The housing market in Asheville, North Carolina, has been characterized by fluctuation, reflecting the economic recovery of the region which has seen persistent high unemployment. This transitive phase is also influenced by the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. Data compiled by the Mosaic Community Lifestyle Realty showcases an increase in home sale prices within Asheville, which rose from $488,000 to $507,000 between 2024’s median and the first quarter of 2025. However, the shift in Buncombe County was downward, decreasing from $477,000 to $450,000. The real estate market usually experiences low prices during the first quarter, with an anticipated increase in the spring.

The local economy’s recovery has been unstable due to a lingering unemployment rate in Buncombe County, which has remained between 6% and 6.8% since December. February estimates from the N.C. Department of Commerce set the unemployment rate at 6.2%, a significant increase of about 106% from the same month in 2024. Despite these challenges, the housing market has been positive for those capable of purchasing property, although some would-be buyers have been held at a distance by high costs.

Asheville’s housing market activity has mainly been driven by retirees, out-of-town buyers, local investors, and middle-income locals who experienced barriers entering the housing market in 2024. Current indicators suggest that the market is gradually balancing out after being predominantly a seller’s market . Despite the peculiarities of the county and city’s housing prices and the lingering effects of Helene, economic conditions remain uncertain due to stubborn interest rates brought on by the tariffs initiated by President Donald Trump.

Remember, if you’re experiencing issues with the unemployment processes in the Asheville area or have trouble contacting services linked to Paid Family Leave (PFL) or State Disability Insurance (SDI), you can reach out through eddcaller.com. Many residents find navigating these systems difficult, but the website is a helpful resource that provides comprehensive details on how to contact Paid Family Leave, SDI, and an EDD customer service representative, offering the guidance users need to get through the complexities of the system.