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December 20.2025

2 Minutes Read

Houston Real Estate Insights: Closed Sales Edge Up 1.5%, What This Means for Buyers

Houston real estate showcasing vibrant downtown cityscape.

Closed Home Sales on the Rise in Houston

In a promising sign for the Houston real estate market, closed home sales have shown a slight uptick recently. For the week ending December 15, 2025, sales increased by 1.5% year-over-year, with a total of 1,517 homes sold compared to 1,494 during the same week in 2024. This increase, albeit modest, indicates a resilience in the market amidst various economic challenges.

Pendings and Inventory: A Mixed Bag

While closed sales enjoyed a positive trend, pending sales did not fare as well. There was a decline of 7.3%, bringing the total number of homes going under contract down to 1,577. Simultaneously, inventory levels are on the rise. Real estate professionals added 2,785 properties to the MLS, marking an 8.2% increase compared to the previous year. This indicates that while buyer interest is present, the competition may be heating up, which could pressure prices in the coming months.

Rising Buyer Interest

Despite the dip in pending sales, interest in the market appears to be picking up. Property showings have increased by 3.8% year-over-year, and open house attendance has surged an impressive 28%. This could suggest that potential buyers are becoming more active, exploring their options, and preparing to enter the market as economic conditions stabilize.

The Broader Texas Real Estate Landscape

The trends observed in Houston could be reflective of a broader pattern across Central Texas. Investors and homebuyers are likely watching market trends closely as they decide when to make their next move. The Austin real estate market, for instance, has seen fluctuations that can coexist and influence trends in Houston, particularly as people seek out homes in nearby urban centers.

What This Means for Future Buyers

For those on the hunt for property in Houston or Austin, this data presents a mixed picture. On one hand, there is increased inventory and potential for negotiation; on the other hand, the rising interest signals potential competition. As you explore properties, consider leveraging local resources to help you make informed decisions.

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01.17.2026

Robert Reffkin's Power Over the Real Estate Landscape: What It Means for Texas

Update Robert Reffkin: A Steadfast Leader in Real Estate In a rapidly changing industry, Robert Reffkin stands out as the most powerful figure in real estate for the second consecutive year, according to the Swanepoel Power 200 rankings by T3 Sixty. Reffkin, serving as the CEO of Compass, has solidified his leadership status through strategic acquisitions and a commitment to improving profitability within the company. This year, the list acknowledges not only his achievements but also the broader shift occurring within the industry, as many new leaders emerge in the competitive landscape of residential real estate. The Rise of New Leadership The 2026 rankings reflect a generational shift, as five of the top 10 leaders are new to their positions. This is significant; it indicates a cultural transformation driven by innovative strategies and the consolidation of power among newer executives. Jeremy Wacksman, CEO of Zillow Group, who ranks second, has also made waves by facing off against Compass concerning exclusive listings. Meanwhile, Varun Krishna of Rocket Companies, who oversees the acquisition of Redfin, claims the third spot, showcasing how these decisions shape industry dynamics. Why Reffkin’s Leadership Matters for Texans For residents and investors in cities like Austin and Houston, understanding Reffkin's influence is crucial. As Compass moves to expand its operations, the effects can ripple through the local markets. Increased competition might lead to a more dynamic Texas real estate market, with opportunities for both homeowners and renters. New developments in these cities could evolve shaping neighborhood identities and property values. Compass's Growth: What It Means for the Future The strategic moves made by Reffkin, particularly notable mergers such as the one with Anywhere Real Estate, signal a robust approach towards expansion and innovation. This adaptability is particularly relevant as Central Texas continues to emerge as a hotbed for real estate investment. As Compass seeks to leverage its acquisitions, it could drastically influence Austin real estate and Houston real estate, creating a landscape filled with both challenges and opportunities for potential buyers and investors alike. Market Observations: A Look Ahead As Compass and similar companies assert their influence, local market trends become more critical. Houston and Austin, with their unique development narratives and demands, stand at the forefront of these changes. The rise of technology in real estate investment is also altering how properties are bought and sold. Companies like Compass are investing in tech tools and AI resources to streamline processes and enhance customer experience, furthering their market edge. Take Action in Your Property Search As you consider entering the evolving landscapes of commercial real estate Texas or residential properties, leveraging platforms that provide up-to-date insights is crucial. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, the right tools can make your property search smoother and more informed. Don't miss out on opportunities—explore how our Local Business Directory and AI-driven tools can help you find the perfect location in Austin or Houston.

