A Breath of Fresh Air in November 2025
If you have been keeping a close eye on the real estate market here in the Raleigh area, you might have noticed something refreshing lately: the “frenzy” of previous years has been replaced by a much more manageable, balanced pace. As we head into the Christmas holiday, the November 2025 data from Doorify MLS shows a market that is finding its footing, offering some great news for both buyers and sellers in our community.
At Five County Specialists, we believe that clarity is the key to a stress-free move. Whether you are looking at a home in Zebulon, moving closer to the coast, or considering downsizing to something more manageable, here is what is actually happening in the local market right now.
The Raleigh NC Market At A Glance
The November 2025 Snapshot: By the Numbers
To give you the clearest picture, let’s look at how this November compares to the same time last year.
- Median Sales Price: $415,500 (Up 0.1% year-over-year)
- Active Inventory: 10,233 Homes (Up 23.7% year-over-year)
- Median Days on Market: 36 Days (Up 38.5% year-over-year)
- Months Supply of Inventory: 4.0 Months (Up 23.1% year-over-year)
- List Price Received: 98.3% (Down 0.6% year-over-year)
- Home Affordability Index: 83 (Up 16.9% year-over-year)
With 4 months of inventory now available, we are still in a seller’s market, but we’re moving closer to a neutral market. This is typically defined as a 5 to 6 month supply, and it really is the healthiest environment for steady, long-term growth for our local homeowners.
What This Means for You
For Home Buyers: More Choice, Less Stress
The standout statistic this month is the growth in active inventory, which is up nearly 24% compared to last year. For buyers, this is a major win. You are no longer competing for just a handful of homes; with over 10,000 active listings across the 19 counties we serve, you have more options to find a property that truly fits your needs.
Additionally, homes are staying on the market for a median of 36 days. While that is still fast by historical standards, it is a significant increase from the “sold in a weekend” pace we saw a few years ago. This extra time allows you to perform due diligence and make a thoughtful decision without feeling rushed.
For Home Sellers: Strategy is Everything
If you are planning to sell, the most important takeaway is that prices have stabilized. The median sales price of $415,500 is almost identical to last year, which tells us we aren’t seeing the erratic price swings of the past. However, because we are in a more balanced market, strategy is everything.
Buyers today are becoming more selective and are paying close attention to value. With the List Price Received sitting at 98.3%, most homes are selling very close to their asking price, rather than soaring far above it. This means that homes that are properly prepared and priced correctly from day one are the ones that sell.
In a normalizing market, and especially as we enter the typical seasonal shift of the holidays, pricing your home competitively is the difference between a quick sale and sitting on the market. Now more than ever, it is vital to work with a skilled agent who has extensive experience navigating these specific market conditions. At Five County Specialists, we focus on precision pricing to ensure you don’t leave money on the table while still attracting the right buyers immediately.
Why the Triangle Remains a Top Home-Buying Destination
The big picture tells a very optimistic story because the Triangle remains one of the most resilient and sought-after regions in the entire country. Our area is constantly being celebrated with national accolades, recently being recognized as one of the best places to live in the United States and a top city for job seekers and quality of life.
While Western Wake towns like Cary or Apex often grab the headlines, we are seeing that same vibrant energy and economic strength fuel incredible growth right here in the Eastern Wake area and our neighboring counties. Towns like Knightdale, Wendell, and Zebulon are benefiting from the region’s reputation as a top tech and education hub while offering their own unique charm and sense of community. Eastern Wake gives you more house for your money as well. For instance, the Median Home Price in Cary, NC, is about $600,000, while the Median Home Price in Knightdale, NC is about $400,000. You get more house for your money, while still being convenient to everything that makes the Triangle an amazing place to call home.
The Right-Sizing Perspective
For many of our clients who are middle-aged or approaching retirement, this shift toward a balanced market is the perfect time to consider downsizing or pooling resources to buy a multi-generational home. As a designated Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), I can tell you that the increased affordability index and stabilized mortgage rates make it much easier to transition from a large primary residence into something more manageable. You can take advantage of the equity you have built over the years while enjoying a market that gives you the time to find your next “right-sized” home. For those who need a multi-generational solution, it’s a great time to sell separate homes and buy a home that fits everyone’s needs.
Let’s Chat About Your Goals
Real estate is deeply personal, and the right time to move depends entirely on your specific situation. Whether you are looking for a home near modern conveniences or land with room to breathe and build your dream home, our team is here to guide you.
Want a custom market report specifically for your neighborhood? Reach out to Five County Specialists today! Call us at 919-887-5114 to see how the market is doing in your neck of the woods, and to get the current value of your home.