Wilmington, NC Housing Market Report

The Wilmington housing market is currently undergoing a significant transition toward more balanced conditions, trending slightly in favor of buyers as we close out 2025. With active inventory surging by over 21% year-over-year to 1,521 units, the supply constraints that previously defined the coastal Carolina market have eased considerably. This influx of options, combined with homes sitting on the market for an average of 78 days—three weeks longer than this time last year—indicates that the frantic bidding wars of the past have largely subsided.

Price trends reflect this cooling sentiment, with the median home value settling at $406,802. While this represents a modest year-over-year decline of 0.77%, the six-month trajectory shows a consistent, incremental softening from the July peak of $408,710. The sale-to-list ratio of 0.98 suggests that sellers are increasingly willing to negotiate, typically closing deals at 2% below their original asking price. This price stabilization is a natural correction following years of rapid appreciation, driven by higher inventory levels and a more cautious buyer pool.

Looking ahead, the Wilmington market offers a unique window of opportunity for patient buyers who can now leverage longer days on market to conduct thorough inspections and negotiate favorable terms. For sellers, the current landscape demands realistic pricing and high-quality property presentation; homes that are overpriced or lack curb appeal are likely to linger as competition for buyer attention intensifies. While the rental market remains resilient with a slight 0.38% annual increase, the overall sales sector is expected to remain stable with low volatility through the first half of 2026.