Should You Sell Your Home Before Spring? Central Ohio Market Outlook for 2026
Early 2026 offers a strong window for Dublin and Worthington homeowners. Improving rates, steady demand, and lower competition make pre‑spring listing a smart strategy.
If you own a home in Dublin or Worthington and are considering a move, you may be weighing whether to list now or wait for the spring market. The outlook for 2026 is positive for sellers, and listing early in the year may provide a significant advantage.
Here is what December’s data shows.
The Central Ohio Market Entered 2026 With More Balance
After several years of a strong seller’s market, 2026 has brought greater stability and predictability. Regional updates report, “residential real estate sales rose 5.6% in December compared with the same month in 2024. For 2025, there were 29,626 closed sales recorded in the Columbus & Central Ohio Regional MLS, up from 28,754 sales in 2024, a 3% year-over-year increase.” However, the number of homes for sale declined from November to December 2025. [December 2025 Central Ohio Housing Report from Columbus REALTORS®]
Buyers have more time to decide, but much of the current inventory is outdated, offering limited appealing options.
Mortgage Rates Are Improving — A Key Driver for Early 2026
Summary Forecast Range: 2026 (30-year fixed)
Conservative: ~6.4 %
Consensus: ~6.0 %–6.2 %
Optimistic (late 2026): ~5.8 %–5.9 % [Mortgage Research Network]
For seniors planning to downsize, lower rates mean:
More qualified buyers
Stronger demand early in the year
A smoother and less stressful sales process
Inventory Is Higher, but Dublin and Worthington Stand Out
While inventory has increased across Central Ohio, trends in Dublin and Worthington are more nuanced.
Market data shows:
Columbus‑area inventory: 15.8 percent increase
Dublin City Schools: 40 percent inventory increase
Worthington City Schools: 71.4 percent inventory increase (November 2024 to November 2025)
[pillarrealtyllc.com]
Despite higher inventory, well‑priced, move‑in‑ready homes in top school districts continue to attract strong interest. [pillarrealtyllc.com]
Why Listing Before Spring Can Benefit You
Many homeowners wait for spring, but selling earlier, from January through early March, often means less competition and more serious buyers.
1. Lower Competition Means More Attention on Your Home
Spring typically brings a surge of new listings. In early 2026, inventory is increasing slowly. Buyers have more choices than last year, but fewer than they will have by April or May.
Fewer comparable homes mean your home stands out.
2. Buyers Are Active Now
As rates decline and demand increases, many buyers want to purchase before prices rise further. Early‑year buyers are often motivated by job changes, life events, or school needs.
3. Price Growth Is Moderate but Steady
Expect moderate, steady price growth rather than rapid increases.
This suggests that your home’s value is stable and that buyers view Central Ohio as a strong long‑term investment.
4. Dublin and Worthington Remain Highly Competitive
Even as the broader market stabilizes, these two communities remain attractive for their:
Top‑rated schools
Walkable, community‑centered neighborhoods
Strong demand among downsizers and families
Homes near Bridge Park, Old Worthington, and established neighborhoods continue to receive above‑average interest. [pillarrealtyllc.com]
What This Means for Seniors Considering a Move
If you are considering downsizing in 2026, listing before spring can help you:
Maximize your equity
Attract highly motivated early‑year buyers.
Avoid the stress that often comes with increased spring competition.
Start your next chapter with greater ease and control.
With a more balanced market, you will also have more options when choosing your next home, whether it is a condo, a smaller ranch, or a senior‑friendly community.
So… Should You Sell Before Spring?
For many sellers in Dublin and Worthington, the answer is yes—if you are ready.
Listing now gives you:
Lower competition
Serious buyers
Rising early‑year demand
Strong home values
A more thoughtful and less frantic process
Spring will remain active, but early 2026 provides an excellent opportunity for seniors and families seeking a smoother process and strategic results.
Considering selling this year? Let’s discuss your strategy.
As a Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) and local broker in Dublin and Worthington, I help homeowners plan smooth, stress‑free downsizing moves with trusted guidance throughout the process.
If you would like a personalized market update or a complimentary home value assessment, I am happy to help.
Contact me at katie@katiemccartney.com or call 614-918-9942.
Serving Dublin, Worthington, and the surrounding Central Ohio communities