by Tammy Murphy | Apr 24, 2025 | BLOG, Current Events, Investor Relations, Market Updates, Neighbor Chat, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love, Sellers
March 2025 Real Estate Market Update: A Mixed Start to the Year
As we move further into 2025, the Dayton real estate market shows both signs of resilience and areas of slower growth. While the number of new listings has increased, we’re seeing fewer closed sales compared to last year. Despite these changes, home prices continue to rise, signaling strong demand in our local market.
March Highlights
In March 2025, the Dayton market experienced a 5.03% increase in the number of new listings, with 1,482 properties hitting the market compared to 1,411 in March 2024. However, the number of homes sold decreased by 10.72%, with 1,058 transactions recorded compared to 1,185 last year. This drop in sales contributed to an 8.72% decrease in total sales volume, which reached $300.8 million, down from $329.5 million in March 2024.
Despite the decline in sales, the median sale price saw an increase of 3.37%, reaching $241,050, while the average sale price rose by 2.24% to $284,303. This continued growth in prices suggests that the demand for homes remains strong, even as the pace of sales slows.
The inventory of available homes stood at 1,580 properties at the end of March, with 1,868 properties listed as pending sale. This indicates a relatively tight market with continued buyer interest.
Year-to-Date Performance (January – March 2025)
Looking at the first quarter of 2025, the market is following similar trends to what we saw in March. New listings decreased by 2.39%, with 3,683 properties listed compared to 3,773 in the same period of 2024. Sales for the first three months of the year have also decreased by 13.45%, with 2,748 homes sold, down from 3,175 in 2024.
The total sales volume year-to-date is $761 million, reflecting a 10.53% decrease from the $850.8 million in 2024. However, the median sale price for the year has increased by 4.44%, reaching $235,000, and the average sale price has risen by 3.37%, now at $276,988. This price growth shows that while fewer homes are being sold, those that are on the market are still commanding higher prices.
The MLS inventory at the end of March showed 1,580 active listings, translating to a 1.5-month supply based on the current pace of sales. This indicates that the market remains competitive, with inventory still being absorbed quickly.
What Does This Mean for You?
For buyers, the market remains competitive, with prices continuing to rise despite the slowdown in sales. While the number of available homes is still relatively low, it’s essential to act quickly when you find the right property.
For sellers, the market continues to offer strong price appreciation, even though the number of sales has decreased. If you’re thinking of selling, now is still a good time to capitalize on the growing home prices.
Let’s Connect!
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or just stay informed about market trends, we’re here to help you navigate the evolving real estate landscape. Reach out for a no-obligation consultation and get insights tailored to your needs.
by Tammy Murphy | Apr 15, 2025 | Buyers, Current Events, Neighbor Chat, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
Ready to Stop Renting? A First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Building Wealth Through Real Estate
If you’re tired of renting and dreaming about a place to truly call your own, you’re not alone. For many first-time homebuyers, the idea of owning a home can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Where do you start? Can you afford it? Is it better than renting?
Let’s break it down into clear, simple steps—because owning a home isn’t just a dream; it’s a smart move toward building long-term wealth.
Renting vs. Owning: What’s the Real Difference?
Renting means you’re paying to live in someone else’s property. Every rent check you write helps your landlord build their equity. It’s convenient, sure—but there’s no return on your investment.
Owning a home means your monthly mortgage payments are going toward something you own—an asset that can grow in value over time. This is called equity.
Let’s do the math:
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Renting at $1,200/month for 5 years = $72,000 spent
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Owning with a $1,200 mortgage for 5 years? You’ve paid down your loan AND likely increased your home’s value = equity in your pocket
Equity = Ownership = Wealth
Can You Afford a Home? Here’s What to Know About Home Loans
One of the biggest myths is that you need a 20% down payment. That’s outdated. In reality:
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FHA Loans require as little as 3.5% down
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Conventional Loans may offer options with 3–5% down
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VA & USDA Loans offer 0% down for eligible buyers
Lenders will also look at your credit score to determine your interest rate.
How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Buying Power
Your credit score is a number (300–850) that shows how trustworthy you are with money. It plays a huge role in what kind of mortgage you qualify for—and what it costs you.
