As we close out Q4 2025, the Wilmington-area residential real estate market continues to show resilience, but with clear signs of normalization. Pricing remains strong, inventory has expanded, and buyer behavior is becoming more selective, particularly at higher price points. Here’s a breakdown of what the latest data tells us.
Pricing Trends: Still Strong, but Stabilizing
Home values continue to edge upward, though at a more measured pace.
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Median Sales Price: $482,000
(Up 1% year-over-year) -
Average Sales Price: $623,000
Over the past five years, both median and average prices have shown steady long-term appreciation, reinforcing Wilmington’s appeal as a desirable coastal market. However, the modest year-over-year increase signals a shift away from the rapid price acceleration seen in prior years.
What this means:
Sellers are still benefiting from solid pricing, but today’s market rewards proper positioning and realistic expectations more than aggressive overpricing.
Sales Activity & Inventory: More Choices for Buyers
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Closed Sales: 772
(Down 4% from Q4 2024) -
Active Inventory: 807 homes
(Up 28% year-over-year) -
Average Days on Market: 63
(Up 15% year-over-year)
An increase in inventory combined with slightly fewer closings indicates a market that is rebalancing. Buyers now have more options — and more time — to make decisions, particularly outside of entry-level price ranges.
What this means:
We’re no longer in a frenzied seller-only environment. Homes that are priced correctly and marketed well continue to sell, while others may sit longer.
Market Performance by Price Point
Under $500K
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Months of Supply: 2.8
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Average Days on Market: 54
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Listings Sold Over Asking: 11%
This remains the most competitive segment of the market, driven by affordability and demand from both local buyers and relocations.
$500K – $1M
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Months of Supply: 3.1
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Average Days on Market: 73
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Listings Sold Over Asking: 12%
This segment is balanced and active, though buyers are more discerning and focused on value, condition, and location.
$1M – $2M
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Months of Supply: 3.7
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Average Days on Market: 68
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Listings Sold Over Asking: 16%
Well-positioned luxury homes continue to perform, especially those offering unique features, water access, or prime locations.
Over $2M
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Months of Supply: 12.5
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Average Days on Market: 138
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Sale Price vs. List Price: 93%
The ultra-luxury segment is clearly a buyer’s market, with longer timelines and greater negotiation leverage.
Key Takeaways for 2026
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For Sellers: Pricing strategy matters more than ever. Homes that align with current market conditions are still moving — others may require adjustments.
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For Buyers: Increased inventory provides opportunity, particularly in higher price points where negotiating power has improved.
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For Investors & Long-Term Owners: Wilmington’s fundamentals remain strong, with steady appreciation and ongoing demand supporting long-term value.
The Bottom Line
The Wilmington real estate market is healthy, active, and transitioning into a more balanced phase. While pricing remains strong, today’s environment favors thoughtful strategy, expert guidance, and market-specific insight.
If you’re considering buying or selling in 2026, understanding where your property fits within the broader market is key and that’s where having the right professional makes all the difference.