As summer winds down, the real estate market in Greater Cincinnati is shifting gears. Interest rates have dipped to their lowest level in nearly a year, new listings are giving buyers more options, and homes are still selling quickly in our most in-demand suburbs like Mason, West Chester, Liberty Township, and Indian Hill. Whether you’re planning to buy your first home, move up to your dream property, or sell before the holidays, understanding where the market stands in August 2025 will help you make smart moves.
Mortgage Rates: A Welcome Dip
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30-year fixed mortgage: averaging 6.5%–6.56%, the lowest in 10 months.
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Forecasts suggest rates could ease closer to 6.0% by year-end, creating even more affordability for buyers.
👉 What this means in real life: Buyers locking in rates now are getting the best financing opportunities we’ve seen since last fall. Even a small drop in rates later this year could spark heavier competition.
Greater Cincinnati Market Snapshot
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Median Days on Market (DOM):
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Hamilton County: 8–9 days (fast pace, though slightly slower than last year).
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City of Cincinnati (Redfin): 43 days, showing longer timelines outside the hottest suburbs.
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Median Sale Prices:
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Hamilton County: about $320,000, up 6.7% year-over-year.
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Cincinnati citywide: $294,243, up 7% year-over-year.
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Inventory: Listings are rising modestly, giving buyers more choice without overwhelming sellers.
👉 What this means in real life: If you’re a buyer, you’ll notice a little more breathing room compared to spring. But in hot suburbs like Mason or Indian Hill, desirable homes are still flying off the market in just over a week.
Seasonal Market Notes
August is a transition month: families are wrapping up summer vacations, kids are back to school, and many buyers are making a push to get settled before the holidays. Sellers who list now can benefit from serious, motivated buyers who want to move before year-end.
Opportunities for Buyers
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Move quickly, but strategically: Homes in Mason, West Chester, and Indian Hill are often under contract in under 10 days.
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Secure financing early: Pre-approval gives you confidence and helps you compete in a mid-6% rate environment.
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Watch fall trends: If rates dip closer to 6.0%, expect new buyers to re-enter the market—meaning more competition.
📋 Buyer Tip Box:
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✅ Get pre-approved before you shop.
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✅ Set up instant listing alerts.
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✅ Tour homes as soon as they hit the market.
Opportunities for Sellers
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Still a seller’s market: Well-prepared homes are drawing attention quickly.
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Pricing precision is key: Overpricing risks sitting on the market—buyers are cautious and compare homes closely.
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Luxury steady: High-end buyers are selective, but demand remains strong for well-presented properties in Indian Hill and Liberty Township.
📋 Seller Tip Box:
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✅ Declutter and stage your home for maximum impact.
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✅ Refresh curb appeal with landscaping and exterior touch-ups.
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✅ Consider a pre-listing home inspection to avoid surprises.
Neighborhood Highlights
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Mason & West Chester: Family-friendly communities with low DOM and competitive offers.
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Indian Hill: Luxury properties continue to attract buyers seeking exclusivity and privacy.
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Liberty Township: Popular with move-up buyers, with strong activity and rising demand.
Looking Ahead
If mortgage rates continue their gradual decline this fall, we may see multiple-offer scenarios return in full force. Planning ahead now—whether you’re buying or selling—puts you in the strongest position to act confidently when the market shifts.
Key Takeaway
The Greater Cincinnati market remains one of momentum and opportunity. Sellers can still benefit from strong demand, while buyers now have more options and slightly less competition than earlier this year. As rates hover in the mid-6% range, the window is open for both sides to make confident, well-timed decisions.
📞 Thinking about making a move this fall?
I’d be happy to provide a personalized strategy—whether you’re preparing to sell, upsizing, downsizing, or buying your first home.
Kristine Green
Realtor®, Global Luxury Specialist
Coldwell Banker Realty
Office: 513-445-8195