The residential real estate market in the 4x4 continues to hold steady as we move through the first quarter of 2026, with encouraging signs of stability and improved efficiency compared to this time last year.

In both the first quarters of 2025 and 2026, there were 36 homes on the market, with 9 homes sold in each period. What’s changed is performance. In 2026, homes sold at an average price of $670,722 and spent just 111 days on the market. In contrast, 2025 saw an average sales price of $622,000, with homes taking significantly longer—169 days on average—to sell. This points to stronger pricing and a more responsive market for sellers this year.

Land sales have seen a slight shift. In the first quarter of 2025, 69 lots were available, with 19 selling at an average price of $147,394 and an average of 131 days on the market. In 2026, inventory remained the same at 69 lots, with 16 sales at an average price of $84,250. The encouraging news is that these properties sold much faster, averaging just 72 days on the market.

Overall, the market appears to be in transition. While prices remain relatively strong, recent dips in interest rates are helping bring buyers back. Activity has picked up noticeably in recent weeks, and early signs suggest a more active spring season ahead.

If you’ve been thinking about buying or selling, this may be an ideal time to make a move. Based on information from the Outer Banks Association of REALTORS® MLS for the period January 2025 through March 2026.

Janice Scarborough Brindley Beach Sales obxsalesbroker@gmail.com