Washington, DC Housing Market Trends 2026: A Seller's Perspective

by Saad Jamil

Washington DC Housing Market 2026: What Federal Uncertainty Means for Home Sellers This Year

Updated January 2026 · Comprehensive guide to DC home prices, inventory levels, buyer demand, and proven strategies for sellers navigating today’s market.

The Washington, DC housing market in 2026 is entering a pivotal chapter. After years of pandemic-driven volatility and rate-induced gridlock, the capital’s real estate landscape is finally showing signs of normalization — though not without new challenges for sellers to navigate.

Washington DC housing market 2026 trends for sellers

If you’re considering selling your DC home this year, understanding the forces shaping the market isn’t optional — it’s essential. Federal workforce uncertainty, shifting inventory dynamics, and evolving buyer expectations are creating a more nuanced environment than the frenzied seller’s markets of 2021 and 2022.

This guide breaks down what’s actually happening in DC real estate right now, what the data predicts for the coming months, and the specific strategies sellers should use to maximize their sale price and minimize time on market.

⚡ Quick Answer

The Washington, DC housing market in 2026 is projected to experience a slight price correction (approximately 1% decline) while sales volume increases by 8–10%. Homes are taking longer to sell (45–70 days average), and inventory is up over 33% from last year. Sellers who price strategically and list in late winter or early spring will have the best outcomes. Despite the shift toward a more balanced market, DC home values remain 69% above the national median, and most sellers will still realize significant equity gains.

📌 Key Takeaways for DC Sellers in 2026
  • Median home price: Approximately $617,000–$713,000 depending on property type and neighborhood
  • Price forecast: Expected 0.7%–1% decline in 2026 (the only Mid-Atlantic market projected to soften)
  • Inventory increase: Active listings up 33% year-over-year; expected to rise another 14% in 2026
  • Days on market: Average 45–70 days (up from 25–30 days during peak pandemic market)
  • Sales volume: Projected 8% increase as sidelined buyers return to the market
  • Best listing window: Late January through March to capture motivated buyers before spring competition peaks
  • Market driver: Federal government uncertainty is the primary factor suppressing DC demand relative to suburbs

DC Housing Market Snapshot: January 2026

The Washington, DC real estate market sits at an inflection point. After years defined by extreme buyer competition and record-low inventory, the pendulum has begun swinging toward balance — though DC’s unique economic profile means the transition looks different here than in other major metros.

According to BrightMLS, the region’s primary listing service, the DC metro area is the only Mid-Atlantic market projected to see price declines in 2026. While Philadelphia expects a 2.8% price increase and Baltimore anticipates a 2.5% bump, DC is forecasted to experience a modest 1% decline in median sale prices.

Key Numbers At-a-Glance — DC Market January 2026

$713KMedian Sale Price (Dec 2025)
+33%Inventory YoY Change
70Avg Days on Market
6.15%Projected Mortgage Rate EOY
−1%Forecasted Price Change 2026
+8%Projected Sales Volume

What does this mean for sellers? The market is transitioning from a period where any well-located property could command premium prices with minimal effort to one where strategic preparation, pricing, and timing actually matter. Sellers who adapt will still achieve strong outcomes — DC home values have appreciated roughly 31% since the pandemic began, meaning most homeowners are sitting on substantial equity regardless of short-term price movements.

Market Competitiveness: Then vs. Now

📊 DC Market Competitiveness: 2021 vs. 2026
2021 Peak 10–20 offers typical; homes sold in days
 
2023–2024 Moderately competitive; rate-lock gridlock
 
January 2026 ~2 offers average; 45–70 days DOM
 

Scale represents composite of offer volume, days on market, and sale-to-list price ratio.

Washington, DC home prices tell two different stories depending on which data source you consult. Redfin reported December 2025 median prices at $713,000 — up 13.1% year-over-year. Meanwhile, Zillow’s Home Value Index shows a typical DC home value of approximately $618,651, reflecting a 4.2% decline over the past year. This discrepancy isn’t contradictory; it reflects different measurement methodologies and property mix.

