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Downtown Raleigh, NC: Buyers gain leverage in January 2026 with higher inventory.

Published on Friday, January 9, 2026
Tom Ballman
eXp Realty
Focus areas include Apex, Cary, Downtown Raleigh, Durham, Franklin County, Franklinton, Granville County, Hillsborough, Raleigh, Rolesville, Wake County, Wake Forest, Youngsville and Zebulon, along with surrounding towns, communities and neighborhoods.
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If you're navigating Downtown Raleigh this January 2026, you will notice more choices for buyers than we have seen in recent months. For those keeping a close watch on the market, this uptick in listings has shifted the dynamics—creating advantages for both buyers and motivated sellers alike.

Is it a good time to buy in Downtown Raleigh? Let’s break down the essential numbers and strategy tips to help guide your next step.

Higher Inventory, More Affordable Homes in Downtown Raleigh, this January 2026

Active listings have climbed twelve percent year-over-year, totaling 185 homes for sale downtown. For buyers searching for affordable homes in Downtown Raleigh, this January 2026, a broader selection boosts both negotiating room and the likelihood of finding the right fit. Twelve percent more inventory means buyers can compare properties, features, and price points more easily—bringing a welcome opportunity to secure added value.

The median list price is $598,000, which signals consistency and indicates sellers are pricing homes in line with true market conditions. A median days on market of 27 keeps the pace competitive: properties are available, but desirable homes still move quickly. If you want to explore the best match, browse the full range of Downtown Raleigh options today.

Price Trends and Buyer Influence

The current average sale-to-list ratio of 99.3 percent suggests precision is vital. While sellers can achieve close to asking price, the greater selection is empowering for buyers looking to craft aggressive or creative offers. Keep in mind, 2.7 months supply means the market still leans toward sellers, but that leverage is less pronounced than it was just months ago.

  • Condos comprise 62 percent of current inventory.
  • Average concessions and credits reached $4,280, easing the path to ownership.
  • 38 percent of all sales happen as cash deals, reinforcing downtown's broad appeal.

Renters and Competitive Advantages

January's rental scene stays brisk and competitive—one-bedroom rents begin at $1,725 and two-bedroom lofts can reach up to $2,530. Typical days on market for rentals is quick, at just eight days on average. For clients focused on quick results, local data and timely action make all the difference. Tom Ballman is ready to help you maximize every advantage with real-time guidance.

Make the Market Work for You

Get a clear plan from Tom Ballman based on real activity in Downtown Raleigh, this January 2026. This is the moment to secure your downtown future with help tailored exactly to you.

| Browse Downtown Raleigh listings

Advice for Success in January 2026

Leverage up-to-date numbers and tailored search tools for outstanding results in Downtown Raleigh. Your goals—whether buying, selling, or renting—deserve a data-driven advocate at every step of this winter market. There’s never been a better time to align your real estate strategy with the true pulse of January 2026.

  • Focus on new and reduced listings for fresh opportunities.
  • Condo and cash trends shape the downtown landscape.
  • Let local knowledge drive your timing and negotiation edge.







Tom Ballman
Written by Tom Ballman
eXp Realty
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