Phi-Van Cherry February 14, 2026
The 2026 housing market is clearly transitioning. Nationally, home sales slowed sharply in January, inventory is rising, and mortgage rates are hovering near 6 percent. But what matters most is how these shifts are impacting local markets like Greenville, South Carolina, and Western North Carolina.
If you are considering buying, selling, relocating, or investing this year, understanding these trends is critical.
Here is what is happening and what it means for you.
As we move through February 2026, the U.S. housing market is entering a new chapter — one where balance is returning after several years of record-setting pace and competitive intensity. According to recent data, existing home sales declined by over 8% in January, marking the sharpest drop in nearly four years. But this isn’t necessarily a sign of trouble — rather, it reflects a market adjusting and stabilizing after the frenzied post-pandemic years.
Mortgage rates are gradually easing, and with inventory levels increasing, both buyers and sellers are finding their footing. For those in Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina, this shift is opening up brand-new opportunities for smart, strategic real estate moves.
Nationwide forecasts from Realtor.com suggest a more sustainable pace in 2026, with:
Meanwhile, the policy conversation is heating up in North Carolina, where lawmakers are exploring property tax relief measures to make homeownership more accessible. Homeowners across the region are keeping a close eye on the outcome, knowing it could impact affordability and local housing demand in meaningful ways.
From Asheville to Hendersonville and beyond, Western North Carolina’s housing market continues to normalize in healthy ways.
Homes are now averaging about 80 days on market, giving buyers more time to make confident decisions and negotiate fair terms.
While market competition has cooled since the pandemic highs, local prices remain stable — especially in Buncombe County, where median sale prices have held steady even as inventory continues to increase.
These indicators reflect a maturing market — one that offers buyers breathing room and sellers opportunity when properties are showcased strategically. With mortgage rates hovering near 6%, this is a strong environment for thoughtful, informed moves backed by professional guidance.
Just south of the border, Greenville, South Carolina, continues to be one of the Southeast’s most desirable real estate markets.
Driven by job growth, urban revitalization, and lifestyle appeal, Greenville attracts new residents from across the country seeking affordability and quality of life near the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The result? A market defined by sustainable growth. Prices are appreciating at a measured pace, inventory is expanding, and buyer demand remains steady. For both sides of the transaction — buyers and sellers alike — Greenville offers a balanced playing field with strong potential moving into spring.
Whether you’re navigating the mountains of Western North Carolina or the thriving neighborhoods of Greenville, SC, this year’s real estate landscape rewards preparation and partnership:
✅ Buyers: You now have more negotiating power and access to a wider range of homes — an excellent time to make your move before rates shift again.
✅ Sellers: Today’s market values presentation and strategy. Homes priced right and marketed effectively are still commanding strong, qualified offers.
✅ Investors & Relocators: With consistency returning, the Carolinas remain prime destinations for growth — where lifestyle meets long-term value.
2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by stability, strategy, and local expertise. The frenzied markets of the past have made way for a smarter, more sustainable season where knowledge truly pays off.
If you’re considering buying, selling, or investing in Western North Carolina or Upstate South Carolina, now’s the time to align your next move with the right local guidance — someone who understands your community, your goals, and today’s evolving real estate trends.
Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a mountain retreat, or investing in a new opportunity across Western North Carolina or Upstate South Carolina, you deserve experienced local guidance that puts your goals first.
As a trusted Realtor serving communities from Asheville and Hendersonville to Greenville and Spartanburg, I specialize in helping clients navigate today’s market with ease, confidence, and results.
Let’s turn your next housing move into a smooth, rewarding experience backed by insight, strategy, and neighborhood expertise.
📞 Call or text: 864-735-7673
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Your home journey deserves a local expert who knows the mountains, markets, and mindset that make the Carolinas so special. Let’s move from House to Home — together.
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