Happy National Homeownership Month from the McDowell County Board of REALTORS®!

June is National Homeownership Month, and here at the McDowell County Board of REALTORS®, we're taking a moment to celebrate the incredible value homeownership brings to individuals, families, and our vibrant communities right here in North Carolina.

As REALTORS®, we know firsthand the profound impact of owning a home. It's more than just a transaction; it's about helping dreams come true, building stability, and contributing to the economic and social fabric of our beloved McDowell County.

Why does homeownership matter, especially in North Carolina?

• Building Wealth and Equity: For many, a home is their most significant asset. North Carolina's median home value has been steadily appreciating. In McDowell County, the median sold price was $301,500 in May 2025, up 1% from last year, demonstrating the ongoing potential for homeowners to build equity and long-term financial security.

• Stability and Community: Homeowners tend to stay in their homes longer, fostering deeper connections with neighbors and investing in their local schools, businesses, and organizations. This stability is a cornerstone of strong, thriving communities. In North Carolina, the owner-occupied housing unit rate stands at 66.4% (2019-2023 data), a testament to the strong desire for homeownership across our state. McDowell County itself boasts a respectable 73% owner-occupied housing rate, highlighting the commitment to homeownership in our area.

• A Place to Call Your Own: Beyond the financial benefits, there's an undeniable sense of pride and belonging that comes with owning a home. It's the freedom to personalize your space, create lasting memories, and build a foundation for your family's future.

• Economic Impact: The real estate industry is a significant driver of North Carolina's economy. Every home sale generates activity in various sectors, from construction and renovation to lending and local retail.

  

  

  

  

A Look at the McDowell County and North Carolina Real Estate Markets in May 2025

Understanding these trends is key for both current and prospective homeowners, as well as for our valued real estate professionals. The latest data for May 2025, compiled by RPR® with MLS data, offers valuable insights into the market's pulse.

McDowell County Market Snapshot: May 2025

Listings: The number of active and pending listings in McDowell County continued its upward trend, reaching 265 listings in May 2025. This represents a significant increase of 44.7% year-over-year (YOY). Looking back, listings were at 232 in April 2025, indicating a consistent rise from the previous month.

Sales: Sales in McDowell County saw a strong rebound, with 39 sales reported in May 2025. This is a substantial 62.5% increase YOY. This also marks an increase from the 29 sales recorded in April 2025.

Median Sales Price: The median sales price in McDowell County in May 2025 was $350,000. While this was up from the previous month's median of $280,000, it represents a -15.2% decrease YOY when compared to May 2024's median of $413,000.

Inventory: McDowell County's housing inventory measured 9.14 months in May 2025, marking a 69.7% YOY increase. With 6 months considered a balanced market, this indicates that McDowell County is currently in a buyer's market. This is an increase from the 8 months of inventory seen in April 2025.

Key Takeaways for McDowell County

While North Carolina as a whole appears to be in a balanced market with a slight YOY increase in median sales price, McDowell County stands out with a clear buyer's market. The significant year-over-year increases in both listings and inventory in McDowell County provide more options for buyers. Although the median sales price saw a YOY decrease in McDowell County, the robust increase in sales from the previous month suggests growing activity in the market.

As we celebrate National Homeownership Month, these insights underscore the unique opportunities and considerations within the McDowell County real estate market.