Charlotte Sees Rising Inventory in a Stabilizing Housing Market
Nationwide, January existing-home sales moved to the strongest level in nearly three years, rising 5.1% from the prior month and 1.4% year over year to a 4.35 million annual pace. Inventory totaled about 1.18 million homes, equal to a 3.3-month supply, while the median price increased just 0.4% to $405,400, signaling moderating price growth.
Across the Southeast, momentum is gradually improving as slightly lower mortgage rates helped lift pending sales 1.2% from a year ago and new listings edged up 0.7%. Active inventory climbed 10% annually, though it remains below typical pre-pandemic levels, keeping conditions competitive but more balanced than in recent years.
Locally, the Charlotte region showed steady progress compared to this time last year. New listings rose 1.1% to 4,182, pending sales increased 7.3% to 3,396, and inventory grew 14.4% to 9,977. The median sales price moved up 2.2% to $390,000, while months supply reached 2.7, reflecting more options for buyers without significant downward pressure on prices.
For buyers, improving selection creates opportunity without the intense competition of past cycles. For sellers, homes are still appreciating, but thoughtful pricing and preparation remain essential for strong results.
Sources: National Association of Realtors (NAR), Freddie Mac PMMS, U.S. Census Bureau, Realtor.com Housing Trends, Redfin Data Center, and Canopy MLS
Market Snapshot
Data represents change since this time last year. Based on information from Canopy MLS for January 2025 through January 2026.
