October 2025 Pennsylvania & Delaware Real Estate Market Update
A quick read with real insights: We share personal news, what rate headlines really mean, and the local reality across Chester, Delaware & New Castle Counties.
October – The Start of Fall
One of the things we believe our clients value in us is that Jane and I have lived long enough to experience many different aspects of life. That perspective helps us remain relatable, empathetic, and pragmatic. We understand how things work, we can step back from the emotions our clients may be struggling with, and we can help guide them through difficult decisions in stressful environments.
This September, I traveled to Buffalo to be with my mother during her final weeks of life. She had been in a nursing home for the past 18 months, living with the effects of Lewy Body dementia. Managing her care—while also running our business and tending to our personal lives from a distance—has not been easy. Thankfully, we have a great team who ensures our clients’ needs remain on track, even when Jane or I cannot be fully present.
Because so many of us keep personal struggles private, we try to remind ourselves to extend grace in all our interactions. The truth is, we never really know what someone else is carrying. That understanding is central to how we approach our work. Real estate conversations are rarely just about houses—they’re about deeply personal goals, challenges, and aspirations.
For those who reached out with kind words after my mother’s passing, thank you. Caring for aging parents is an ever-growing reality in this country. It’s reminded us again of the importance of empathy, grace, and community.
— Vince & Jane
Real Estate Environment
What’s Happening in the Housing Market?
Interest Rates In The News
Interest Rates & Real Estate: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know
Once again, interest rates are in the spotlight. In mid-September, the Federal Reserve lowered the federal funds rate by a quarter point. While inflation remains a concern, the Fed is also watching the labor market closely.
There’s been heightened attention on the Fed itself, but in real estate much of that is noise.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rates
The Fed mostly affects short-term rates. Mortgage rates track long-term rates—especially the 10-year Treasury and the mortgage-backed securities market. Leading up to the cut, the 10-year had been trending down, pulling 30-year mortgage rates from ~7% into the ~6.25–6.5% range; afterward, that decline paused and yields ticked up.
What This Means for Real Estate Decisions
You can’t will long-term rates to move in your favor—they respond to broader market forces. With trillion-dollar deficits and large U.S. debt issuance, global demand for treasuries influences where rates settle.
Don’t wait on rates. Make decisions based on opportunities that fit your goals and comfort today. Confidence—in your job, finances, and future—matters as much as the payment.
Speaking of home equity…
Know what your home’s worth—always. Get automatic, data-driven updates on your property’s value, straight to your inbox.
Needs & Wants
We are actively working with serious buyers who are ready — but inventory remains tight! If you know of anyone considering a move, these needs are immediate:
- Single-Family Home | Garnet Valley / Rose Tree Media Schools — Up to $850K
- Single-Family Home | Kennett Square / Unionville-Chadds Ford — Up to $700K · 2-car garage preferred
- Single-Family Home | Brandywine 100, New Castle County, DE — Up to $475K
- Townhouse | Garnet Valley or West Chester area — Up to $750K
- Single-Floor Living | West Chester, Media, or Main Line — Up to $700K · Two buyers looking
Thank you for keeping your eyes and ears open — a simple introduction can make a big difference.
New Listings & Coming Soon
We have several exciting properties in motion. Here’s a quick snapshot:
- Active — 55+ community in Delaware (Under Contract)
Townhome — 1st-floor primary · Low $400Ks - Active — Rowhome in Clifton Heights (Under Contract)
Great starter/investment · Low $200Ks - Active — Single-Family in Garnet Valley
Great location & condition · $780K - Active — Single-Family in Media
Great location & condition · $726K - Coming Soon — Single-Family in Broomall
Great location & condition · $500s
Community Events
- West Chester Halloween Parade — Oct 26, 1 PM. See more →
- West Chester Railroad Halloween Special — Oct 25–26 (treats aboard!). See more →
- Chilling West Chester: A Dark History Walking Tour — Oct 11, 1:30–3 PM. See more →
- The Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride — Oct 3–Nov 2. See more →
- The Rocky Horror Picture Show (Uptown Theater) — Oct 31, 9 PM. See more →
Downsizing in Delaware County? Here’s Your Advisor Checklist
If you’re thinking about downsizing in Delaware County, you’re not alone. Whether you’re an empty nester, planning for retirement, or simply want a more manageable lifestyle, a smaller home can offer big benefits. But downsizing isn’t just about square footage—it’s a strategic decision with financial, emotional, and logistical layers.
Keep reading