Why Buying Now in the Triangle Makes Smart Sense, Before the Spring Wave Hits

If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines wondering “Is now a good time to buy?”, this is a strong moment to pay attention. According to a recent forecast by the National Association of REALTORS®, home sales are projected to jump 14% nationwide in 2026, and prices are expected to rise about 4%. Realtor+2National Association of REALTORS®+2

What does that mean for buyers in the Triangle (Raleigh–Durham–Chapel Hill)? And why might it be better to act now rather than waiting for the traditional spring surge?

1. Fewer Buyers Now = Less Competition

Right now, many buyers are waiting for rates to drop further or hoping for major price declines. According to NAR’s forecast, rates are expected to average around 6% in 2026 (down from roughly 6.7% this year). Realtor+1

Because of this caution, the current fall/winter period offers a window of less competition. If you buy now, you’re more likely to:

• Face fewer bidding wars

• Have time for inspections, negotiations, and smart decision-making

• Lock in a rate before many buyers re-enter the spring market

In contrast: when spring comes, especially in a growing region like the Triangle with new jobs, relocation, and limited inventory, competition often skyrockets. Buying now gives you a head start.

2. Prices Are Forecasted to Rise, Waiting May Cost More

The NAR forecast says home prices are not expected to fall, they’re projected to increase ~4% next year. National Association of REALTORS®+1

In other words: waiting for a “better deal” may backfire, because while you wait, you could be competing with more buyers and dealing with higher list prices.

If you find a home you love now, you could lock in today’s price before the spring buying wave potentially pushes prices up.

3. Mortgage Rates Could Improve Slightly, But Won’t Plunge

Yes, rates are projected to edge downward. But the forecast is modest: average rates around 6% for 2026. National Association of REALTORS®+1

That’s good news, but here’s the key: don’t wait expecting a major drop to 4% or 5%. Instead, use the current rate environment to your advantage, especially if your credit and down payment are strong.

4. Inventory & Hasn’t Caught Up With Demand

One of the largest issues across the country, including in the Triangle, is limited supply. The forecast notes that tight inventory will continue to be a supporting factor for prices. Realtor

When spring rolls around, many sellers list new homes, more buyers enter the market, and for well-located homes in desirable school zones or neighborhoods, competition increases. By entering now, you get ahead of that wave.

5. Local Triangle Takeaway — Why This Matters for You

If you’re thinking about buying in Cary, Apex, Raleigh, or surrounding areas, these regional dynamics matter:

• New jobs and relocations keep demand strong in the Triangle.

• If you wait until spring, you’re competing with more out-of-state buyers and relocation traffic.

• Entering now, you get time to negotiate, inspect thoroughly, and make strategic moves rather than reactive ones.

• As your advisor, I can help you understand specific neighborhoods, school zones, builder vs resale options, and timing in this market.

🔧 What You Should Do Next

1. Get pre-approved now, it’s essential to show you’re ready when the right home hits.

2. Clarify your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves so you can act decisively.

3. Identify target neighborhoods in the Triangle and monitor upcoming listings.

4. Consider acting before the spring rush; if your finances and goals align, now could be your strategic advantage.