REBIC – Gaston Association of Realtors® Holds Productive Lunch with Senior Planners

From REBIC - 3/10/26

 

Yesterday the Gaston Association of Realtors® held their quarterly luncheon with Senior Planners from the various municipalities within Gaston County. This regular gathering offers an opportunity for staff and real estate professionals to exchange ideas, discuss common pain points, and build relationships. At the meeting Jen Schuster, Executive Officer for the Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte presented market data from both the national and local levels which spurred significant discussion. Some of the key points that deserve your focus include the following conclusions:

While it rebounded slightly in February, national consumer confidence is about the lowest it has been since June of 2022, similar to the 2008 financial crisis.

• Slow job growth, the lowest since 2003 is a contributing factor.
• Interest rates are not likely to drop much below 6% anytime soon, if ever, but a move closer to 5% could make a tremendous difference for potential home buyers.
• Sales of existing homes are the lowest in 30 years and new home sales are also sluggish, primarily due to lack of affordability and consumer confidence.
• On a positive note, the Charlotte Region continues to show strong job growth, among the best in the nation.
• While sales have been slower, it appears we are moving into a more balanced, healthy real estate market.
• Our region is still expecting growth in the range of about 6% annually over the next 5 years.

We have much to be optimistic about in our region, but the lack of overall supply, especially at the entry level price point, continues to be a concern.

We hope to replicate this presentation in other parts of the region and will be reaching out to Planning Departments in the other counties within our coverage area, such as Mecklenburg, Iredell, Cabarrus, Union, and Haywood, in the hopes of arranging similar events. If you are a Planner in one of these areas and are interested in coordinating efforts, please reach out to Rob Nanfelt here.

Market Data Courtesy Zonda.

Rob’s Take: This really was a great event and I’m already looking forward to the next one scheduled for June of this year. I’d like to extend a special thank you to the Gaston Business Association who hosted the meeting. They have been a strong and active partner as REBIC, the Gaston Association (GAR) of Realtors®, and Home Builders Association of Greater Charlotte (HBAGC) seek ways to build relationships with thought leaders in Gaston County. — And while we’re talking everything Gaston, the County is seeking input for its 2050 Comprehensive Plan.  Visit this link to learn more about the project and get engaged!