The DMV real estate market is expected to remain sluggish in 2026 due to economic and federal government uncertainties. Mortgage rates may slightly drop to about 6.15%, with inventory rising nearly 11% nationally. In the DC area, inventory surged 44.2% from 2024 to 2025, partly due to federal workers retiring or leaving. Home prices are forecasted to decline 3% to $616,700 in 2026, while sales may rise 7.8%. North Central Virginia expects a 9.9% sales increase and 1.5% price growth.