The housing market in the Triangle region is showing signs of increasing balance as 2026 begins, with housing inventory in Wake County rising by 20.9%, according to data from the Multiple Listing Service (MLS).
In January, the median home price in the county reached $450,000. As spring approaches — traditionally the peak season for real estate activity — many are questioning what the market landscape will look like throughout the year.
Despite these developments, the market appears to be heading toward relative stability, though not necessarily offering exceptionally lucrative buying opportunities. On the financing front, long-term mortgage rates in the United States have fallen below 6% for the first time since late 2022, providing an added advantage for buyers.
In January 2026, the number of homes listed for sale in Wake County reached 3,528 properties, marking a significant 20.9% increase compared to January 2025. Additionally, the median home price in the county saw a slight decline of 4.3% year-over-year, settling at $450,000.
The average time homes spent on the market also experienced a noticeable shift, reaching 46 days in January 2026 — a 24.3% increase compared to the same period last year. This reflects a change in supply-and-demand dynamics.
Patrick Madigan, a real estate expert and owner of Madigan Realty with more than a decade of experience in the industry, described the market as particularly interesting compared to previous years due to these notable shifts.
