 Luxury Real Estate Continues to Defy Expectations in 2026
The luxury real estate market continues to stand apart from the rest of the housing industry, showing remarkable strength and resilience in 2026. In The Mid-Year Report 2026, Brandon Newman, Vice President of Coldwell Banker Global Luxury®, shares the latest insights into the luxury housing market, highlighting the trends driving high-end real estate across the United States and around the world. Drawing on research from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), the Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, James Edition, and Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® Property Specialists, the report provides an in-depth look at what's shaping today's luxury market. Luxury Home Buyers Continue to Drive the Market Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, affluent buyers remain confident in luxury real estate. High-end homes continue to attract strong demand as buyers view luxury properties not only as exceptional places to live but also as long-term investments that help preserve and grow wealth. Luxury buyers are also becoming increasingly selective. Today's purchasers are looking for homes that offer privacy, expansive acreage, unique architecture, premium amenities, and distinctive features that can't easily be replicated. Rather than simply buying larger homes, many are investing in properties that provide lifestyle, exclusivity, and lasting value. "Landmaxxing" Is Becoming a Growing Luxury Trend One of the report's most interesting findings is the rise of "landmaxxing." Instead of focusing solely on the home itself, many luxury buyers are purchasing neighboring lots or adjacent properties to increase privacy, protect scenic views, create multigenerational living opportunities, or expand outdoor living spaces. The trend reflects a growing desire for flexibility, security, and personalized estates. International Demand for U.S. Luxury Real Estate Is growing. The report also reveals that international interest in U.S. luxury homes continues to rise. Global searches for luxury properties in the United States have doubled compared to last year, reinforcing America's position as one of the world's most desirable destinations for luxury real estate investment. For many international buyers, U.S. luxury homes represent stability, opportunity, and long-term value, making them attractive investments even during changing market conditions. Cash Buyers Continue to Hold an Advantage Cash purchases remain a significant driver of the luxury housing market. Many high-net-worth buyers are choosing to purchase without financing, allowing them to move quickly, strengthen their offers, and compete effectively for premier properties. Luxury Property Specialists also remain optimistic about the second half of 2026, citing continued buyer confidence, limited inventory of exceptional homes, and steady demand for distinctive luxury properties. What This Means for Buyers and Sellers? The 2026 Mid-Year Report makes one thing clear: the luxury real estate market continues to outperform expectations. While market conditions may fluctuate, buyers continue to seek exceptional homes that offer privacy, lifestyle, investment potential, and long-term value. Whether you're considering buying your dream home or preparing to sell a luxury property, understanding these market trends can help you make informed decisions in today's evolving real estate landscape. Want to dive deeper into the latest luxury market insights? Click here to view the full 2026 Mid-Year Report and discover what Brandon Newman and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury® team predict for the remainder of the year.
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 Buying a new home while selling your current one can be exciting, but it also comes with unique challenges. Taking the right precautions before you make your next move can help you avoid unnecessary stress, protect your finances, and make the transition as smooth as possible.  Knowing how the appraisal process works can help you avoid surprises and keep your transaction on track. Taking the right steps before buying and selling at the same time can make for a smoother, more successful experience. When you're ready to make your move, Carl Johnson is here to guide you every step of the way.
