Market Report: Q4 2025

Spotlight Real Estate Group
Jan 27
3 min read

Opinion: Chris' Thoughts

or go straight to the market statistics.

Cecil County Lags Behind; Chester & New Castle County Defy National Trends

Locally, the data shows distinct price action across our markets:

Chester County saw continued strong price appreciation at +5.6%.
New Castle County experienced moderate growth at +7.2%.
Cecil County saw a slight dip in prices at (-2.7%).

The national headlines for this year are affordability and interest rates. Both are playing an outsized role in the national real estate market and locally.

Affordability is a key issue effecting everyone, since we have seen such dramatic increases in home values. I am still shocked at least once a month to go into a community in which I sold a home a decade ago for $250,000 now worth well over $400,000. Those that bought early are now sitting on substantial equity, but those that were unable to buy or too young to buy are in a difficult situation.

The "affordable starter home" doesn't exist. While the homes are still standing, the cost to purchase them remains high relative to median income that most first time home buyers are forced to wait... and wait. The average age of a first time home buyer is now 40 years old. It's never been higher!

The interest rates are still hovering around 6%. We can expect them to stay in the 5.5%-6% range for the foreseeable future with a drop to under 5% extremely unlikely. Those locked to a house due to their sub-3% interest rates will be making difficult financial decisions, whether to stay in their "starter home" or take on a larger payment to buy more living space or a better school district for their children.

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A Good Time To Move?

Buying a house is the largest investment most people will ever make. This may be an unpopular opinion, but I believe the best time to move is simply when it’s the right decision for you and your family. A home is different than a rental property or a stock portfolio. It's more than a math problem and it impacts your life on every level.

Before you decide to 'wait' for a better market, consider your own timeline. Can you really put your life on hold for another year or five? The truth is, no one can predict if the market will be better or worse next year, but we do know this: if you’re buying a home, plan to stay. Regardless of interest rates or price shifts, in the long run, you’re better off paying down your own mortgage than paying rent.

Just remember that a home is a long-term play. If you move within a year, two, or even three, it’s rarely a good investment. But if you’re ready to settle in and call this house your home, then it’s the best move you can make.

Ready to make your move in this new market? Whether you’re a buyer looking to capitalize on new negotiating power or a seller needing a precise pricing and staging strategy, let’s discuss the nuances of your local micro-market.