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ashington real estate experts are cautiously optimistic about the impact of the new Trump administration on the local housing market. While some predict a downturn, others believe it won't be catastrophic. Historically, buying a house in D.C. has been seen as a smart investment due to its high concentration of white-collar workers and federal government jobs.

    However, if jobs suddenly disappear, this could change. "People have so much money invested in housing here that they often rely on it as a major asset," says real estate agent Alison Scimeca. The new administration's plans for massive federal cuts, reduced remote work options, and stricter regulations may deter some workers from staying in the area.

    Experts are divided about the potential effects of these changes. "It's hard to forecast, especially with this new administration making things more complicated," says Bright MLS chief economist Lisa Sturtevant. Some clients have expressed concerns about their jobs under Trump 2.0, but Scimeca notes that no one is making moves yet.

    The feds most likely to be affected are those who bought homes in the last couple of years when rates were high and need two paychecks for their mortgage. Older workers might be less affected as they're more likely to own their homes outright. The post-COVID demand for homes beyond the Beltway could reverse if people move back into the area to be closer to the office.

    While some experts predict it may become harder to be a homebuyer in 2025, neither Sturtevant nor local agent Christopher Suranna anticipate a devastating blow to the local housing market. The DMV's economy has diversified and is less reliant on the federal government, and the demand for middle-market housing remains strong.