Starting the second week of January 2026, the real estate landscape in Wilmington, NC is shifting in ways that can recalibrate your approach as a buyer, seller, or investor. Are you wondering which metrics matter most this month? Let’s break down why analyzing the latest numbers can help you make the best move in today’s market.
Whether you’re searching for affordable homes in Wilmington, NC this January 2026 or considering putting your house on the market, data helps clarify your best options. Is it a good time to buy in Wilmington, NC? Recent upticks in active listings and steady pricing suggest both opportunity and competition. Let’s dig in to see how these shifts may impact your real estate plans.
Wilmington, NC Market Benchmarks: January 2026
The number of active listings sits at 1,245, which is up by 4 percent from last month. For buyers, this increase means more properties to evaluate without rushing, while sellers need to position their homes competitively. Closed sales last month registered 288, and pending sales have moved upward to 310. The median sale price remains stable at $412,500, so both sides can plan with confidence.
Sellers should note the average days on market is now 36. This quick turnover indicates that well-prepared, smartly priced homes are still commanding swift bids, making how to sell your house fast in Wilmington, NC a pressing question for many. For buyers, a list-to-sale price ratio continuing at 97.2 percent means timing and preparedness are crucial as negotiation margins remain slim.
Insights on Home Types and Pricing
Digging deeper, average price per square foot in Wilmington, NC is $226—a metric that supports realistic budget planning for buyers. The months of supply is 2.5, signaling an advantage for sellers, but still allowing buyers enough time to weigh their choices.
- Active Listings: 1,245
- Median Sale Price: $412,500
- Pending Sales: 310
- List to Sale Price Ratio: 97.2 percent
Strategic Steps for January
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you’ll want to know that 21 percent of closed sales used FHA loans last month. For those considering an investment property, 18 percent of sales reflect a buy-to-rent intention, reinforcing a local rental demand with a median advertised rent of $1,795 for a two-bedroom.
Seller concessions now average $3,200. If you’re prepping a listing, look to small renovations with a median spend of $2,800 and remember, pre-listing inspections have been used in 34 percent of successful closes—each a move toward smoother transactions. Learn more about these approaches by exploring Wilmington, NC property tips or ask what steps Bill Frey recommends for your goals.
Key January 2026 Considerations
If you’re considering the rental or luxury market, take note: The luxury segment accounts for 7 percent of recent sales, though the average days on market here hovers around 58. Local open house attendance rose 10 percent, indicating rising interest as Wilmington, NC heads into late January 2026.
- Average Days on Market: 36
- Months of Supply: 2.5
- Median Advertised Rent: $1,795
- Seller Concessions Avg: $3,200
Planning for Wellington, NC Success
Understanding the pace of homes leaving the market, the kinds of loans buyers are using, and price trends helps you set realistic expectations and act with clarity. Bill Frey works with clients at every stage, responding to your needs for information and support in January 2026 and beyond.
Make the Market Work for You
Use January 2026 data with Bill Frey to decide when to list, buy, or hold in Wilmington, NC.
If you have questions about affordable homes in Wilmington, NC this January 2026 or want to know how to sell your house fast in Wilmington, NC, Bill Frey is here to assist. Get your real estate strategy in sync with the realities of this unique market window.
