Dayton, Ohio, has a growing economy, and its affordable homes make it a perfect choice for many who desire a home for sale; however, it is crucial to know when to buy.

Market trends can help you decide, as factors such as housing prices, interest rates and the area’s economic condition can influence the market.

Whether you are a first-time buyer or are looking to upgrade/downsize, the current state of the Dayton, Ohio, real estate market can help you make a decision. Here is what you should know about these trends and their possibilities, before buying your dream home.

Dayton, Ohio, Current Market Trends

The Dayton real estate market is dynamic, and this is reflected in its price fluctuations. These changes do not come as a surprise; but they do bring opportunities to home buyers who are looking for a home for sale, allowing them to explore various options and take advantage of what the market offers.

Here are market trends to watch for, when considering buying a property in Dayton.

Current Inventory

The current Dayton real estate market features an increased inventory of properties for sale, allowing buyers to choose from a vast range of options. As of April 2025, the housing market in this city had 1,735 active listings, marking a 9.7% increase from the preceding month. The surge in properties gives buyers more alternatives to choose from, while sellers experience more competition, due to the increased number of home listings on the market.

Market Duration

Knowing the Dayton housing market is experiencing quicker home sales can help you prepare for future purchases. This gives you valuable insight into the current market trends, allowing you to decide whether to buy a house immediately or wait a bit longer. 

This usually indicates a seller’s market, often indicating faster sales. If the Dayton market is competitive, the market duration is generally shortened. Some home buyers may try to speed up sales, deciding quickly to secure their desired homes.

Insights for Buyers

• Affordability: Dayton’s housing market rises and falls continually. This means that you can catch or miss an opportunity, as prices fluctuate; however, properties in Dayton are affordable, compared to other U.S. cities. As of March 2025, the average home price stood at $178,500.
• Negotiation Opportunities: In April 2025, the Dayton real estate market presented negotiation opportunities.Forty-three percent of homes were listed below their original price, giving buyers a chance to secure better deals. If you want to buy a house in Dayton, you can negotiate lower prices with the sellers, to stay within your budget.

• Market Competition: Dayton’s residential property market is highly competitive, due to strong demand; yet more homes are entering the market, offering buyers a wider range of choices. If you find the home listings attractive, you can go with the active market and purchase a home that matches your budget.

Insights for Sellers

With homes now selling in 39 days on average, sellers can experience the following:

• Heightened Demand: Home buyers’ demand for residential properties in Dayton is increasing more rapidly than it used to. This reduces the time that properties spend on the market and favors the sellers.
• Market Growth: The value of real estate in Dayton has increased over time, creating a favorable market for sellers, who benefit from listing homes at higher prices. This positions current sellers for significant returns.
• Fast Paced Sales: Homes in Dayton are selling rapidly, with an average market time of 39 days. The speed of market turnover allows sellers to close deals with their buyers more quickly and effectively.

Current Market Trend

The real estate market in Dayton is experiencing steady growth. While prices may fluctuate, there is an ever greater number of properties available on various home listing platforms. This allows buyers to navigate different kinds of homes and affords opportunities to negotiate suitable deals in purchasing their dream home.

The Dayton real estate market offers a balanced and fair environment, making it an attractive location for both sellers and buyers. This trend provides the best options for all parties. Whether you are selling or buying a house, know that you are helping to create a favorable environment for successful transactions.

Should You Buy or Wait?

The decision to buy or wait should be based on current market trends and factors that may influence demand. Consider the following, before deciding on what to do:

Advantages of Buying Now

• Reduced Interest Rates: Buyers are guaranteed a mortgage at a reduced rate with low interest, making it a good time to buy a home.
• Growing Economy: The job market and thriving economy in Dayton neighborhoods help create attractive opportunities for investors and home buyers and build a secure financial future.
• Value for Money: Houses in Dayton are affordable, making it perfect for those looking for homes that fit their budget.

Disadvantages of Buying Now

• Competitive Market: The Dayton real estate market is competitive, due to high buyer interest and limited inventory. Home buyers may need to negotiate aggressively or act quickly, to avoid losing their desired property.
• Potential for Appreciation: According to experts, future home listings may be more expensive, affecting home buyers who are still waiting to buy.

Should You Wait?

If you are not sure about the homes for sale or you have yet to find something affordable, then do the following: 

• Wait for More Inventory: Waiting may be the wise decision, if you are looking for a specific type of property and have not yet found it.
• Monitor Interest Rates: Interest rates can be a problem for many home buyers, as the slightest change can impact purchasing capacity.
• Survey Market Shifts: Look for economic trends and learn about market shifts, as these can impact housing prices and demand.

Conclusion

The real estate market in Dayton, Ohio, is a favorable landscape for potential home buyers. It features rising inventory, balanced market conditions and steady price dynamics. Going with the trend, you may consider investing in a home or selling your current property now. Armed with this information about current market trends, you can consult with a real estate expert, to help you make decisions based on your needs.