CLICK HERE to read how one of Carl's past clients shared their experience and why they said he made the home-buying process fun from start to finish!  A $90 million project is making headlines as the Triangle Business Journal shares the latest on a major development set to transform a small North Carolina community. "Developer Advances $90M Project In Quiet North Carolina Town"
by Kayli Thompson An Orange County town is about get a jolt of growth in the form of hundreds of apartments and townhomes. The Beach Company of Charleston, South Carolina, will soon start vertical construction on its 346-unit project, Persimmon at Cates Creek, in Hillsborough between interstates 40 and 85. Site work was completed in 2025. “We have a lot of confidence in this submarket just because of the lack of new product there. This is really an untapped area,” said John Reyna, development manager for The Beach Company. “We saw an opportunity to provide housing that is of the same quality as market rate, Class A units in Chapel Hill and Durham. But price them at a discount to those areas." With its location along Interstate 40/85, more companies and developers are starting to take interest in Hillsborough. French manufacturer CITEL is moving its U.S. headquarters into the former Stihl facility. Capkov Ventures is planning a 99-acre mixed-use project, and Barrister Commercial Group is building a 2.4 million-square-foot industrial park. The Beach Company’s confidence in Hillsborough— with a population of around 10,000 — is what pushed the company to start site work on the $90 million development last year before it had even received financing. The company secured financing in December. Larson Capital Management provided $35 million in equity while a $54 million construction loan came from First Horizon Bank. “We also thought that getting started would help attract equity on the site,” Reyna said. The Beach Company will start vertical construction on the 30 townhomes first with delivery of the first units expected in December. Construction on the 316 apartments will begin shortly after the townhomes with completion targeted for 2027. The apartments will have one-, two-and three-bedroom layouts while the townhomes will have two and three bedrooms. The apartments will range from 760 to 1,600 square feet. The two-bedroom townhomes will be a 1,250-square-foot flat stacked on top of the 1,560-square-foot three-bedroom townhomes. Each townhome will have its own single-car garage with direct access to units. Amenities for the rental community will include a swimming pool, picnic areas, fitness center, entertainment lounges and a community club room. Rental rates have not been set. Persimmon at Cates Creek will be on 25 acres along Old N.C. Highway 86. The Beach Company also owns 13 acres adjacent to Cadence at Cates Creek, where Reyna said the company is planning about 100 townhomes. The Beach Company also owns a parcel at the corner of Old N.C. Highway 86 and Cates Creek Parkway, which it is flagging for retail uses. Read the full article in The Triangle Business Journal Click the link below "Developer Advances $90M Project In Quiet North Carolina Town"  The luxury market is proving that it likes to play by its own rules. As the first half of 2026 comes to a close, high-end real estate continues to shine with strong buyer demand, rising sales, and impressive home values. Luxury single-family home sales surged 15.8% compared to last June, while attached luxury homes also saw healthy growth. With inventory remaining limited, standout properties are still capturing plenty of attention and commanding strong prices. The takeaway? Luxury buyers are being more intentional, sellers are staying strategic, and the market continues to create exciting opportunities for those ready to make their next move.                The numbers tell a compelling story: while the broader housing market continues to adjust, the luxury sector is confidently carving its own path with steady demand, resilient pricing, and continued opportunity.
CLICK HERE to read this month's latest Greater Triangle Report.   June Brings Positive Momentum to the Triangle Housing Market The Triangle real estate market kept the momentum going in June, with encouraging trends across several key indicators. While new listings dipped slightly by 1.3%, buyer demand remained strong as closed sales climbed 9.1%. Home values also continued their upward trend, with the average sales price increasing 4.1% year-to-date to $493,645. These numbers highlight a market that's staying competitive, with motivated buyers, steady home values, and plenty of opportunities for both buyers and sellers throughout the Triangle.  Chatham County continued to shine in June, posting some of the strongest gains in the Triangle. New listings climbed 8.8%, while closed sales surged an impressive 19.4%, highlighting strong buyer demand across the county. Home values also saw remarkable growth, with the average sales price jumping 18.3% year-to-date to $815,336, a clear sign that Chatham County remains one of the Triangle's hottest and fastest-growing real estate markets.  Durham continued its strong run in June, with the local housing market showing steady growth across the board. New listings edged up 0.5%, while closed sales jumped an impressive 20.8%, reflecting strong buyer demand throughout the city. Home values also continued to rise, with the average sales price increasing 2.6% year-to-date to $488,453, reinforcing Durham's position as one of the Triangle's most active and desirable real estate markets.  Orange County had another impressive month in June, with strong gains across every major category. New listings increased 9%, giving buyers more opportunities, while closed sales climbed 7%, reflecting continued demand throughout the county. Home values also continued to strengthen, with the average sales price rising 7.6% year-to-date to $650,952, showcasing Orange County's continued appeal as one of the Triangle's most desirable places to call home.  Person County saw a mix of activity in June, with new listings increasing 5.6%, giving buyers more homes to choose from. While closed sales declined 22.2%, home values continued to move in a positive direction, with the average sales price rising 6.5% year-to-date to $391,636. The continued appreciation in home prices highlights the county's steady value, even as monthly sales activity shifted.  Wake County experienced a slight shift in inventory during June, with new listings dipping just 0.4%. Despite that small decline, buyer activity remained strong as closed sales surged 14.8%, signaling continued demand across the county. Home values also continued to climb, with the average sales price increasing 2.2% year-to-date to $580,210, reinforcing Wake County's position as one of the Triangle's strongest and most competitive housing markets.
Buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction, it’s a big life decision that comes with plenty of moving parts. From navigating the market and making important choices to keeping track of the details that happen behind the scenes, having the right support can make the entire experience feel much more manageable. With Carl Johnson by your side, you have a trusted partner focused on making the process smooth, organized, and stress-free. From your first conversation through closing day, Carl provides the guidance, communication, and strategy needed to help you make confident decisions every step of the way. Beyond expert real estate advice, you also benefit from Carl’s trusted network of industry professionals, including lenders, inspectors, contractors, and other partners who help keep everything moving forward. Whether you’re thinking about making a move, getting ready to sell, or searching for the perfect place to call home, the right guidance can make all the difference. Call 919-880-0904 to connect with Carl Johnson Real Estate and start your next chapter with confidence. CLICK HERE to read this month's latest Crystal Coast Market Report.  Summer has arrived, and so has another month of strong activity across the Crystal Coast real estate market. June showcased healthy movement in several key communities, with Beaufort leading the way in overall market activity. The town recorded the highest number of active listings at 128, welcomed 36 new listings to the market, and closed 29 home sales, making it the busiest market in the region for the month. While Beaufort dominated in sales activity, Emerald Isle continued to stand out in the luxury market, posting the highest average sales price in June at $1,053,087. The strong pricing reflects the continued demand for coastal properties and the lasting appeal of waterfront and beachside living.  Atlantic Beach recorded 89 active listings, 14 new listings, and 13 homes sold in June. The average sales price came in at $759,031, reflecting the area's continued strength in the coastal housing market. With steady inventory, consistent buyer activity, and strong home values, Atlantic Beach continues to be a desirable destination for those looking to enjoy life along the Crystal Coast.
Beaufort led the Crystal Coast in June, recording 128 active listings, 36 new listings, and 29 homes sold, the highest totals in each of those categories. The average sales price was $492,903, highlighting Beaufort's balanced market with strong inventory, steady buyer demand, and continued opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Cape Carteret recorded 9 active listings, 2 new listings, and 2 homes sold during June. The average sales price was $528,750, reflecting a smaller but steady market where limited inventory continues to support strong home values. Emerald Isle followed closely behind Beaufort with 125 active listings in June. The community also recorded 25 new listings and 19 homes sold, while leading the Crystal Coast in home values with an impressive average sales price of $1,053,087. The combination of strong inventory and million-dollar average sales prices highlights Emerald Isle's continued appeal as one of the premier luxury markets along the Crystal Coast. Indian Beach recorded 30 active listings, 2 new listings, and 9 homes sold during June. The average sales price reached $685,633, demonstrating continued demand for homes in this desirable coastal community. While new inventory remained limited, steady sales and solid home values reflect the area's ongoing appeal to buyers seeking a Crystal Coast lifestyle. Morehead City had a strong month in June, witnessing 92 active listings, 29 new listings, and 20 homes sold. The average sales price came in at $439,165, reflecting a healthy and active market with a steady flow of inventory and buyer interest. The continued activity highlights Morehead City's appeal for those looking to enjoy coastal living with a variety of housing opportunities. Pine Knoll Shores saw 35 active listings, 6 new listings, and 8 homes sold in June. The average sales price reached $804,062, showcasing the community's continued strength in the higher-end coastal market. With its desirable location and strong home values, Pine Knoll Shores remains a sought-after destination for buyers looking for a premier Crystal Coast lifestyle. Swansboro had a strong showing in June with 54 active listings, 29 new listings, and 25 homes sold, matching Morehead City for the highest number of new listings during the month. The average sales price was $372,011, reflecting steady market activity and continued interest in this charming coastal community. With a healthy mix of inventory and sales, Swansboro remains an attractive option for buyers looking to enjoy the unique lifestyle of the Crystal Coast. The Crystal Coast real estate market continues to show strength with steady buyer activity, competitive sales, and strong home values. Whether you're looking for a coastal retreat or preparing to sell, opportunities are available across the region. From negotiations and inspections to financing and paperwork, having the right guidance matters. Carl Johnson and his trusted network of industry professionals help make the buying and selling process smooth, informed, and stress-free from start to finish. Ready to make a move along the Crystal Coast? Call Carl Johnson Real Estate today at 919-880-0904 and take the next step toward your coastal real estate goals. CLICK HERE to read this month's latest Luxury Market Report.  