This time of year, our days are stuffed with gratitude — and maybe a little pumpkin pie, too. As the year winds down, we’re grateful for the beauty, strength, and spirit that make the Outer Banks such a special place to call home. Here’s to a peaceful November, a hearty Thanksgiving, and plenty of good things on the horizon. As this month brings that special mix of coastal calm and holiday cheer, and whether you’re hosting, traveling, or just taking it easy, we hope your Thanksgiving is full of warmth, laughter, and plenty to be thankful for. Wishing you a great Thanksgiving holiday.
As we head into the holiday season, we wanted to share something a little more uplifting than the usual headlines about beach erosion, proposed property insurance hikes, and the latest political updates. In the spirit of the season, it feels much more meaningful to spotlight the cheerful events that bring joy, light, and a sense of togetherness to the Outer Banks this time of year. These celebrations don’t just brighten the mood—they also bring a welcome wave of homeowners and visitors into the area. And for those who have their homes currently listed, this added foot traffic and fresh attention on the region can be a surprising boost in visibility. One of the most magical traditions is Winter Lights at The Elizabethan Gardens, where the grounds transform into a glowing wonderland throughout December. Festive fun appears all across the OBX, from the beloved Manteo Christmas Parade to the charming Corolla Christmas Village and the historic holiday experience of Christmas Past at Island Farm. Seasonal celebrations continue with Duck’s cozy Yuletide Celebration, the lively 12 Bars of Christmas, community gatherings at Misfits OBX, and the festive First Flight Holiday Farmers Market. Whether you’re admiring twinkling lights, exploring local shops, or joining in long-loved traditions, these events offer a joyful way to embrace the season and enjoy a brighter side of life on the Outer Banks.
The Outer Banks residential market remains steady, with inventory slightly up and year-to-date sales on par with last year. Homes going under contract are up 13%, reflecting ongoing buyer interest, and median prices have edged up to $590,000. In Corolla, sales are down 19% with a median of $854,500; Duck held steady at 88 sales with median prices rising to $949,500; and Southern Shores saw an 8% increase in sales with median prices at $787,500. While overall sales remain steady, one factor to note is the increase in the number of days homes are spending on the market in most towns. As we head into the final months of the year, the market enters its traditional slower seasonal period, though we hope to see a flurry of activity around Thanksgiving for those aiming to sell by year-end.
Please don’t hesitate to call or email us if you have any questions or should you need anything at all.
We hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Heather and Mandi
