The Local Lowdown

Quick Take:

The Houston housing market is stabilizing. While single-family home sales have seen a modest increase over the past year, higher interest rates and growing inventory are leading to longer selling timelines. Homes are still moving — but only when priced correctly and presented well.

Shifting Gears: Houston’s Spring Market Finds Its Balance

In April, single-family home sales in Houston rose by 2.6% compared to this time last year, signaling cautious momentum as we head deeper into spring. The average sales price climbed to $427,221, marking a 3.7% year-over-year increase, while the median sale price settled at $335,000. Despite this upward trend in pricing, homes are sitting on the market longer, with average days on market stretching to 62 — up from 55 a year ago. Inventory levels continue to rise, now at a 4.6-month supply compared to 3.4 months last April. This shift points to a more balanced market, giving buyers more options and negotiating room than they've had in recent years.

That said, not all listings are created equal. Move-in ready homes with thoughtful updates, functional layouts, and strong curb appeal are still seeing solid activity. Buyers are being more selective and taking their time to compare properties, which means sellers need to price strategically and invest in staging or pre-listing improvements to stand out.

Certain neighborhoods continue to perform well. The Heights saw its median home price rise to $675,000, up 3.8% year-over-year, while Montrose came in at $580,000 with a 3.2% gain. Spring Branch remains a strong value play at $365,000, and Third Ward is experiencing notable appreciation, with the median price now at $275,000 — a 5.6% increase.

On the flip side, the townhome and condo segment is facing headwinds. Sales dropped nearly 22%, and prices fell slightly by 1.5%. This category is especially sensitive to interest rate fluctuations, and we’re seeing that reflected in the pace of activity and pricing flexibility.

All in all, Houston remains a resilient market with long-term strength, but we’ve clearly moved beyond the rapid pace and frenzied bidding wars of recent years. Today’s market rewards preparation, presentation, and patience — whether you’re buying or selling.