Houston's Housing Market Is Changing: Here’s How to Win as a Buyer or Seller.
It is true that navigating the housing market in the last few years has been a challenge, with many homeowners and potential buyers facing unpredictability. However, the Houston and Texas housing markets are showing signs of a shift, moving toward a more balanced environment that offers new opportunities for buyers and sellers.
Recent data from the Houston Association of Realtors (HAR) shows a move away from the frenzied seller's market of previous years. For example, in June 2025, active listings in the Greater Houston area hit a record high with over 38,000 single-family properties available. This increase in inventory gives buyers more choices and negotiating power, a welcome change from the fierce bidding wars seen during the pandemic boom.
While this means homes are taking slightly longer to sell, the market isn't collapsing. The median home price has remained statistically unchanged at around $346,651 in June 2025, and the average price saw a modest increase to a record $450,235, driven largely by a surge in luxury home sales. This stability in pricing, combined with a significant rise in inventory, indicates a more normalized and sustainable market.
Why it Matters
For Houston and Texas homeowners and buyers, this shift is a game-changer. For potential buyers, the increase in inventory means you have more time to find the right home and can negotiate on price, repairs, and other terms. The days of making a lightning-fast, over-asking-price offer are largely over. While mortgage rates are still higher than they were a few years ago, they are stabilizing, and some sellers are offering incentives like rate buydowns to help make homes more affordable.
For homeowners, the market is still strong, but a change in strategy is needed. It's crucial to price your home competitively and based on current market data, not on what a neighbor’s house sold for a year ago. Homes are staying on the market for a bit longer, so patience and a strong marketing plan are key to a successful sale. Proper staging, accurate pricing, and working with a knowledgeable local agent are more important than ever.
What is next
Whether you're looking to buy or sell, the next step is to get informed and prepared.
If you're a buyer: Get a mortgage pre-approval to understand your true budget and be ready to make a competitive offer. With more inventory, now is a great time to explore your options without the pressure of a hyper-competitive market. Consider working with a local real estate professional who can help you navigate the increased inventory and negotiation process.
If you're a seller: Don't panic. The market is still healthy, but you need to be strategic. Ensure your home is in its best condition and priced correctly from day one. You may also want to be open to offering concessions to buyers to help close the deal.