🏡 York County’s Housing Market: Why First-Time Buyers Are Feeling the SqueezeWhat the latest market trends mean for local buyers—and what you can do about it.

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by

Matthew Pasciuta
in

If you’ve been house hunting in York County recently, especially with a budget under $300,000, you’ve likely felt the pressure. The market isn’t just competitive—it’s downright scarce when it comes to affordable options.

🔍 What’s Going On?

According to the Realtors Association of York and Adams Counties (RAYAC), the median home price hit $274,900 in March, up 5.9% year-over-year. Inventory is slowly improving, but not in the price ranges most buyers need.

Highlights from March 2025:

  • 🏠 255 homes sold — up 55.5% from February
  • 📈 42% sold above asking price
  • ⏳ Average days on market: 42 (up from 32 in March 2024)
  • 🏘️ Inventory: 1,243 homes — a 29.7% jump, but still not enough in the entry-level market

This slight increase in listings hasn’t been enough to satisfy demand from first-time buyers and working families, especially those shopping under $300,000. That’s the price point where demand is highest—and inventory is thinnest.

🚧 New Construction: Out of Reach for Most

Think new builds are the answer? Think again.

In the York-Hanover metro area, the median price for new construction is a whopping $618,000, according to the National Association of Home Builders. That puts it out of reach for nearly 9 out of 10 local households. Even a $1,000 price hike knocks another 95 families out of qualifying range.

📉 Mortgage Rates Are Improving—But That’s Not Enough

Yes, mortgage rates are a bit better. As of March 20, Freddie Mac reported the 30-year fixed average at 6.67%, and it’s been under 7% for several weeks.

Lower rates can help with monthly affordability—but they can’t fix what isn’t there. Inventory remains the biggest barrier for buyers.

🔑 What Buyers Can Do Right Now

Selina Robinson, RAYAC President, put it plainly:
“You’ve got to have your financial house in order… You might not get a second chance.”

✅ Get pre-approved early
✅ Work with a local agent who knows how to compete
✅ Be ready to move fast â€” especially under $300K

➡️ Want to see what’s currently available?
👉 Browse Homes Under $300K in York County

🌸 Spring May Bring More Inventory—But Will It Be Affordable?

We’re hopeful for a busy spring real estate season—but unless more listings hit the market below $300,000, the affordability crisis will persist.

💬 Thinking about buying this year? Let’s build your strategy together. I can help you prepare, get pre-approved, and be among the first to know when the right home hits the market.

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