It's a Good Time to Enjoy Where You Live

Union County Real Estate Market Update — May 2026

May is one of those months where Union County reminds you exactly why people want to live here. The weather is good, the neighborhoods are alive, and if you've been waiting to make a move — in the market or in life — the data from this month gives you a clearer picture to work with.

The numbers are showing a market that's still moving, just at a more measured pace than the frenzy of recent years. Prices are up from last spring, inventory is building slightly, and buyers are taking a little more time to decide. That's actually a healthy dynamic for both sides.

Here's what I'm seeing this month.

By the Numbers — Union County at a Glance

Median Sales Price: $488,900 — up 2.9% from May 2025 Homes for Sale: 1,221 — up 4.7% from May 2025 Average Days on Market: 45 — up from 35 last May New Listings: 593 — essentially flat year over year Months Supply: 3.6 — down slightly from 3.9 last May List-to-Sale Ratio: 97.9% — down from 98.9% last May Closed Sales: 349 — nearly identical to last May's 345 Pending Sales: 439 — up from 392 last May Median Price per Sq Ft: $215 — down from $222 last May

The market has found a steadier rhythm compared to last spring. Median prices are up nearly 3% year-over-year, but homes are sitting a bit longer before going under contract — 45 days on average versus 35 this time last year. The list-to-sale ratio dipped slightly to 97.9%, which means sellers are still getting close to asking price, but some negotiation is back on the table. With 3.6 months of supply, we're still technically in seller's market territory, though it's softer than it was.

This Month's Focus: Enjoy Where You Live

One of the things that doesn't show up in MLS statistics is the quality of life you're buying when you purchase in Union County. As we head into summer, I pulled the active inventory data with a different lens — what's available right now for people who want to actually live in their community, not just live in their house.

Here's what's on the market in Union County right now for buyers who prioritize outdoor living:

336 homes with a community pool — median price $604,500 245 homes with community walking trails 114 homes with community tennis courts 79 homes with community pickleball courts 20 homes with a community golf course 2 homes with community lake access

Looking for a private pool on the property? There are currently 67 homes available in Union County with a private pool — and 26 of them are priced under $1 million. If a backyard pool has been on the wish list, this is actually a decent window to shop. Homes with private pools have a tendency to move faster once summer settles in.

Whether you're thinking about upgrading to a community with more amenities, looking for that backyard pool home, or just curious what's available at your price point — I can run a custom search for you. Just reach out and let me know what matters most.

What It Means for You

Every market update looks different depending on which side of a transaction you're on. Here's how I'm thinking about current conditions:

For Sellers: Prices remain above last spring, but days on market have stretched and buyers are negotiating more. Presentation and pricing strategy matter more than they did 18 months ago. The sellers winning right now are priced accurately from day one.

For Buyers: You have more homes to look at and more time to make a thoughtful decision. Pending sales are actually up from last May, which tells me buyer demand is still there — it just moved a little slower this spring. If you've been waiting for more inventory to browse, this is that moment.

If You're Staying Put: Your home has appreciated meaningfully. Median prices are up nearly 3% year-over-year and up sharply from April. Even if you're not planning to move, understanding your current equity position is valuable.

Questions about where you fit in this market — or want to know what homes with your must-haves look like at your price point? I'd love to help.

📞 704-850-9870 | kristencoulter.com

Data sourced from Canopy MLS as of June 4, 2026. Statistics reflect Union County residential activity. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Kristen Coulter is a licensed REALTOR® in NC and SC with Real Broker, LLC.