Outer Banks Real Estate Update-January 2026

January set the tone for the Outer Banks real estate market as inventory continued to build and buyers took a more measured approach. While activity remained steady, longer days on market and modest price adjustments show a market that’s finding balance after several years of rapid change.

January Market Snapshot

  • Sold Listings: 74
  • New Listings: 184
  • Active Listings: 661
  • Average Days on Market: 82
  • Sale‑to‑List Price Ratio: 96%
  • Average Sold Price: $672,500
  • Average New List Price: $699,949
  • Average Active Listing Price: $707,100

What These Numbers Mean

The increase in new listings continues to give buyers more options, which is reflected in the longer average days on market. Homes are still selling close to asking price, but buyers are negotiating more carefully and taking time to evaluate value, rental potential, and condition.

For sellers, pricing strategy matters more than ever. Properties that are priced correctly and presented well are still moving, while overpriced homes are seeing extended market time.

Looking Ahead

As we move closer to spring, inventory levels and interest rate trends will play a major role in shaping buyer demand. Historically, activity begins to pick up as we approach the prime Outer Banks selling season, especially for well‑located homes and investment properties.

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. The spring selling season and busiest time of the year for sales on the Outer Banks is March-May.

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.

Disclaimer: This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by, and to the Subscribers of the Outer Banks Association of REALTORS® Multiple Listing Service. Information contained herein is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Data maintained by the OBAR MLS is for its own use and may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Data provided from 2003 to 2026 from Corolla to Hatteras for single family homes, condo, townhomes only.

A big part of buying Property on the Outer Banks is finding the right lender and getting pre-qualified.
Below are two local lenders that you can contact to get the mortgage process started.

Kelly Tolson-Arbor Home Loans
Mortgage Loan Originator, NMLS# 664230
Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948
Phone: (252) 364-3712
Email: ktolson@arborhl.com

Jamie Lavier-Towne Bank Mortgage
Senior Loan Officer-NMLS # 996395
Kitty Hawk, NC 27949
Office # 252-255-4561
Cell # 252-489-9317
Email Me

Current Listings: