Story perspectives

D.C. Housing Market Stabilizes: Prices Drop, Affordability Rises

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mischa Fisher, Zillow chief economist, says the D.C. region's strong job market and rising housing supply have stabilized costs.
Home values declined 0.4% year over year, making housing more affordable than two decades ago.
Fisher attributes affordability to higher incomes and a well-educated workforce.
He notes the greater Washington area has met housing demand through new developments and describes the market as balanced, not expecting a return to normal or imbalances.

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Story summary

Mischa Fisher, Zillow chief economist, says the D.C. region's strong job market and rising housing supply have stabilized costs.
Home values declined 0.4% year over year, making housing more affordable than two decades ago.
Fisher attributes affordability to higher incomes and a well-educated workforce.
He notes the greater Washington area has met housing demand through new developments and describes the market as balanced, not expecting a return to normal or imbalances.