Is the Outer Banks Real Estate Market Slowing Down? Let’s Look at the Numbers

A Quieter Summer—Or Just a Changing Market?

Welcome to our monthly update on the real estate scene in the Outer Banks! I was chatting with a neighbor the other day who said, “The market feels… quieter this summer. Is anything actually selling?” It’s a fair question—and one I’ve heard a lot lately. So let’s break it down, because the numbers might surprise you.

Signs of Positive Momentum in Q2

We’re finally seeing some encouraging signs in the Outer Banks real estate market. Residential sales are up 3% this quarter, marking the first increase in over a year. Even better, detached single-family homes are leading the charge with a 4% increase over Q2 of last year.

Where the Market Is Slipping

It’s not all sunshine, though. Land sales have dropped 14%, and new listings are down by 3%. We’re also seeing days on market (DOM) creeping up—especially in Corolla and Duck, where homes are averaging over 90 days on the market.

Hatteras Island and Nags Head: Local Highlights

Here on Hatteras Island, things are holding steady with a 1% increase in residential sales, and the median sales price has jumped to $640,000—a 17% year-over-year increase. That’s huge!

Over in Nags Head, we saw an even bigger surprise: sales are up nearly 50% this quarter.

A Shifting Landscape: Strategy Is Key

The big picture? The market is definitely shifting. Inventory is rising, buyers are becoming more selective, and correct pricing is more important than ever. We’re no longer in the frenzied, post-pandemic rush—today’s market requires strategy, experience, and patience.

Bottom line? Homes are still selling—but strategy is everything.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling here in the Outer Banks, let’s talk. I’d love to help you make sense of the current market and put together a plan that works for you.