Demand Is There — Now It’s About Rates

Dated: April 13 2026

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The Rutherford County housing market showed continued strength in March, with increased buyer activity and steady pricing trends as the spring season begins. While demand remains strong, mortgage rates continue to play a critical role in shaping market momentum. Read on for our in-depth look at the most current local market data.

Rutherford County Real Estate Market Data - March / April 2026

Pending Sales & Closings Increase

March brought solid gains in transaction activity. Closed sales were up 7.16% year-over-year, and 19.41% from February, while pending contracts increased 14% year-over-year and 18.68% from the previous month, indicating sustained buyer interest as the market moves into its busiest time of year.

Despite the increase in activity, days on market rose slightly to 41 days, up from 39 last March, suggesting that while demand is present, buyers are still taking a measured approach.

Pricing Remains Stable

The median price per square foot came in at $214, down just $2 from the same time last year, and up $2 from February. Compared to the market peak of $222 per square foot in mid-2022, prices are currently about 5% below peak levels—modest adjustments that reflects overall market stability rather than decline.

Murfreesboro Real Estate - Price Per Square Foot

Inventory & Interest Rates

Inventory increased slightly, rising about 3.5% from the previous month and up 11% year-over-year, providing buyers with more options as the spring market expands.

However, mortgage rates have recently ticked back up after declining earlier in the year. Global economic factors—including inflation concerns and geopolitical uncertainty due to the Iran conflict—have contributed to this shift. While rates appear to be stabilizing as we get into April, they remain a key factor influencing buyer behavior.

How are interest rates impacting real estate contracts in Murfreesboro

Looking Ahead

Demand in Rutherford County remains strong, but a significant number of buyers and sellers are still waiting on the sidelines for more favorable interest rates. As a result, the trajectory of the market moving forward will be highly dependent on rate movement.

If mortgage rates ease, the market could see a surge in activity. Until then, Rutherford County continues to operate in a steady, balanced environment with opportunities for both buyers and sellers.

If you’re thinking about buying, selling, or simply planning ahead for later in 2026 or beyond, we’d love to help guide you through it. Now is the perfect time to take a look at your current equity and see where you stand. If you’d like a personalized Home Equity Analysis or help navigating options, our team is here to assist. Call us at 615-867-3020. It would be our pleasure to serve you.

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Rob Janson

Rob Janson grew up in real estate, with his family owning a successful independent brokerage in Bristol, Tennessee. Rob moved to Murfreesboro in 1997 to attend Middle Tennessee State University. After....

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