 July brought another strong showing for North American luxury real estate, proving the market isn’t taking much of a summer vacation! Sales continued to outpace 2025, even as inventory remained tight. Luxury single-family home sales increased 9.8% year over year, while attached property sales jumped 15.2%. At the same time, available inventory was down 2.2% for single-family homes and 4.8% for attached properties compared with July 2025. What does that mean? Buyers are purchasing more homes while having fewer choices on the market, and that continues to put sellers in a strong position. The single-family market moved further into seller’s market territory, while attached properties remained balanced but edged closer to favoring sellers. Bottom line: Demand is strong, inventory is still tight, and luxury buyers are continuing to make their move. July may have slowed things down a bit for summer, but this market is certainly not sitting still!                July signaled a subtle shift in the luxury market. Demand remains strong, but sellers could be starting to bring more inventory to the table. The next few months will be key as we watch supply, sales, pricing, and buyer activity to see where the market goes next.
For now, one thing is clear: the best properties continue to stand out, and the luxury market remains one to watch. CLICK HERE to read this month's latest Crystal Coast Market Report.
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 WRAL reports that Gov. Josh Stein signed a regulatory reform bill Tuesday, along with updates to North Carolina’s recently approved state budget. It’s a move that could bring some notable changes to housing, development and more across the state! Stein Approves Budget Additions and Expands Access to ‘Granny Flats’ by WRAL News Staff North Carolinian's will have more flexibility with their residential properties following Gov. Josh Stein’s approval of a legislation that amends the state’s zoning laws. Here’s a breakdown of bills he signed into law Tuesday: Senate Bill 445. Stein signed what’s known as the “Regulatory Reform Act,” a 53-page bill that bundles together a wide range of environmental, housing, education and public safety provisions — some of which attempt to expand housing through deregulation. Local governments typically write the zoning and planning rules that determine what property owners are allowed to build throughout the jurisdiction. Cities with at least 50,000 residents must now allow homeowners to build accessory dwelling units, or ADUs — often known as “granny flats.” Structures can include things such as garage apartments or backyard cottages on residential lots. Under the bill, local governments would be allowed to regulate size and design but wouldn’t be allowed to prohibit ADUs in qualifying areas. Stein said in a statement that he signed the bill to help improve affordability across the state. “North Carolina is growing rapidly, and the cost of housing is increasing. We need to build more housing units of all types to drive down rents and mortgages,” Stein said. “This bill cuts red tape to help produce more houses and apartments and deliver results for North Carolinians. It also makes it easier for families to install solar panels or battery systems to save on their utility bills.” House Bill 834. This was one of two bills changing election laws that the legislature approved this summer. The other, House Bill 958, was hotly contested in the legislature by Democrats who said it'll make it harder for people to vote and easier for candidates to try overturning election results. Republicans said it's good for election integrity. Stein has promised to veto that one, although he hadn't yet done so by Tuesday when he signed the other elections bill, HB 834, into law. That one passed the legislature with bipartisan support, and Stein made no comment on why he signed it into law. It will now expand the time and manner in which people can fix procedural errors with their ballots to ensure they'll be counted. It also formalizes into law a rule that people who vote early but then die before Election Day can't have their ballots counted. The Wake County Board of Elections decided in the 2024 elections to count three such ballots from people who died after voting early, at the request of family members. The decision changed no results but conflicted with typical practice, leading the legislature to now make the rule a law. It also allows lawsuits over election law issues to be filed anywhere in the state, not just Wake County. That will open up more opportunities for Republican judges to decide cases, since most Wake County judges are Democrats. House Bill 268. Stein also approved a bill containing proposed changes to the recently passed state budget, including everything from modifying disaster relief funding to small items needed to fix errors or oversights in the new spending plan. Corrections contained in House Bill 268 also include bigger, more contentious provisions including power-shift provisions targeting the Democratic governor and Democratic Secretary of State Elaine Marshall. The changes, which received final approval from lawmakers last week, would also spend up to $65 million on sporting events — bolstering next year’s Military World Games in Charlotte and paying the PGA to keep a golf tournament in Greensboro. The bill also contains other new spending aimed at bringing in economic development to the state, such as an extra $15 million for the film grant program used to lure movie and television shoots to North Carolina. The bill also boosted loans and grants for hospitals and child care programs and adjusted deadlines for a teacher training program. Lawmakers initially proposed cutting hundreds of vacant state jobs in the budget, but they agreed to reduce cuts after receiving pushback from some agencies, House budget writers said last week. “This bill strengthens disaster relief, teacher workforce pipelines, and economic development programs,” Stein said in a statement. “It supports the Small Business Infrastructure Program and the Division of Community Revitalization, which are working tirelessly to support western North Carolina recovery. It also enables public schools to start teacher apprenticeship programs as early as this year and supports access to loans for North Carolina teaching fellows.” On the power-shifting provisions, Stein said: “I regret that the General Assembly saw fit to include some petty provisions that undermine the executive branch and impede the work of government on behalf of North Carolinians.” Stein also approved another budget-corrections bill on Tuesday. House Bill 562 fixed errors the legislature made in House Bill 268. Click below to read this article in full.
