By Matthias Sterzer – The German Realtor® with Kaufman Realty
www.GermanRealtorOhio.com

🧭 Quick Answer

Rising interest rates in Eastern Ohio are creating a balancing act between buyers and sellers — cooling price growth slightly, but still keeping demand strong for affordable small-town homes.

📊 The Big Picture: What’s Happening Nationally

Across the U.S., the Federal Reserve’s efforts to control inflation have kept mortgage interest rates higher than the record-low levels of 2020–2021. Nationally, this means:

• Fewer buyers qualify for larger loans.
• Some sellers are adjusting expectations.
• Price growth has slowed, but inventory remains tight.

🏘 What It Means for Eastern Ohio

In places like Coshocton, New Philadelphia, Newcomerstown, and West Lafayette, the effects are noticeable — but different than in big cities:

• Prices remain stable because inventory is still limited. Many sellers here aren’t rushing to list, and buyers still see value in small-town living.
• Affordability advantage: Even with higher interest rates, home prices in Eastern Ohio remain far below those in Columbus or Cleveland — attracting both local and out-of-area buyers.
• Increased negotiation room: With slightly fewer buyers competing, serious buyers now have a better chance to negotiate favorable terms.
• Cash buyers and relocators: Many buyers moving from higher-cost states (or from Germany and Europe) find Eastern Ohio properties a great value even with current rates.

💰 What Buyers Should Do

If you’re thinking about buying, remember — waiting for rates to drop can cost you more later if home prices continue to rise.

Tips for today’s buyers:

• Get pre-approved early so you know your true budget.
• Ask about rate-buydown programs — some lenders and sellers are offering incentives.
• Work with a local Realtor® (like me!) who understands micro-markets in Coshocton County and Tuscarawas County.
• Refinance later: You can always refinance when rates go down, but you can’t go back and buy at today’s prices.

🏠 What Sellers Should Know

Sellers shouldn’t panic — homes are still selling in Eastern Ohio, just with a bit more patience and strategy.

Here’s what works now:

• Price smartly from day one. The first two weeks on the market matter most.
• Highlight affordability and lifestyle — space, quiet, value for money.
• Offer incentives (help with closing costs, rate buydown, home warranty) to attract hesitant buyers.
• Focus on presentation: A well-staged home still stands out even when rates rise.

🔍 Local Snapshot (as of late 2025)

(Numbers are based on local MLS data and Ohio market trends)

• Median home price in Coshocton County: roughly $180,000–$210,000
• Average days on market: 38–52 days
• Average mortgage rate: 6.5–7% (30-year fixed)
• Overall: Balanced market — not a crash, not a frenzy.

🧩 The Takeaway

Interest rates are the lever that shifts buyer confidence, but in Eastern Ohio, affordability, lifestyle, and tight supply keep home prices resilient.

Whether you’re buying or selling, strategy matters more than timing — and a knowledgeable local Realtor® can make all the difference.

Read this one if you are interested in selling your home. How to Sell Your Home Fast in Ohio | The German Realtor Team

✳️ About the Author

Matthias Sterzer – The German Realtor®
Licensed Realtor® with Kaufman Realty | Serving Coshocton, Tuscarawas & surrounding counties.
Fluent in English & German, helping local families and international buyers find their Ohio home.

📍 Based in West Lafayette, OH
🌐 www.GermanRealtorOhio.com
📞 740-610-8725