What’s Really Happening in Arlington’s Real Estate Market?
Arlington’s real estate market is active, but the key to success right now is realistic pricing and expectations.
On the rental side, things are finally picking up after a slower stretch. Rents are rising and, with new apartment communities under construction, tenants will soon have more options. While that’s great news for renters, it also means landlords will need to be mindful of both price and property condition to stay competitive.
When it comes to home sales, overpricing is the biggest stumbling block. Buyers here make decisions quickly. If they don’t see value, they move on—and price reductions later rarely win them back. Those cuts often just highlight that the home was overpriced to begin with. The reality is that the market, not the seller, sets the property’s value and price.
One concerning trend worth noting is the rise in canceled contracts. More properties are going under contract, then reverting to active status. Sometimes it’s just buyer hesitation, sometimes there are inspection issues (these are not problems that will go away with the next offer) and sometimes it’s simply that a more desirable property has come along.
Emotions are running high in today’s market. Uncertainty can lead to unexpected reactions. In one case, a buyer asked to delay closing after a dip in their retirement account. On another occasion, a buyer backed out entirely after second-guessing their choice. These moments underscore how personal the process can feel. That’s why expert guidance is more important than ever—to help clients stay grounded, informed, and focused on their long-term goals.
The bottom line is that Arlington’s market offers plenty of opportunity, and it rewards those who stay realistic. With clear expectations and trusted, expert guidance, buyers and sellers alike can achieve their goals.
Carol Temple, a top-producing Arlington Realtor® since 1972, delivers expert guidance and smooth transactions. Known for her integrity, deep local knowledge, and strong agent relationships, she consistently achieves exceptional results. Carol personally supports clients with trusted resources
and award-winning service—no team, just hands-on experience you can count on.
Awards/Honors
NVAR Top Producer—Lifetime Diamond Award
Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)—earned by only 3% of agents through advanced training and exceptional sales performance
Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle
RealTrends, America’s Best
Washingtonian/Northern Virginia Magazine, Top Agent
Virginia Top Real Estate All-Stars
Expertise.com, Best Arlington Real Estate Agents