Chamber Holds Focus Groups as Part of Growth Initiatives As part of the 2026 Chamber Growth Initiatives, the Hillsborough-Orange County Chamber of Commerce held focus groups with several business and organization leaders at the Whitted Building. Board Chairperson Carl Johnson (Carl Johnson Real Estate at Coldwell Banker HPW) spearheaded the effort to receive feedback on business, community and Chamber issues. Attendees discussed their biggest business challenges, what is holding them back from growth, the local business climate, level of support from local government and the community, their impression of the Chamber, and other services they'd like to see the Chamber offer. A few of the thoughts shared included: -difficulty in hiring (both finding qualified candidates and issues with job seekers reliability during the interviewing process); -the need to fill empty storefronts downtown; -affordability issues with workers not being able to live in Orange County, which are compounded by higher gas prices; -need for a more streamlined process to start a local business and other permitting needs; -increasing difficulty finding and paying for child and elder care; and -businesses are not aware that the Chamber is here to help them navigate issues. The discussions were enlightening, and attendees appreciated the new connections to fellow business and organization leaders. Chamber leadership will use the feedback to help determine where the Chamber can have a positive influence on business climate and address challenges, as well as hone programs and services to meet the needs of businesses. Special thanks to Chamber Chairperson Carl Johnson, Vice Chair Kelly Davis (Herring & Bickers Insurance Agency, Inc. - Kelly Davis), and Secretary Jaclyn Krohn (Durham Technical Community College) for serving as moderators.      The Triangle Business Journal recently released an insightful article exploring how Research Triangle Park is moving toward a new era of mixed-use development following several key approval votes. The changes could reshape the future of RTP, creating new opportunities for live, work, and play environments across the region. Scroll down to read the full article. "RTP Hurtles Toward Mixed-Use After Key Votes" by Kayli Thompson - June 29, 2026 The last hurdles to allowing mixed-use development within Research Triangle Park have been cleared — and applications for new development open in only a matter of weeks. On Monday morning, Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve the new RTP development code and regulations. That comes after the RTP Owners and Tenants Association also voted unanimously to approve the new code on June 25. The approval from the private entities was the last step needed to allow for RTP 3.0 to move forward, which is a “50-year vision” to turn the 7,000-acre park into a “live, work, play” environment. It's a dramatic reshaping of the park, which took off as a hub for the region when IBM arrived in 1965. But RTP leaders have long yearned to make the park more of a mixed-use location. The RTF board and owners and tenants association worked to draft regulations regarding development within the park. The RTF board and owners and tenants association had to create new land covenants, adopt enhanced development standards and approve the revised design guidelines.  A rendering of an example of enhanced corporate campus in RTP. Ayers Saint GrossCombined with the new zoning in place approved by Wake and Durham County Commissioners, there is more flexibility in how land is used and developed in the park. Two changes of note are reduced setbacks and an increase in density. Travis Crayton, vice president of planning and public policy for RTF, said the development application process will open on July 16. There will also be a “lunch and learn” provided in August for landowners who are interested in developing their property. Landowners will be allowed to choose from three development options:
“The Foundation taking on that project and getting it moving before we undertook 3.0 really signaled to the market that there is appetite for that type of development in the park.”  However, because of that increase in density, no single-family homes will be allowed. Crayton said the lowest density housing type that can be developed is townhomes. He added that they expect to see mostly condominium and apartment developments. It could be a while before the park sees any more residential development though due to the large oversupply in the market. “I’m not sure from a market perspective how quickly we will see developers want to jump on this, especially from an apartment perspective where we do have a lot of supply in the market right now,” Crayton said. “That will eventually get eaten up in the next couple of years and we’ll be back to where we were just a couple of years ago where there is huge demand and not enough supply.” So far, there are only a handful of landowners who are exploring potentially developing part of their site based on these new regulations. IBM could be one of those companies as it has moved the majority of its employees out of its RTP buildings and into its leased space at the IBM 500 complex owned by developer Hines. IBM previously told Triangle Business Journal that it is exploring its options for its RTP campus, which spans 400 acres. CLICK HERE for the full story on the Triangle Business Journal website.   Journaling is one of the most powerful tools for personal growth because it helps you slow down and reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Taking just a few minutes each day to write can bring greater clarity, reduce stress, and help you recognize patterns that shape your life.  Over time, journaling creates a meaningful record of your journey, reminding you of how far you've come and helping you move forward with intention.
Looking for a fresh way to express yourself? CLICK HERE for some tips on how to write the perfect personal note. |
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