Luxury Real Estate in New Hanover County: July 2025 Market Snapshot

The real estate market in New Hanover County continues to show resilience this summer, particularly at the upper end of the market ($750,000+). While the overall median home price in the region has held steady around $400,000, luxury buyers and sellers are navigating a very different landscape.

Rising Activity at the High End

Homes priced at $750K and above remain in strong demand, even as interest rates and inventory shifts cool other price brackets. In July, NH County saw a noticeable uptick in pending and closed transactions in the higher-end segment, reflecting steady demand from out-of-state buyers, second-home seekers, and relocating professionals who prioritize lifestyle and coastal amenities.

For sellers, this demand is encouraging: while overall inventory countywide has grown 25% year-over-year, luxury properties are still moving at a relatively brisk pace compared to the broader market.

Balancing Inventory and Demand

• Active Listings: Inventory across all price points rose to 4,236 homes in July (up 25.07% YoY). For luxury sellers, this means more competition — but also more opportunities for buyers to find a fit.

• Pending Sales: Contracts surged nearly 27.5% YoY, signaling strong buyer confidence, particularly in the high-end segment where well-positioned homes often generate multiple offers.

• Days on Market: At 69 days on average, homes are taking longer to sell than last year (up 23%). However, well-prepped and marketed properties in the $750K+ tier are often outperforming this countywide figure.

What This Means for Sellers

Luxury sellers in NH County should be mindful of growing inventory and the need to stand out in a competitive marketplace. Pricing strategy, staging, and premium marketing matter more than ever. Buyers in this range have choices — but they’re still willing to pay a premium for exceptional design, location, and amenities.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, especially those entering the $750K+ tier, conditions are improving. A growing number of listings means more selection, less pressure, and in some cases, more negotiating power. That said, the strongest properties are still attracting attention quickly.

The Big Picture

The Wilmington MSA (which includes NH County, Brunswick, and Pender) continues to be a magnet for relocation and second-home demand. While price growth at the median has flattened for now, the luxury tier remains dynamic and active. Looking ahead, we expect the high-end market to remain a critical driver of overall sales volume, especially as lifestyle-driven buyers continue to prioritize our region’s coastal advantages.