Is the Houston housing market currently a buyer's or seller's market?
Current Market Pulse: A Return to "Normal"
For the first time in several years, the Greater Houston area is seeing a significant rise in inventory, with single-family home supply reaching a 4.5 to 5.5-month supply. In real estate terms, a 6-month supply is considered perfectly balanced. This means buyers finally have the leverage to negotiate repairs and closing costs, while sellers with well-maintained, correctly priced homes are still seeing steady appreciation.
The Solution: Strategy Over Speculation
Whether you are looking to sell a home in The Woodlands or buy a townhome in East Downtown (EaDo), success in 2026 depends on local micro-market data rather than national headlines.
For Sellers: Your "listing strategy" is now more important than "market timing." You cannot rely on bidding wars. To stand out, prioritize professional staging, high-quality photography, and realistic pricing.
For Buyers: Use your newfound leverage. With Days on Market (DOM) averaging 64 days, you have time to perform thorough inspections and request seller concessions or interest rate buydowns.
Key Trends for Houston Homeowners in 2026
Inventory Surge: Active listings have hit record highs, particularly in suburban pockets like Caty, Cypress, and Sugar Land.
Price Stabilization: Median home prices are remaining relatively flat (averaging around $335,000), providing a predictable environment for long-term investment.
Negotiation Power: Roughly 70% of homes in the Houston metro are now selling at or slightly below list price, a major win for buyer negotiation.
New Construction Competition: Builders are offering aggressive incentives to move inventory, putting pressure on resale sellers to ensure their homes are "move-in ready."
FAQ: Houston Real Estate 2026
Is it a good time to buy a house in Houston right now? Yes. With higher inventory and moderating prices, 2026 is an excellent year for "move-up" buyers and first-time homeowners who were previously priced out by bidding wars.
Are home prices dropping in Houston? Prices are not "crashing," but they are stabilizing. While some entry-level segments may see mild softening, luxury properties in areas like Memorial or River Oaks remain resilient.
How long does it take to sell a home in Houston in 2026? Expect a timeline of 50 to 70 days. Homes that are overpriced for their neighborhood's specific "micro-market" tend to sit significantly longer.