Thinking about becoming a real estate agent in North Carolina but unsure if now is the right time? The 2025 market trends suggest promising opportunities for buyers, sellers, investors, and new agents (called brokers in North Carolina).
With a strong economy and a high quality of life attracting buyers, housing demand in North Carolina remains steady. In addition, many areas are seeing increased inventory due to new construction, creating more opportunities for both buyers and sellers. In this article, we’ll explore 2025 North Carolina real estate market trends, the factors shaping the industry, and what to expect for the rest of 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Steady Market Growth with Regional Variations – North Carolina’s real estate market continues to expand, with home prices rising at a moderate pace (3-4% annually). While major cities like Charlotte and Raleigh see strong demand, smaller markets such as Asheville and Wilmington are gaining traction due to affordability and lifestyle appeal.
- Increased Inventory and Affordability Measures – Housing inventory has grown by 21.8% year-over-year, fueled by new construction and policy measures. Legislative efforts, including affordable housing funds and tax incentives, aim to address inventory shortages and support first-time homebuyers.
- Economic Growth Driving Demand – The state’s economy remains strong, with 15,000 new jobs added in late 2024 and a growing population exceeding 11 million. This influx of new residents is sustaining housing demand, especially in metropolitan areas.
- Mortgage Rate Stabilization Benefiting Buyers – After recent volatility, mortgage rates are expected to stabilize around the mid-5% range by the end of 2025, improving affordability and encouraging market activity for prospective buyers.
Overview of the North Carolina Real Estate Market
REALTOR.com named two North Carolina markets in their annual list of hot housing markets. The Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC area is ranked third on this list. This region, commonly referred to as “Hampton Roads,” shows a 23.4% increase in existing home sale counts YoY. The Greensboro/High Point area ranks tenth, with a 17.3% increase.
While these two markets are grabbing national attention, they aren’t the only places in North Carolina where real estate offers strong potential. Across the state, growing cities, suburban communities, and even smaller towns present lucrative opportunities for real estate agents. Let’s take a closer look at the broader market trends shaping North Carolina’s real estate landscape in 2025.
Median home prices
As of February 2025, the average home value in North Carolina stands at $327,215, reflecting a 2.0% increase over the past year (Zillow, February 2025). This steady appreciation indicates a balanced market, offering opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
Inventory levels
The state’s housing inventory has significantly risen, with a 21.8% year-over-year increase as of mid-2024 (Norada Real Estate Investments). Homes typically remain on the market for around 33 days before going pending, suggesting a brisk pace in property transactions.
Regional variations
While the overall market is stable, regional differences are notable. Cities like Charlotte and Raleigh have experienced higher demand, leading to more pronounced price increases. Conversely, smaller markets such as Asheville and Wilmington are gaining attention due to their affordability and lifestyle appeal, attracting buyers seeking alternatives to urban centers.
Factors Influencing the 2025 Market
As we approach the busy season, consider these factors that will influence the NC housing market.
Economic indicators
North Carolina’s economy continues to demonstrate robust growth, particularly in professional and business services, construction, education, and health services, adding 15,000 nonfarm jobs in November 2024.
This economic expansion is attracting new residents, further fueling housing demand. From July 1, 2023, to July 1, 2024, North Carolina’s population grew by 165,000, reaching over 11 million residents. Metropolitan areas, such as the Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia metro area, are experiencing pronounced growth.
This combination of job growth and population influx, especially in metropolitan regions, underscores the increasing housing demand in North Carolina.
Mortgage rate fluctuations
After a period of volatility, mortgage rates are beginning to stabilize. Projections suggest that rates may decrease into the mid-5% range by the end of 2025, enhancing affordability for prospective buyers and potentially stimulating market activity.
Legislative changes
Recent legislative initiatives in North Carolina actively address affordable housing and provide incentives to stimulate development, aiming to positively influence the real estate market.
For example, in December 2024, the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency proposed allocations to the Affordable Housing Development Fund and the Public Housing Restoration Fund. These funds are designed to increase the housing supply and rehabilitate existing public housing, thereby addressing inventory shortages and affordability concerns.
The state has also proactively enhanced the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program. In early 2024, a proposal titled the “Keep Housing Affordable Act” was introduced to provide additional tax incentives for developers to construct affordable housing units. This legislative effort aims to make affordable housing projects more financially viable, encouraging the development of residences accessible to low- and moderate-income families.
Finally, North Carolina offers several down payment assistance programs to support first-time and first-generation homebuyers.
These legislative measures and assistance programs are strategically designed to enhance housing affordability and availability in North Carolina, positively impacting the real estate market and supporting developers and prospective homeowners.
2025 North Carolina Real Estate Market Trends Forecast
Here’s what most analysts are predicting for the North Carolina real estate market in 2025.
Home price trends
Experts anticipate that home prices in North Carolina will continue to rise, albeit at a moderated pace. Forecasts indicate annual increases of approximately 3% to 4%, suggesting a shift towards a more balanced market.
Inventory projections
The upward trend in housing inventory is expected to continue, driven by new construction and policy measures encouraging development. This increase in supply should provide buyers with more options and contribute to market equilibrium.
Buyer demographics and preferences
The market is witnessing a diversification in buyer demographics. Remote work flexibility has enabled more individuals to relocate, with many opting for smaller cities that offer a blend of affordability and quality of life.
Tips for Buyers and Sellers in North Carolina
Whether you will be active in the market in 2025 or will be serving buyers and sellers as an agent, here are some tips for succeeding in a competitive market.
Strategies for buyers
- Act Promptly: With homes moving quickly, be prepared to make swift decisions.
- Secure Financing: Obtain mortgage pre-approval to strengthen your purchasing position.
- Consider Emerging Markets: Explore opportunities in smaller cities where competition may be less intense.
Advice for Sellers
- Price Competitively: Set realistic prices to attract serious buyers and expedite sales.
- Enhance Curb Appeal: Invest in minor renovations and landscaping to increase property attractiveness.
- Leverage Professional Marketing: Utilize real estate professionals to effectively market your property across various platforms.
North Carolina’s real estate market in 2025 presents a dynamic landscape with opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Staying informed about regional trends, economic factors, and legislative developments is crucial for making strategic decisions.
Stay abreast of all things real estate by enrolling in the Superior School of Real Estate. We serve NC real estate professionals throughout their career journeys, as we offer the required courses you need to earn your real estate license, as well as continuing education and professional development.
