According to Maryland.gov, “in the Moore-Miller Administration’s first year, it evaluated the state’s economy and learned that housing affordability was driving Marylanders out of the state.” (https://dhcd.maryland.gov/TurningTheKey/Pages/default.aspx)  Although talk of solutions have been on the horizon since 2024, a 2025 University of Maryland study found that “sluggish new housing construction in Maryland is driving up prices and contributing to residents’ inability to achieve the American dream of homeownership.” (https://today.umd.edu/umd-researchers-find-homeownership-increasingly-out-of-reach-for-marylanders#:~:text=Sluggish%20new%20housing%20construction%20in%20Maryland%20is%20driving,according%20to%20a%20new%20University%20of%20Maryland%20study.) 

The report’s findings stated that the construction rate has not increased since the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, restrictive zoning laws have contributed to the slowdown in development. The Dynasty Group of Vybe Realty, created by Tiffany Domneys, Mark Sykes, and Marcus James, comprises highly experienced realtors. They answered timely questions about the housing market, and how buyers, sellers and renters can navigate through this climate.

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Major Housing Market Struggles

The current housing market is under pressure on all fronts.   

“Low inventory is a major issue. Many homeowners don’t want to sell because they’d lose their low mortgage rates, which keeps listings scarce. Buyers are struggling with affordability as higher interest rates make monthly payments harder to manage,” said James.

 On the new construction side, builders are facing rising material costs and supply chain issues, which is making new homes more expensive.  

Housing Prices and Apartment Rentals

Sykes stated that homes that are priced right and move-in ready are still moving quickly. However, buyers have more leverage with homes that have been sitting for weeks.

“Housing prices in Baltimore are still trending upward, but some sellers are pricing on the higher end, which often increases the number of days a property sits on the market. When homes linger too long, they risk going stale, leading to significant price reductions and giving buyers more negotiating power. The main factor keeping values steady is tight inventory,” Domneys further explained.

She mentioned that higher interest rates have made buyers more cautious. While bidding wars are not currently as common, they still happen when inventory is especially limited. Homes continue to move, largely influenced by neighborhood desirability and renovation trends. 

“On the rental side, prices remain on the rise as many would-be buyers hold off until mortgage rates ease. At the same time, private landlords have become more cautious, tightening rental criteria,” said Domneys.

Sykes added that although many buyers are sitting on the sidelines hoping mortgage rates will drop below 6%, the reality is, timing the market perfectly is tough. Waiting too long can mean missing out on building equity.

Tips for first-time buyers who are looking for an affordable home 

James suggested that first-time buyers explore local and state grant programs, down payment assistance, and consider working with community development lenders who offer flexible options. 

“Getting pre-approved early, being realistic about neighborhoods, and considering homes that need cosmetic updating can help stretch the budget,” he also suggested.

Find the Right Realtor for You

 Domneys stated that two of the most important qualities a seller should look for in a realtor are communication and knowledge of the current market. Without strong communication, sellers can quickly feel lost or misinformed. 

“Just as critical is knowledge. An agent should understand market conditions and trends, and have a clear, effective pricing strategy backed by proven results. Selling a home is a major step, and the right pricing is the key to success. Without it, sellers can lose trust in both the agent and the process itself,” she added.

Sellers Should Spruce Up These Two Areas

Domneys explained that kitchens and bathrooms are the two most important areas a seller should consider sprucing up before listing a home for sale. The kitchen is often the heart of the home. First impressions matter to homebuyers. Even minor updates like fresh paint, updated fixtures, or new cabinet hardware can dramatically change how buyers view the space without requiring a major investment. 

“Bathrooms also make a big impact when clean and refreshed,” she added.

Beyond updates, decluttering and depersonalizing the home is key. While it can be hard for sellers to rearrange personal spaces, the goal is to help potential buyers imagine themselves in the home and see it as their own.Visithttps://thedynastygrp.comandhttps://justvybe.com  to learn more about The Dynasty Group of Vybe Realty.