THE SUMMARY: The Cape Fear housing market entered the spring season with fresh momentum in April, as active listingsclimbed, closed sales increased, and median sales prices continued to rise. The latest market data showsbuyers are seeing the most options in recent months, while steady sales activity points to continueddemand across the region. With inventory expanding and market pace showing signs of balance, April’snumbers are a healthy sign of growth, with a continued emphasis on housing affordability.



THE NUMBERS:
Compared to March 2026, inventory was up 8.9 percent, ending the month with 4,490 active listings. A year-over-year comparison indicates that active listings in April 2026 increased by 9.25 percent from the 4,110 active homes in April 2025.

The month ended with 1,749 new listings in the Wilmington MSA, a 2.7 percent decrease from the previous month. Year over year, new listings decreased by 2.7 percent.

Pending sales decreased by 1.7 percent from the previous month, totaling 1,357. This was a 21.9 percent increase from April 2025.

Closed sales for the Wilmington MSA increased by 6.2 percent compared to March 2026, resulting in 1,101 sales in April 2026. Compared to April 2025, closed sales increased 1.1 percent.

Experiencing a slight 2.4 percent month-over-month increase, the median sales price was $430,000, up 7.5 percent year over year.

The April 2026 housing market had an average of 79 cumulative days on the market, up 12.9 percent year over year. A month-over-month comparison reveals a 2.5 percent decrease in cumulative days on market.

The month’s supply of inventory increased by 2.5 percent compared to March 2026. Ending the month with 4.1 months of inventory, the Wilmington MSA increased 8.2 percent compared to April 2025.

THE ANALYSIS:
“April’s trends point to a market that is giving both buyers and sellers more room to make informed decisions. With active listings reaching a new peak, buyers continue to have more options,” states 2026 CFR President Manda Price. “At the same time, closed sales increased, and prices remain steady, which tells us demand is still present. For sellers, this means pricing and presentation matter more than ever. For buyers, it’s an opportunity to re-engage with the market, compare homes carefully, and work with a REALTOR® who can help them move with confidence.”