potentially just one cut in 2026 and one in 2027 (depending on the data). That messaging matters because mortgage rates are driven heavily by expectations about what the Fed will do next—not just what they did yesterday.

Bottom line: Columbus mortgage rates are still largely sitting in the high 5s to low 6s, and the market feels “stuck” there for now.

Why the Fed Seems “Stuck in the Middle”

The Fed has a dual mandate:

• Keep inflation under control
• Support employment and avoid major job losses

Right now, inflation still isn’t at the Fed’s ideal target (often referenced around 2%), but there’s also growing concern about the job market. That tug-of-war is a big reason the Fed’s messaging is cautious—even when they do cut.

Rich also mentioned the Fed may begin buying Treasury bonds again, which sounds like “quantitative easing,” but the market appears to view it more as stabilization than a major push to drive rates dramatically lower.

Buyer Update: More Choices, Less Panic

Jamie described the buyer side as a balanced market:

• Buyers have options
• Many deals aren’t a mad dash (outside of certain neighborhoods/price points)
• Homes are still moving—some deals are closing in under 30 days

Translation: you can buy without feeling like you need to waive every protection and sprint into a bidding war… but you still need to move decisively when the right house hits.

Seller Update: Inventory Drops, Serious Buyers Rise

Jay noted inventory is now just over 5,000 active listings, and many sellers are pulling homes off the market for the holidays. That reduced competition can help the sellers who stay active—especially because mortgage applications were reportedly having their best December in the last three years.

But the rule still applies:

• If you’re overpriced, you’ll sit.
• If you’re priced correctly (and marketed well), you can see real action—even in December.

Jay even mentioned December looking stronger than September/October in some cases, which is a reminder that real estate doesn’t always follow the “normal” script.

The Biggest Trend: Homeowners Don’t Want to Give Up 3% Rates

A huge factor shaping today’s market is the “golden handcuffs” problem: many homeowners have 2.5%–3% mortgage rates and don’t want to move (or refinance) into a higher rate.

Rich shared that a lot of people want:

• cash-out refinances
• access to equity
  …but they hesitate because they don’t want to lose their low rate.

This keeps supply tighter than it otherwise would be—and helps explain why the market hasn’t fallen apart even with higher rates.

What This Means for You in Central Ohio

If you’re buying:

• you likely have more negotiating power than the last few years
• you may find better opportunities during the holidays because the buyers shopping now are usually serious

If you’re selling:

• you can still do well, but you need strategy and pricing discipline
• the “throw it on the MLS and it sells instantly” era is gone—especially if the home needs work or is priced too high

Looking to Buy or Sell Your home?

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or just want a real-world read on your neighborhood (not national headlines), reach out to Sell For 1% Realtors. We’ll help you build a smart plan and keep more of your equity with our 1% listing commission model.

And if you have questions about getting a loan, rate options, or timing your next move, we can connect you with great local lenders—including Rich Cercone at Equitable Mortgage—so you’re not guessing.

Call us today and let’s map out your next step.

Watch the entire video here!

The post Columbus Mortgage Rates After the Fed Cut appeared first on sellfor1percent.

But this year is different.

Across Central Ohio and many national markets, we’re seeing signs of renewed momentum — driven by serious buyers, stabilizing interest rates, and shifting economic expectations going into 2026. Here’s what’s really happening in the housing market right now and what it means if you’re considering buying or selling.

Mortgage Rates: What’s Happening Right Now

Mortgage rates are currently sitting in the low 6% range for most 30-year fixed loans, which has become the new normal heading into the December Real Estate Market. While we’re not yet seeing widespread rates in the 5s, certain borrowers are qualifying below 6% under the right conditions.

Those scenarios typically include:

• Excellent credit
• Lower loan amounts
• Government-backed programs (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac)
• First-time homebuyer eligibility

In those cases, rates around 5.99% are possible — but they are not yet the norm for the average borrower.

Why the Federal Reserve Still Matters to Home Buyers

The Federal Reserve’s next meeting is approaching, and markets are pricing in an almost certain rate cut. While the cut itself isn’t a surprise, what truly matters is what the Fed signals next.

If the Fed hints toward:

• Continued rate cuts into 2026
• A more dovish monetary stance
• Future quantitative easing

Then we could see additional mortgage rate relief over time.

At the same time, the Fed remains focused on its two mandates:

1. Stable employment
2. Controlled inflation

Inflation appears to be relatively under control compared to earlier concerns, but employment data is raising new questions.

Job Numbers and the Economy: A Key Signal

Recent private payroll data shows negative job growth, with approximately 32,000 private-sector jobs lost. That kind of data increases pressure on the Fed to maintain or accelerate rate cuts.

Adding complexity, some government employment reports have been delayed, meaning markets are temporarily operating with incomplete data — increasing volatility and uncertainty.

For real estate, this creates a familiar environment:

• Buyers are cautious but motivated
• Sellers must price strategically
• The market rewards preparation and expertise

What We’re Seeing on the Ground: Listings Are Moving Again

After a slow and frustrating September and October, activity has noticeably improved.

Over the past several weeks:

• Showing activity has increased
• Listings are steadily going under contract
• Well-priced homes are selling daily

While buyer traffic is lower than in spring or summer, today’s buyers are extremely serious. No one is casually touring homes in the dark, cold, or during the holidays. The buyers who are out there are motivated, qualified, and ready to move.

December Real Estate Market Stats: Columbus Metro Snapshot

Here’s what the data shows right now in the Columbus metro area:

• Median Days on Market: ~56 days
• Average Days on Market: ~90 days
• Active Listings: ~5,200
• Homes Under Contract: ~2,600–2,700

These numbers reflect a balanced, skill-driven market — not the frenzy of years past, but far from a collapse.

Notably, many sellers are canceling listings due to unrealistic expectations. Those homes are likely to reappear in the spring, increasing future competition.

For sellers listing now, that reduction in inventory can actually be an advantage.

Should You List a Home During the Holidays?

In many years, waiting until after Christmas made sense. This year, that advice doesn’t apply universally.

Listing now can be a smart move if:

• You need to relocate
• You want to face less competition
• Your home is priced strategically
• You’re prepared to market aggressively

Waiting carries risk. Interest rates, economic data, or global events can change quickly. Today’s serious buyers and reduced competition make winter listings more attractive than many people assume.

Why Experience Matters More Than Ever

The days of simply posting photos on the MLS and waiting for offers are gone.

In this market:

• Pricing strategy matters
• Marketing skill matters
• Negotiation experience matters

Homes can still sell quickly — but only when strategy replaces assumption. Sellers looking to maximize value need guidance from professionals who have navigated multiple market cycles, not just the low-rate surge of recent years.

Looking Past the December Real Estate Market

Most expectations point to:

• Gradual rate declines
• Stable but selective buyer demand
• A pickup in activity after the new year

The weeks around Christmas will likely be quiet, followed by a noticeable pop in activity in January. Buyers who act early may gain leverage, and sellers who enter prepared can still achieve excellent results.

Final Thoughts

The housing market isn’t frozen — it’s focused.

Fewer buyers doesn’t mean weaker demand. It means better conversations, better offers, and better outcomes for those who approach the market strategically.

If you’re considering buying or selling, now is the time to understand the data, manage expectations, and work with professionals who know how to win in this environment.

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The post December Real Estate Market: Serious Buyers, Steady Rates, and a Winter Surge appeared first on sellfor1percent.