As mortgage rates decline, buyer demand is surging in specific markets, reigniting bidding wars. Here are the 10 hottest markets where homes sell above asking price.
Top 10 Bidding War Markets (Q1 2026)
- San Jose, CA: 72% of homes sold above asking (avg $45K over)
- Boston, MA: 65% above asking
- Seattle, WA: 61% above asking
- Raleigh, NC: 58% above asking
- Denver, CO: 55% above asking
- Portland, OR: 52% above asking
- Nashville, TN: 50% above asking
- Salt Lake City, UT: 48% above asking
- Columbus, OH: 45% above asking
- Charlotte, NC: 43% above asking
How to Win
Get fully underwritten pre-approval (not just pre-qualification). Offer escalation clauses. Minimize contingencies (but never waive inspection on older homes). Write a personal letter — sellers are human.