2026 Price Projections by Source

Source DC Metro Forecast Key Factor Cited
BrightMLS −1.0% Federal government uncertainty
Zillow −0.7% Inventory normalization
National Average (comparison) +1.2% Continued demand outpacing supply
Philadelphia (comparison) +2.8% Sustained buyer demand
Baltimore (comparison) +2.5% Affordable entry points driving activity

The projected 1% decline translates to roughly $6,000–$7,000 less on a median-priced home — significant, but hardly catastrophic given the equity most DC homeowners have accumulated. More concerning for sellers should be the potential for extended time on market and increased negotiation pressure from buyers who sense the shift in their favor.

ℹ️ Perspective on Pandemic Equity Gains

DC home values appreciated approximately 31% during the pandemic, meaning a home purchased in 2019 for $500,000 likely gained over $150,000 in value even if prices soften modestly in 2026. As Zillow’s senior economist has noted, most sellers will still net substantial returns even in a cooling market. DC home values remain approximately 69% above the national median.

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Inventory Levels and What They Mean

Perhaps the most significant shift in the DC housing market is the dramatic increase in available homes. Active listings across the DC metro area are up over 33% year-over-year, with projections suggesting another 14% increase through 2026.

This isn’t a market “crash” — it’s a normalization of life events. After years of homeowners staying put due to rate lock-in (why sell when you have a 3% mortgage?), people are finally moving for job changes, growing families, and lifestyle shifts. The realization that 6% mortgage rates represent the “new normal” has unfrozen what economists call the “golden handcuffs” phenomenon.

Inventory Timeline: How We Got Here

  • 1
    2021: Extreme ShortageUnder 1 month of supply. Homes selling in days with 10–20 competing offers. Any well-located property commanded a premium with minimal preparation.
  • 2
    2023–2024: Rate-Locked GridlockInventory rose slightly as demand cratered. Sellers stayed put to protect 3% mortgages; buyers priced out by 7%+ rates. Stalemate conditions across most price points.
  • 3
    Late 2025: The Thaw Begins33% YoY inventory increase as sellers accepted the “new normal” rate environment. Life events (jobs, family, retirement) overrode rate-lock hesitation.
  • 4
    2026 Projection: Continued GrowthAdditional 14% inventory increase expected. Market moving toward balance — structural supply constraints (limited land, DC height restrictions) still provide a floor for values.

What Rising Inventory Means for Sellers

⚠ Challenges for Sellers

  • More competition for buyer attention in every price band
  • Longer average days on market across property types
  • Greater price sensitivity and negotiation from buyers
  • Less likely to receive multiple simultaneous offers

✓ Opportunities for Sellers

  • More move-up buyers entering the market after selling their starter homes
  • Easier to find your next home after you sell
  • Quality presentation and marketing stand out more vs. lazy competition
  • Serious buyers less likely to overbid irrationally — cleaner transactions

At the start of 2025, DC had roughly 0.92 months of supply. A balanced market typically shows 4–6 months of supply. While inventory is rising, DC remains well below balanced territory — a structural supply constraint driven by limited land and strict zoning (including the city’s famous height restrictions) that provides a price floor sellers can rely on even as conditions normalize.

Buyer Demand and Market Temperature

Understanding who’s buying in DC — and why — helps sellers position their homes more effectively. The 2026 buyer pool looks different from recent years, shaped by rate adjustments, work-from-home policies, and economic uncertainty unique to the federal workforce.

Homes in DC currently receive approximately 2 offers on average — down significantly from peak pandemic levels but still indicating healthy underlying demand. The average days on market for homes receiving contracts reached 64 days in December 2025, up from 55 days the previous year. Hot, well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods still sell within 25–33 days, while average homes take considerably longer.

What Today’s DC Buyers Want

2026 DC Buyer Priority Index
Move-in ready condition
 
Critical
Updated kitchen & bathrooms
 
Very High
Flexible workspace / home office
 
High
Outdoor space (patio, yard, balcony)
 
High
Energy efficiency / lower utilities
 
Medium-High
Realistic, data-backed pricing
 
Non-Negotiable

Buyers have more options in 2026. Properties that don’t meet these priorities will sit longer and face price pressure.

The Rate Adjustment Reality

Mortgage rates are projected to average around 6.15% by the end of 2026 — down from recent peaks but nowhere near the sub-4% rates that fueled the pandemic buying frenzy. Buyers have largely accepted this reality. This rate environment means buyers are more deliberate and less likely to make rushed, emotional decisions. Sellers should expect more thorough inspections, appraisal negotiations, and contingency requests than during the seller-dominant years.

