Tri-Cities Real Estate Market by the Numbers – July 2026

by Ed Dembowczyk

Hello,

Welcome to the first edition of Ed & Karin's House Sense: Market by the Numbers!

Every month we'll share what's happening in the Northeast Tennessee real estate market using local MLS data—not national headlines—so you can make informed decisions whether you're buying, selling, investing, or simply keeping an eye on your home's value.

📊 Northeast Tennessee Market Snapshot

Market Metric June 2026 June 2025 Change
Median Sale Price $308,750 $295,000 ⬆️ 4.66%
Average Sale Price $361,518 $326,944 ⬆️ 10.57%
Average Days on Market 99 Days 93 Days ⬆️ 6 Days
Absorption Rate 3.75 Months 3.89 Months Slight Improvement
Sale-to-Original List Price 94.4% 94.6%* Stable

*Based on monthly MLS summary.

What Do These Numbers Mean?

For Buyers

You have more choices than you did a year ago, homes are staying on the market a little longer, and sellers are becoming more willing to negotiate on price, repairs, and closing costs.

For Sellers

Home values continue to rise, but buyers are taking more time before making offers. Pricing your home correctly and presenting it well are more important than ever.


What's Happening in Your Price Range?

🏡 Under $250,000

This continues to be one of the most competitive parts of our market.

According to the latest MLS data, over 430 homes have already sold this year below $250,000, showing there is still strong demand for affordable homes.

House Sense: If you're shopping in this price range, get pre-approved before you begin looking. The best homes still sell quickly.


🏠 $250,000–$450,000

This remains the busiest segment of the market.

Nearly 1,500 homes have sold in this price range so far this year, making it the heart of today's Northeast Tennessee housing market.

House Sense: Buyers have more negotiating power than they've had in several years, while sellers who price correctly are still seeing excellent activity.


🏡 $450,000–$700,000

Inventory continues to improve.

Buyers are taking more time to compare properties, making professional marketing and strategic pricing essential.

House Sense: Presentation matters. Great photography, accurate pricing, and a strong marketing plan can make a significant difference.


🏰 Over $700,000

Luxury homes continue to attract qualified buyers, but the buyer pool is naturally smaller.

Sales are happening—but buyers expect exceptional value and presentation.

House Sense: Luxury homes require luxury marketing.


Interest Rate Watch

Many people are waiting for mortgage rates to decline before buying.

That's understandable—but remember this:

When rates fall, many buyers who have been waiting are expected to jump back into the market. Increased demand often leads to higher home prices.

One of our favorite reminders is:

You can refinance your mortgage rate. You can't refinance the price you paid for your home.

Every buyer's situation is unique, which is why we recommend looking at the entire financial picture instead of focusing on just one number.


Ed & Karin's House Sense

National headlines tell you what's happening across the country.

We'd rather tell you what's happening right here in Northeast Tennessee.

Whether you're buying your first home, moving up, downsizing, investing, or simply curious about what your home is worth, we're always happy to answer your questions.

No pressure.

No obligation.

Just honest advice backed by local knowledge and local data.

Thank you for allowing us to be your trusted real estate resource.

 

Search for Homes without Hassle here.

 

With HEART and a bit of HUMOR,

Ed & Karin
At Home with Ed & Karin
Epique Realty

Market statistics provided by the East Tennessee REALTORS® MLS. Data reflects residential sales activity through June 2026.

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Ed Dembowczyk

Ed Dembowczyk

Agent | License ID: 351915

+1(423) 426-4939

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