Low inventory drives Bluffton seller’s market

The Bluffton real estate market continues to deliver a clear and compelling story as we move deeper into the spring season.
While this time of year typically brings a surge in inventory, the numbers this month tell a very different story.

Inventory remains historically low. There are currently 788 homes for sale, down slightly from 791 last month, representing a modest 0.4% decrease. What is far more significant is the year over year comparison.

At this time last year, there were 1,137 homes available, meaning inventory has dropped by nearly 31% year over year. Even more telling, the ten-year average for this time of year is 1,208 homes. This places today’s inventory levels at the lowest ever recorded for this season. Simply put, supply is dramatically constrained, and that is a strong indicator that upward pressure on prices will continue.

Days on market has increased to 100 days, up from 94 days last month, a 6.4% increase. Compared to this time last year, when homes were averaging 82 days on market, we are seeing a 22% increase in selling time. This suggests buyers are being more deliberate, but it is important not to confuse this with weakness. In a low inventory environment like this, even slightly longer decision timelines can still coexist with strong pricing power.

Pending sales are one of the most impressive metrics this month. Year to date, there have been 756 pending transactions compared to 668 at this same point last year, a 13.2% increase. This is especially notable given the significantly lower inventory levels. Demand is not just holding; it is outperforming expectations.

Closed sales are also showing strength, with 643 year-to-date compared to 608 last year, a 5.8% increase. This confirms that momentum has carried through from contract to closing and reflects a very active spring market.

The absorption rate currently sits at approximately 4.7 months of inventory, down from roughly 4.9 months last month, representing about a 4.9% tightening in overall supply. The persistent shortage of available inventory in Bluffton continues to tighten overall market conditions, further reinforcing a seller-favored environment. As supply remains constrained relative to demand, sellers retain greater leverage in pricing and negotiation. Historically, markets characterized by limited inventory and strong demand dynamics tend to produce the most consistent and accelerated price appreciation. This imbalance between supply and demand is a key driver behind the upward pressure on home values that we are currently experiencing.

Median sales prices continue their steady climb. The year-to-date median price for 2026 is $555,559, up 1.6% from $546,998 in 2025. This marks continued, consistent appreciation over the past several years.

In terms of overall market conditions, Bluffton is firmly in a seller’s market. Inventory constraints are the dominant force. If broader economic conditions stabilize, particularly with potential rate adjustments, this market is positioned to accelerate. If not, expect continued price growth, just at a more measured pace.

Dan Prud’homme is the Visionary & Success Coach of The Prud’homme Team at William Raveis Real Estate. dan@danprudhomme.com theprudhommeteam.com.