What’s the Real Estate Market Like Right Now?

This is one of the first questions buyers ask before making a move — especially around Fort Bragg and the surrounding Cumberland, Hoke, Harnett, and Sampson county areas.

They want clear answers:

• Are prices going up or down?

• Are homes selling fast?

• Are we in a buyer’s or seller’s market?

Let’s break it down using real numbers — not headlines.

Are Prices Going Up or Down?

According to the 2024 Longleaf Pine REALTORS® Annual Report:

• Median sales price increased 6.4% to $284,000 

That tells us:

Prices are still appreciating — just not at the rapid, double-digit pace we saw during peak frenzy years.

This is steady growth.

Not a crash. Not a spike. A stabilized upward trend.

Are Homes Selling Fast?

Here’s what matters:

• Sellers received an average of 98.8% of list price .

That means:

Homes are still selling close to asking price — but buyers are negotiating strategically.

We are no longer in the “everything sells in one weekend at 110% of asking” market.

Homes priced correctly move.

Homes overpriced sit.

Are We in a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market?

Inventory increased 32.4% year-over-year .

That’s a big shift.

More inventory means:

• Buyers have more options.

• Less panic bidding.

• More comparison shopping.

But prices are still rising.

So what does that mean?

👉 We are in a balanced market leaning stable.

Sellers still have equity. Buyers have breathing room.

That combination creates opportunity — if you’re strategic.

What This Means for Buyers

If you’re shopping in areas like:

• Fayetteville

• Raeford

• Hope Mills

You now have:

• More inventory to choose from

• More time to think

• More room for negotiation

• Still-growing long-term equity potential

This is a healthier market than the chaos of 2021–2022.

What This Means for Sellers

You can still sell successfully.

But:

• Pricing strategy matters.

• Condition matters.

• Presentation matters.

Because buyers have options now.

Visual Snapshot of Today’s Market

The energy isn’t frantic.

It’s measured. Strategic. Balanced.

And that’s not a bad thing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the market crashing?

No.

Prices increased 6.4% in 2024 . That is steady appreciation — not decline.

2. Should I wait for prices to drop?

Waiting for a crash that isn’t happening often costs more in missed equity than it saves.

Buy smart — don’t try to time perfectly.

3. Are homes still getting multiple offers?

Sometimes — especially if:

• Priced right

• Updated

• In high-demand areas

• Close to Fort Bragg

But it’s not automatic like it once was.

4. Are buyers negotiating more?

Yes.

With more inventory available, buyers are:

• Comparing closely

• Requesting repairs

• Negotiating concessions

Strategy matters on both sides.

5. Is this a good time to buy?

If:

• You’re financially ready

• You have stable income

• You plan to stay or rent long-term

Then yes — this market offers opportunity without frenzy pressure.

6. Is this a good time to sell?

Yes — if you:

• Price strategically

• Prepare the home properly

• Understand current competition

Equity is still strong in our region.

The Bottom Line

Here’s the summary:

• Prices are up 6.4%

• Inventory is up 32.4%

• Sellers are receiving 98.8% of list price

That tells us:

👉 More options than before, but prices are still strong.

This is not a chaotic market.

It’s a strategic one.

If you’re considering buying or selling near Fort Bragg or anywhere in the surrounding counties, let’s look at your specific situation and create a plan that works in today’s conditions.

Ready to make your move? I’ll help you craft a smart, competitive offer that aligns with your goals. Call or text me at 910-916-9315, or visit closewithcassienc.com to start your home search today. Close with Cassie – where service meets strategy.