A More Balanced Start to the Spring Market
As we move into April 2026, the spring market in Reston and Herndon feels active, but not nearly as frantic as the peak frenzy years. Across Northern Virginia, 974 homes closed in February 2026, up 3.9% from a year earlier. Active listings also rose to 1,699, up 11.8%, while months of supply increased to 1.23. Homes averaged 30 days on market, which is longer than last year and suggests buyers are getting a little more breathing room. To me, that is one of the clearest signs that this spring market is competitive, but more measured.
What These Numbers Mean for Reston and Herndon
When I look at the spring market locally, I focus on how regional and jurisdiction-level trends affect real decisions on the ground. NVAR’s public market statistics cover Fairfax County and the Town of Herndon, using data from Bright MLS and George Mason University’s Center for Regional Analysis. That matters because Reston falls within Fairfax County in these public reports, while Herndon is tracked as its own town. In other words, buyers and sellers in both communities are operating inside the same larger Northern Virginia market trend, but with hyperlocal differences in price, condition, and competition from neighborhood to neighborhood.
Inventory Is Improving, but Good Homes Still Stand Out
One of the biggest stories in this spring market is inventory growth. Northern Virginia had 1,526 active listings in January 2026, up 21.1% year over year, and that climbed again in February. At the statewide level, Virginia had 19,601 active listings at the end of February, a 9.1% increase from the year before. That is good news for buyers because it means more choices and a better chance to compare properties before making an offer. Still, more inventory does not mean every listing will sit. In Reston and Herndon, homes that are well-priced, well-prepared, and in convenient locations can still move quickly in the spring market.
Buyer Activity Has Not Slowed Down
Even with more listings, buyers are still stepping into the spring market. Northern Virginia posted 1,195 new pending sales in February 2026, up 8.8% from the same month last year. That tells me demand is still there. Buyers may be taking a little more time, but they are not standing still. They are watching value, weighing condition, and moving when a home lines up with their goals. That kind of activity is exactly what I expect to see in Reston and Herndon during early spring, especially as more people try to get settled before summer.
Mortgage Rates Still Shape the Conversation
Mortgage rates remain a major part of this spring market. Freddie Mac reported that the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate was 6.38% on March 26, 2026, up from 6.22% the week before, though still below the 6.65% average from the same week a year ago. That kind of movement can change a buyer’s monthly payment quickly, which is why preparation matters so much right now. In a market like Reston or Herndon, being fully pre-approved and ready to act can make a real difference.
My Take on This Spring Market
From where I sit, this spring market gives buyers more opportunity than they had during the most intense seller-driven period, but strategy still matters. Reston and Herndon are not markets where you can afford to guess. You need to know how inventory, pricing, and timing are working together.
As your real estate professional, I help negotiate your deal and protect your interests as your fiduciary. I have your back. I am also experienced in helping buyers pre-inspect homes so you, the homebuyer, have the peace of mind you need to make a strong offer quickly before another bidder swoops in and gets the home first.
Conclusion
The April 2026 spring market is shaping up to be more balanced, but still competitive. Inventory is improving, buyer activity is still strong, and mortgage rates continue to influence how quickly people move. In Reston and Herndon, the buyers and sellers who do best are the ones who come in with a plan, good advice, and the ability to act decisively.
Ready to Make Your Move?
If you are thinking about buying or selling in this spring market, contact me today. I would be glad to help you understand the data, build the right strategy, and put you in the best position to move forward with confidence.
