Published December 10, 2025

Cincinnati Area Weekly Real Estate Market Update

Written by Amy Baughman

Cincinnati Area Weekly Real Estate Market Update
Week of December 8, 2025

Inventory and choice
Buyers currently have more homes to choose from than they did earlier in the year, as inventory has been gradually improving in many markets. That means less competition on each individual listing and a better chance to find a home that actually fits your needs and budget.
Mortgage rates and affordability
Mortgage rates are hovering near some of their lower points of 2025, but there is a lot of uncertainty about where they’ll go next. The Federal Reserve has been in a “wait and see” mode, and many economists expect that if inflation data ticks up again, rates could move higher rather than lower. Acting while rates are relatively favorable can lock in your housing costs today, with the option to refinance later if they drop further.
Why buying now can beat waiting for spring
A lot of buyers think they’ll “wait until spring,” but that can backfire:

Prices are projected to keep rising over the next year, so waiting could mean paying more for the same house.
If rates increase, your monthly payment could jump even if prices only rise a little.
January–March traditionally brings more buyer competition, which can mean multiple offers and fewer concessions from sellers. Moving before that rush can give you more leverage on price and terms.

Sellers: quiet season = serious buyers
If you’re thinking about selling, don’t let the calendar scare you:

The buyers shopping in December tend to be highly motivated (relocations, life changes, lease expirations).
With fewer new listings hitting the market, well‑priced homes can stand out and still sell quickly.
Positioning your home now can set you up to be under contract heading into early 2026 rather than just starting the process then.

What this means for you in the Cincinnati area
While exact numbers vary by neighborhood and price point, the general pattern we’re seeing in markets like Cincinnati is:

More selection than we had during the tightest inventory months
Reasonably active buyer demand, especially for homes that are move‑in ready and priced correctly
An opportunity window between now and the early‑January surge where both buyers and sellers can negotiate more thoughtfully rather than in a bidding-war frenzy.

Thinking about buying in 2026? It may make sense to run numbers now on “buying this winter vs. waiting,” so you can see the payment difference if prices or rates change.
Thinking about selling? We can look at your home’s current market value and net proceeds and compare “list now” versus “list in spring” so you can make a data‑driven decision.
Just curious? I can send you a quick, no‑obligation snapshot of what homes like yours are selling for in your part of Cincinnati and how long they’re taking to sell.

**Your Trusted Partner in Real Estate**

As a dedicated member of The Cornerstone Home Group, brokered by eXp Realty and powered by PLACE, I am committed to providing every client with a seamless, 5-star experience. Whether you’re buying or selling in Cincinnati or Dayton, I’m here to guide you through every step of the process with confidence and care.

Feel free to reach out to me, Beth Brown Ciul, at +1 (513) 850-4797 or via email at bethc@cornerstonehomesoh.com. Let’s make your real estate goals a reality in 2025!

For more information and listings, visit my website: [https://bethc.cornerstonehomesoh.com]