Selling your home is a major decision—both emotionally and financially. One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “Should I sell now or wait?” While perfectly timing the market is nearly impossible, understanding key trends, economic indicators, and your personal goals can help you make an informed decision.
1. Evaluate Current Market Conditions
The first step is to assess what’s happening in the real estate market today. In many areas—especially in places like Central Ohio—home prices have increased substantially in recent years. Inventory remains tight across many neighborhoods, creating a classic seller’s market where demand outpaces supply.
In such conditions, sellers may receive multiple offers and even exceed asking price. While bidding wars have become less intense compared to recent years, suburban markets—particularly innerbelt cities like Bexley, Grandview, and Upper Arlington—are still seeing strong buyer competition. This is largely due to low inventory, high demand, limited land for new construction, and sought-after school districts.
2. Consider Interest Rates
Mortgage rates play a major role in buyer affordability and demand. This time last year, mortgage rates averaged 7.22%, according to Yahoo! Finance. As of the writing of this article, rates are closer to 6.8%. Experts predict that rates will remain relatively stable throughout 2025, with minimal movement expected.
Even though today’s rates are higher than they were during the low-rate era, waiting to sell may not be advantageous if home prices continue to rise. And remember—buyers who act now can always refinance later if rates drop.
3. Track Local Price Trends
Certain communities in the Columbus metro area have experienced impressive appreciation. Galena, Ohio, for instance, saw home prices rise 46.7% over a five-year span and 15.4% in just one year, making it the fastest-appreciating area in the region. According to Zillow data compiled by Stacker, Gahanna ranked 30th, with a 13.9% one-year increase.
If this upward trend continues, waiting to sell could cost you—especially if you’re looking to purchase a more expensive home. While your current property may continue gaining value, those increases could be outpaced by price hikes in your target neighborhood.
4. Understand Seasonal Timing
The real estate market tends to follow seasonal cycles. Spring and early summer—particularly March through June—are traditionally the best months to list a home. Warmer weather and the desire to move before the school year starts drive higher buyer activity, leading to quicker sales and stronger offers.
5. Consider Your Personal Timeline
Market timing matters—but your personal goals may matter more. Are you relocating, downsizing, or just ready for a change? Holding out for perfect conditions might delay bigger life decisions. Ask yourself:
- Can I afford to wait a year if the market slows?
- Am I emotionally ready to move?
- Is the purchase of my next home dependent on selling this one?
Your answers can help clarify your path forward, even more than market data alone.
6. Consult a Local Real Estate Expert
Real estate is highly local. Trends in Central Ohio may differ from national patterns. A trusted local agent can provide up-to-date insights on pricing, neighborhood demand, and strategic timing to help you make the most of your sale.
Final Thought
You don’t need to time the market perfectly to have a successful home sale. By staying informed, aligning your move with your life goals, and seeking expert guidance, you can sell confidently—whether that’s now or later.
