Mid-Year Market Review
The Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill market continued its rebalancing act through the first six months of 2026, as we’ve anticipated in prior reports. After years of sellers holding the cards, we’re seeing a shift toward a more even playing field. The Triangle’s enduring appeal—deep job base, top universities, and thriving cultural scene—hasn’t changed; what has is the breathing room buyers now enjoy. And new buyers continue to flood in: North Carolina tops the charts for net migration nationally!
Inventory tells the defining story. Homes for sale climbed year-over-year every month from January through May, with months’ supply rising toward three and a half. Prices continued their usual seasonal fluctuations without much movement at the median ($470,000). The market’s recalibration has unfolded through time and leverage, not declining values, which means that homes take longer to sell and trade slightly closer to buyers’ terms. After dipping early in the year, mortgage rates sit in the low 6% band, a big improvement over last year.
Without a major market shift, we do not expect this rebalancing to end in the near term. Affordability remains a challenge, but appropriately priced, well-presented homes still get snatched up quickly. To make your move, connect with one of our phenomenal Nest agents.
- 1 Stanley Cup - The Hurricanes brought the Stanley Cup back to North Carolina for the first time since 2006.
- #3 Fastest-Growing State - North Carolina added 146,000 new residents, trailing only Texas and Florida in population growth.
- 9 New Nest Agents - Nest welcomed nine new agents during the first half of 2026.
- #1 for College Grad Growth - The Triangle led the nation in the growth of college educated residents.
