DAYTON, OH, UNITED STATES, February 9, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — As winter continues across southwest Ohio, February is emerging as a meaningful planning month for households considering a move in the Miami Valley. While spring often gets the spotlight, local market activity is already beginning to build, offering early opportunities for both buyers and sellers who prefer a well-paced, informed approach.
According to Dayton real estate professionals Don & Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams Community Partners, owners of Miami Valley Dream Homes, February often brings more thoughtful conversations than rushed decisions. Buyers use this time to understand pricing, inventory, and financing options, while homeowners begin evaluating whether listing before spring aligns with their goals.
Early-Year Buyers Enter the Market With Intention
Buyers active in February are typically well prepared. Many have already reviewed loan options, clarified timelines, and narrowed down preferred communities across the Dayton area. This creates a steadier pace of showings and negotiations compared to peak months, when competition and scheduling pressures can feel more intense.
First-time buyers are also starting to plan ahead for programs that traditionally open in early spring. One example is the Welcome Home down payment assistance program, which usually becomes available in March and often reaches capacity quickly. February preparation allows eligible buyers time to review income guidelines, speak with lenders, and be ready when applications open.
Sellers See Advantages in Listing Before Spring
For homeowners considering a sale, February offers a chance to step into the market with less competition. Many sellers wait until late spring, which can result in more listings entering the market at once. Listing earlier often provides stronger visibility and allows a home to stand out to buyers who are already actively searching.
In recent years, sellers who listed during winter months have benefited from motivated buyers and fewer comparable homes competing for attention. Strategic pricing and strong online exposure remain key, particularly as more buyers begin their search digitally before scheduling in-person visits.
Relocation Planning Begins Earlier Than Many Expect
February is also a common time for households connected to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to begin planning upcoming moves. While most relocations occur during the summer, conversations often start much earlier as unofficial notifications and planning discussions take shape. This gradual increase in relocation-related activity contributes to steady buyer demand as winter transitions into spring.
Relocating buyers often rely heavily on local insight, particularly when comparing communities, commute considerations, and housing styles they may not be familiar with. Early guidance helps reduce stress and supports smoother transitions once timelines become firm.
New Construction and Higher-Price Homes Show Stability
Another trend shaping the current market is the availability of move-in-ready new construction. Some newly built homes are being offered with competitive pricing or interest rate incentives, creating additional options for buyers seeking newer properties without extended build timelines.
At the same time, higher-priced and luxury homes have continued to show resilience. While certain lower price ranges slowed in parts of 2025, larger homes experienced steady demand into early 2026, suggesting confidence remains strong across multiple segments of the Miami Valley market.
Guidance Matters in a Changing Market
As conditions evolve, many buyers and sellers are prioritizing clarity over speed. Understanding timing, pricing, and next steps helps households feel more confident as they make decisions tied to major life transitions.
Don & Cyndi Shurts, top agents with Keller Williams Community Partners and founders of MiamiValleyDreamHomes.com, continue to support buyers and sellers through this early-year planning phase by listening first, explaining options clearly, and providing steady local guidance tailored to each situation.
February may feel quiet on the surface, but for many households, it is the month when plans take shape. With the right preparation and support, the path forward becomes clearer long before the spring market arrives.
About Miami Valley Dream Homes
Miami Valley Dream Homes, led by Don & Cyndi Shurts of Keller Williams Community Partners, helps buyers and sellers navigate the Dayton-area real estate market with experience, care, and clear guidance. With more than two decades of local expertise, the team focuses on listening first and supporting clients through every step of their real estate journey with confidence and clarity.
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