While January is typically our slowest month, December showed some encouraging activity. Wilmington closed 269 home sales in December, which was actually 18% higher than November's 228 closings. That's a notable uptick, especially considering the holiday season.

Year-over-year, we're seeing a slightly cooler market compared to December 2024, with sales down about 9% (269 versus 296 closings). However, prices held remarkably steady. The median sold price came in at $447,590, up 1.7% from last December's $440,240.

Wrightsville Beach - Where coastal living meets luxury

What Sellers Need to Know

If you're thinking about listing your home this year, the data tells an important story.

We currently have 725 active listings in Wilmington with a median list price of $460,000. With 269 homes selling in December, that gives us just 2.7 months of inventory. Anything under three months is considered a seller's market, so you're still in a strong position.

Here's what caught my attention: homes that sold in December took an average of 69 days to go under contract, up from 60 days last December. That's not cause for concern, it's simply the holiday effect. But it does highlight an important opportunity.

The homes selling right now belong to motivated sellers.

They've been on the market through Thanksgiving and Christmas. Many have likely adjusted their pricing to reflect current market conditions. Homes that sold in December closed at an average of 94.8% of their original list price, which tells us that realistic pricing is getting rewarded with sales.

If you're planning to sell this year, the time to start preparing is now. The buyers who are looking in January and February are serious. They're pre-approved, motivated, and ready to move when they find the right home. By listing in the next 60 days, you'll capture these buyers before the spring rush brings more competition to the market.

I've created a comprehensive seller course that walks you through every step of preparing your home for sale, from initial prep to closing day. It's designed to answer your questions before you even ask them.

Coastal luxury living at every price point

What Buyers Need to Know

For buyers, December's numbers reveal some real opportunities right now.

First, the good news: inventory remained stable. We started December with 722 listings and ended with 725, so you still have plenty of options to choose from. The median list price held at $460,000, unchanged from November.

The even better news? As I mentioned, the sellers who are on the market right now are motivated. They've held their homes through the holidays for a reason. This creates a unique window for buyers who are ready to act.

We currently have 243 pending sales working their way to closing. That level of activity tells me that well-priced homes in good condition are still moving, even in the slower winter months.

Active Listings by Price Range

The sweet spots remain in the $300K-$500K range and the $500K-$750K range, which together represent 60% of our active inventory.

If you're planning to buy this year, now is the time to get your financing lined up and start looking.

Waiting until spring means competing with more buyers for the same homes. The sellers who are marketing their homes right now understand the winter market and are pricing accordingly.

I've developed a comprehensive buyer course that covers everything from understanding the local market to what to expect at closing. It takes the mystery out of the home buying process.

Beautiful sunsets over the Carolina coast

Looking Ahead to 2026

The fundamentals of our market remain strong. With just 2.7 months of inventory, we're still in a seller's market by traditional measures. Prices appreciated modestly year-over-year (up 1.7%), showing steady, sustainable growth rather than the volatility we've seen in other markets.

The slight slowdown in pending sales (down 22% year-over-year) reflects broader economic caution more than local market weakness. Our coastal lifestyle continues to attract buyers from higher cost-of-living areas who are looking for better value and quality of life.

For both buyers and sellers, the message is the same: the winter months offer strategic advantages if you're prepared to move. Less competition means more attention to your listing or offer. Motivated participants on both sides of transactions create opportunities for deals that work for everyone.

My Commitment to You

Whether you're thinking about selling, ready to buy, or simply want to understand how these market trends might affect your real estate decisions, I'm here as your resource. My background in finance and accounting means I can help you understand not just the emotional aspects of buying or selling a home, but the numbers that will impact your financial future.

I provide the same high level of service regardless of price point because I believe everyone deserves authentic coastal luxury in their real estate experience.

If you have questions about your specific situation or just want to talk through your options, I'd love to hear from you.