Published February 3, 2026

Raleigh Real Estate Market Update 2026

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Written by Scot Aubinoe

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Raleigh NC Housing Market Update – March 2026

Where the Market Stands Right Now (as of February 2nd, 2026)

If you’ve been waiting for Raleigh home prices to crash — it’s not happening.

Instead, the market is doing something far healthier: it’s normalizing.

 

More Inventory – But Still Not Enough

There are more homes on the market than we’ve seen in recent years, which is good news for buyers. You now have:

  • More choices
  • Less bidding-war pressure
  • More time to make decisions

But inventory is still tight relative to demand, which means prices are holding steady.

This is a balanced market — not a buyer’s market.

 

Prices Are Stable, Not Falling

Despite national headlines, Raleigh-area home values are not dropping in any meaningful way.

Well-priced homes in good locations are still selling.
Sellers still have strong equity.
The sky is not falling.

Waiting for a big discount? That strategy continues to cost buyers time and opportunity.

 

Homes Are Taking a Little Longer to Sell

Days on market have increased — and that’s a good thing.

It simply means:

  • Buyers can breathe
  • Negotiations are more reasonable
  • Smart strategy matters again

Longer marketing time does not equal lower prices.

 

A 6% Mortgage Rate Is NOT High

 

Let’s put this in perspective:

Historically, mortgage rates around 6% are normal and healthy.

Compared to most of the last 40 years, today’s rates are still reasonable — especially in a strong market like Raleigh where values continue to perform.

If you’re financially ready, 6% is a smart entry point, not a reason to wait.

 

The Bottom Line

  • Inventory is up
  • Prices are stable
  • Rates are reasonable
  • Demand in Raleigh remains strong

 

This is not a crash market.

It’s a great opportunity market for buyers and sellers who act with confidence instead of fear.

My Advice?

 

Get off the fence.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling in 2026, now is the time to make a plan — not wait for a market that isn’t coming.

If you’d like a personalized look at what this market means for YOUR situation, I’m here to help.

Scot Aubinoe
Street Smart Real Estate | Raleigh, NC
Let’s make smart moves together.

 

 

 

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