Is It Still a Good Time to Buy a Home in Charlotte This Fall?

Hi, I’m Maureen Mahood, Broker-Owner of SellYourHomeCharlotte.com. Every season, I get the same question: “Is now a good time to buy a home in Charlotte?” This fall, the answer depends on your goals, but here’s what you need to know before making your next move.

Interest Rates Are Dropping

After months of higher mortgage rates, we’re finally seeing some relief. Even a small drop in rates makes a big difference in your monthly payment. For example, on a $350,000 home, a one-point drop in the interest rate could save you over $200 a month. That’s real money back in your pocket—and it can increase your buying power.

More Breathing Room With Days on Market

During the frenzy of 2021 and 2022, homes in Charlotte were flying off the market in just a few days. This fall, homes are sitting longer, which means buyers don’t have to rush into a decision. More days on market = more time to compare, negotiate, and actually think through your offer.

Negotiations Are Back on the Table

Here’s where buyers are winning right now:

Seller-paid closing costs
Repair concessions after inspections
Flexible move-in dates
Price adjustments on homes that have been sitting

If you felt like you had no leverage in the last couple of years, you’ll appreciate the shift happening now.

Where Buyers Are Finding Value

Charlotte’s growth isn’t slowing down—157 people move here every single day. But not all neighborhoods move at the same pace. Right now, buyers are still finding opportunities in:

East Charlotte (28212, 28215): Established neighborhoods with larger lots and lower price points.
University City (28262, 28269): Strong rental demand and easy access to light rail.
Steele Creek (28273): Convenient to the airport and Lake Wylie, with new construction options.
Hidden Gems: Vernedale, Windsor Park, and older ranch neighborhoods near South Blvd are still worth a look.

Should You Wait Until 2026?

That’s the big question buyers ask me. The truth is, waiting for a “perfect” market rarely pays off. Prices in Charlotte have held steady because of demand, and even with rate drops, values continue trending upward. Buying when you’re personally ready—financially and emotionally—is usually the smarter move.

FAQ: Buying a Home in Charlotte This Fall

Q: Are interest rates dropping in Charlotte right now?

A: Yes. Rates have recently come down, which improves affordability and gives buyers more monthly buying power.

Q: How long are homes staying on the market in Charlotte this fall?

A: Homes are averaging more days on market compared to 2021–22, giving buyers more time to shop and negotiate.

Q: What neighborhoods in Charlotte are still affordable?

A: Areas like East Charlotte, University City, and Steele Creek are showing strong value, with established neighborhoods and new builds.

Q: Do buyers have negotiating power right now?

A: Yes. Many buyers are securing seller-paid closing costs, repair concessions, and price adjustments on longer-listed homes.

Q: Should I wait until 2026 to buy in Charlotte?

A: Waiting for a “perfect” market rarely works out. With strong demand (157 new residents a day), home prices are holding steady. If you’re ready now, fall 2025 is a smart time.

Bottom Line

Yes, it’s still a good time to buy a home in Charlotte this fall—especially if you want more negotiating power and the benefit of slightly lower rates. The market is giving buyers opportunities that haven’t been around for a while, but Charlotte’s long-term growth means those windows don’t stay open forever.

Download my Ultimate Buyer Guide

Or reach out at 704.621.3066 / maureen@sellyourhomecharlotte.com to schedule a buyer consultation.

Because your agent choice dictates your outcome—and nobody sells Charlotte like we do.

Bottom Line

Yes, it’s still a good time to buy a home in Charlotte this fall—especially if you want more negotiating power and the benefit of slightly lower rates. The market is giving buyers opportunities that haven’t been around for a while, but Charlotte’s long-term growth means those windows don’t stay open forever.