# Is North Carolina a buyer's market?

By Christie Latham (@christielatham) · Published 2026-07-17

Canonical: https://voce.com/@christielatham/north-carolina-buyer-market-y5erpo

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North Carolina may not yet be a buyer's market "by the numbers", it is a **_negotiator's market_**. In 2026, we are seeing the return of:

-   **Due Diligence flexibility:** Buyers are no longer being forced to put down five-figure, non-refundable deposits just to get a contract.
    
-   **Contingencies:** Offers contingent on the sale of a previous home or specific repairs are becoming common again.
    
-   **Price Corrections:** Homes that are not "turn-key" or are priced aggressively are seeing **price cuts within 21 days** of listing.
    

**For NC Buyers:** You are in a **"Selectively Competitive"** market. **You have more leverage than you did two years ago,** but you still face some obstacles. Success in this market requires a pre-approval that accounts for current rates and the willingness to look at "stale" listings that have been on the market for 30+ days. Let me help you take the first step by getting your pre-approval today!