Stein approves budget additions, expands access to ‘granny flats’ in NC cities   July brought relatively little change to the Triangle housing market. New listings decreased by 1.4%, while closed sales dipped 7%. The average sales price also saw a slight decrease of 0.4%, bringing the year-to-date average sales price to $494,535. While July numbers showed some modest softening, the market continues to demonstrate stability. Buyers and sellers are still active, and understanding the latest numbers is key when making your next real estate move.  Chatham County saw a 19.5% increase in new listings in July, giving buyers more opportunities to choose from. Closed sales also grew by 2.8%, showing continued buyer activity across the county. Meanwhile, the average sales price decreased 6.4%, bringing the year-to-date average sales price to $804,304.  Durham County saw some modest shifts in July. New listings decreased by 3%, while closed sales dipped 1.0%. The average sales price also declined 7.8%, bringing the year-to-date average sales price to $486,628. While some numbers moved lower, the market continues to offer opportunities for both buyers and sellers. Staying informed on these local trends can help you make confident real estate decisions.  Orange County had a strong July, with new listings increasing by 24% and closed sales rising 5%. The average sales price also climbed 8.4%, bringing the year-to-date average sales price to $655,062. With more homes coming onto the market, sales activity picking up, and home values continuing to rise, the numbers are encouraging. Things are definitely heading in the right direction for Orange County!  Person County had an impressive July, with new listings increasing 2.3% and closed sales jumping a whopping 78.3%. The average sales price also posted a strong 3.1% increase, bringing the year-to-date average sales price to $396,514. That surge in closed sales is especially encouraging and points to increased activity across the county. Overall, Person County is showing some strong momentum as we head into the second half of the year.  Wake County saw some modest shifts in July, with new listings decreasing 2.7% and closed sales dipping 9.0%. The average sales price also edged down 0.3%, bringing the year-to-date average sales price to $582,042. While sales activity slowed somewhat, pricing remained relatively steady. Overall, Wake County’s market continues to show stability as buyers and sellers adjust to current conditions.
Buying or selling a home is a big life decision, and having the right guidance can make the process much easier. From navigating the market to managing the details behind the scenes, Carl Johnson is there to provide the communication, strategy, and support you need every step of the way. Carl’s trusted network of lenders, inspectors, contractors, and other industry professionals also helps keep the process organized and moving forward. Whether you’re ready to buy, sell, or simply explore your options, the right partner 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 Luxury Market Report.  July Brought Strong Activity to the Crystal Coast July was a good month for the Crystal Coast, with plenty of activity across the area’s coastal communities. Taking a closer look at the numbers, Emerald Isle came in with the highest number of active listings at 115, leading the way in available inventory. Beaufort saw the most new listings with 31, while also tying for the highest number of sold homes with 31 properties closed during the month. When it came to average sales price, Pine Knoll Shores took the lead with an impressive $1,045,000. From inventory and new listings to closed sales and home values, July showed continued movement throughout the Crystal Coast market.  Atlantic Beach continued to see steady activity in July, with 77 active listings available throughout the month. The community welcomed 12 new listings while 21 homes sold, showing that buyers remained active along the coast. The average sales price reached an impressive $761,286, highlighting the continued appeal and strong value of Atlantic Beach real estate.
Beaufort had a standout July, with 111 active listings and an impressive 31 new listings, putting the community in the lead for new inventory. Beaufort also recorded 31 sold homes, making it an even score for the month and showing strong activity on both sides of the market. The average sales price came in at $500,508, adding to another solid month for this charming Crystal Coast community. Cape Carteret saw a busy July, with 8 active listings, 7 new listings, and 8 homes sold during the month. While the community had a smaller inventory compared to some of the larger Crystal Coast markets, the numbers showed solid movement, with the number of homes sold matching the total active listings. The average sales price for July came in at $493,300, making for another active month in Cape Carteret. Emerald Isle came in strong during July, taking the lead for active listings with 115 homes on the market. The community also saw 19 new listings and 15 homes sold, showing steady movement throughout the month. The average sales price reached $789,413, reflecting the continued demand for homes in this popular Crystal Coast destination. Indian Beach had a pretty good month in July, with 28 active listings, 6 new listings, and 4 homes sold throughout the month. The average sales price came in at $806,250, showing that while activity was a little quieter, the community continued to see strong home values along the Crystal Coast. Morehead City had a strong showing in July, with 78 active listings and 28 new listings coming onto the market. The community also saw 28 homes sold, making it another even score just like Beaufort, with new listings and sold homes matching one another. The average sales price for July came in at $678,412, reflecting continued activity and solid home values throughout Morehead City. Pine Knoll Shores had a quieter month when it came to overall activity, with 36 active listings, 5 new listings, and 6 homes sold in July. However, the community stood out when it came to home values, taking the lead for the highest average sales price on the Crystal Coast at an impressive $1,045,000. That top spot shows just how strong the luxury market continues to be in Pine Knoll Shores. Swansboro had a solid month in July, with 52 active listings, 22 new listings, and 20 homes sold throughout the community. The steady number of new and sold homes shows that there was continued movement in the local market, while the average sales price came in at $497,525. Overall, Swansboro continued to show healthy activity as summer rolled along on the Crystal Coast. The Crystal Coast real estate market continues to make waves, with steady buyer activity, strong sales, and home values holding their own. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal getaway, searching for your next home, or thinking about selling, there are opportunities to be found throughout the region. Buying or selling a home comes with plenty of moving pieces, from negotiations and inspections to financing and paperwork. Having the right REALTOR® by your side can make all the difference. Carl Johnson and his trusted network of industry professionals are here to guide you through each step, keeping the process smooth, informed, and as stress-free as possible. Ready to make your move along the Crystal Coast? Call Carl Johnson Real Estate at 919-880-0904 and let’s take the next step toward reaching your coastal real estate goals. CLICK HERE to read this month's latest Greater Triangle Market Report.  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.  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. |
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