Featured Article

Surf City, NC: January 2026 Shows Evolving Buyer Preferences

Published on Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Bill Frey
Frey Realty NC
Focus areas include Burgaw, Carolina Beach, Hampstead, Kure Beach, Leland, Oak Island, Southport, Surf City, Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, along with surrounding towns, communities and neighborhoods.
Contact Bill Frey



This January, Surf City, NC saw homebuyers demonstrate fresh preferences and smart decision making amid changing market signals. What patterns are fueling demand shifts in our coastal market as 2026 unfolds?

Buyers and their agents are actively using the latest pricing trends, incentive data, and listing mix in Surf City, NC during January 2026 to drive more empowered property searches. Understanding these evolving choices is key to staying ahead.

The Buyer Mindset: January 2026 in Surf City, NC

Affordability continues to inform decisions, as the median sale price sits at $565,000 and 18 percent of transactions involved seller concessions averaging $5,000. Average days on market moved to 34 and the number of attached units has climbed to 27 percent of listings, reflecting demand for value and flexibility. These details answer the critical question: is it a good time to buy in Surf City, NC?

Savvy shoppers are searching for affordable homes in Surf City, NC this January 2026, and many are utilizing price-per-square-foot data, which is holding at $327. The list-to-sale price ratio of 97.8 percent reinforces buyer willingness to negotiate, but shows the importance of timely, compelling offers.

Inventory Shifts and Pricing Power

Inventory levels remain tight with 57 homes active and 1.8 months of supply; yet, 34 new listings arrived in January, presenting more options to those ready to act quickly. Expired and withdrawn listings rose to 7 percent, a cue that aggressive pricing works best, and those not adapting can miss vital windows. For sellers considering how to sell your house fast in Surf City, NC, aligning to buyer preferences now is non negotiable.

  • Median price: $565,000
  • Attached unit share: 27 percent
  • 18 percent concessions given to buyers
  • List-to-sale ratio: 97.8 percent
  • Days on market: 34

Matching Listings to Today’s Buyers

Buyers want options that reflect both value and location advantages, with two bedroom homes at $272,000 and premier properties closing up to $1,235,000. Working with Bill Frey ensures that your preferences anchor every search and negotiation in January 2026.

Make the Market Work for You

Use January 2026 data with Bill Frey to decide when to list, buy, or hold in Surf City, NC. Your goals deserve timely expertise.

| See local insights

Anchors to Guide Buyer and Seller Moves

Follow shifts in Surf City, NC buyer preferences and leverage January 2026 listing strategies in Surf City, NC for smart decisions this month. Bill Frey keeps you attuned to what matters most across both sides of every deal.

Bill Frey
Written by Bill Frey
Frey Realty NC
Surf City, NC market report
Buyer Guidance

Surf City, NC Market Report

Get a Surf City, NC market snapshot with current pricing trends, inventory levels, and property insights tailored to the neighborhoods you care about.

Surf City, NC home valuation
Seller Strategy

Selling in Surf City, NC

Get a clear estimate of what your Surf City, NC home could sell for in today's market, based on recent comparable sales, local demand, and how your property is positioned.

Connect with Bill Frey
Work With a Professional

Your Surf City, NC Real Estate Resource

Not sure which Surf City, NC neighborhoods fit your lifestyle or budget? I'll help you narrow options, avoid surprises, and make confident decisions whether you're buying, selling, or investing.



More from Bill Frey in Surf City, NC

Recent market reports and neighborhood articles in this area.

Buying opportunities expand in Surf City, NC as January 2026 unfolds.

Published on Tuesday, January 13, 2026
By Bill Frey Frey Realty NC

Explore Surf City, NC with premium data from January 2026.

Published on Monday, January 12, 2026
By Bill Frey Frey Realty NC

January 2026 trends give a fresh look at Surf City, NC property values.

Published on Sunday, January 11, 2026
By Bill Frey Frey Realty NC