T
he nation's capital is abuzz with uncertainty, as families weigh the pros and cons of buying or selling their homes amidst shifting federal policies. For many D.C.-area residents, the government's presence looms large, making it a high-stakes game.

    Some are scrambling to find new places to live due to return-to-work mandates, potentially driving up demand for city condos and prices. Others are taking a wait-and-see approach, pulling out of the market altogether. But there's a silver lining: those in the private sector may face less competition, making it an opportune time to buy.

    Families are getting creative with their budgets, adjusting price points to qualify under one household income – even if both partners are still working. This cautious approach could be beneficial for those less affected by federal policies. As Eldad Moraru, a Compass Realty agent notes, "It's really on a case-by-case basis."