Local Market Snapshot: December 2025 in the Longleaf Pine REALTORS® Region
What REALTORS® Are Seeing Across Our Communities Last Month
As we closed out 2025, the real estate market across the Longleaf Pine REALTORS® region reflected a year of transition—marked by steadier pricing, longer timelines, and signs of improving balance between buyers and sellers. While activity slowed in some areas, demand remained resilient, particularly in higher price ranges and new construction.
Here’s a look at how the market performed in December across our region and in our three core counties.
Regional Overview
Across the region, sales volume softened compared to 2024, while home prices remained resilient and inventory levels improved modestly. Buyers benefited from more options and longer decision timelines, while sellers faced a more competitive environment that rewarded realistic pricing and strong presentation.
Demand remained strongest in higher price ranges and new construction, even as affordability pressures and longer days on market influenced overall activity. These trends reflect a gradual shift toward balance rather than a downturn, setting the stage for a steadier market entering 2026.
County-by-County Snapshot
While regional trends tell part of the story, market conditions vary across counties, highlighting the importance of local expertise when navigating buying or selling decisions.
Cumberland County
Cumberland County saw a slowdown in overall sales activity in December, with closed sales of existing single-family homes declining year over year. At the same time, home prices continued to rise, with the median sales price increasing to $250,000, reflecting sustained demand despite longer timelines.
Homes took longer to sell, with days on market increasing significantly compared to last year—an indicator of a more balanced and less competitive environment than in recent years. New construction activity also cooled in December, though year-to-date figures showed gains in closed sales, underscoring continued interest in newly built homes.
Overall, Cumberland County’s market reflects a transition phase: slower pace, steady prices, and improving conditions for buyers seeking more choice and negotiating room.
Hoke County
Hoke County closed December with mixed but stable results. Existing single-family homes saw an increase in closed sales in the month, even as year-to-date totals trended slightly below 2024. Prices remained strong, with the median sales price rising to $290,000, a notable year-over-year increase.
As in much of the region, days on market increased, signaling a shift away from rapid-fire sales. New construction continued to play an important role locally, with price growth and relatively steady demand supporting the segment.
Hoke County’s market continues to show resilience, particularly in pricing, while offering buyers more time and flexibility than in previous years.
Lee County
Lee County saw lower sales volume in December compared to last year, particularly in existing single-family homes. Despite this slowdown, prices remained elevated, with the median sales price for existing homes climbing to $350,000 during the month.
New construction activity stood out, with a sharp increase in new listings year-over-year, reflecting continued development and future inventory growth. However, longer days on market and reduced closed sales highlight a market that has cooled from its previous pace.
Lee County’s data points to a market adjusting to affordability and demand shifts, while still maintaining strong price levels and long-term growth potential.
Looking Ahead to 2026
December’s data suggests the market is settling into a more sustainable rhythm. Prices remain strong, inventory is improving, and buyer demand—while more selective—has not disappeared. As mortgage rates and economic conditions continue to evolve, early 2026 is expected to bring continued opportunities for informed buyers and well-prepared sellers.
For the most accurate, hyper-local insight, working with a REALTOR® remains essential. Longleaf Pine REALTORS® members are equipped with the market knowledge and expertise to help clients navigate today’s shifting landscape with confidence.
You can find all the reports that produced this article here:
