Raleigh • Cary • Apex • Holly Springs • Fuquay-Varina

The Triangle continues to be one of the fastest-growing regions in the Southeast and that momentum is poised to accelerate in 2026. With office demand rising again, strong job creation across Raleigh and RTP, and steady relocation activity, local housing markets are strengthening in ways many homeowners haven’t even noticed yet.

But here’s what most buyers and sellers don’t realize:

Some of the best opportunities heading into 2026 are in the less obvious neighborhoods, the pockets quietly gaining value before the broader market catches on.

Whether you’re planning a move next year or just keeping an eye on appreciation potential, these are five “under-the-radar” Triangle communities worth watching.

1. 540 West / Leesville North (Raleigh)

This corridor is benefiting heavily from infrastructure improvements and its ideal position near RTP. Buyers who want a shorter commute but hesitate at Inside-the-Beltline prices are turning here.

Why it’s poised for growth:

• Quick access to I-540 and major job hubs

• Strong resale demand

• More affordable entry point compared to central Raleigh

• Ongoing development attracting long-term investment

As 540 continues to fill out, this area’s value gap is shrinking, fast.

2. Copperleaf Area Expansion (Apex/Cary Line)

Already known for its luxury feel, this area is seeing a new wave of attention from high-income relocation buyers. Limited inventory and consistent demand are pushing appreciation upward.

Growth indicators:

• High-scoring schools

• Elevated demand from tech professionals

• Rising new construction pricing

• Extremely low turnover rates

This corridor is quietly becoming one of the strongest “hold and appreciate” locations west of Cary.

3. Heather Glen & Surrounding Corridor (Holly Springs)

Holly Springs has transformed over the last decade, but certain pockets, like Heather Glen, are still undervalued relative to incoming demand.

Why this area stands out:

• New road and infrastructure improvements

• Increased interest from RTP employees

• Proximity to major retail and lifestyle centers

• Strong suburban appeal with lower prices than Cary/Apex

This neighborhood is emerging as one of the best ROI opportunities south of Raleigh.

4. Fuquay-Varina North / Broad Street Corridor

Fuquay continues to attract buyers seeking affordability without sacrificing amenities. The Broad Street corridor is especially noteworthy as commercial projects pick up speed.

Key growth drivers:

• Excellent price-to-value ratio

• Expanding retail and dining options

• Appeal to both local and relocation buyers

• Strong new construction presence supporting home values

Expect this area to heat up quickly as buyers seek alternatives to priced-out pockets of Holly Springs and Apex.

5. Cary Park / Amberly Under-the-Radar Resale Streets

These established Cary neighborhoods remain strong favorites for families wanting access to Panther Creek schools and RTP. And yet, some of the interior streets remain priced below comparable communities.

Why that won’t last:

• Award-winning schools

• Miles of trails and lakes

• High buyer demand with limited listing inventory

• Excellent commute positioning

As move-up buyers search for space and lifestyle, these communities are experiencing early signs of appreciation pressure.

Why These 5 Areas Are Heating Up

Across all five neighborhoods, the same trends appear:

• Growing buyer activity
• Low inventory
• Expanding infrastructure
• Strong job and population growth
• Improved commute routes
• Early upward pricing movement

In other words, these areas aren’t “up and coming.” They’re already coming up.

Thinking About Buying or Selling in 2026?

Choosing the right neighborhood (or understanding your home’s competitive position) can have a major impact on your long-term equity.

If you’d like help navigating your next steps, whether it’s buying, selling, or both. I can put together:

• A neighborhood growth analysis
• A tailored list of high-ROI communities
• A 2026 home value estimate
• A strategy for timing your move with the market