DC Neighborhood Market Breakdown

The Washington, DC real estate market is anything but uniform. Performance varies dramatically by neighborhood, property type, and price point. BrightMLS chief economist Lisa Sturtevant notes that weaker markets in 2026 will be “concentrated in the District and in exurban areas affected by return-to-work” policies, while suburban jurisdictions like Montgomery and Fairfax counties will remain stronger.

Market Segment Seller Outlook Buyer Outlook Key Driver
District Proper (NW, Capitol Hill) Moderate Favorable Federal workforce uncertainty; more buyer options
Inner Suburbs (Arlington, Alexandria) Strong Moderate Private sector strength; Metro access demand
Fairfax & Montgomery Counties Strong Moderate School zones; limited land; consistent demand
Loudoun County Strong Moderate Tech corridor growth; newer inventory
Exurban (Spotsylvania, Calvert) Moderate Favorable Return-to-office policies reducing remote demand
Condo Market (All Areas) Challenging Very Favorable Abundant inventory; rising HOA fees; remote work
Luxury Market ($1M+) Strong Moderate Wealthy buyer pool less rate-sensitive
⚠️ The Condo Conundrum

Condo sellers face particularly challenging conditions in 2026. The condo market has abundant inventory, longer days on market, and downward price pressure. Contributing factors include remote work reducing demand for small urban units, rising HOA fees, and increased scrutiny of condo association finances. If you’re selling a DC condo, expect longer timelines and consider pricing aggressively from day one rather than chasing the market down with gradual reductions.

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How Federal Uncertainty Impacts Your Sale

Washington, DC’s housing market has always been tied to the federal government, but 2026 presents unique challenges. As BrightMLS notes, “ongoing uncertainty around the federal government suggests weaker demand in the Washington DC metro area.”

One real estate professional described the core issue succinctly: “People don’t know if they are going to have a job tomorrow.” This hesitation creates a psychological barrier that affects both potential buyers (who delay major purchases) and potential sellers (who fear listing into uncertain demand).

Trend Driver Price Impact Seller Strategy
Federal workforce reductions ↓ Downward pressure Target private sector and contractor buyer pool
Return-to-office policies ↑ Mixed/upward in commutable areas Emphasize transit access and commute times in marketing
Government shutdown risks ↓ Creates buyer hesitation Offer flexibility on closing timelines
Agency relocations / closures ↓ Neighborhood-specific impact Know your buyer demographics by neighborhood
Private sector growth (tech, defense) ↑ Supports demand in NoVA Highlight proximity to private employers and tech hubs

Implications for Timing

Federal budget cycles and policy announcements can create temporary demand fluctuations. Sellers may benefit from listing during periods of relative stability rather than immediately after major political news. However, waiting indefinitely for “perfect” conditions often backfires — the market generally rewards decisive action over prolonged deliberation. Success is less about timing the market and more about understanding exactly where — and how — you’re playing.

Costs of Selling a Home in DC

Understanding your true selling costs is critical for setting realistic expectations. Washington, DC has some of the highest transaction costs in the nation, driven by significant transfer taxes and required professional services. On average, it costs approximately 8–10% of a home’s sale price to sell in Washington, DC when including all closing costs and commissions.

Cost Category Typical Range On a $650K Home
Real Estate Commission 4.0–5.5% $26,000–$35,750
Transfer & Recordation Taxes 1.1%–1.45% $7,150–$9,425
Title Insurance & Settlement $1,500–$3,000 $1,500–$3,000
Attorney Fees (Required in DC) $750–$1,250 $750–$1,250
Recording Fees $600–$700 $600–$700
Home Prep / Staging (Optional) $1,000–$5,000 $1,000–$5,000
Total Estimated Costs 8%–10% $37,000–$55,125

Note: Estimates are approximate and vary based on specific circumstances. Does not include buyer incentives or credits you may offer. Using a 1.5% listing agent vs. a 3% agent saves $9,750 on a $650K sale.

