Best Time to Sell a House in District of Columbia (2026)
In District of Columbia, homes sold in February sell for 6% more than those sold in October (-7%). That's a 13% swing that could mean tens of thousands of dollars.
Best Month
February
+6% premium
Worst Month
October
-7% discount
Price Swing
13%
Between best and worst
Median Price
$650K
District of Columbia median
Avg. DOM
32
Days on market
Monthly Price Index — District of Columbia
Regional seasonal index (100 = annual average). Derived from 1 years of FRED data (EXHOSLUSM495N + regional housing starts).
Best 3 Months
Worst 3 Months
What to Consider When Timing Your Sale in District of Columbia
Seasonal data shows clear patterns in District of Columbia's housing market. The best months to list are typically in late spring and early summer, when buyer demand peaks. However, several local factors can shift these patterns:
- Local inventory levels — low inventory can create seller's markets even in off-peak months
- Interest rate changes — rate drops can surge buyer demand regardless of season
- New construction — large developments can impact resale prices in specific neighborhoods
- School district timelines — families with children often need to close by July-August
- Carrying costs — waiting for the "best" month costs $3,000-$7,000/month in most markets
Use our interactive Timeline Optimizer to factor in your specific carrying costs and find the month where your total net proceeds are maximized.
Seasonal Market Analysis: District of Columbia
DC peaks in May at 7% above the annual mean, driven by the spring rush of government and professional relocations.
The federal government cycle influences DC real estate more than typical seasonal patterns. Presidential transition years can shift buying patterns.
Georgetown, Capitol Hill, and Northwest DC neighborhoods see the most competitive spring markets.
DC's relatively small geographic area means market-wide trends are more uniform than in states with diverse metro and rural markets.
Seasonal Timing: District of Columbia vs. Neighboring States
How the best selling months in District of Columbia compare to nearby states.
Frequently Asked Questions: Selling a House in District of Columbia
Want the full picture?
Our sister tool helps you model different scenarios and maximize your position.
Interactive Timeline Optimizer
Use our interactive tool below to calculate the best selling month for your District of Columbia home based on your specific home value and carrying costs.
Mortgage, taxes, insurance, HOA
Select your state above to see seasonal price patterns and find your optimal selling window.