The U.S. real estate market showed mixed results in January 2025. Existing-home sales dropped 4.9% to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.08 million, but sales were still up 2.0% from the previous year.
The median existing-home sales price rose 4.8% from January 2024 to $306,900. Inventory of unsold homes increased by 3.5% from the prior month to 1.18 million units, according to the National Association of REALTORS (NAR).
So, what does that mean for Charlotte? This update breaks down local trends, covering home prices, inventory levels, days on market, and whether now is a good time to buy. If you’re looking to buy or sell, Nancy Braun and the team at Showcase Realty are here to help with local expertise.
How is the Housing Market in Charlotte?
Charlotte’s housing market stayed active in January 2025. New listings, closed sales, and home prices increased, while higher inventory offered more choices for buyers. Here’s a quick overview:
- New Listings: 4,407 (+11.3% YoY)
- Closed Sales: 2,482 (+7.1 YoY)
- Average List Price: $509,726 (+4.7% YoY)
- Median Home Price: $385,000 (+2.7% YoY)
- Inventory: 8,204 homes (+32.7% YoY)
- Months Supply: 2.3 months (+27.8%)
Market Performance (January)
| Metric | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | % Change (YoY) |
| New Listings | 3,207 | 3,636 | 4,407 | +11.3% |
| Closed Sales | 2,286 | 2,317 | 2,482 | +7.1% |
| Average List Price | $453,055 | $486,685 | $509,726 | +4.7% |
| Median Sales Price | $377,900 | $374,900 | $385,000 | +2.7% |
| Housing Inventory | 6,103 | 6,184 | 8,204 | +32.7% |
| Months Supply of Homes | 1.6 | 1.8 | 2.3 | +27.8% |
What’s Driving Demand?
- Job Growth: More people are moving to Charlotte for career opportunities.
- Population Increase: Charlotte’s growing population fuels demand.
- Interest Rates: Higher mortgage rates impact affordability, though demand remains steady.
What is the Median Home Price in Charlotte NC?
- January 2025 Median Price: $385,000 (+2.7% YoY)
- Charlotte remains more affordable than many major U.S. cities.
Median Home Price (January)
| Year | Median Price ($) | % Change (YoY) |
| 2023 | 377,900 | — |
| 2024 | 374,900 | -2.6% |
| 2025 | 385,000 | +2.7% |
What is the Current Housing Inventory in the Charlotte Region?
- Total Inventory: 8,204 homes (+32.7% YoY)
- Months Supply: 2.3 months (+27.8%)
Higher inventory gives buyers more options, though competition remains strong, especially for homes under $500,000. Sellers should price competitively as more homes enter the market.
Housing Inventory (January)
| Year | Inventory | Months Supply |
| 2023 | 6,103 | 1.6 |
| 2024 | 6,184 | 1.8 |
| 2025 | 8,204 | 2.3 |
How Long Do Most Houses Stay on the Market in Charlotte?
In January 2025, homes stayed on the market for an average of 57 days—a 35.7% increase from January 2024. The increase reflects seasonal trends and more available homes.
Days on Market (DOM)
| Month | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
| January | 46 | 42 | 57 |
| December | 35 | 50 | — |
Seasonal Trends
- Winter typically slows sales as fewer buyers search during colder months.
- December 2024 homes sold faster (50 days) than January’s 57 days.
- Sales tend to accelerate in spring and summer when demand increases.
Factors Impacting DOM
- Pricing: Overpriced homes stay longer, while competitively priced ones sell faster.
- Condition: Well-maintained properties attract more buyers.
- Demand: Higher inventory can extend time on the market as buyers have more choices.
- Location: Homes in desirable areas tend to sell faster.
Impact on Buyers and Sellers
- Buyers: Increased inventory means more options and less urgency, though well-priced homes still sell fast.
- Sellers: Competitive pricing and strong curb appeal are essential for faster sales.
Is It a Good Time to Buy a House in Charlotte?
Charlotte’s growing inventory benefits buyers, though rising prices and mortgage rates affect affordability. The Housing Affordability Index reached 88 in January 2025, down 4.3% from last year. A lower index means homes cost more relative to income, though Charlotte remains more affordable than many larger cities.
Housing Affordability Index (2024-2025)
| Month | 2023 Index | 2024 Index | 2025 Index | % Change (YoY) |
| January | 96 | 92 | 88 | -4.3% |
| December | 94 | 88 | — | -6.4% |
| November | 87 | 88 | — | +1.1% |
| October | 83 | 89 | — | +7.2% |
| September | 86 | 92 | — | +7.0% |
What This Means for Buyers
- More Inventory: More options mean less competition.
- Affordability Challenge: Higher prices and mortgage rates can increase monthly payments.
- Quick Sales Under $500k: Homes priced under $500,000 still sell quickly due to demand.
- Investment Potential: Charlotte’s job growth and population gains make homeownership a wise long-term investment.
Expert Tips for Buying in Charlotte
- Act Quickly: Well-priced homes sell fast—don’t wait.
- Get Pre-Approved: Secure financing to strengthen your offer.
- Work with Local Experts: A real estate agent with local knowledge can help you find deals and stay ahead of the competition.
- Buy in Slower Seasons: Winter may offer better prices as competition is lower.
Explore Homes in Charlotte
Ready to buy a home in Charlotte? Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, or investing, now is a good time to explore available properties.
For expert guidance, contact Nancy Braun, Broker-In-Charge and Owner of Showcase Realty, LLC, at 704-286-9844. Nancy and her team have in-depth knowledgeable of the local market and can help you find the right home at the right price.
Start exploring homes today and take the next step toward homeownership in Charlotte.