What Is the Brunswick County NC Real Estate Market Doing as of May 2026?

If you are watching the Brunswick County market right now, the picture is clearer than it has been in a while. Single-family homes are still holding in seller's market territory. Condos and townhouses have shifted to balanced, with more choices and more negotiating room for buyers. Here is what the numbers actually show as of May 2026.

Is Brunswick County Still a Seller's Market?

For single-family homes, yes. According to RPR data from May 2026, the county sits at 5.5 months of inventory for single-family residences, which keeps it just inside seller's market range. The median sold price for single-family homes countywide was $404,103, and sellers received 97.8% of their list price on average. Homes went under contract in a median of 62 days.

That is not a frenzy. But buyers are not getting deep discounts either. Sellers who price correctly are still closing close to ask.

What Is Happening with Condos and Townhouses?

The condo and townhouse segment tells a different story. Brunswick County condos are now in a balanced market, with 5.69 months of inventory as of May 2026. The median sold price was $273,249, and homes in this category sat on the market a median of 87 days before selling. Sellers received 97.6% of list price, which sounds similar to single-family, but the longer time on market matters. Buyers have more options and more time to make decisions.

Over the past 12 months, condo inventory has actually dropped 21.8% countywide, which means the supply tightening that happened in single-family housing a few years ago may be starting to repeat itself here. That is worth watching if you are considering a condo purchase and waiting to see where prices go.

How Do Single-Family and Condo Prices Compare?

The gap is significant. Single-family homes carry a median estimated value of $502,920 in Brunswick County right now, while condos and townhouses sit at a median estimated value of $328,390. If you are comparing monthly costs, that difference in purchase price affects your mortgage, taxes, and insurance.

Condos do carry HOA fees that single-family homes often do not, so the sticker price gap does not always mean the monthly payment gap is the same. That math is worth running before you assume one is more affordable than the other.

Are Prices Going Up or Down in Brunswick County?

For single-family homes, values are essentially flat over the past year. The median estimated value for single-family homes dropped 0.8% over the trailing 12 months, though it ticked up 0.6% just last month. Condo values dropped 1% year over year but rose 0.9% last month. Neither segment is in a slide, but neither is appreciating at the pace buyers saw during 2021 and 2022.

What this tells you is that the market has found a floor. Buyers who were waiting for a bigger price correction have mostly been waiting for something that has not arrived in this county.

Is This a Good Time to Buy in Brunswick County?

For buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines, the current market offers something that has been rare in coastal NC for the past few years: time. Median days on market for single-family homes is 62 days. For condos it is 87 days. You are not losing a home because you wanted a second showing or took a weekend to think about it.

New listings are also up. Single-family new listings rose 11.6% month over month in May 2026, bringing 784 fresh properties to market in one month alone. There are real choices out there right now, which has not always been true.

What About the Sunset Beach Market Specifically?

Sunset Beach sits within Brunswick County but runs at its own pace. April 2026 RPR data specific to Sunset Beach showed a median sold price of $513,015 for single-family homes, which runs well above the countywide figure. That reflects the coastal premium you pay for barrier island living, proximity to Bird Island Reserve, and the limited developable land on the island itself.

If your search is focused on Sunset Beach rather than the broader county, the numbers will look different from what you see at the county level. Sunset Beach pricing, inventory, and days on market deserve their own look.

How Do I Know What My Budget Can Get Me?

At $404,103 median sold price for single-family countywide, and $273,249 median for condos, Brunswick County still offers meaningful entry points compared to coastal markets farther north. Buyers coming from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, or Connecticut often find that what their budget bought them at home looks very different here.

That comparison is not just about price per square foot. Property taxes in Brunswick County are lower than most Northeast states, and North Carolina does not have a personal property tax on vehicles. For buyers who are relocating and running the full cost of living math, those details add up.

Ready to See What Is Available Right Now?

I have been selling real estate since 1995, and I focus specifically on Brunswick County and the Sunset Beach area. If you want to know what your budget gets you today, or if you are thinking about selling and want to know where your home stands in this market, reach out directly.

Call or text 843-997-2744, email danielle@yourkeytorealty.com, or start your search at yourkeytorealty.com.