How to Build a Strong Score:
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Pay your bills on time
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Keep credit card balances low
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Don’t open or close accounts unnecessarily
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Check your credit report for errors
Understanding Your Monthly Mortgage Payment
Your monthly mortgage includes:
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Principal (the amount you borrowed)
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Interest (what the bank charges to lend you money)
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Taxes (property tax)
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Insurance (homeowners insurance)
Example: A $125,000 loan at:
The higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate—which means lower monthly payments and more money saved over the life of the loan.
The Long-Term Wealth Advantage: Home Equity
Every time you make a mortgage payment, you’re buying a little more of your home. Over time, as home values go up and you pay down your loan, you build equity—which is your ownership in the property.
You can use home equity later for:
Final Thoughts: Is Now the Right Time for You?
Renting offers short-term flexibility—but little to no long-term gain. Owning a home gives you stability, freedom, and a powerful tool to build financial wealth.
The best part? You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Thinking about buying your first home? Let’s talk.
We’ll walk through your options, check your eligibility, and get you closer to owning a place you love—and a future you’re proud of.
Contact Tammy at [email protected]
Or call (937) 838-0997 to get started.
Because your future isn’t meant to be rented—it’s meant to be owned.
by Tammy Murphy | Apr 8, 2025 | Current Events, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Podcast, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
Spring Storm Season: Are You Prepared? Essential Tips for Home Safety
Spring is here, and with it comes the unpredictable weather we know all too well. As we transition from mild days to potential thunderstorms, tornadoes, and high winds, it’s crucial to ensure that you and your family are prepared for whatever comes your way. Whether you’re a longtime client or a part of our local community, your safety is always our top priority—especially as we enter this storm season.
Home Safety First: What to Keep in Mind
At [Your Business Name], we care deeply about our clients and communities, and we know how overwhelming it can be when severe weather strikes. That’s why we’ve created a helpful Spring Storm Preparedness Checklist designed to guide you through essential steps to protect your home and family. Here are a few highlights from our checklist to help you get started:
Before the Storm: Safeguarding Your Home
When it comes to storm safety, preparation is key. Start by securing your home to minimize potential damage:
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Trim trees and bushes around your home to prevent branches from becoming dangerous projectiles during high winds.
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Reinforce windows and doors: Adding storm shutters or plywood can protect your home from flying debris.
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Clear gutters and drains to prevent water backup and reduce the risk of flooding in and around your property.
Want to hear more? Watch our podcast episode on SPRING STORM PREPAREDNESS
Stay Prepared with Our Free Checklist
As part of our commitment to your safety, we’ve created a detailed Spring Storm Preparedness Checklist that covers everything you need to know about staying safe during the storm season. Whether you’re preparing for a mild spring storm or a more intense weather system, our checklist will guide you through each step, from packing your emergency go bag to securing your home.
We encourage you to CLICK HERE to download your free checklist and make sure you’re fully prepared.
by Tammy Murphy | Mar 26, 2025 | Real Estate News
Moving to Dayton, Ohio? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying a Home
Thinking of moving to Dayton, Ohio? You’re not alone. With its affordable housing, diverse neighborhoods, and strong sense of community, Dayton continues to attract first-time buyers, growing families, and relocating professionals — especially those tied to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.
As “born & raised” in the Dayton area, and a full-time Realtor since 2001, I know exactly what makes this region shine — and what to watch for when house-hunting here.
Why Dayton?
Dayton offers the perfect blend of city amenities and suburban ease. Whether you’re looking for top-rated schools, local charm, or access to major highways, the Dayton metro delivers: (just a few highlights)
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Englewood & Clayton: Affordable homes, excellent parks, and a tight-knit community vibe
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Oakwood & Springboro: Family-friendly with “excellent” rated schools and walkable town centers
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Fairborn & Beavercreek: Ideal for military and their families near Wright-Patt with new developments
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New Lebanon & West Carrollton: Great for investors or budget-conscious buyers
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Kettering & Centerville: More established suburbs with retail, restaurants, and medical care access
- Trotwood & Brookville: Business-friendly environments, strategic locations with development initiatives
️ What Buyers Should Know Before the Move
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Understand Property Taxes: Each suburb has different millage rates — it pays to check before choosing your city.
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School Districts Matter: Even if you don’t have kids, districts like Springboro, Centerville, and Oakwood affect resale value.
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Weather = Home Maintenance: Be ready for both snow and storms — look for newer roofs, updated HVACs, or home warranty options.
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Commute & Connectivity: I-70, I-75, and Route 35 make the area incredibly mobile — especially helpful if you’re relocating for work.
