Housing Market

Houston's housing metrics have essentially returned to pre-pandemic norms, setting a positive tone for early 2026. In 2025, Houston real estate achieved a much-needed equilibrium: single-family home sales totaled 88,634 (up 3.8% from 2024), and the median price of a house held flat around $335,000. This stability marks a notable shift from the rapid price gains of prior years.

The inventory of homes for sale has expanded markedly. Listings grew throughout last year, pushing Houston's supply to about 4.5 months a level not seen in over a decade and well above the national 3.3-month figure. Buyers now have more choices and breathing room. Homes spent an average of 64 days on the market in December (the longest since early 2020), a sign that the market has normalized rather than a lack of demand. As HAR's Chief Economist observed, Houston is now selling homes at a 2019 pace one of the few big-city markets truly back to normal.

Recent weekly snapshots reinforce the trend: in mid-January, new listings jumped about 12% year-over-year while showings and open houses surged by double digits, reflecting lively buyer interest. Even closings have kept pace with or slightly exceeded last year's volume in some weeks. In short, buyers are active, but not desperate, thanks to the greater supply.

With mortgage rates hovering near 6% and Houston's economy staying resilient, the stage is set for a solid spring market. Buyers can proceed confidently now that prices aren't spiraling upward, and sellers who price their homes correctly are still closing deals at a steady clip. All signs point to a balanced, optimistic housing market as we move further into 2026.

Resources
HAR Weekly Activity Snapshot (latest week) HAR Monthly Market Update Freddie Mac Mortgage Survey (latest)

Want to get started on your home-buying or selling journey? Text HOME to 832-639-4884 or click HERE to begin!

w of Houston homes and skyline on a clear day, signaling a balanced market.