Market data sourced from Realtors Property Resource (RPR), May 2026. Data reflects Brunswick County, NC. Information is not guaranteed. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Danielle King | REALTOR® SC Licensed | NC Provisional Broker | Realty ONE Group Dockside

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 100592535 MLS

This beach property is one of the Carolina style beach houses where everything is on one level. Built originally in 1982 the home has been totally renovated down to the studs. LOCATION LOCATION The house is across the street from the ocean on South Beach and next to the Bald Head Island Club. Also only minutes from the Bald Head Island Marina. The home comes completely furnished with new furniture, lighting, new HVAC April 2026, new washer and dryer, and painted both interior and exterior. There are 3 bedrooms and a bunk room 2 1/2 baths. Living area combo kitchen, dining and living room. Sold completely furnished with a 4 seater and 6 seater golf cart. A refundable Bald Head Island Club Lifestyle Membership is available outside the purchase price. For additional information see the information page attached to the MLS listing under documents. Looking for a grand two or three story beach home this is not the one. However, If on the other hand you are looking for a nice Carolina beach house on Bald Head for island getaways and a vacation home to make memories then this property definitely deserves a look.

231 S Bald Head Wynd, Bald Head Island

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Gordon L. Davis () from Listing Office: Ivester Jackson Christie's.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Gordon L. Davis () from Listing Office: Ivester Jackson Christie's.

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 100592532 MLS ⋅ Mariners Wacche BLDG.

Perched to capture some of the most captivating views in Brick Landing, Mariners Wacche Unit 2103 invites you to experience the beauty of the Carolina coast from the comfort of your own home. From the screened porch, watch boats glide along the Intracoastal Waterway, golfers play the opening holes of the Brick Landing Golf Course, and enjoy partial ocean views that remind you just how close the beach truly is. Whether it's sunrise with a cup of coffee, an afternoon spent watching coastal wildlife, or evening sweet tea as the sky glows over the water, this home encourages you to slow down and savor every moment. Conveniently located on the first floor, this thoughtfully designed 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence offers about 1,148 heated square feet plus an additional 231 square feet of covered outdoor living. The spacious screened porch is accessible from both the living area and the primary suite, creating a seamless connection between indoor comfort and the ever-changing waterfront scenery. Move-in ready, the interior is offered unfurnished, allowing you to create your own coastal retreat. Life at Mariners Wacche is about more than beautiful views. The community offers exceptional value with HOA dues covering master insurance, exterior building maintenance, roof, water, sewer, parking, and access to two swimming pools located just steps from the building, along with tennis and pickleball courts. A private locked storage area provides additional space for your beach chairs, golf clubs, and fishing gear. Perfectly positioned to enjoy the very best of the South Brunswick Islands, this exceptional location places coastal recreation and everyday convenience within easy reach. The deep-water NC Wildlife Boat Ramp is less than half a mile away, making it effortless to spend the day on the Intracoastal Waterway or out on the Atlantic. Ocean Isle Beach is just four miles from your doorstep, while more than 30 championship golf courses are within a 60-minute drive. Residents also have access to the Brick Landing clubhouse, with optional golf and social memberships available for those who wish to enjoy additional amenities and an active coastal lifestyle. The community's 30-day minimum rental policy and prohibition of short-term rentals help preserve the peaceful atmosphere owners appreciate. Located on the mainland and outside a designated flood zone, this condo offers both convenience and added peace of mind. If you've been searching for an affordable waterfront lifestyle without sacrificing views, amenities, or location, this condo delivers a rare opportunity to own one of Mariners Wacche's most captivating vantage points. Schedule your private tour and discover why this view is one you'll never tire of coming home to.

1914 Goose Creek Rd Sw Unit 2103, Ocean Isle Beach

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Jayne A Anderson () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sloane Realty OIB.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Jayne A Anderson () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sloane Realty OIB.

