If you’ve been watching the real estate market in Northern Virginia, you know things are constantly shifting. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or looking to sell, staying informed is crucial. That’s where experienced Realtor Mark Worrilow of Fathom Realty comes in. With his deep knowledge of the local market and an eye on mortgage trends, Mark helps clients make the best decisions in a competitive real estate landscape.
Mortgage Rates are Trending Down
One of the biggest concerns for homebuyers is mortgage rates, and the good news is that rates have been trending downward. Mark points to the latest numbers, showing that conventional loan rates have dipped to 6.59%, with VA loans falling below 6.15%. FHA loans have also seen a decrease, making homeownership more accessible for many buyers. While Jumbo loan rates remain near 7%, Mark remains optimistic that the overall trend is moving in the right direction.
“For buyers who have been hesitant due to high interest rates, now may be a great time to revisit their options,” says Mark. “We’re seeing a slow but steady decline in mortgage rates, which is encouraging for both buyers and sellers.”
Market Trends: Prices Remain Strong, Inventory is Growing
According to Mark’s research, home prices across Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Prince William counties, Manassas, and Manassas Park cities are holding steady. In Stafford, the average home price for March 2025 is $662,000, while Spotsylvania sits at $652,000, and Prince William, Manassas, and Manassas Park average at $678,000. While prices are still high, the pace of appreciation has slowed slightly, making it easier for buyers to find a home without experiencing extreme bidding wars.
Additionally, inventory levels are improving. According to data from the Fredericksburg Area Association of REALTORS® (FAAR), active listings jumped 21% year-over-year, from 661 homes in February 2024 to 795 in February 2025. However, new listings are down 12%, and pending sales have dipped 10%, signaling that buyers are becoming more discerning in their choices.
Multiple Offers Still a Factor, But Cash Offers Less of a Concern
Even with inventory increasing, buyers should still expect some competition. “The market remains strong, and while more homes are available, we’re still seeing multiple offers in certain price ranges,” Mark explains. “That said, the fear of being constantly outbid by cash buyers seems to be easing.”
Recent market data shows that conventional loans are the most common financing method across Northern Virginia. For example, in Stafford, there were 47 conventional loans closed in March 2025 compared to 36 VA loans and 14 cash offers. In Prince William, Manassas, and Manassas Park, there were 178 conventional loans closed versus 49 VA loans. This suggests that many buyers— including veterans—are able to put down more substantial down payments, making them competitive in the market.
Why Now Might Be the Right Time to Buy or Sell
For those wondering if it’s time to jump into the real estate market, Mark outlines three key takeaways:
Home prices are still strong – While appreciation has slowed, values remain high, making it a great time to sell.
Interest rates are dropping – Buyers who were priced out in 2023 and early 2024 might find that they now qualify for more home.
Inventory is increasing – With more options available, buyers have a better chance of finding a home that fits their needs without feeling pressured to settle.
Let Mark Worrilow Guide You Through the Process
Whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to figure out your next move in the real estate market, Mark Worrilow has the expertise to guide you. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of mortgage trends and housing data, Mark ensures his clients have the knowledge they need to make confident decisions.
Ready to explore your real estate options?
Contact Mark Worrilow of Fathom Realty today!
(703) 244-8702
9805 Spillway Ct, Burke, VA 22015
Price: $584,400
3 Bedrooms | 2 Full Baths | 2 Half Baths
1,900 sq. ft. | Colonial Style
Open House: Saturday, March 1, 1 to 4 p.m, Sunday, March 2, 2 to 4 p.m.
Located in the sought-after Lakepointe neighborhood, this beautifully updated three-level townhome offers modern living in a prime location. Step inside to find a spacious open floor plan with gleaming hardwood floors, recessed lighting, and a wood-burning fireplace in the living room.
The gourmet kitchen features solid surface countertops, stylish cabinetry, and high-end appliances, perfect for home chefs and entertaining guests. The adjacent dining room makes hosting effortless.
Upstairs, you’ll find three generously sized bedrooms, including a luxurious owner’s suite with an en-suite remodeled bath. The finished lower level provides a large recreation space, half bath, and laundry area, making it ideal for a home office, gym, or media room.
Enjoy outdoor living in your private fenced backyard with a beautiful paver patio, perfect for relaxing or hosting gatherings. The community offers a pool, playgrounds, and walking trails.
This home is a must-see, conveniently located near shopping, dining, and commuter routes with easy access to Washington, D.C.
Call Today to Schedule Your Showing
Listing Agent: Mark Worrilow
Fathom Realty (Licensed in Virginia)
Phone: (703) 244-8702
Email: [email protected]
Interest rates have been a hot topic in the housing market, with many prospective buyers wondering if now is the right time to purchase a home. Realtor Mark Worrilow provides insight into the history of interest rates, their impact on homeownership, and why buyers shouldn’t be discouraged by the current rates.
