For years, buyers have been told that a housing market crash is right around the corner. But home prices are still rising, inventory remains limited, and mortgage rates are unlikely to return to pandemic-era levels anytime soon. Here’s what the latest data means for buyers and sellers who are considering making a move.

Homebuyers finally received some encouraging economic news on July 14, 2026. The latest Consumer Price Index report showed annual inflation falling from 4.2% in May to 3.5% in June, beating the market’s expectation of approximately 3.8%. Core inflation—which excludes the more volatile food and energy categories—also slowed from 2.9% to 2.6%. (Bureau of Labor Statistics) That is a significant improvement. It is also not the same thing as saying prices are falling, interest-rat

North Carolina electric bills could increase again beginning in 2027—and for local homeowners, the proposed change is not insignificant. Before getting into the numbers, there is one important distinction: Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Wilmington, and much of eastern North Carolina are generally served by Duke Energy Progress, not Duke Energy Carolinas. Both utilities are owned by Duke Energy, but they currently have different service areas, prices, and pending rate cases. The