How Commission Works After the NAR Settlement

The 2024 National Association of Realtors settlement changed how commissions are handled. Sellers are no longer required to offer compensation to buyer’s agents through the MLS. However, in practice, most sellers still choose to offer buyer agent compensation because it makes homes more attractive to buyers who might otherwise struggle to pay their agent out of pocket. Commission remains negotiable, and working with an agent who offers competitive rates can significantly reduce your total costs without sacrificing service quality.

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Best Time to Sell in 2026

Timing your listing can significantly impact your outcome. While conventional wisdom suggests spring is always best, 2026’s market dynamics suggest a more nuanced approach.

Several market analysts recommend listing in late January or February 2026 rather than waiting for the traditional spring rush. The reasoning: by April, the inventory surge will be at its peak, meaning maximum competition. Listing earlier captures “New Year resolution” buyers before the market becomes oversaturated.

Season Competition Level Buyer Activity Price Potential 2026 Verdict
Late Winter (Jan–Feb) Low Moderate Good Best Window
Spring (Mar–May) High High Variable Inventory peaks; more competition
Summer (Jun–Aug) High Moderate Softening Families moving; but hot weather slows showings
Fall (Sep–Nov) Moderate Moderate Good Second-best window; serious buyers remain
Early Winter (Dec) Low Low Negotiable Motivated buyers only; limited activity
ℹ️ Market Timing vs. Personal Timing

While understanding seasonal patterns helps, the best time to sell is often when your personal circumstances align — job relocation, family changes, financial readiness. Trying to perfectly time the market often leads to missed opportunities. As one DC broker noted, “success is less about timing the market and more about understanding exactly where — and how — you’re playing.”

Pricing Strategies That Work Now

In a market transitioning toward balance, pricing strategy becomes more critical than ever. Overpricing carries real costs: extended days on market, price reduction stigma, and ultimately lower final sale prices than if you’d priced correctly from the start. Homes priced within 2% of market value typically sell faster and for higher net proceeds than overpriced properties that linger and require reductions.

The Data-Driven Approach

  • Review comparable sales from the past 90 days — not 6+ months ago
  • Adjust for condition differences — today’s buyers won’t overpay for deferred maintenance
  • Consider current active competition — what are buyers comparing you to right now?
  • Factor in current days-on-market trends for your specific neighborhood
  • Price to generate activity within the first two weeks — first impressions matter
  • Plan your price adjustment strategy if needed (but aim not to need it)

The Staging Dividend

🏠 Staged vs. Unstaged: The Impact on Sale Outcome
Speed to Sale Staged homes sell ~14 days faster on average
 
Price Premium ~3% above unstaged comparables
 
Dollar Return on $650K Home ~$19,500 premium vs. $2,000–$5,000 staging cost
 

In a high-inventory market, “empty and clean” is not enough. Buyers have options, and homes with quality lifestyle marketing stand out from the competition.

Common Seller Mistakes to Avoid

Many sellers approach the 2026 market with outdated expectations from the pandemic frenzy. Avoiding these common pitfalls can save you significant time, money, and frustration.

🚩 Mistake #1: Pricing Based on 2021–2022 Comparables

The market has shifted. Using peak-pandemic sale prices to set your 2026 asking price will result in extended time on market and eventual reductions — which signal desperation to buyers and typically produce a lower final price than starting correctly.

🚩 Mistake #2: Waiting for Spring When Inventory Will Peak

The biggest mistake is waiting for April when you’ll face maximum competition. Earlier listing in late winter captures motivated buyers with less inventory to compare against your property.

🚩 Mistake #3: Refusing to Make Repairs or Offer Credits

Today’s buyers have options and will negotiate harder on inspection issues. Being inflexible on condition items can kill deals that would have closed easily in tighter markets. Address issues proactively or price to reflect them.

🚩 Mistake #4: Underinvesting in Marketing

Professional photography, staging, and digital marketing are non-negotiable when buyers are scrolling through dozens of listings. Amateur presentation signals a property not worth serious consideration — before anyone ever steps inside.

🚩 Mistake #5: Being Unavailable for Showings

Restricting showing times or requiring excessive notice reduces buyer traffic. In a higher-inventory environment, you need maximum exposure — especially in the critical first two weeks when algorithmic boost is highest.

🚩 Mistake #6: Taking Lowball Offers Personally

Buyers are testing the market. A low initial offer is the start of a negotiation, not an insult. Engage constructively rather than rejecting outright — a skilled agent can often bridge a significant gap between first offer and final contract price.

