January 2026 Real Estate Market Update: What You Need to Know

January kicked off with strong activity across the East Tennessee REALTORS® (ETNR) footprint, signaling an energized start to 2026 and an encouraging pace compared to recent years.

A total of 1,199 homes sold in January, coming in higher than what we typically see for this time of year. That kind of momentum matters, because it shows buyers are still moving forward, even with more choices and more time to decide.

Pricing also remains steady. The median sales price landed at $361,410, holding firm while giving buyers a bit more leverage than we’ve seen in the recent past. In practical terms, that often means more thoughtful decision-making, more negotiation, and fewer rushed offers.

Inventory is also showing up early this year, with 2,180 new listings added in January. That’s a strong influx of fresh homes and a good sign for buyers who want options, as well as an alert for sellers who are watching the competition closely.

Finally, homes are taking longer to move. The average days on market is 82, reflecting a market where buyers are comparing more homes, asking more questions, and negotiating terms. This isn’t a bad thing, it’s a shift toward a more balanced pace where strategy and presentation matter.

What this means right now

For buyers: More listings plus longer time on market can create opportunity. You may have more room to negotiate and more time to make confident decisions.

For sellers: Homes are still selling, but today’s buyers are selective. Pricing accurately and preparing the home well can make a measurable difference.

If you’d like to talk through what these trends mean for your neighborhood or price point, I’m happy to help you interpret the numbers and build a smart plan.