2025 Central Ohio housing market year-in-review

What happened in 2025. What’s next in 2026. And why it matters for you.

If you blinked, you may have missed it — 2025 was one of the most pivotal years Central Ohio real estate has seen in a while.

After three years of rate volatility, tight inventory, and buyer hesitation, the market finally started to find its footing again. For buyers, sellers, and investors alike, 2025 brought opportunities, challenges, and a few surprises that are already shaping how 2026 will play out.

Let’s break it down.

Summary:

A more stable, and strategic, pricing environment.

Prices in the Columbus housing market continued to rise, but with more modest gains. That’s a win for buyers concerned about affordability and long-term value.

The $329K median price is a regional record, but still well below the national median (~$415K). This affordability gap continues to attract out-of-state buyers and investors who see Columbus luxury real estate as undervalued compared to coastal metros.

At the same time, Central Ohio saw one of its busiest years on record, with over 29,000 homes sold. Franklin County led the way, but outer counties like Licking and Union experienced double-digit sales growth, driven by new development and relocation trends.

Inventory made a comeback. And buyers felt it.

Active listings in Central Ohio surged by 45% YoY in some months, topping 5,900 homes by late 2025. That’s the widest selection of listings since 2016. Buyers had more time to evaluate options, negotiate repairs, and avoid bidding wars — a major contrast to the frenzied pace of the past few years.

Even with the rebound, Central Ohio remained a seller’s market. But it was more balanced. Average days on market ticked up to 34, and homes typically sold for about 96–97% of list price. Sellers had to come to market prepared: staged homes, realistic pricing, and strong marketing were no longer optional.

Interest rates dropped.

Mortgage rates began the year over 7%, slowing some segments of the market. But by fall, they had dropped to 6.25% — a shift that created real momentum.

That shift translated to hundreds of dollars saved per month for the average buyer. And it showed in the data: home sales spiked in September and October, up 8–10% YoY. That late-year surge turned what could’ve been a flat year into one of growth… Especially for buyers who moved quickly.

Luxury, lifestyle, and long-term plays.

High-end buyers were especially active in 2025. Properties in Upper Arlington, New Albany, Bexley, and Grandview are still highly in-demand, and continued to perform well… especially those with premium updates and move-in readiness.

On the lifestyle side, Hocking Hills emerged as one of the top destinations for Columbus buyers seeking vacation homes and investment properties. The area's year-round rental appeal and relative affordability made it a smart move for those looking to diversify.

Smart money also flowed into neighborhoods with walkability, strong schools, and future development upside — think Clintonville, Worthington, Short North, and German Village.

Buyers got strategic… And older?

In 2025, the average first-time homebuyer was 40 years old — a reflection of how affordability, debt, and market dynamics have changed. Younger buyers were still active but had to be intentional: broadening their search radius, looking at condos, and considering longer-term financing options.

Meanwhile, seasoned buyers returned with focus. They weren’t afraid to negotiate, ask for repairs, or wait for the right fit. This was a year where preparation mattered — pre-approvals, equity positions, and agent partnerships made all the difference.

Sellers had to be patient (and realistic).

Gone are the days of 3-day listings and 10-offer weekends. In 2025, sellers had to price accurately, stage effectively, and align with a market-savvy agent.

That said, well-presented homes still moved fast. The key was meeting the market — not chasing last year’s peak. And thanks to years of strong appreciation, most sellers walked away with healthy profits.

Many took advantage of buyer demand in outer counties to right-size, relocate, or invest elsewhere — a trend we expect to continue into 2026.

My opinion: What we can expect in the new year.

If 2025 proved anything, it’s that resilience is a defining trait of the Central Ohio market. We saw buyers adapt to changing rates, sellers recalibrate their expectations, and investors continue betting on the long-term growth of Columbus.

Heading into 2026, we expect to see continued movement — especially from move-up buyers and lifestyle-driven relocations. As interest rates inch downward and new inventory comes online, buyer confidence will likely grow. But competition won’t disappear. Central Ohio remains one of the nation’s most stable and desirable markets, meaning well-priced, well-marketed homes will continue to move quickly.

In short: 2026 may not be “back to normal,” but it will be full of opportunity — especially for those working with the right strategy and a team who knows how to navigate it.

Thank you for being part of our 2025 story.

Whether you bought your first home, upgraded your lifestyle, or simply stayed connected with us through The Hub or social media — we can’t thank you enough for being part of our journey. We’re proud to serve a community that’s growing, evolving, and investing in its future.

If you’re thinking about making a move in 2026, now’s the time to start the conversation. We’re here to help you navigate what’s next — with strategy, heart, and bold results.

The Mancini Group
mandy@themancinigroupsells.com
614-796-5077