Triangle Real Estate Market Update – May 2026

Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, Cary, Apex, Raleigh & Chatham County Housing Market

By Tana Widdows | Compass Real Estate | Chapel Hill, NC

If you're wondering whether now is the right time to buy or sell a home in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, Cary, Apex, Raleigh, or Chatham County, the answer is more nuanced than the headlines suggest.

The Triangle real estate market continues to evolve. Inventory is growing in many areas, homes are taking longer to sell, and buyers have more choices than they did a year ago. But one thing hasn't changed: the best homes are still selling quickly, often with multiple offers.

As a Realtor working with buyers and sellers across the Triangle every day, I think it's important to look beyond the numbers. Statistics tell us what happened. My clients' experiences explain why it happened.

Let's take a look.

Triangle Market Snapshot

Across the Doorify MLS region in May:

• Median sales price increased to $405,000, up 1.3% from last May.
• Average sales price rose 3.6%.
• Inventory increased nearly 9%.
• Homes took about 19% longer to sell than they did a year ago.
• Closed sales remained remarkably steady despite higher inventory.

The market is becoming healthier and more balanced—but it's certainly not slowing down everywhere.

Chapel Hill & Carrboro Market Update

Chapel Hill and Carrboro continue to be among the strongest luxury markets in the Triangle.

Compared to last May:

• Closed sales increased 5.8%.
• Average sales price increased 4.6%.
• Inventory increased 18.4%.
• Days on market jumped from 15 days to 26 days.

That increase in inventory means buyers have more choices than they did a year ago.

But here's the important part...

Not every home is experiencing a slower market.

What I'm Seeing

One of my Chapel Hill listings recently received five offers and is currently pending over asking price after being listed at $735,000.

At the same time, another one of my listings—a beautiful luxury home with more than 5,000 square feet—has been on the market for over 100 days.

Those two experiences perfectly illustrate today's market.

There isn't one Triangle housing market anymore.

There are multiple markets happening simultaneously, depending on price point, location, condition, presentation, and buyer demand.

Durham Market Update

Durham continues to see strong buyer activity.

• Closed sales increased 7.5%.
• Inventory climbed nearly 20%.
• Homes are taking longer to sell.
• Median sales price softened slightly while average sales price increased.

Well-priced homes in desirable neighborhoods continue to attract strong interest, while buyers are negotiating more carefully on homes that need updating.

Cary, Apex & Morrisville

These communities remain among the strongest markets in Wake County.

Highlights include:

• Closed sales up 18.4%.
• Average sales price up 4.4%.
• Inventory increasing.
• Days on market rising from 16 to 24 days.

Although buyers have more options than last year, demand remains very healthy.

Raleigh Market Update

Raleigh continues to perform well, although buyers have become more selective.

• Closed sales increased 7.7%.
• Average sales price increased.
• Inventory continues to grow.
• Homes are staying on the market slightly longer.

Chatham County & Pittsboro

Chatham County continues to attract buyers relocating to the Triangle for newer homes, larger lots, and planned communities like Briar Chapel.

This month:

• Closed sales increased over 10%.
• Average sales price increased.
• Inventory remained relatively stable.
• Days on market increased slightly.

I'm currently helping buyers purchase both a luxury new construction home in Pittsboro and another home in Briar Chapel. Buyers continue to see tremendous long-term value in Chatham County because of its growth, new amenities, and convenient access to Chapel Hill, Durham, and RTP.

What I'm Seeing Every Day

Luxury buyers are negotiating harder than ever.

One of the biggest changes I've noticed this year is how aggressively luxury buyers negotiate.

When I'm representing luxury buyers, they're often looking to negotiate anywhere from 3% to 20% off the list price, depending on the property's condition, how long it's been on the market, and—most importantly—the seller's motivation.

Luxury buyers understand they have more choices today, and they're willing to negotiate when they believe a home is overpriced.

Pricing has never mattered more.

Inventory is higher than it was last year, which means buyers have choices.

They're comparing every home online before ever scheduling a showing.

Homes that are priced correctly and beautifully prepared are still generating multiple offers.

Homes that miss the market on price often sit.

Today's buyers are incredibly informed.

Buyers are paying close attention to the big-ticket items.

Interest rates remain one of buyers' biggest frustrations.

Because monthly payments are higher than they were just a few years ago, buyers are looking much more closely at future expenses.

Questions I hear almost every day include:

• How old is the roof?
• When was the HVAC replaced?
• What will this kitchen cost to renovate?
• Will I need new windows soon?

If a home doesn't already have multiple offers, buyers are increasingly asking sellers to help offset those future costs through negotiations.

AI is changing how people buy homes.

One of the biggest changes I've seen this year has nothing to do with interest rates or inventory.

It's AI.

My buyers are using AI to:

• Visualize kitchen renovations before making an offer.
• Redesign backyards and outdoor living spaces.
• Estimate remodeling costs after inspections.
• Compare neighborhoods and local amenities.
• Brainstorm furniture layouts and interior design ideas.

Instead of wondering what a home could become, buyers can now see those possibilities in minutes. It's helping them make more informed—and more confident—decisions.

Should You Buy This Summer?

I get asked this almost every day.

My answer is always the same:

Maybe.

It depends on your goals.

If you're buying because you think the market is about to produce incredible bargains, I wouldn't count on that.

The best homes—the ones in desirable neighborhoods, with good layouts, updated systems, and strong long-term value—are still attracting multiple offers.

Many sellers don't need to sell. They refinanced into historically low interest rates and are comfortable waiting for the right buyer.

If you're buying because you've found a home that fits your lifestyle and your long-term financial goals, then this market still offers wonderful opportunities.

Every buyer's situation is different, and that's why I always recommend having a conversation before deciding whether now is the right time to make a move.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in the Triangle?

Whether you're considering buying your first home, moving up to a luxury property, relocating to Chapel Hill, Durham, Cary, Apex, Raleigh, or Pittsboro, or preparing to sell, I'd be happy to help you understand what today's market means for your specific situation.

Real estate isn't one-size-fits-all. The right strategy depends on your goals, your timeline, and the unique dynamics of your neighborhood.

Let's create a plan that helps you buy or sell with confidence.

Warmly,

Tana Widdows- Compass Realtor