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 100592492 MLS

Welcome to this spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home with a bonus/flex space in the heart of Leland, offering a functional layout and stylish finishes throughout. Designed for comfortable everyday living, the home features both an inviting living room and a generously sized family room with a cozy fireplace, providing plenty of space to relax or entertain. A dedicated dining area flows seamlessly into the well-appointed kitchen, complete with ample cabinetry, generous counter space, stainless steel appliances, and a dishwasher. The thoughtfully designed split-bedroom floor plan offers added privacy, with the primary suite tucked away from the secondary bedrooms. The primary bath features a granite-topped vanity, while both bathrooms are tastefully appointed with updated fixtures. Recent improvements include a newer roof, windows, exterior and interior doors, HVAC system, cabinetry, countertops, plumbing fixtures, luxury vinyl plank flooring, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and fresh interior paint. These enhancements create a clean, modern feel throughout the home. Step outside to enjoy the spacious rear deck overlooking a peaceful wooded backyard--an ideal setting for morning coffee, outdoor dining, or entertaining guests. Conveniently located just minutes from shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences, this move-in-ready home combines comfort, style, and an excellent location.

8947 Hooper Rd Ne, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Diane M Castro-Perez () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage-Hampstead.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Diane M Castro-Perez () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage-Hampstead.

2 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 100592485 MLS

Want an affordable place at the beach that you can update with your own touches? Check out this diamond in the rough in the Hidden Valley community located 5 minutes from Sunset Beach and Calabash. Why pay high condo fees when you can have this cute single family home with an HOA of only $56/month. 2BR/1.5BA + a 1 car garage. Community pool.

1066 Valley Dr, Calabash

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: The Home Shepherds () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: The Home Shepherds () from Listing Office: Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.

3 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 100592474 MLS

An extraordinary expression of Southern coastal architecture, this exceptional Marina Village residence offers refined luxury in one of coastal North Carolina's premier gated marina communities, less than five miles from Holden Beach Island. Showcasing timeless craftsmanship, remarkable attention to detail, and an effortless connection to boating, fishing, and the Intracoastal Waterway, this meticulously maintained home embodies the very best of luxury coastal living. A dramatic curved two-story portico framed by stately columns creates an unforgettable first impression, while expansive wraparound porches on both levels capture refreshing coastal breezes and offer views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway, and Lockwood Folly Inlet. Thoughtfully planned, Marina Village was designed with generous spacing between homes and strategically positioned homesites to maximize privacy and water views, creating one of the area's most distinctive waterfront neighborhoods. The thoughtfully designed inverted floor plan places the main living spaces on the upper level, where soaring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and abundant natural light create an inviting atmosphere. The chef's kitchen is beautifully appointed with a Sub-Zero refrigerator, Wolf dual-fuel ovens, natural stone countertops, a walk-in pantry, beverage refrigerator, and generous workspace. The adjoining living and dining areas flow seamlessly onto the covered porches, making entertaining effortless. An office nook and powder room complete the main living level. An elevator provides convenient access to every floor. The bedroom level is thoughtfully designed with the private primary suite separated from two guest bedrooms by a comfortable den, creating an ideal retreat for family and guests. The luxurious primary suite features natural stone countertops, an oversized walk-in shower, a spacious walk-in closet, and abundant storage, with linen closets thoughtfully incorporated throughout the home. The lower level is equally impressive, offering a bright laundry room, half bath, workshop with deep utility sink, flex space currently used as an office, and an exceptional garage designed for the coastal lifestyle. Custom cabinetry, overhead storage, a workbench, and dedicated organization for fishing rods and outdoor gear make this space as functional as it is impressive. Additional highlights include an outdoor shower, irrigation system, professionally landscaped grounds, and a Fortified Roof installed in 2025. Life in Seascape is every bit as remarkable as the home itself. Residents enjoy exclusive access to a private beach house on Holden Beach with resident parking, the Grand Manor Clubhouse featuring indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, sauna, banquet facilities, and game room. The private 75-slip marina provides direct Intracoastal Waterway access and includes a dock house, outdoor kitchen, fish-cleaning station, and harbormaster. Scenic nature trails wind through mature trees and protected preserves, creating a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, while an active social calendar, clubs, and annual traditions including the popular Fish Fest foster a true sense of community. Whether your perfect day begins with a sunrise boat ride, an offshore fishing trip just 75 miles from the Gulf Stream, an afternoon on Holden Beach, or a sunset cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, this extraordinary residence offers a lifestyle few communities can match. This is more than a beautiful home; it's an invitation to experience one of coastal North Carolina's best-kept secrets.