Alternatives to Traditional Selling

Not every seller’s situation calls for a traditional listing. Understanding your options helps you choose the path that best fits your timeline, financial needs, and risk tolerance.

Option Timeline Net Proceeds Best For
1.5% Full-Service MLS Listing 45–90 days Highest Maximum price + lower commission — the best of both
Traditional MLS Listing (3%+) 45–90+ days High Full service at standard commission cost
Cash Offer / iBuyer 7–14 days Lower (5–15% below market) Speed and certainty are the priority over price
Auction 30–45 days Variable Unique properties; defined, certain timeline
FSBO (For Sale By Owner) Variable Depends on execution Experienced sellers with a known buyer; uncommon in DC
Lease-to-Own 12–36 months Variable Income priority; patient sellers not needing immediate cash

For sellers who need speed and certainty over maximum price, exploring a cash offer option can provide a faster path to closing without the uncertainties of traditional showings and buyer financing contingencies. We’ll walk you through the full range of options and compare your net proceeds for each path — no pressure.

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Real Estate Terms Glossary

Days on Market (DOM)
The number of days between when a home is listed and when it goes under contract. Lower DOM indicates stronger demand. In DC, January 2026 average is 64–70 days — up from 55 days the prior year.
Months of Supply
How long it would take to sell all current inventory at the current sales pace. Under 4 months typically favors sellers; over 6 months favors buyers. DC currently sits below 2 months — still technically a seller’s market despite rising inventory.
Comparable Sales (Comps)
Recently sold properties similar to yours in location, size, and features. Used to establish market value. Use 90-day comps in 2026 — older data will be misleading.
Transfer Tax
A tax levied by DC government when property ownership changes hands. Currently 1.1% of sale price for sales under $400,000 and 1.45% for sales at or above $400,000. Paid by the seller at closing.
Recordation Tax
A fee paid to record the deed transfer with the DC government. Often combined with transfer tax in discussions about total DC closing costs.
Contingency
A condition that must be met for a sale to proceed, such as satisfactory inspection, appraisal, or buyer financing approval. Expect more contingency requests in 2026 vs. peak pandemic years.
Earnest Money Deposit (EMD)
Money provided by the buyer to demonstrate serious intent. Typically 1–3% of purchase price in DC transactions.
Dual Agency
When one agent represents both buyer and seller. Legal in DC with written consent, but limits the agent’s ability to fully advocate for either party.
Settlement / Closing
The final meeting where ownership transfers, documents are signed, and funds are disbursed. DC closings require a licensed attorney and typically occur 30–45 days after contract ratification.
Net Proceeds
The amount you receive after all selling costs, commissions, and mortgage payoff are subtracted from the sale price. Always calculate this before setting a list price.
Rate Lock-In Effect
The phenomenon where homeowners with sub-4% mortgages are reluctant to sell because moving would require taking on a new mortgage at 6–7%. This “golden handcuffs” effect has been suppressing inventory but is thawing as life events override financial hesitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2026 a good time to sell a house in Washington, DC?

2026 presents a transitional market with both opportunities and challenges. While prices may soften slightly (projected 0.7–1% decline), sellers still benefit from significant pandemic-era equity gains and a market that remains structurally undersupplied. Sellers who price strategically and present their homes well can achieve strong outcomes, though expectations should align with current conditions rather than the frenzied markets of 2021–2022.

How long does it take to sell a house in DC in 2026?

The average days on market in DC is currently 45–70 days, though this varies significantly by price point, property type, and neighborhood. Well-priced, move-in ready homes in desirable locations can still sell in 25–35 days, while overpriced properties or condos may take considerably longer.

What are the total costs to sell a home in Washington, DC?

Expect total selling costs of 8–10% of your sale price, including real estate commission (4–5.5% using a 1.5% listing agent + 2.5% buyer agent), transfer and recordation taxes (approximately 1.1–1.45%), title and settlement fees ($1,500–$3,000), attorney fees ($750–$1,250), and potential staging or repair costs. On a $650,000 home with a 1.5% listing agent, this translates to roughly $37,000–$50,000 in total expenses.

Should I make repairs before selling my DC home?

