Buyers Have the Upper Hand in Charlotte—Here’s How to Use It

Where are the buyers

No One’s Showing Up — But That Could Be a Huge Opportunity for You

Why Now Might Be the Smartest Time to Be a Buyer in Charlotte

If you’re a buyer, here’s something you probably haven’t heard—because it’s not making headlines. But in private Charlotte real estate groups, one phrase keeps popping up:
“My listing isn’t getting any showings.”

Agents across the city are quietly saying it. Homes are sitting. Activity is slower. Sellers are starting to worry. But if you're a buyer, this isn’t bad news—it’s your window of opportunity.

When others hesitate, smart buyers lean in.

Meet Sara and Mike: A Real Buyer Win

Let me tell you about my clients, Sara and Mike. They wanted to move from Pennsylvania to Charlotte—get out of the rat race, enjoy better weather, the usual reasons people relocate here. They were buyers who didn’t want to wait a year for a home to be built. That’s why we looked at a mix of existing resale homes and builder inventory—move-in-ready new construction homes that were just sitting.

And if you know what I know... you can get a deal.

The builder was motivated, and we made our move.

Here’s what they got:

  • $20,000 in builder-paid closing costs

  • A $5,000 price reduction

  • Their home appraised $5,000 over the purchase price

  • All closing costs paid

  • A rate buy-down to the mid-5% range

  • And the builder covered my commission

Their total out-of-pocket? Just their down payment.

No bidding war. No guesswork. Just timing, strategy, and results.

What’s Really Going On?

Why the Charlotte Market Is Unlikely to Truly Slow Down

Charlotte isn't just any city—it's one of the fastest-growing metros in the country, with strong job growth, a diverse economy, and year-round livability. Companies are relocating here, remote workers are choosing to stay here, and infrastructure improvements continue to attract both residents and investors.

Even when the market shifts, Charlotte’s fundamentals remain strong:

  • It’s a transportation and logistics hub

  • It has a stable financial and tech sector

  • It draws in-migration from higher-cost states

  • It remains affordable compared to many other major metros

That means while demand may temporarily cool, it’s unlikely to disappear. Slower periods create brief windows for buyers before the next wave of growth pushes prices higher again.

Right now, the Charlotte market is in a bit of a reset:

  • Sellers are adjusting to a market that’s simply bearing what it’s bearing. If a home isn’t getting showings, it may be overpriced—or it might need time.

  • Buyers are cautious thanks to rate noise and economic uncertainty.

  • Homes are sitting longer, and showing activity has slowed in some segments.

The current average days on market in Charlotte is 47 days, with 2.9 months of inventory. That’s technically still a buyer’s market, meaning you have time, leverage, and options.

And remember this isn’t a crash. It’s a shift—and smart buyers move during shifts.

Less Competition = More Leverage

With fewer buyers in the market, sellers have less negotiating power.

That means:

  • Fewer bidding wars

  • More flexible pricing and concessions

  • Greater opportunity to negotiate repairs or ask for rate buydowns

Q: What happens when buyer demand goes up again?

A: Sellers regain control—and that changes everything. You may face:

  • No seller-paid closing costs

  • Less flexibility on repairs or credits

  • And potentially paying your own agent’s commission, especially under the new compensation rules

That’s why when the market heats up again, it’s not just home prices that go up—it’s the overall cost of buying that increases.

What Can You Do Right Now?

If you're thinking about buying, here’s how to use this moment to your advantage:

  1. Get Pre-Approved — You’ll be ready when the right home pops up.

  2. Focus on Homes 30+ Days on Market — These sellers are more likely to deal.

  3. Pay Attention to Builder Inventory — Many builders are still offering great incentives.

  4. Partner with a Pro — A buyer’s agent who knows the local market can help you move smart, not fast.

Bonus Tip: How to Spot a Motivated Seller

  • Listed for 30+ days

  • Multiple price drops

  • Vacant or staged

  • Poor-quality or outdated listing photos

These are often signs a seller is ready to negotiate.

Let’s Talk Strategy

If you’re ready to explore this market with clarity and confidence, let’s talk. I’ll help you:

  • Understand your budget and loan options

  • Pinpoint where you’ll get the most value in Charlotte

  • Build an offer that protects your interest—without overpaying

👉 Schedule your buyer consult today

Because sometimes, the best time to buy... is when everyone else is sitting on the sidelines.

Buyer FAQs: What Smart Buyers Are Asking in Charlotte Right Now

Q: Is 2025 a good time to buy a home in Charlotte?
A: Yes—especially for buyers who act strategically. With 2.9 months of inventory and 47 DOM, buyers have time and leverage.

Q: Why are some Charlotte listings getting zero showings?
A: Pricing, presentation, and market conditions. In some cases, the home is simply overpriced for what today’s buyers expect.

Q: What kind of deals are available in today’s market?
A: Builders and motivated sellers are offering price drops, rate buydowns, and closing cost help. Some buyers are walking into equity from day one.

Q: Should I wait until rates drop?
A: If rates drop, buyer competition will spike—driving prices (and stress) up. Buying now may mean better deals and refinancing later.

Q: How can I find motivated sellers in Charlotte?
A: Look for listings sitting 30+ days, price drops, or vacant homes. A seasoned buyer’s agent can spot these and guide you through negotiations.

Q: Will the seller pay my agent’s commission?
A: Often, yes—especially with new construction. But rules are changing, so it’s important to understand your options before touring homes.

Q: Where are the best places to buy in Charlotte right now?
A: East Charlotte, University, and areas near planned developments offer strong value and future upside.

Q: What’s the first step to buying in this market?
A: Start with a free consult and pre-approval to get a clear plan and move quickly when the right home appears.