E
lon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has been making waves in the federal bureaucracy, promising to cut costs and streamline government operations. Critics argue that these cuts will cripple essential functions and question DOGE's authority to make them.

    The impact on local economies is also a concern. Major budget cuts in Virginia could hurt the state's Republican Party in an election year, while a sudden reduction in public-sector jobs may affect the unemployment rate and broader economic picture. The 77,000 workers who accepted buyouts will continue to be paid through September, but their departure still poses risks.

    The housing market in Washington, D.C., is another area of interest. Home prices have fallen by 11% since January, with an average price per square foot dropping to $474.36 as of February 18. However, a real estate platform called Parcl Labs notes that these numbers predate DOGE's reforms and may be influenced by other factors.

    A report by realtor.com suggests that the housing market is not yet in a "death spiral" due to DOGE's actions. While inventory has risen and prices have dropped, these trends began before the change in presidential administrations. The new administration's return-to-office mandate could lead to increased demand for homes near government offices.

    Contrary to popular assumption, Washington, D.C., is not the only hub of federal employment. Only about 20% of the federal government's 2 million civilian employees are based in the nation's capital. Many more reside in Maryland and Virginia, with significant concentrations also found in Alabama, Oklahoma, Alaska, and other states.