Looking Ahead: 2026 Market Forecast for Wake County — What Buyers & Sellers Should Know

As we wrap up 2025, buyers and sellers in Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and the greater Wake County area are asking the same question: what will 2026 look like for the housing market? Rather than dramatic boom or bust headlines, most expert forecasts point to a more balanced, stable market, one that rewards preparation, strategic decision-making, and local insight.



Below, we break down what national and regional forecasts are saying, what it means for Triangle homeowners, and how you can plan with confidence.

A National Market Moving Toward Stability

Industry forecasts suggest that 2026 will bring a healthier balance between buyers and sellers, even if conditions are far from a return to the extreme growth of past years.

Several major forecasts agree on key themes:

• Mortgage rates are expected to stay above 6%, though slightly lower than recent levels, with Realtor.com projecting an average of around 6.3% in 2026.
  
  
• Home prices nationally are anticipated to rise modestly, with Realtor.com forecasting about 2.2% price growth, and Redfin estimating closer to 1% year-over-year increases.
  
  
• Home sales may climb as inventory grows, providing buyers with more options and negotiating power than in tighter markets. Realtor.com expects inventory to grow nearly 9% year-over-year.

This prospective “reset” — not a rebound or crash — suggests the market could feel more balanced than in recent years of constrained supply and rising prices.

What This Means for Wake County & the Triangle

While we can’t forecast perfectly, several regional insights indicate that Wake County and the broader Triangle may outperform national trends in certain respects:

Modest Local Price Appreciation
Local forecasts suggest home values in Wake County could rise 3–5% in 2026, a bit stronger than national averages, driven by ongoing demand and a historically desirable market.

Expanding Inventory
More homes are expected to hit the market as builders complete new projects and existing owners re-enter with updated pricing expectations. This growing supply often translates into more opportunity for buyers and less pressure on prices.

Transaction Volume Growth
Forecasts for the Triangle overall estimate a 5–8% increase in sales volume as mortgage rates normalize and inventory rises, improving buyer engagement.

These dynamics point toward a local market with continued interest and growth, but in a more measured and sustainable way.

What Buyers Should Watch in 2026

1. Mortgage Rate Trends

Though rates are expected to stay above historical lows, most experts say they will hover in the low-to-mid 6% range, slightly easing affordability pressures.



This shift won’t suddenly make buying “cheap,” but even modest rate relief can expand buyer pools and restore confidence.

2. Inventory Growth

More homes for sale generally mean more choices and fewer bidding wars, especially on homes that are priced right and well-presented.

3. Affordability Improvements

With prices rising slowly and wages continuing to grow, affordability metrics may improve enough to motivate hesitant buyers to enter the market.

Key takeaway: Buyers who are pre-approved, clear on priorities, and ready to act on value will be best positioned especially early in the year.

What Sellers Should Watch in 2026

1. Pricing Accuracy Matters
As prices rise more modestly, accurate pricing becomes even more important to attract attention and secure offers.

2. Presentation Still Counts
Homes that show well with thoughtful staging, strong curb appeal, and compelling photography tend to earn stronger results with today’s more discerning buyers.

3. Smart Timing Can Pay Off
Sellers who understand seasonal and local market patterns, especially in a more balanced market, often avoid unnecessary hold times or price reductions.



Tip: A strategic listing plan calibrated to timing, pricing, and presentation can make the difference between a good outcome and a great one.

Why Local Insight Still Matters Most

Forecasts provide a helpful backdrop, but real estate is fundamentally local:

• Neighborhood demand can vary widely, even within Wake County.
  
  
• National projections don’t always reflect specific job market or community trends.
  
  
• Your timeline, goals, and finances matter far more than broad averages.

If 2026 is the year you want to buy, sell, or assess your options, having a trusted local advisor isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.

Allison & Andrea can help you turn regional trends into personal strategy, whether you’re preparing for your next move, monitoring market conditions, or planning for future goals.