Raleigh Real Estate Market Update: How 2025 Ended and What’s Next for 2026

As 2025 comes to a close, Raleigh’s real estate market looks very different from where it began. Prices, inventory, migration, and buyer demand have all shifted across the Triangle, creating a new landscape for both buyers and sellers.

I’m Phil Slezak with Team With The Guarantee’s, and today I’m breaking down the key takeaways from Raleigh’s 2025 housing market and what these trends mean as we head into 2026. Excellence is our Standard and Customer Satisfaction is our Passion, and I want you fully prepared for your next move.

This update includes data from MLS, Zillow, and the latest Raleigh market insights.

How Raleigh’s Housing Market Ended in December 2025

The final quarter of 2025 brought several important shifts:

1. Home Prices Stabilized After Two Years of Volatility

Raleigh home prices plateaued as interest rates steadied and inventory improved. While year-over-year appreciation remained positive, the rapid spikes seen in 2023–2024 cooled.

2. Inventory Continued to Rise Across Wake County

Areas like Knightdale, Clayton, and Apex saw a noticeable increase in listings, giving buyers more options than they had earlier in the year.

3. Buyer Demand Remained Strong—But More Selective

Relocators continued moving into the Triangle, but buyers became more intentional about pricing and condition.

4. New Construction Expanded Quickly

Developments in Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, and East Raleigh delivered much-needed inventory, especially for move-up buyers.

The Impact of Interest Rates on Raleigh’s 2025 Market

Interest rates played a defining role throughout 2025.

• Mid-year drops fueled temporary buyer surges.

• Rate volatility slowed relocation purchases slightly.

• More sellers chose to list once rates dipped into the mid-6% range.

With rates expected to stabilize further in 2026, more homeowners may finally make long-delayed moves.

Raleigh Migration Trends: Who’s Moving Into the Triangle?

Wake County continues to attract buyers from:

• New York

• Florida

• California

• New Jersey

• Texas

These buyers bring higher budgets and strong motivation, helping keep demand stable even during slower seasons.

New Construction Boom: How Builders Shaped the 2025 Market

Builders played a major role in the second half of the year.

Key growth areas:

• Holly Springs

• Apex

• Clayton

• Zebulon

• Southeast Raleigh

Many buyers preferred new construction due to:

• Builder incentives

• Rate buydowns

• Lower maintenance costs

This helped ease pressure on Wake County resale prices.

Forecast: What Raleigh Buyers & Sellers Should Expect in 2026

Here’s what the data suggests for early-to-mid 2026:

1. Prices Expected to Rise Slightly

Moderate appreciation is forecasted as rates decrease and demand strengthens.

2. Inventory Will Grow Slowly

More sellers will list, but Wake County will still struggle with long-term shortages.

3. Buyer Activity Will Increase in Q2 & Q3

Anticipated rate improvements will pull more buyers off the sidelines.

4. New Construction Will Stay Strong

Builders are already planning expansions in Knightdale, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina.

5. Sellers Will Benefit From Strategic Pricing + Strong Presentation

With more competition, pricing correctly and using AI-based insights, will matter more than ever.

Hyperlocal Insights for 2026: Raleigh, Knightdale, Clayton, Holly Springs

Raleigh

Higher-priced markets may see slower appreciation but strong buyer demand.

Knightdale

Increasing affordability drives young buyer interest.

Clayton

One of the region’s fastest-growing suburban markets.

Holly Springs

Growth fueled by biotech jobs, new construction, and high-rated schools.

FAQ: Raleigh Market 2025–2026

1. Will Raleigh home prices increase in 2026?
Yes, most forecasts predict modest appreciation as rates improve. Buyer demand remains strong due to continued relocation trends. The market will favor sellers who price strategically.

2. Is 2026 a good time to buy in Raleigh?
Yes. Rising inventory across the Triangle gives buyers more negotiation room than previous years. Lower projected interest rates will also improve affordability.

3. How competitive will Raleigh’s market be in 2026?
Competition will increase during spring and summer, but will be more balanced than the peak frenzy of past years. Buyers who prepare early will have the advantage.

4. What neighborhoods will grow the fastest in 2026?
Knightdale, Clayton, and Holly Springs continue to attract buyers due to affordability, new construction, and job growth. These areas may outperform Raleigh in appreciation speed.

5. Should sellers list early in 2026 or wait?
Listing early may help sellers capitalize on lower competition. As inventory rises throughout the year, pricing strategy and condition will become increasingly important.

How Phil Slezak Real Estate Can Help You

At Phil Slezak Real Estate, brokered by LPT Realty, we do more than just help you find a home, we make sure your entire moving process is stress-free and seamless. Whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or relocating, we have the resources, expertise, and connections to guide you every step of the way.

Why Work With Us?

✔ Exclusive Off-Market Listings – Get access to homes before they hit the market.
✔ Zero-Commission Selling Options – Save thousands when selling your home.
✔ Relocation Assistance – We connect you with the best movers in Raleigh for a smooth transition.
✔ Buyer Home Guarantee – If your home isn’t perfect, we’ll sell it for zero listing commission.
✔ Sold Zero Commission – Maximize your profits with no listing commission when selling your home.
✔ Cash Offers – Get 4 cash offers on your home in minutes

Conclusion:

Raleigh’s real estate market closed 2025 with stability, renewed buyer interest, and expanding new construction opportunities. As 2026 begins, buyers and sellers who understand these trends will be positioned to make confident, well-timed moves. With smart preparation and data-based strategy, the coming year offers strong potential for both sides of the market.

If you want a personalized 2026 market game plan, I’m here to help every step of the way.

📞 Call or text me at +1919-607-4844 or connect with me on social media. I help people just like you every week make smart real estate decisions, let’s chat about yours!

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