A Historical Perspective on Interest Rates
Many buyers today are accustomed to the record-low interest rates seen between 2010 and 2021, where rates dipped below 5% and even reached historic lows of around 2.65%. However, when we look at the broader historical context, the current rates are still within a reasonable range.
- Over the last 30 years, the average interest rate has been approximately 4.1%.
- Between 2000 and 2008, rates hovered around 5.75% to 6%.
- Over the past 50 years, the median interest rate has been 7.37%.
- In the 1980s, interest rates were at an all-time high, even reaching 16-18%.
Comparing today’s rates to past decades, we see that while rates have risen from their pandemic-era lows, they are still lower than historical peaks. As Worrilow explains, “5.5% to 6% doesn’t look so bad when you consider that past generations bought homes at much higher rates and still saw long-term gains in home value.”
What Higher Rates Mean for Buyers
It’s natural for homebuyers to worry about affordability, especially when mortgage payments increase due to higher interest rates. For example, on a $500,000 loan, moving from 5.8% to 6.8% could add approximately $325 per month to a mortgage payment. While this increase is significant, it’s essential to look at the bigger picture.
Real estate remains a strong investment, historically appreciating home values over time. Buyers who enter the market now can benefit from future appreciation, even if they purchase at slightly higher rates.
The Refinancing Strategy: “Marry the Home, Rent the Interest Rate”
One common approach that Worrilow discusses is the ability to refinance in the future when rates drop. Many homeowners who bought in 2018 and 2019 at around 4.5% could refinance in 2020 and 2021 when rates fell to 2.96%. This approach allows buyers to secure a home they love now, knowing they may have the opportunity to lower their monthly payments in the future.
Why Buying Now Still Makes Sense
Despite concerns about interest rates, there are still many reasons to consider buying a home today:
- Homeownership Builds Wealth: Real estate remains one of the most stable long-term investments.
- Limited Housing Supply: Waiting for lower interest rates might not guarantee better affordability, as demand could increase prices.
- Personal Stability & Investment: Renting means paying someone else’s mortgage, while owning allows you to build equity and gain financial stability.
- Expert Guidance: Working with knowledgeable professionals like Mark Worrilow ensures buyers can navigate the market wisely and find the best opportunities.
Interest rates fluctuate, but homeownership remains a valuable investment. By working with an experienced realtor and lender, buyers can find smart ways to manage rates and secure their dream home. As Worrilow emphasizes, “If you find a great home that meets your needs, don’t let interest rates scare you away—there are always options to adjust in the future.”
Stay Ahead of the Market
Staying informed is key for those looking to buy or sell in Prince William, Stafford, Fredericksburg, or surrounding areas. If you’re ready to move and want expert guidance, connect with Mark Worrilow at Fathom Realty. With years of experience and a pulse on the latest market trends, he’s ready to help you navigate today’s dynamic real estate landscape. Call him – 703-244-8702.
The Northern Virginia real estate market is experiencing an increase in home listings, with notable pricing and inventory level changes across Fairfax, Prince William, Stafford, and Spotsylvania counties. This shift comes amid large-scale federal job cuts, prompting some government employees to list their homes out of economic uncertainty.
Federal Job Cuts and Housing Market Impact
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A stunning lakefront home in Marshall, VA, is now on the market for $1,250,000. Located in the Cobbler Springs Farm Subdivision, this colonial-style home offers privacy, space, and breathtaking water views.
This home features five bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, and 3,596 square feet of living space. The main level includes a spacious primary suite, a gourmet kitchen with granite countertops and skylights, a family room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a sunroom with stone flooring. The upper level has four additional bedrooms, a loft, and three full bathrooms. The lower level offers a large recreation room with a fireplace, a workshop, and ample storage space.
Enjoy 100 feet of lake frontage, an attached garage, and an expansive yard perfect for outdoor activities. The home is located within the Fauquier County Public Schools district, near Fauquier High School, Marshall Middle School, and Claude Thompson Elementary School.
MLS #VAFQ2014848. Price recently reduced to $1,250,000.
Schedule a private tour today. Contact Tom Campbell, Licensed Broker in Virginia, of Fathom Realty at [email protected] or call 703-909-0074.
This post is sponsored by Mark Worrilow, District Director Fathom Realty, Licensed Broker in Virginia.
Step into this stunning 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom colonial home at 107 Seven Pines Dr., Locust Grove, VA 22508, where modern luxury meets tranquil living. Situated on a spacious half-acre lot in the prestigious Lake of the Woods community, this move-in-ready gem is the ultimate blend of elegance and comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Home:
This beautiful home offers over 2,500 square feet of finished living space, featuring brand-new stainless steel appliances, Pergo and wood laminate flooring, and fresh paint inside and out. The open and airy two-story foyer leads to gleaming hardwood floors throughout the main level. The light-filled dining room and a versatile office/formal living room flank the entrance. The cozy living room, complete with a gas fireplace, flows seamlessly into the upgraded kitchen with Kraftmaid cabinetry, sleek stainless steel appliances, and a convenient breakfast bar.