Pro Tip: Work With a Local Realtor Who Knows the Terrain
From VA loan specifics to zoning quirks and off-market opportunities, working with a hyperlocal agent gives you an edge. I’ve helped hundreds of families — including first-time buyers, military transplants, and seniors — make their move to the Dayton region stress-free.
Let’s Talk About Your Move
If Dayton is calling your name, I’d love to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and your budget.
[email protected] | Call/Text: 937-838-0997
by Tammy Murphy | Mar 24, 2025 | BLOG, Current Events, GLOBAL, Market Updates, Neighbor Chat, Networking, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
Prices Climb Amid Slower Sales
Hello, Dayton! As we continue through the winter months, the real estate market has shown mixed results. February 2025 brought a continuation of the trends we saw in January, with fewer sales and new listings. However, the positive news is that home prices continue to rise, indicating that demand remains strong despite a slower pace.
February Market Highlights
In February, 905 homes were sold, a decrease of 18.25% from February 2024. This drop in sales was reflected across the market, with the total sales volume falling 15.42% to $248.6 million. While this decrease in transactions can be attributed to the colder weather and the natural seasonal slowdown, it’s important to note that prices continued to rise during this period.
Both the median sale price and the average sales price saw solid growth. The median sale price rose by 5.45%, reaching $239,900, while the average sales price increased by 3.46% to $274,684. These increases demonstrate that homes in the Dayton area are still in demand, with buyers willing to pay higher prices for the right property.
Year-to-Date Performance
Looking at the broader picture, the year-to-date data reflects similar trends. Listings are down by 6.82%, with 1,118 new listings in February compared to 1,216 last year. Sales have also decreased by 15.88%, and the total sales volume has dropped by 12.59%. Despite these declines, the median price has increased by 6.14% to $239,900, and the average price has risen by 3.91% to $274,684, continuing the price growth seen in the last few months.
Inventory and Market Conditions
As of the end of February, the active inventory stood at 1,638 homes, representing a 1.8-month supply based on the current pace of sales. This low inventory level continues to make the market competitive for buyers, with properties selling quickly when they do become available.
What Does This Mean for You?
For sellers, this is still a great time to consider listing your home. While fewer transactions are happening, the continued rise in home prices means you can still achieve a solid return on your property. For buyers, the market remains competitive, but the price increases suggest that acting sooner rather than later could help you secure a home before prices rise further.
by Tammy Murphy | Mar 22, 2025 | BLOG, Current Events, Investor Relations, Market Updates, Neighbor Chat, Real Estate News, Real Homes to Love
A Slow Start but Solid Price Growth!
Happy New Year, Dayton! The start of 2025 has brought some interesting trends in the local real estate market. While the cold temperatures and snow slowed the pace of home sales in January, we’re still seeing positive movement in home prices. Let’s take a look at how the month shaped up and what it means for buyers and sellers alike.
January Highlights
In January, we saw 751 homes sold, which is a 15% decrease from the 883 sales reported in January 2024. The decrease in sales was largely driven by the winter weather, which kept many buyers and sellers indoors. However, despite fewer transactions, the total sales volume dropped by only 11%, totaling $202.4 million.
On a brighter note, home prices are still on the rise! The average sales price increased by 4.73%, reaching $269,640, while the median sales price climbed 10% to $231,000. These price increases show that demand for homes remains strong, even during the slower winter months.
Market Activity
New listings in January were down by 5.58%, with 1,082 new homes hitting the market, compared to 1,146 in January 2024. This reduction in new listings points to fewer homes being available for buyers to choose from, adding to the competitive nature of the current market. The total available inventory at the end of the month was 1,745 active properties, which translates to a 2.3-month supply, indicating that the market remains tight.
What Does This Mean for You?
For sellers, January’s price increases indicate that it’s still a good time to list your home, especially if you’re looking to take advantage of continued price growth. While sales were slower in January, the rising prices suggest that demand is strong enough to support good returns on homes.
For buyers, while there may be fewer homes on the market, the current prices reflect a steady market and a great opportunity to invest in real estate. As inventory remains tight, acting quickly when the right property comes along is key.
Let’s Connect!
Whether you’re considering buying or selling in this market, we’re here to help you navigate the trends and make informed decisions. Contact us for a no-obligation consultation on your home’s value or buying potential.
Stay tuned for more updates as we move through 2025, and let’s make this a great year for your real estate goals!
