🏡 Market Confidence Returns: What the S&P’s Recovery Could Mean for Oak Island & Southport Real Estate

If you’ve been waiting for a sign that real estate is ready to turn a corner, this may be it. In mid-May, the S&P 500 roared back, posting a 9.5% single-day surge—the largest since 2008. By May 13, the index fully recovered to year-to-date positive territory, reversing most of its 2025 losses.

So, what does that mean for Southport and Oak Island homebuyers and sellers?

For many of my clients, stock market performance directly influences confidence in real estate investing. Whether it's tapping into portfolio gains for a second home, cashing out stock options for a primary residence, or simply needing reassurance that the economic winds are stabilizing, this kind of market recovery signals strength—and security.

As a Realtor in Southport and Oak Island, I’ve noticed more inquiries over the past few weeks. Buyers are coming back into the conversation, and many are asking the same thing:

“Is now the right time to make a move?”

Here’s my honest answer, informed by both national signals and local facts:

✅ Confidence is Contagious

When Wall Street settles down, Main Street gains clarity. That’s especially true in communities like Oak Island and Southport, where many buyers are looking to relocate, invest in vacation properties, or retire comfortably. The more confident they feel about their finances, the more likely they are to put those plans into motion.

🏄 Inventory is Still Tight, But Stabilizing

In Brunswick County, including Oak Island and Southport, inventory remains limited, but we’re seeing more balanced activity than earlier this year. Homes priced right—especially those that are updated, energy-efficient, or close to water—are seeing showings and receiving offers. We saw sharp increases in inventory on Oak Island in the first quarter. We had three months with fuller percentage point increases, then in May we saw that spike turn more east than north, with a modest third of a point increase. We are now in balanced market territory on Oak Island, where buyers and sellers are on more equal footing than they have been since 2020. 

💡 Local Insight from a Trusted Guide

As someone who keeps a close pulse on both macro trends and hyperlocal shifts, I can tell you: this isn’t about hype—it’s about momentum.

If you're thinking of selling, now may be the time to get your home prepped and listed while confidence is high.
If you're a buyer, this is a rare window where interest rates are stable, stock portfolios are recovering, and inventory hasn’t yet tightened fully into the summer surge.

Let’s Make a Plan That Makes Sense for You

I'm not here to pressure anyone—I’m here to guide you through informed, strategic decisions. If today isn’t the day, then let’s have a conversation about your tomorrows. My approach is always grounded, transparent, and tailored to your needs. Let’s assess where things stand and create a plan that makes sense—today, and long term.

☎️ Call or text me at (910) 448-4068
📍 Serving Oak Island, Southport, and greater Brunswick County
🧭 Hank Troscianiec | Hank Troscianiec & Associates

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