The upper level features all-new flooring, an office, and four spacious bedrooms. The owner’s suite boasts a large walk-in closet, dual vanities, and an ultra-relaxing jetted soaking tub. An additional flex room upstairs can serve as an office, gym, playroom, or even a fifth bedroom. The refinished screened-in rear deck offers the perfect space for year-round entertaining, while the large, level backyard provides plenty of room to play. A two-car garage and a newly sealed asphalt driveway complete this amazing home.
Resort-Style Living:
Lake of the Woods offers an unparalleled lifestyle with two private lakes perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming, an 18-hole USGA golf course, an equestrian center, two pools, tennis courts, parks, and a fitness center. The community also features a vibrant social calendar and 24-hour gated security for peace of mind.
Your Move, Your Moment
Listed at $465,000, this exceptional property won’t stay on the market long. With its unbeatable combination of luxury, space, and community amenities, it’s the perfect place to call home.
Contact Juan Piniella at 703-863-1033 today to schedule your private showing. Don’t wait—call now to make this dream home yours!
Hello! I’m Mark Worrilow of Fathom Realty. In this week’s listing, you won’t beat the price or condition of this remodeled home in a quiet area with plenty of land to serve your needs.
It’s been remodeled and is ready for new owners. This walk-in home is equipped with upgrades and beautiful fresh paint.
In 2024, the water piping was replaced, new outdoor fixtures were installed, a brand new hot water heater was also installed, and the HVAC system was cleaned and serviced in July 2024.
Call Mark Worrilow today at 703-244-8702 or email mworrilow[at]fathomrealty.com.Â
The address is 10217 Catharpin Road, Spotsylvania Courthouse, Va.
Click Here to Take a virtual tour.
See my slideshow below
Mark Worrilow, District Director at Fathom Realty, shared insights into the local real estate market. Worrilow highlighted the resilience of Virginia’s real estate market in 2024, surpassing earlier expectations. Despite a slowdown in 2022 and 2023, the market is witnessing a steady pace of home sales.
Worrilow attributed the previous slowdown to a rapid interest rate surge, causing buyers and sellers to exercise caution. With interest rates now stabilizing, there is a renewed sense of optimism in the market. The potential for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates further could stimulate activity by attracting more investors and influencing mortgage rates.
Addressing concerns about population shifts, Worrilow acknowledged an influx of individuals moving from higher-cost areas like Fairfax, Alexandria, and Arlington to more affordable regions. The ability to telecommute has played a significant role, allowing individuals to choose locations based on lifestyle preferences and lower living costs.
In response to questions from potential homebuyers, Worrilow emphasized the importance of being a reliable source of information. Buyers often inquire about schools, commuting times, and the overall market outlook. Worrilow shared, “As an ethics instructor and an instructor for various real estate topics, I tell my students and agents to be the source of the source,” directing them to online resources to find unbiased community information.
Despite variations in preferences, detached homes remain the primary focus for buyers, with townhomes also in demand. Worrilow noted, “I would say that what I’m seeing primarily are detached homes, but there still is a great market for townhomes.”
Discussing the broader economic impact, Worrilow highlighted the enduring significance of homeownership as the American dream. He emphasized, “Homeownership, that’s the American dream, and it still is.” He adds that people continue to seek homes that align with their desires and financial capabilities, contributing to the real estate market’s stability.
The study found that Indiana is the easiest state to sell a home. Homes go on sale in about 30 days after an offer is accepted and about another 30 days on average to close the sale. At about 60 days, it’s the lowest of any U.S. state.
Another midwestern state features Wisconsin, which comes in second place with an average of 64.92 days to sell a home from start to finish. It takes, on average, 38.80 days for an offer to be accepted in the state, with a further 26.12 days on average to close the sale.
Michigan takes third place on the list. Homes in Michigan take an average of 35.13 days for an offer to be accepted, followed by an average of 31.01 days to close the sale, adding up to an average of 66.14 days to sell a home from start to finish.
Photo by Bailey Anselme on Unsplash
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Prince William Association of Realtors: “Bright MLS, Smartcharts, a leader in real estate data and insights, has unveiled its August 2023 market report, delivering a comprehensive overview of the local real estate landscape. This report delves into key trends that have shaped the market throughout this period.”
“Key findings from the report indicate significant shifts in various real estate metrics compared to the previous year. Notable data points for August 2023 include a substantial 37.02% decline in new listings, with only 529 new listings recorded, as opposed to 840 in August 2022.”
