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Houston’s Resilient Housing Market in 2026
If you’ve been paying attention to national real estate headlines, you might feel some confusion about the current state of the housing market. Buzz about sluggish sales and inventory shortages contrasts sharply with the reality in Houston—a city witnessing a revitalization in home sales and a promising outlook for 2026. As a Realtor and chair of the Houston Association of REALTORS®, I’ve been immersed in local market data, trends, and conversations with stakeholders. Here’s what I’m noticing.
Sales Surge and Inventory Stability
Remarkably, Houston has rebounded to pre-pandemic housing conditions, with home sales outpacing 2019—historically viewed as a "normal" year. In 2025, 88,634 homes were sold, representing a 3.8% increase from the previous year. This trend underscores a growing local economy and buyer interest.
Houston has also achieved an impressive inventory level, with 4.5 months available. This remains significant when compared to national trends, with Houston ranking as a more favorable market where buyers have increased leverage. Inventory is beneficial, allowing buyers more options, while sellers can still expect positive outcomes if they align their strategies properly.
Affordability in Focus
Affordability remains a crucial component of the housing narrative in Houston. While 39% of local households can afford a home—better than the national average of 34%—Houston still needs to bridge the affordability gap experienced over the last five years. Nevertheless, options for down payment assistance programs abound. Approximately 90% of homes on HAR.com qualify for some form of assistance, offering first-time buyers a tangible opportunity to secure their future.
The Rise of Suburban Areas
A noteworthy trend is the increasing popularity of suburban neighborhoods. Areas such as Waller, Brookshire, and Hockley are gaining traction due to their affordability and available new construction. For many potential buyers, these suburbs represent a viable option, especially as new homes are priced attractively, making homeownership more accessible.
Market Dynamics: What to Expect
As we progress through 2026, expectations are set towards a steadier, more balanced market. Sellers are adjusting their strategies intelligently, with some making modest price changes yet still receiving strong offers from motivated buyers. This dual-success environment enables both sides to find opportunities within the market.
Strategies for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers, securing pre-approval before diving into the search process is critical. In Houston’s competitive environment, being prepared means being able to act quickly on desirable properties. For sellers, a competitive pricing strategy, along with home staging and quality photography, can significantly enhance the selling experience.
Looking Ahead in the Houston Real Estate Scene
Though forecasting the future is inherently uncertain, my optimism stems from current market dynamics. Houston’s housing story, characterized by activity, resilience, and a nurturing rhythm, showcases the local market's ability to adapt to broader economic shifts. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or investor, recognizing that Houston's real estate is on solid footing can guide you to make informed decisions.
As you navigate these insights, it’s essential to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of Houston real estate. Looking for a property or commercial space in Austin or Houston? Discover how our Local Business Directory and AI Tools can assist you in finding the right location faster.
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