The 2025 real estate market brought noticeable shifts that surprised many buyers and sellers. Whether you’re a homeowner considering a move or a renter thinking about buying your first home, it’s only natural to wonder what’s really happening in the market. In this blog, I’ll break down what we’ve seen behind the scenes in Central Ohio in 2025, how home prices have performed, what type of market we’re in, and what to realistically expect heading into 2026.
Behind the Scenes of the 2025 Real Estate Market
In many ways, the tables turned in 2025. Our team helped more than 129 buyers, sellers, and investors buy, sell, and invest throughout Central Ohio this past year, giving us firsthand insight into how the market has shifted.
Buyers gained more negotiating power in 2025. We saw more homes selling at or slightly below asking price, properties spending more time on the market, and interest rates leveling out compared to the volatility of previous years. While it’s not a dramatic swing, it’s been a meaningful change from the fast-paced, ultra-competitive market we experienced from 2020 through 2024.
Are Home Prices in Central Ohio Increasing?
Yes, home prices are still rising, but at a much healthier pace than in recent years. Year to date, the average sale price in Central Ohio increased about 3%. This is actually considered a more normal and sustainable rate of appreciation, and it’s something we hope to see continue into 2026.
At the same time, days on market increased by about 21% year to date. This tells us that while prices are still climbing upward, homes are taking longer to sell, and sellers need to be more strategic to achieve their desired price.
What Type of Market is Central Ohio In?
Currently, Central Ohio is in a balanced market.
From roughly 2020 to 2024, we experienced a strong seller’s market. Homes sold quickly, often with multiple offers. Buyers were waiving inspections, offering well over asking price, and including appraisal gap coverage just to stay competitive.
A balanced market, however, benefits both sides. Buyers have more time to think through decisions, revisit homes, and conduct inspections. Sellers are still achieving solid prices, but it now takes a bit more patience, planning, and compromise to get there.
What This Means for Homeowners in Central Ohio
The good news for homeowners is that prices are still increasing. If your home is in a desirable area, in excellent condition, and priced correctly, it is still possible to sell quickly, and in some cases, even above asking price. This did happen throughout 2025, just not as frequently as in prior years.
The homes that performed best shared common traits: they were well-staged, well-maintained, located in sought-after neighborhoods, and priced accurately from the start.
If your goal is to maximize your home’s value in 2026, preparation will be key. Make sure your home is in good condition, address needed repairs sooner rather than later, and consider professional staging. The Yoder-Barnhart Team is staging-certified and happy to help guide you through what buyers are truly looking for. We can also advise on which updates or renovations are worth making, and which ones may not provide a strong return on investment.
Timing and pricing also matter more than ever. Listing when there’s little competition in your neighborhood can be a major advantage. Just as important is pricing your home correctly from day one. We offer free consultations to help you determine the best pricing strategy based on current market data and neighborhood trends.
What This Means for Buyers in Central Ohio
For many buyers, 2025 felt like a breath of fresh air. Buyers now have the ability to thoughtfully consider homes, schedule multiple showings, and make offers without the pressure to waive inspections or appraisals. Negotiations are back on the table, whether that means price adjustments or requesting repairs.
Interest rates have generally hovered in the low 6% range, and we’ve even seen some buyers secure rates in the low 5s. Overall, 2025 proved to be a solid year to buy.
Looking ahead to 2026, the market is likely to feel similar to 2025, unless we see a significant interest rate cut that brings a large wave of buyers back into the market. A balanced market appears to be here to stay. One important strategy for buyers is timing: buying when fewer people are shopping often means less competition. Traditionally, spring and summer bring an influx of buyers hoping to move before the school year starts, which can increase competition. Check out our exclusive home buyers guide.
Final Thoughts
For many sellers, 2025 was a year of adjustment and recalibrating expectations. While the shift may have felt like a shock at first, a balanced market is ultimately healthier for everyone involved.
As we look toward 2026, I expect much of the same: modest price growth and steady activity. If interest rates decline, we may see increased buyer demand and renewed competition, which could push prices higher.
No matter the market, people continue to buy and sell homes as life changes happen, new jobs, growing families, downsizing, or investing for the future. The Yoder-Barnhart Team has the experience and local knowledge to guide you through any market with confidence. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing—locally or out of state—we’re here to help make your next move smooth and successful.