It feels like the Houston market hit the reset button this year, so let’s cut through the noise and look at what really matters.
Inventory is off the charts – In July we had 40,000+ active listings, up 38.2 % from a year ago. That’s the most options buyers have had in ages.
Prices are softening – Single-family home sales grew 9.2% year over year while the median price slipped to $339k and the average price to $434.7k. More supply means fewer bidding wars.
Homes aren’t flying off the shelf – Days on market have stretched from 45 to 50 days. Months of inventory sits at 5.5, up from 4.2 last year. In plain terms: buyers have time to breathe.
Affordability is leading the charge – Sales of sub-$100k homes climbed 26.3 %, and the $100k–$149k segment shot up 39.1%. May data showed similar trends: sales up 6.8 %, with median prices easing and mortgage rates dropping.
Get pre-approved ASAP. Rates have dipped, but they won’t stay low forever. Having financing lined up helps you move confidently.
Take your time to compare. With roughly 50 days on market, you can explore neighborhoods, check flood zones and negotiate repairs.
Focus on value. Many listings now include price cuts—nearly 28% of homes are discounted. Don’t be afraid to offer below asking if the home has been sitting awhile.
Price it right. Overpricing in a high-inventory market is a recipe for stale listings. Look at recent comps and stay realistic.
Invest in presentation. Clean, declutter and stage—buyers have options and will skip anything that feels neglected.
Think long-term. Houston’s population and job growth are strong. Investors looking below the median price point could capture solid rental demand and future appreciation.
We’re in a more balanced market, which is good news if you’ve been waiting to buy or upgrade. Prices aren’t crashing, but they’ve cooled enough to create breathing room. Sellers need to adjust expectations, while buyers should seize the chance to negotiate and lock in a good rate.
By following these simple tips, you'll feel more confident about buying your first home.
Want to get started on your home buying/selling journey? Text HOME to 832-639-4884 or click HERE to begin!
Resources:
Houston inventory & pricing data – Details on active listings, price changes, days on market and months of inventory.
Affordable segment growth – Information on sales increases in lower price ranges.
May 2025 market update – Sales up 6.8 %, median price trend and drop in mortgage rates.
Inventory growth & price cuts – Houston’s 31.4 % inventory growth and 28.3 % price-cut rate.