673 Beaufain St Sw, Supply

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Michele Klock () from Listing Office: PROACTIVE Real Estate.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Michele Klock () from Listing Office: PROACTIVE Real Estate.

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 100592463 MLS

Welcome to 1119 Grandiflora Drive in the highly desirable Magnolia Greens community in the heart of Leland. This premier golf community is just five miles from historic downtown Wilmington, offering the perfect balance of convenience and an active lifestyle. This spacious one-story home features an open-concept floor plan with a bright, vaulted living area filled with natural light. A beautiful sunroom with plantation shutters provides the perfect space to relax year-round, while the bonus room over the garage offers endless possibilities as a home office, media room, or guest retreat. The private primary suite offers a recently renovated walk-in shower, double vanity, garden tub, and oversized walk-in closet. Additional recent improvements include new gutters, fascia and new sprinkler controller, giving the next owner added peace of mind. Thoughtfully priced for you to make cosmetic updates to suite your style. With solid construction, a functional layout, and great bones, it's comfortable and move-in ready while providing plenty of potential to build equity with cosmetic upgrades now or over time. Step outside to enjoy the fenced backyard, offering a private space for outdoor entertaining, pets, gardening, or simply relaxing. Residents of Magnolia Greens enjoy exceptional community amenities, including a clubhouse, fitness center, swimming pools, tennis courts, and access to one of the area's premier golf course communities. With shopping, dining, and the beaches of southeastern North Carolina just minutes away, this home is an excellent opportunity to own in one of Leland's most sought-after neighborhoods.

1119 Grandiflora Dr, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Scott H Ashcraft () from Listing Office: BlueCoast Realty Corporation.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Scott H Ashcraft () from Listing Office: BlueCoast Realty Corporation.

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 100592460 MLS

Welcome to your charming designer Cottage in Avalon of the Carolina's. For a limited time, the seller is offering $7,000.00 towards buyer's closing cost. What truly sets this home apart is it's rare 0.6 acre wooded lot with exceptional privacy at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. With dense mature woods the back yard feels like a peaceful retreat, complete with a cozy, partially shaded patio. Enjoy your morning coffee and sunrises while listening to the birds, unwind with an evening drink and experience the magical glow of fireflies on warm summer nights. Inside you will find a bright open floor plan featuring a sunny living room that fills with beautiful morning light, creating a warm and inviting space to start your day. The well-appointed kitchen includes stainless steel appliances. With 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms, there's plenty of space for family, guests, or a home office. Perfectly situated just 15 minutes from Oak Island's beautiful beaches and an easy drive to Southport, Myrtle Beach, and Wilmington, this home offers the ideal blend of coastal convenience and peaceful living. You'll also appreciate being just minutes from the outstanding restaurants, shopping, and waterfront charm of historic Southport, as well as everything Oak Island has to offer. If you've been searching for a thoughtfully designed cottage with privacy, character, and an unbeatable location near the coast, this is one you won't want to miss. Additional Photos coming soon!

1542 King Lucius Way Se Unit Lot 119, Bolivia

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Ramona Richardson () from Listing Office: Coastal Lights Realty.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Ramona Richardson () from Listing Office: Coastal Lights Realty.

3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 100592458 MLS

Welcome to our gorgeous new community - Indigo Preserve! The Tuscan II offers one story living with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a two-car garage, and an open living-kitchen-dining area. This beautiful home combines low-maintenance, charm, and modern finishes for coastal living! The kitchen features granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances, which are sure to both turn heads and make meal prep easy. You'll never be too far from the action with the living and dining area right there. The primary bedroom has its own attached bathroom that features a walk-in closet and all the space you need to get ready in the morning. Sharing a sink isn't a worry with the double vanity, and you also get additional privacy with a separate door for the toilet and shower. Step outside to enjoy the covered patio, perfect for outdoor gatherings or peaceful evenings enjoying the coastal breeze. This new home comes equipped with an included smart home system with a 7'' touch screen that controls your front door digital lock, front porch light, z-wave thermostat and video doorbell. The system is also controlled via voice command and an included phone app for remote use. This beautiful new community has a resort-style pool, playground, outdoor fitness trails, pickle ball courts, an open-air pavilion and sidewalks. Indigo Preserve is minutes from Brunswick Forest Village with local restaurants, shopping, and daily conveniences right around the corner. Come see us today and make us home!

