If you’re buying or selling in Asheville or Buncombe County, the latest market numbers offer important insight into where the market is heading. The first quarter of 2026 showed a continued shift toward more balanced conditions, with some signs of increased buyer leverage. We spoke with Mosaic Realty owner Mike Figura, who delved into the latest housing market details and offered some expert insight into what the coming months could look like.
Is Asheville officially a buyer’s market in 2026?
The Asheville and Buncombe County housing market continues to trend toward a buyer’s market, though most indicators still point to relatively balanced conditions. In real estate, a balanced market typically means about six months of inventory. That benchmark gives neither buyers nor sellers a major advantage.
Most Asheville-area price points are hovering around that six-month mark, meaning buyers have more choices than they did in recent years, but well-priced homes are still moving. For buyers relocating to Asheville, this creates more opportunities and less pressure to make rushed decisions.
Are home sales slowing down in Buncombe County?
Yes, but the picture depends on location. Buncombe County saw home sales decline from 431 in the first quarter of 2025 to 394 in the first quarter of 2026, signaling a modest slowdown in overall activity. Inside the City of Asheville, however, sales actually increased slightly, from 242 to 255 year-over-year. This tells us that Asheville proper remains a strong draw, especially for buyers prioritizing walkability, established neighborhoods, and proximity to dining, arts and outdoor recreation.
Are home prices dropping in Asheville?
Prices have softened slightly. The median home price in Buncombe County moved from $450,000 in early 2025 to $446,000 in early 2026. In Asheville, the median price dropped from $506,000 to $493,000. While these decreases may catch attention, first-quarter data represents only a small snapshot of the year. Seasonal trends, buyer demand, and interest rates will all continue shaping pricing throughout 2026. For now, Asheville home values remain relatively stable compared with the dramatic shifts seen nationally in recent years.
Why are homes taking longer to sell?
Buyers in the Asheville area are definitely seeing more options. The Average Days on Market (DOM), a key measure of how long homes stay listed before going under contract, rose significantly year-over-year. This suggests buyers are taking more time and the market is becoming more balanced. At the same time, some homes that had been sitting on the market are beginning to sell, which may be a sign that the market is strengthening. In Asheville, DOM increased from 66 days to 106 days. In Buncombe County, it rose from 72 days to 110 days. Higher inventory means buyers can compare more properties, negotiate more strategically, and take more time making decisions. For sellers, this means pricing correctly from the start matters more than ever.
Is inventory improving in Asheville and Buncombe County?
Yes, inventory levels increased modestly across most price points between the first quarters of 2025 and 2026, giving buyers more choices than they’ve had in several years. Lower and mid-range homes remain relatively competitive, but luxury properties — especially those priced at $1.5 million and above — continue carrying significantly more inventory. That means higher-end sellers may face longer timelines and stronger negotiation from buyers. For buyers searching for Asheville luxury homes or mountain properties, this could create more favorable opportunities.
What does this mean if I’m buying or selling in Asheville right now?
For buyers, the 2026 Asheville market offers increased inventory, slightly softened pricing, and more room for negotiation than the ultra-competitive markets of the past few years. For sellers, homes are still selling, but presentation, pricing and marketing are increasingly important as buyers become more selective.
Whether you’re relocating to Asheville, buying your first home, investing or preparing to sell, understanding local market conditions is essential. Seasoned, homegrown guidance can make all the difference, and that’s what you’ll get when you sign on with any of the knowledgeable agents at Mosaic Realty. For more information on real estate in Asheville, or anywhere in Western N.C., please contact us at Info@MyMosaicRealty.com, or call us anytime at 828-707-9556.
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