Key Takeaways

• Northern Virginia posted a slight increase in total weekly contracts, driven almost entirely by homes priced under $750,000, which were up more than 20% year over year. Activity above $750,000 softened, particularly in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Year-to-date totals are modestly higher than last year, though the split between price points remains uneven. Average days on market edged higher, reinforcing a slower pace than this time last year.
• Loudoun County continues to stand out on the positive side. Weekly contract activity rose sharply, with strong gains under $750,000 and notable movement at both ends of the market. Year-to-date totals are up 30% compared to last year, suggesting that buyer engagement here is not only earlier but more decisive. Days on market remain relatively stable.
• Prince William County moved in the opposite direction this week. Both weekly and year-to-date contract totals declined, with softness across nearly every price bracket, especially above $750,000. Days on market increased significantly, pointing to a more cautious buyer pool and longer decision timelines.
• In Montgomery County, weekly activity improved meaningfully, supported by gains in both the mid-range and higher-priced segments. Year-to-date contracts are running ahead of last year, with particular strength above $750,000, even as entry-level activity remains lighter. Days on market increased, suggesting that while buyers are active, they are taking more time.
• Prince George’s County continues to face headwinds. Weekly and year-to-date contracts are down sharply, with declines concentrated in the under-$750,000 range where activity is typically strongest. Higher price points remain very limited, and days on market continue to trend upward.
• Washington, DC showed softer results overall. Weekly contracts dipped, with declines across most price segments. Year-to-date totals remain below last year, particularly above $750,000, despite some isolated strength in the $1 million to $1.5 million range. Days on market remain elevated, underscoring ongoing buyer selectivity.

Why It Matters

• Contract activity across the region continues to show a familiar early-January pattern: modest overall movement.
• What’s different in these early few days of 2026 is demand clearly concentrated in the more affordable segments of the market. 10 days doesn’t make a trend, but this bears watching.
• Early-year momentum remains highly price-sensitive and market-specific. Affordability continues to drive activity, while higher-end buyers are active but selective. As more inventory comes online later this month, the next few weeks will be key in determining whether this measured pace turns into broader spring momentum.