Sell or Rent Your Home in Today’s DMV Market? What Sellers Need to Know

Hello and welcome back to my blog: Today, I’m meeting with a homeowner in Logan Circle who’s weighing a common but important question: should I sell my home or rent it out? It’s a timely conversation, and one that many DMV homeowners are facing as the market evolves.

If you’re considering your next move in the DMV region, you might be asking yourself the same thing. The real estate landscape has been shifting, and both selling and renting have distinct advantages and challenges depending on your personal goals, financial situation, and the latest local market trends.

Understanding the Current DMV Market

As of mid-2025, the DMV residential real estate market shows signs of softening, especially in the condo sector:

  • Inventory in the DMV has increased by approximately 15% year-over-year, giving buyers more options and exerting downward pressure on prices.

  • The median sales price for condos in DC dropped 5% compared to last year, with an average days-on-market rising from 42 to 56 days.

  • However, the rental market remains strong, with average rents in Logan Circle and nearby neighborhoods hovering around $3.80 to $4.00 per square foot, and vacancy rates staying below 5%.

  • Economic factors, including federal government hiring freezes and layoffs, continue to inject some uncertainty into buyer demand but bolster rental demand as some households postpone home purchases.

Selling: Pros and Considerations

  • Capture equity before further softening: While condo prices have dipped, many properties still retain solid equity, especially if purchased several years ago.

  • Avoid carrying costs: Ongoing mortgage payments, property taxes, condo fees, and maintenance costs can add up, especially during a longer market cycle.

  • Seasonal advantages: Summer remains a relatively active selling period in the DMV, which can help maximize exposure.

  • Market realities: Higher inventory means you may need to price competitively and expect longer selling timelines.

Renting: Pros and Considerations

  • Strong rental demand and stable income: Average rents remain robust, with many landlords seeing 3–4% annual rent increases in prime neighborhoods.

  • Flexibility to wait for market rebound: Renting provides an opportunity to hold the property until sales conditions improve.

  • Tax benefits: Rental properties offer deductions including depreciation, interest, and maintenance.

  • Landlord responsibilities: Be prepared for tenant management, maintenance costs, and potential vacancies.

What’s Best for You?

Deciding whether to sell or rent depends on your financial needs, investment goals, and risk tolerance. If you need liquidity or want to avoid landlord duties, selling may be preferable. If you seek ongoing income and can manage the responsibilities, renting can be a viable strategy.

How a Local Expert Can Help

Working with a knowledgeable DMV real estate agent ensures you get timely market insights, accurate valuations, and support whether you decide to sell or rent.

Ready to explore your options? Contact me today for a personalized consultation tailored to your property and goals.

Meanwhile, as always thank you for reading and or feel free to give me a like. 

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