Charlotte, North Carolina, continues to stand out as one of the most dynamic real estate markets in the Southeastern United States. Charlotte has gained prominence as a rapidly growing city with a robust banking industry, a rising tech presence, and steady population growth—making it an attractive destination for affordable living, high quality of life, and promising real estate investment opportunities. In 2025, these factors are converging to shape a competitive housing market that has left many asking: Is Charlotte currently a buyer’s market or a seller’s market?

Key Takeaways: Charlotte’s 2025 Housing Market at a Crossroads

• In-migration from high-cost states (like California and New York) and steady population growth continue to fuel housing demand in Charlotte, North Carolina
• Higher mortgage rates (around 7%) are cooling buyer enthusiasm somewhat, giving buyers more negotiating room
• Desirable neighborhoods such as South End, NoDa, Dilworth, Plaza Midwood, and Ballantyne remain highly competitive

What Defines a Buyer’s vs. Seller’s Market?

• Buyer’s Market: Occurs when housing supply exceeds demand. In this environment, buyers have more options and leverage, often leading to price reductions and extended listing times.
  
• Seller’s Market: Arises when demand outpaces supply. Homes sell quickly, often receive multiple offers, and may command prices above the asking price.

Supply Grows, Yet Prices Climb: A Closer Look at Charlotte Market Dynamics

One of the most notable developments in Charlotte’s housing landscape is the increase in active listings. According to data from the Federal Reserve and regional Multiple Listing Service reports, the number of active single-family homes on the market across the greater Charlotte metro area—including Concord and Gastonia—has more than doubled since 2023. This signals a boost in housing supply, driven by new construction and an uptick in homeowners listing properties.

However, rising inventory has not led to falling prices. In fact, median home prices in Charlotte have continued to rise, with Redfin reporting a 5% increase in home sales prices compared to two years ago. This suggests that demand is strong enough to absorb the additional inventory, typical of a seller-favorable environment.

Charlotte’s Real Estate Scene: What’s Driving the Growth?

This growth is being fueled by several factors that everyday homeowners can feel directly. First, the city’s population continues to grow as people move here from states like California, New York, and Illinois. These new residents are often drawn by job opportunities and a lower cost of living—which keeps housing demand high.

At the same time, the city is seeing a wave of new home construction. Builders are responding to demand by adding new neighborhoods and developments, and more longtime residents are deciding to list their homes to take advantage of rising prices. This is a big change from the years following the 2008 housing crash, when new construction came to a near halt. Since then, Charlotte has steadily bounced back, and building activity has picked up significantly over the last decade.

Charlotte’s Affordability Advantage is Shrinking

Charlotte used to be known as a relatively affordable place to buy a home, especially compared to larger metro areas. But that’s starting to change. As of March 2025, the median home price in Charlotte has now edged above the national average by about $5,000, according to Homes.com.

While homes here are still much less expensive than in places like Los Angeles or New York, prices are rising—and fast. This means that for people looking to buy, the window of “affordable Charlotte” may be closing, especially in popular neighborhoods close to the city center or near top-rated schools.

Mortgage Rates and Market Shifts: A Slight Edge for Buyers

The market is still strong for sellers, but there are signs that things are slowly starting to even out. One major factor playing into this is mortgage rates. Right now, the average 30-year fixed mortgage rate is around 7%, according to BankRate. That’s significantly higher than the ultra-low rates buyers enjoyed a few years ago.

Note: Chart shows National Average 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Interest Rates according to Bankrate

What does that mean for you? Higher mortgage rates make monthly payments more expensive, which can stretch budgets and limit how much home buyers can afford. As a result, some buyers are pausing their home search, or choosing smaller or less expensive homes than they might have a year or two ago.

With more homes coming onto the market and buyers being a bit more cautious, sellers may start to see longer listing times and more negotiations. It’s not quite a buyer’s market yet—but buyers definitely have more breathing room than they did in the peak of the frenzy.

So, Is Charlotte a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market in 2025?

As of mid-2025, Charlotte remains a moderate seller’s market—but with emerging signs of a shift toward balance.

• Sellers still benefit from high demand and strong pricing power.
  
• Buyers are gaining some leverage due to increasing supply and elevated interest rates slowing down the pace of transactions.

The next 6–12 months will be critical in determining whether Charlotte transitions fully into a balanced or even buyer-leaning market. Factors to watch include changes in mortgage rates, new construction, and population growth.

Bottom Line

Charlotte remains a moderate seller’s market as of 2025, with high demand persisting, especially in desirable neighborhoods like South End, NoDa, Dilworth, Plaza Midwood, and Ballantyne. While the market is starting to balance out due to factors like rising mortgage rates and an increase in housing supply, the demand in these sought-after areas will likely remain strong. Sellers still hold the advantage, but as the market continues to stabilize, buyers may gain more leverage in the months ahead.

At Turn Edge Estates, we understand that navigating Charlotte’s evolving real estate market can be overwhelming. If you’re considering selling your home, we offer fast, fair cash offers with no hidden fees, no repairs needed, and no waiting on the traditional market. With Charlotte at a turning point, now is the perfect time to explore your options. Contact Turn Edge Estates today and take the next step with a local team that puts your goals first.