Raleigh’s housing market continues to make headlines in 2025. While the frenzy of bidding wars has cooled slightly compared to recent years, the market is far from sleepy. With median prices holding strong, new development projects on the rise, and efforts underway to increase affordable housing, there’s plenty to unpack about what’s happening right now in the City of Oaks.
At Triangle to Coast Realty, we’re here to keep you informed and confident in your real estate decisions—whether you’re planning to buy, sell, or invest.
A Market Snapshot
As of this summer, the median home sale price in Raleigh sits at $451,000, up more than 6% year-over-year. Homes are still moving quickly, averaging about 32 days on market, though buyers are no longer seeing the lightning-fast timelines of just a year ago when many homes were under contract in under three weeks.
Raleigh has also seen a surge in inventory—up more than 45% compared to last year—which is creating a healthier balance between buyers and sellers. While sellers are still getting strong offers, buyers now have a bit more breathing room and leverage to negotiate.
Behind the Numbers: Why Local Knowledge Matters
National headlines can only tell part of the story. In fact, a Zillow economist recently shared how even he struggled to buy a home in Raleigh. Despite his expertise, he found himself losing multiple bidding wars to buyers willing to pay far above asking price before finally landing a home through a private deal.
The takeaway? Raleigh’s market is competitive in some pockets and more approachable in others. Knowing neighborhood trends, timing, and seller motivations is often the difference between winning and losing in today’s market. That’s where working with a local, hands-on real estate team truly pays off.
Affordable Housing on the Horizon
This month, Raleigh celebrated a milestone: breaking ground on its first affordable cottage court community in the historic Idlewild neighborhood. The project, called Cottages of Idlewild, will create opportunities for buyers earning 30%–80% of the area’s median income.
With Wake County currently short more than 66,000 affordable units, projects like this are vital to keeping housing accessible. It’s also a signal that Raleigh is prioritizing creative solutions to meet the diverse needs of its growing population.
Neighborhood Trends to Watch
Not all parts of Raleigh are experiencing the market in the same way. Here’s a quick look at what buyers and sellers are seeing across town:
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North Hills – High-end homes often sell above $700,000, with strong demand fueled by luxury shopping, dining, and new office development.
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Downtown Raleigh – Median prices range between $450,000–$600,000, appealing to buyers who want a walkable, urban lifestyle.
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Highland Creek – One of the more budget-friendly options, with homes often listed under $400,000.
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Emerging Suburbs – Areas like Fuquay-Varina, Clayton, and Holly Springs are drawing interest from buyers seeking space, value, and top-rated schools within easy commuting distance of Raleigh.
What’s Driving Raleigh’s Market
Several key factors are shaping real estate in the Triangle right now:
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Job Growth & Migration: Research Triangle Park and Raleigh’s thriving tech and healthcare industries continue to attract talent from around the country.
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Mortgage Rates: Forecasts suggest rates will hover near 6% for the rest of 2025, keeping affordability a challenge but also preventing the runaway bidding wars of the past.
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Major Developments: Projects like Downtown South (a 140-acre mixed-use district with a planned soccer stadium), the North Hills Innovation District, and the soon-to-rise 37-story Creamery tower in Glenwood South are reshaping the skyline and adding future housing opportunities.
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Transit Improvements: Raleigh’s first Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line is set to break ground this year, improving future connectivity and boosting surrounding neighborhoods.
What Buyers & Sellers Should Do Now
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For Buyers:
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Get pre-approved before you shop—competition is still strong for well-priced homes.
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Explore up-and-coming suburbs for more space and value.
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Work closely with an agent who can help you identify opportunities and negotiate smartly.
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For Sellers:
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Highlight features that align with what buyers want now: proximity to future transit, move-in ready upgrades, or flexible spaces for remote work.
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Price strategically—today’s buyers are savvy and have more options.
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Consider staging and professional marketing to stand out in a market where inventory is growing.
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Final Thoughts
The Raleigh housing market in August 2025 is showing both stability and opportunity. Prices remain strong, new inventory is easing competition, and future developments promise to keep the city thriving. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing household searching for more space, or a seller looking to maximize your equity, there’s a path forward in this market.
At Triangle to Coast Realty, we specialize in helping clients navigate these shifts with confidence. Ready to talk about your next move in Raleigh—or anywhere in the Triangle? We’d love to guide you. Contact us today to get started.