01.17.2026

Explore Austin's Luxury Real Estate Surge: $4.6 Billion in Sales

Update Profiting from Austin's Luxury Real Estate BoomAustin's luxury real estate market is basking in the glow of unprecedented growth, generating an eye-popping $4.6 billion in sales for million-dollar homes in the past year. According to a report from Texas Realtors, this reflects a broader trend in Texas' housing market, which sold a record total of 14,418 million-dollar homes, with Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos making up a significant 19 percent of that total.The increase is not only a boon for sellers but also showcases a healthy demand in the market. Compared to the previous year, luxury home sales in Texas increased by an impressive 12 percent, a sign that buyers are drawn to Austin's vibrant culture, attractive amenities, and exceptional locations. This demand aligns with Texas Realtors Chairman Jennifer Wauhob's assertion that "Texans remain confident in the value of these properties." What Sets Austin Apart in the Texas Real Estate MarketWhile Dallas-Fort Worth tops the list for total luxury home sales at 38 percent, Austin follows behind as a rising star in the luxury sector. With over 2,700 homes sold in the area, the average price of these homes came in at an impressive $512 per square foot, starkly contrasting with the average residential home price of $257 per square foot in the region. In comparison to the state average of $188 per square foot for all Texas homes, Austin's luxury homes are proof of its growing appeal.Emerging Opportunities for Investors and Home BuyersPotential buyers and investors should take this opportunity to explore real estate in Austin and surrounding areas thoroughly. The market's unique characteristics make this an ideal time for savvy investors to capitalize on rising property values. Additionally, understanding that the average million-dollar home in Austin offers more space—typically around 3,411 square feet compared to the median residential home size of 2,081 square feet—makes these investments seem even more attractive. Current Market Trends: Looking AheadThe competition in Austin's luxury housing market will likely remain fierce well into the future. The ongoing influx of residents, spurred by job opportunities and a quality lifestyle, is expected to sustain demand. Furthermore, the Texas housing market's robust performance positions it favorably for continued growth, which can benefit both existing homeowners and potential buyers.Across Texas, the rising number of housing permits, particularly in growing metros like Austin, indicates that this trend may continue, leading to even more housing stock available for renters and purchasers alike in the coming years. Call to Action: Navigate the Market with ConfidenceIf you’re looking for a property or commercial space in Austin or Houston, exploring our Local Business Directory + AI Tools can significantly streamline your search. Discover the perfect location that aligns with your lifestyle or investment goals.

01.16.2026

Builder Confidence Drops in Texas: What It Means for Real Estate Seekers

Update Builder Confidence Takes a Dip: What It Means for Buyers The new year has not started off with a bang for the builders of Texas. In January 2026, homebuilder confidence has plunged to 37, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Housing Market Index (HMI). This marks a two-point decline from December, suggesting that buyers are still grappling with affordability challenges despite mortgage rates hitting a three-year low. Buddy Hughes, the NAHB Chairman, pointed out that while the luxury market remains stable, the lower and mid-range home sectors are feeling the brunt of high prices and mortgage rates. The Impact of Mortgage Rates As a silver lining, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage has dipped to 6.06% as of January 15, almost one percentage point lower than this time last year. Robert Dietz, the Chief Economist at NAHB, notes this could help ease some financial strain on prospective homeowners. However, even with lower borrowing costs, many still find themselves deterred by high home prices. A Deeper Look into the Numbers The latest report reveals a mixed outlook for the housing market. The Homebuilder Survey shows the future sales expectations plummeted below the neutral mark of 50 for the first time since September, indicating that builders are facing hurdles like labor shortages, increased regulatory costs, and a lack of available land. Additionally, about 40% of builders reported cutting home prices, a trend that’s becoming more commonplace. The average price cut increased to 6% from December’s 5%, reflecting the tough market conditions. Regional Trends: Houston vs. Austin When we weigh the survey responses regionally, the Midwest held steady with a score of 43, while the South dipped slightly to 35. Texas, with its concentrated growth in cities like Houston and Austin, continues to be a focal point for both investors and new homeowners. The sales incentives used by builders, which were at 65% this month, indicate a continuous effort to stimulate buyer interest. Why This Matters for Texans For Texans looking to venture into the real estate market—be it for an investment property or a new home—these numbers are crucial. The decline in builder confidence could imply more negotiations room for buyers, especially in the mid-range market sectors. While interest rates are lower, potential homebuyers need to assess the overall pricing landscape carefully. Is now the right time to buy, and what can you afford considering the potential for price reductions? Future Outlook and What to Watch Looking ahead, it’s essential to keep an eye on the forthcoming policies aimed at supporting the housing market. On January 15, news broke that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would invest $200 billion in mortgage-backed securities to further reduce borrowing costs. This could positively impact confidence among both builders and buyers moving into the rest of 2026. Understanding how these developments affect the Texas real estate market can position you well for future investments. Thus, whether you're looking at Austin real estate or Houston properties, staying informed is key. The current trends point to an opportunity for smart investments in a climate that’s swiftly changing.

Houston Real Estate Insights: Closed Sales Edge Up 1.5%, What This Means for Buyers

Closed Home Sales on the Rise in Houston

Pendings and Inventory: A Mixed Bag

Rising Buyer Interest

The Broader Texas Real Estate Landscape

What This Means for Future Buyers

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