3036 Bottlebrush Dr Unit Unit 2080, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Team D.R. Horton () from Listing Office: D.R. Horton, Inc.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Team D.R. Horton () from Listing Office: D.R. Horton, Inc.

Discover Your Coastal Dream Lot in one of the areas premier planned communities. Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the serene, Seawatch community, this expansive .71 acre homesite offers the perfect canvas for your dream Coastal Craftsman style home. Surrounded by nature and nestled within a community known for its meandering roads, scenic walking trails, and waterfront amenities along the salt marsh of Mercer Mill Creek. You'll enjoy access to a charming clubhouse with a kayak and canoe launch--ideal for peaceful paddles or incredible kayak fishing. Perfectly positioned between historic Southport and the beautiful south Brunswick beaches, this rare opportunity blends privacy and coastal charm in a community that focus on architectural standards.

539 Verona Pointe Se, Bolivia

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hank Troscianiec & Associates () from Listing Office: Keller Williams Innovate-OKI.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hank Troscianiec & Associates () from Listing Office: Keller Williams Innovate-OKI.

This prime property in Seawatch at Sunset Harbor offers a peaceful and spacious setting to build your dream coastal home. Surrounded by nature it's the perfect spot for anyone who wants privacy while still being part of a welcoming community. Seawatch is a community designed for those who enjoy nature, privacy and the feeling of being outdoors. Take a stroll along the community's miles of scenic walking trails, relax at the clubhouse by Mercer Mill Creek, or have an oyster roast at the pavilion. There's a boat house, ideal for storing kayaks or taking an easy launch onto Mercer Mill Creek. Brunswick County has plenty of fun family spots and beaches nearby! Spend a day at Holden Beach for sun and sand, go on an adventure at The Swamp Park Zipline and ATV Park, or enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Silver Coast Winery. There's something for everyone just a short drive away. With its natural beauty, tranquil coastal charm, and community amenities, it's the perfect place to build a home you'll love for years to come. Don't wait, make this peaceful spot your own today!

3014 Valderama Way Se, Bolivia

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hank Troscianiec & Associates () from Listing Office: Keller Williams Innovate-OKI.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Hank Troscianiec & Associates () from Listing Office: Keller Williams Innovate-OKI.

3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 100592448 MLS

Bring your vision to life in this spacious brick home situated on a rare double lot! This home is located in popular River Run Plantation's gated community. While it awaits your personal touch and updates, the property offers incredible potential with three bedrooms, a private office, and two versatile bonus rooms--perfect for hosting family and friends. Two Garages provides ample storage, while the private dock delivers stunning, unobstructed views of the Lockwood Folly River. Whether you're starting your morning with a coffee or winding down in the evening with a cold beverage life on the breezy back porch is coastal living at its finest. Lower level workshop with fireplace. Great price on this spacious home!

3256 Mullet Creek Pl Se, Bolivia

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Monie S Baxter () from Listing Office: Century 21 Collective.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Monie S Baxter () from Listing Office: Century 21 Collective.

Nearly 50 acres of privacy just minutes from downtown Leland -- a rare find this close to the Wilmington growth corridor. This offering combines three adjoining Brunswick County parcels (49.10 marketable acres) zoned RR, mostly wooded with a cleared homesite already carved out and ready to build on. An existing well and septic system prove the land will support a residence, giving any buyer a genuine head start, whether the plan is a private family compound, a hobby farm, or a future homestead retreat. Frontage on both Gully Creek Trail NE and Malmo Loop Rd NE offers flexible access options. Brunswick County continues to see strong growth pressure radiating out from Leland and Wilmington, and large contiguous tracts like this are becoming harder to find within a reasonable commute. Sold together as a single assemblage -- bring your vision and make it happen. Schedule your private tour today.

Gully Creek Trl Ne, Leland

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Lindsey Moccio () from Listing Office: Fritz Realty LLC.

Listing courtesy of Listing Agent: Lindsey Moccio () from Listing Office: Fritz Realty LLC.

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