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Surf City, NC kicks off January 2026 with balanced opportunities for buyers and sellers.

Published on Saturday, January 10, 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.
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Opening the year, Surf City, NC is showing balanced conditions that reward both homebuyers and sellers. If you are asking whether it is a good time to buy in Surf City, NC, January 2026 offers fresh prospects with greater inventory and evolving price trends. Data reveals the months of inventory stands at 4.06, a signal that buyers gain more negotiation leverage while sellers still benefit from steady interest. For everyone considering options, understanding how to sell your house fast in Surf City, NC starts with current metrics and market flow.

One noteworthy trend this month: the median days on market is now 126 days. This shift upward means listings are taking longer to close, so pricing strategically and preparing homes well will be essential. For buyers, this update creates room to consider choices and make more thoughtful offers. For sellers, adapting to longer lead times helps set realistic expectations while positioning properties to move sooner.

Inventory, Prices, and Buyer Activity in Surf City, NC

January 2026 marks a subtle shift in market composition for Surf City, NC. Five new active listings have entered the market, complementing one pending transaction and four recent closed sales. Median list prices have climbed to $875,000, up about one percent month over month. For buyers searching for affordable homes in Surf City, NC this January 2026, this delivers more selection and a wider price range. The lowest active price sits at $334,900 while the highest tops at $899,995, allowing flexibility for various budgets.

Buyer strategies for Surf City, NC should include attention to median sold prices, which dropped significantly to $395,490 in December, a notable monthly dip but representing a 1.4 percent increase compared to the prior quarter. This blend of higher asking prices but softer closings could benefit those ready to move quickly or negotiate incentives. Bill Frey works daily with buyers leveraging these key insights to structure winning offers that capitalize on evolving price trends.

Market Metrics for Sellers in January 2026

Sellers, take note: the sold-to-list price ratio for Surf City, NC is currently 99.2 percent. While that means most homes are still closing near asking, the percentage has edged down, signaling more room for negotiation. A total of four properties closed last month, underscoring that well-priced, properly staged listings are still in demand. The median estimated property value is at $798,000, and this sum has trended up over 1.4 percent from a year ago. Sellers crafting their pricing strategy should focus on competitive positioning to stand out and sell faster amid the rise in days on market.

Rental Opportunities and Lease Trends

For renters and investor-landlords, Surf City, NC has seen limited rental activity but meaningful movement. Two active rental properties were noted: one listed at $2,295 per month, spending twenty six days on market, and one pending property at $1,995 per month, which was available for ninety nine days before acceptance. Pricing per square foot for new leases registers at $2, a solid gauge for comparing other rental stock. No aggregate rental inventory is available this month, but this data points to a competitive climate for both listing and securing rentals.

  • Median list price: $875,000
  • Median sold price: $395,490
  • Sold-to-list price ratio: 99.2 percent
  • Median days on market: 126 days
  • Rental price (active): $2,295 per month
  • Rental price per square foot: $2
  • Active listings: 5
  • Closed sales (December): 4

Navigating the Surf City, NC Real Estate Scene in January 2026

With increasing list prices but more time needed to close, both buyers and sellers are adjusting their approaches. Investors and renters watch rental supply closely in an environment where one opportunity can attract multiple serious parties. Reviewing what affordable homes in Surf City, NC this January 2026 offer, staying current with market shifts, and adapting to days on market realities all matter greatly as winter progresses.

As the year begins, surf city property analysis keeps buyers, sellers, and investors informed. Each side must stay aware of the changing balance, so nobody misses out on opportunities aligned to their goals. This snapshot guides you on why it matters: every numeric shift translates into decision power for your next move in Surf City, NC.

Your Next Address Starts Here

Work directly with Bill Frey to align budget, search alerts, and offer strategy for Surf City, NC. January 2026 is a key month to position your plans or kick off your search.

Call or explore the local market with a personalized walkthrough of what January has to offer!

Key Considerations for January 2026

Is it a good time to buy in Surf City, NC? Every client has unique circumstances, but real-time trends, a wider selection, and changing prices make now an important moment to weigh both short and long term goals. If you are considering selling, make sure to monitor new listing activity. For renters, keep responses ready as options are limited and active days remain low for attractive properties.

Bill Frey
Written by Bill Frey
Frey Realty NC
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