Focus on repairs that address safety issues, functional problems, and cosmetic concerns that affect first impressions. In 2026’s market, buyers have options and are less likely to overlook deferred maintenance. However, major renovations rarely return their full cost — focus on high-impact, lower-cost improvements like fresh paint, updated fixtures, and landscaping. Professional staging delivers the highest ROI of any pre-listing investment.

How do I choose the best real estate agent to sell my home in DC?

Look for agents with demonstrable experience in your specific neighborhood, a track record of recent sales (not just listings), strong marketing capabilities including 4K photography and 3D tours, and transparent communication about pricing strategy and commission structure. Interview multiple agents, ask for references, and ensure they understand current market conditions. The Jamil Brothers Realty Group offers data-driven pricing and a 1.5% full-service listing fee that helps maximize your net proceeds.

Will DC home prices drop significantly in 2026?

Most forecasts project modest price softening of 0.7–1% in the DC metro area for 2026 — not a significant drop. DC’s limited land supply, height restrictions, and continued demand from government and private sector employers provide structural support for home values. This is a market cooling, not a crash.

Is the DC condo market different from single-family homes?

Yes, significantly. The DC condo market has more inventory, longer days on market, and weaker price performance than single-family homes. Remote work has reduced demand for small urban units, and rising HOA fees create additional buyer hesitation. Condo sellers should expect longer timelines and consider aggressive pricing from day one rather than testing the market high and reducing.

What’s the best month to list a home in DC in 2026?

Consider listing in late January or February rather than waiting for the traditional spring market. With inventory projected to surge by spring, earlier listing captures motivated buyers with significantly less competition. However, personal circumstances often matter more than market timing — the best time to sell is when you’re genuinely ready.

How does federal government uncertainty affect DC home sales?

Federal workforce uncertainty — including potential layoffs, agency relocations, and budget concerns — creates hesitation among both buyers and sellers in the DC area. This is the primary factor cited by economists for DC’s weaker projected performance compared to other Mid-Atlantic markets. Sellers should be prepared for longer timelines and more negotiation, particularly in neighborhoods with high concentrations of federal workers.

Should I offer to pay the buyer’s agent commission?

While the 2024 NAR settlement removed the requirement to offer buyer agent compensation through the MLS, most sellers still choose to do so. Offering compensation makes your home more accessible to buyers who may struggle to pay their agent out of pocket on top of down payment and closing costs. Discuss the strategic implications with your listing agent based on current market conditions in your specific neighborhood.

Can I sell my DC home if I still owe more than it’s worth?

Given DC’s substantial appreciation over recent years, most homeowners have significant equity. However, if you do owe more than your home’s current value, options include bringing cash to closing, negotiating a short sale with your lender, or waiting for appreciation. Consult with a real estate professional and a financial advisor to understand your specific situation.

What happens if my home doesn’t sell?

If your home isn’t attracting offers, evaluate pricing first — the market provides feedback through buyer activity (or lack of it). Consider a price adjustment, enhanced marketing, or addressing condition issues that may be deterring buyers. In some cases, temporarily withdrawing the listing and relaunching with fresh positioning can help. Your agent should provide regular market feedback and strategic recommendations based on showing activity and buyer feedback.

Moving Forward in DC’s 2026 Market

The Washington, DC housing market in 2026 rewards informed, strategic sellers who understand current conditions and adapt accordingly. While the days of listing any home and receiving multiple above-asking offers within a week are behind us, the market remains fundamentally healthy with strong underlying demand and structural supply constraints that support values.

Key principles for success: price based on current data (not peak-pandemic nostalgia), invest in presentation, be flexible with buyers, and choose representation that aligns your interests with proven local expertise. For sellers who also need to buy after selling, explore buyer strategy options and view current DMV listings on ExploreVAHomes.com to understand what you’ll be buying into.

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This article provides general market information and should not be construed as specific financial or legal advice. Real estate markets are inherently local — consult with qualified professionals familiar with your specific property and circumstances before making decisions. Market data cited reflects conditions as of January 2026 and is subject to change. The Jamil Brothers Realty Group — Saad Jamil and Arslan Jamil — are licensed in VA, DC, MD, and WV. NVAR Lifetime Top Producers. 840+ homes sold. $500M+ in closed volume.

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