🏡 Outer Banks Real Estate Market Update: 2025 Review & Early 2026 Outlook

The 2025 Outer Banks real estate market finished the year with remarkable stability. Compared to 2024, home prices and total sales were almost identical, showing the continued strength and resilience of the OBX market even as high mortgage rates shaped buyer behavior.

2025 Market Performance at a Glance

📈 Prices Remain Steady Year‑Over‑Year

  • Average Sold Price (2025): $827,223
  • Price Trend: Nearly unchanged from 2024
  • Sales Volume: Consistent with 2024 totals

Despite national market fluctuations, the Outer Banks maintained strong property values and steady demand.

⏱️ Days on Market Increase

  • 2024 DOM: 57 days
  • 2025 DOM: 74 days

This increase reflects the continued impact of elevated mortgage rates, with buyers taking more time to make decisions.

A Tale of Two Halves: Slow Start, Strong Finish

The first half of 2025 was notably slow as high mortgage rates kept many buyers on the sidelines.
But everything changed in July.

As rates began to fall, buyer activity surged, leading to a strong finish to the year. Showings increased, contracts picked up, and well‑priced homes saw renewed competition.

January 2026: Early Signs of a Busy Spring Market

Inventory is beginning to rebound, giving buyers more options heading into the spring selling season.

  • Active Listings: 462
  • Under Contract: 118

With mortgage rates continuing to trend downward, the Outer Banks is positioned for a strong and active spring market.

What Buyers & Sellers Should Expect in 2026

For Buyers

  • More inventory than the past two years
  • Improving affordability as rates decline
  • A competitive spring season as demand increases

For Sellers

  • Stable pricing and a competitive market
  • Motivated buyers returning to the market
  • A prime opportunity to list before spring competition rises

Time to start your search?

Schedule a time to see the options firsthand and find your ideal home or rental property. Can’t make the trip down just yet? Stay up to date with the Outer Banks real estate market by signing up for a Listing Manager account or receiving Market Reports. These tools will keep you informed on market trends and help you refine your search.

For a personalized touch, share your search criteria, and I’ll create an automatic email search tailored to your preferences.

Want to Sell Your Outer Banks Property?

If you have a house to sell or know anyone that wants to sell now is the time. It does not cost you anything to find out what I can sell your property for with a Free Home Valuation. If you are a buyer that wants to stay up to date on the market sign up for free Market Report for the town you are interested in. The Market Report is emailed to you each week with new listings, sold listings, and price changes. You can also sign up for a Listing Manager account where you can set your own search parameters for the properties you are interested in.

Trust a Proven Realtor with Your Outer Banks Real Estate Needs

With over two decades of experience, Matt ranks in the top 7% of all Outer Banks Realtors for total sales volume and the number of houses sold since 2003. His expertise and dedication make the selling process smooth and successful.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Matt today and start your journey toward selling—or buying—your dream Outer Banks property.